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Toshikazu Kawaguchi
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Before the Coffee Gets Cold: A Heartwarming Novel of Time Travel, Magical Realism and the Power of Healing Kindle Edition

by Toshikazu Kawaguchi (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 27,783 ratings
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*NOW AN LA TIMES BESTSELLER*

*AN INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER*

The first book in the five million-copy bestselling magical realism series

If you could go back in time, who would you want to meet?

In a small back alley of Tokyo, there is a café that has been serving carefully brewed coffee for more than one hundred years. Local legend says that this shop offers something else besides coffee—the chance to travel back in time.

Over the course of one summer, four customers visit the café in the hopes of making that journey. But time travel isn’t so simple, and there are rules that must be followed. Most important, the trip can last only as long as it takes for the coffee to get cold. 

Prepare to meet four visitors, each of whom is hoping to make use of the cafe’s time-travelling offer in order to:
  • confront the man who left them
  • receive a letter from their husband whose memory has been taken by Alzheimer's
  • see their sister one last time, and
  • meet the daughter they never got the chance to know.
Heartwarming, wistful, mysterious and delightfully quirky, Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s internationally bestselling novel explores the age-old question: What would you change if you could travel back in time?

Meet more wonderful characters in the rest of the captivating Before the Coffee Gets Cold series: 
  • Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Book 1)
  • Tales from the Cafe (Book 2)
  • Before Your Memory Fades (Book 3)
  • Before We Say Goodbye (Book 4)
  • Before We Forget Kindness (Book 5)
  • Before the Coffee Gets Cold - Boxed Set (Books 1-3)
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  1. Book 1 of 5
    Before the Coffee Gets Cold
  2. Print length
    227 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publisher
    Hanover Square Press
  5. Publication date
    November 17, 2020
  6. File size
    3120 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  10. See all details
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There are 5 books in this series.
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Bundle price: Kindle price
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Bundle price: Kindle price
$68.01
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Popular Highlights in this book
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Previous page
  1. “When you go back, no matter how hard you try, the present won’t change.”
    Highlighted by 5,488 Kindle readers
  2. The present hadn’t changed—but those two people had. Both Kohtake and Hirai returned to the present with a changed heart.
    Highlighted by 3,288 Kindle readers
  3. “You can’t meet people who haven’t visited this café. The present cannot change. There is only one seat that takes you to the past, and you cannot move from it. Then, there is the time limit.”
    Highlighted by 235 Kindle readers
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From the Publisher

A café in Tokyo where patrons can travel back in time. But only until their coffee gets cold...
It's time to choose Kindness
What would you change if you could travel back in time?
9781335430991 image
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
9781335630988 image
Tales from the Cafe
9781335429285 image
Before Your Memory Fades
9781335009111 image
Before We Say Goodbye
9781335915283 image
Before We Forget Kindness
9781335080080 image
Before the Coffee Gets Cold Boxed Set
Customer Reviews
4.1 out of 5 stars
27,783
4.4 out of 5 stars
3,929
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,853
4.4 out of 5 stars
1,128
4.5 out of 5 stars
396
4.6 out of 5 stars
44
Price $11.09 $11.65 $18.03 $16.83 $15.39 $39.10
Before the Coffee Gets Cold Series Book 1 Book 2 Book 3 Book 4 Book 5 Box Set, Volumes 1-3
Themes The Nature of Reality Everyday Connections Memory and Identity Farewell and Transition Family Dynamics
Nostalgia and Reflection Community and Belonging Aging and Wisdom Memories and Nostalgia Regret and Redemption

Editorial Reviews

Review

"An affecting, deeply immersive journey into the desire to hold onto the past. This wondrous tale will move readers."

-- "Publishers Weekly"

"Kawaguchi meets Western tastes with an all-female cast of time travelers. As interest grows internationally to hear the voices of Japanese women, he emphatically renders heroines coping with loss and social expectations."

-- "Japan Times (Tokyo)"

About the Author

Toshikazu Kawaguchi was born in Osaka, Japan, in 1971. He has produced, directed, and written for the theatrical group Sonic Snail. As a playwright, his works include COUPLE, Sunset Song, and family time. His play Before the Coffee Gets Cold won the grand prize at the Suginami Drama Festival. This is his debut as an author. Before the Coffee Gets Cold has become an international bestseller and has been adapted for the screen in Japan.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B084B6VFHG
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Hanover Square Press; Original edition (November 17, 2020)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 17, 2020
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 3120 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 227 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 27,783 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
27,783 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book interesting and enjoyable to read. They appreciate the heartwarming stories and thought-provoking content about time travel. However, some readers found the book boring and repetitive. Opinions differ on the writing style - some find it simple and easy to read, while others felt it was repetitive and wordy.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more
ReadabilityHeartwarming storyTime travelThought provokingWriting styleCharacter developmentPacingBoredom
157 customers mention "Readability"153 positive4 negative

Customers find the book interesting and enjoyable to read. They appreciate the excellent content and kid-friendly style. The premise of the series is intriguing, with different stories embedded within. While the plot initially grabs their attention, it takes some time to get into it, the book contains 4 chapters that are like short stories that revolve around and intertwine with each other.

