Grandpa used to say it all the time: ‘books have tremendous power’. But what is that power really?

Natsuki Books was a tiny second-hand bookshop on the edge of town. Inside, towering shelves reached the ceiling, every one crammed full of wonderful books. Rintaro Natsuki loved this space that his grandfather had created. He spent many happy hours there, reading whatever he liked. It was the perfect refuge for a boy who tended to be something of a recluse.

After the death of his grandfather, Rintaro is devastated and alone. It seems he will have to close the shop. Then, a talking tabby cat called Tiger appears and asks Rintaro for help. The cat needs a book lover to join him on a mission. This odd couple will go on three magical adventures to save books from people who have imprisoned, mistreated and betrayed them. Finally, there is one last rescue that Rintaro must attempt alone . . .

I found this book while looking for a cat-themed read – don’t ask me why, I think after a lot of blood and gore, a girl can definitely look for something more lightweight. I think it’s perfect for a young audience (12-14 years of age) and it’s a great tool to get kids into reading – it talks about the importance of reading, world-building and it has a mild plot and a mild villain.

Not too scary and very wholesome.

‘There are timeless stories, powerful enough to have survived through the ages. Read lots of books like these – they’ll be like friends to you. They’ll inspire and support you.’