"One of the best things I have ever read...." Read more

"...Despite minor flaws, the book's emotional resonance, intriguing premise, and memorable characters make it a worthwhile read...." Read more

"...That being said, it was still a very good and touching story that pulls at your heartstrings, especially at the end...." Read more

"...Each has a personal reason for doing so. This is a imaginative, touching story and a reminder that we only get one chance in life so it’s important..." Read more

127 customers mention "Heartwarming story"112 positive15 negative

Customers enjoy the heartwarming stories in the book. They find the stories emotionally engaging and insightful into human relationships. The characters' thoughts and outlook on life are interesting and refreshingly different from what they find in other books. The book's concept is intriguing and leaves readers with a good feeling of timeless peace.

"...Threads of the bizarre are there, but binding together vignettes of true honest emotions from life, and death. It grows on you, page by page." Read more

"...Furthermore, while the book's concept is intriguing, the strict rules of time travel somewhat limit the exploration of its potential...." Read more

"...That being said, it was still a very good and touching story that pulls at your heartstrings, especially at the end...." Read more

"...The stories of each time traveler are different and varied but so emotionally engaging that one just cannot put the book down." Read more

42 customers mention "Time travel"42 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the time travel concept and rules. They appreciate the unique storyline with characters that recur and seem one-off. The book allows readers to travel back in time or forward in the future without leaving their seats. The travels allow for life-changing adjustments for the time travelers, who see the past in a different light. Readers find the book refreshing and recommend it as a change of pace.

"...It is a reminder of both the constraints and the possibilities of time, presented through an unassuming yet magical setting - a small, traditional..." Read more

"...book takes the reader into the surreal place where a chair magically enables time travel...." Read more

"...cafe, Funiculi Funicula, has become known as “The cafe that transports you back in time”...." Read more

"...Gets Cold is a beautifully written, heartwarming novel that explores time travel in a unique and tender way...." Read more

24 customers mention "Thought provoking"20 positive4 negative

Customers find the book thought-provoking and well-crafted. They find the topic fascinating and relevant to all cultures. The moral implications of the characters' journeys shine through, with a lesson we learn from revisiting the past. The story helps readers find faith in humanity and is enjoyable for all.

"...the emotions of the characters and the moral implications of their journeys to shine through...." Read more

"This was a well crafted, fascinating interpretation of how Time Travel works. I turned the last page just wanting more." Read more

"...Each story is heartbreaking and heartwarming. And utterly relevant to every culture and creed. What lovely writing, what charming characters...." Read more

"Beautiful heart wrenching story that helps you find faith in humanity. Also helps to see things through a different perspective." Read more

86 customers mention "Writing style"59 positive27 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the writing style. Some find it easy to read with simple sentence structure and a smooth flow. They describe it as an appealing novel in a different style than they normally read. However, others feel the writing feels repetitive, basic, and awkward at times. There are also complaints about unnecessary details.

"...The writing style is simple, clear, and direct, allowing the emotions of the characters and the moral implications of their journeys to shine through..." Read more

"Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a beautifully written, heartwarming novel that explores time travel in a unique and tender way...." Read more

"...It was way too wordy, and the disposition was unnerving and vexing. Perhaps it's the cultural bits that I found jarring." Read more

"...This was also an easy read, so if you’re looking for a book to help you reach a year-end Goodreads goal (like I am), I recommend picking this one up." Read more

43 customers mention "Character development"30 positive13 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the character development in the book. Some find the characters well-developed with different perspectives and raw emotions, and praise the compassionate storytelling. Others feel there are too many characters introduced at once, making it hard to keep track of them all. Some characters' actions seem inexplicable, which makes it hard to connect with them.

"...The writing style is simple, clear, and direct, allowing the emotions of the characters and the moral implications of their journeys to shine through..." Read more

"...The persona are so well depicted one can almost see and hear them...." Read more

"...down the pacing, and the tone felt cold, which made it hard to connect with the characters...." Read more

"...Perfect for those who enjoy reflective, character-driven stories." Read more

17 customers mention "Pacing"6 positive11 negative

Customers have different views on the pacing of the book. Some find it quick and engaging, while others feel the storyline is slow or repetitive.

"This book was a slow read and not my typical style, so it may rate higher than three stars for others than it did for me...." Read more

"...characters to rectify a regret, to reconnect, to communicate, are moving and relatable...." Read more

"...Not because it was bad in any way, but merely because it begins a little slow. The characters also take a little time to warm up to...." Read more

"...It immediately caught my curiosity. It started slowly, but it kept me involved. I laughed. I cried. I just loved this book!" Read more

24 customers mention "Boredom"0 positive24 negative

Customers find the book boring and a waste of time. They mention that the repetitiveness becomes tiresome. The narration is described as ridiculous and in bad taste. The storyline lacks depth and readers struggle to engage with it.

"...It is OK and a good read, but not exceptional...." Read more

"...By the 36% mark, I was struggling to stay engaged...." Read more

"The beginning was pretty boring. The 1st story of the lovers, I thought the girl was really annoying and almost pulled a dnf...." Read more

"...of three rather incomplete and underdeveloped stories that are not very engaging...." Read more

Good book but bad conditions
4 out of 5 stars
Good book but bad conditions
The book is really good but packaging couldn't be more awful, it came pages torn and the book cover was slightly broken, honestly tragic.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Julie
    5.0 out of 5 stars For everything, there is a time…
    Reviewed in the United States on January 26, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    One of the best things I have ever read. Threads of the bizarre are there, but binding together vignettes of true honest emotions from life, and death. It grows on you, page by page.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Leida Holguin
    4.0 out of 5 stars Loved it!
    Reviewed in the United States on August 5, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    This is a heartwarming, poignant, and somewhat mystical exploration of human relationships, regrets, love, and the concept of time. It is a reminder of both the constraints and the possibilities of time, presented through an unassuming yet magical setting - a small, traditional Japanese café.

    The story takes place in a Tokyo coffee shop, where patrons are given a unique opportunity: to travel in time. However, this is not your typical time-travel story. The rules are strict and somewhat peculiar: you must sit in one specific seat, you can't change the present, and you must return before the coffee gets cold. These rules add a distinctive charm to the story and provide a unique perspective on the concept of time travel.

    Kawaguchi writes four interconnected stories, each focusing on a different character who seeks to visit a moment in their past/future. The desires of these characters to rectify a regret, to reconnect, to communicate, are moving and relatable. Their narratives are carefully woven together, creating a tapestry that speaks to the interconnectedness of human lives.

    The writing style is simple, clear, and direct, allowing the emotions of the characters and the moral implications of their journeys to shine through. Some might find this style a bit too plain, and at times, it might seem that the narrative lacks the depth or complexity that could have made the characters more fully realized. However, it can also be argued that the simplicity of the prose mirrors the mundane yet magical setting of the café and the straightforward yet profound dilemmas the characters face.

    One aspect where the book could have been better is in its pacing. At times, the story tends to slow down, which might test the patience of some readers. Furthermore, while the book's concept is intriguing, the strict rules of time travel somewhat limit the exploration of its potential. However, it's clear that the author's intention was not to write a sci-fi story about time travel but rather to use it as a device to explore themes of regret, acceptance, and the value of the present.

    Overall, thought-provoking, touching, and unique read. It explores the human condition through a unique lens, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own lives and the choices they've made. Despite minor flaws, the book's emotional resonance, intriguing premise, and memorable characters make it a worthwhile read. This is a book for anyone who enjoys introspective storytelling, as well as those who appreciate a fresh take on well-worn themes.
    78 people found this helpful
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  • KPT
    3.0 out of 5 stars Slow but touching read
    Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This book was a slow read and not my typical style, so it may rate higher than three stars for others than it did for me. That being said, it was still a very good and touching story that pulls at your heartstrings, especially at the end. It reminds you to no take people for granted. I would recommend this book.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Lora Holloway
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fun quick read
    Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun read for me. I like all the stories. Each one made you feel good and hopeful at the end.
    Helpful
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  • Globesjoy
    4.0 out of 5 stars Such a Dreamy &Creative Premise!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 1, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I love the concept of this book so much. It's a very dreamy premise. However, the storyline was pretty hard to follow in a lot of areas. I actually decided to also purchase the audiobook as well b/c I didn't want to give up on it and I thought maybe my brain would follow the info better audibly - but still had issues here and there. It deals with layered storylines and time changes so that can happen. But it was still worth the read! For what it's worth, I've heard just as many people not have an issue with "keeping up" as those that were like me and did. So, I guess just some readers are more apt to follow certain storylines more easily than others.
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  • Helen
    5.0 out of 5 stars fantastic literature
    Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    You will need a full box of Kleenex. Each story is heartbreaking and heartwarming. And utterly relevant to every culture and creed. What lovely writing, what charming characters. What devastating prose. I will not forget this book for a long time. And i look forward to reading his other stories. Don’t miss this collection - there are four stories within, each involving the same characters, each with so many layers. Each with so much to think about.
    11 people found this helpful
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  • Chaimomma
    3.0 out of 5 stars Slightly confusing
    Reviewed in the United States on January 26, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    The idea for this book intrigued me, but it was slightly confusing. The story is about a cafe, where if you sit in one particular chair, you can travel back in time. But your time is limited to how long your coffee is hot, and you must finish drinking it before it gets cold or you will become a ghost. This book contains 4 chapters that are like short stories, and they revolve around and intertwine with each other. This is the first of 5 books in this series.
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  • #EmptyNestReader
    4.0 out of 5 stars Would you go back in time if you could?
    Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    “no matter what difficulties people face, they will always have the strength to overcome them. It just takes heart.”

    In a back alley in Tokyo sits a cafe that is cloaked in an urban legend. The cafe, Funiculi Funicula, has become known as “The cafe that transports you back in time”. People who know of the legend come to the cafe in hopes of time traveling; however, most change their mind once they hear the complicated rules.

    1) When you go back, no matter how hard you try, the present won’t change.
    2) The only people you can meet while in the past are those who have also visited the cafe
    3) You can’t move your seat from the one you'd have been sitting in at the cafe
    3) You can’t meet people who haven’t visited that cafe
    5) You can only go if your seated in one particular seat in the cafe.
    6) You must return before your coffee gets cold

    Over the course of the book there are several people who agree to the rules in order to time travel. Each has a personal reason for doing so. This is a imaginative, touching story and a reminder that we only get one chance in life so it’s important to do it right. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    2 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Ruth
    5.0 out of 5 stars Get ready to cry
    Reviewed in Canada on January 28, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a beautifully written book that will probably bring you to tears. Particularly, the time travel experience of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th characters were moving.

    Although I enjoyed the book, I agree with critics that the book was repetitive at times. I found myself skimming some sections so I could get to what i found most interesting - trying to find out who the lady in the short sleeve was and the conversations between the characters who time travelled and the people they met.

    No ground breaking life lessons learned that I didn't already know. My takeaway from the book is to cherish the moments you have with people - you never know when things might change, secondly, take time to listen to loved ones. Lastly, no matter how cringe/uncomfortable it feels, express those heartfelt emotions you have towards your loved ones so you don't have to ponder about time travelling! The beauty of the book is in how it illustrated these simple lessons.

    Some people love this book and some can't stand it. If you are easily irritated with repetition or likely to read into the fact that all the characters who time travel are women who make certain sacrifices, then you might not like this book. But if you are looking for a wholesome read, new to Japanese magical realism or care to see what they hype is about, get the book :)
    Report
  • Ana Flávia Vieira de França
    5.0 out of 5 stars Lindo lindo lindo
    Reviewed in Brazil on August 14, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Ele é pequeno, leve, é uma leitura rápida pelo que vi aqui, e também não esperava esse estampado especial brilhoso. Me surpreendi positivamente. Parece ser ótimo pra carregar na bolsa; só espero gostar do enredo kkk
    Customer image
    Ana Flávia Vieira de França
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Lindo lindo lindo

    Reviewed in Brazil on August 14, 2024
    Ele é pequeno, leve, é uma leitura rápida pelo que vi aqui, e também não esperava esse estampado especial brilhoso. Me surpreendi positivamente. Parece ser ótimo pra carregar na bolsa; só espero gostar do enredo kkk
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    Report
  • Veronica Arellano
    5.0 out of 5 stars Buena lectura
    Reviewed in Mexico on July 31, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Un libro muy entretenido
    Report
  • Cliente Amazon
    5.0 out of 5 stars So good
    Reviewed in Spain on February 1, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    So good
    Report
  • Pilone
    5.0 out of 5 stars Ottima idea regalo
    Reviewed in Italy on January 2, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Libro acquistato come regalo per una lettura in spiaggia. Regalo molto apprezzato, tempi di consegna rispettati e confezione perfettamente integra alla consegna.
    Report

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