We’ll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida & E. Madison Shimoda (trans.)
Nestled in an old and rundown building at the end of a narrow alley in Kyoto, the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul (which conveniently is next to a veterinarian’s office) is a mysterious place somewhere in between East of Takoyakushi Street, south of Tominokoji Street, west of Rokkaku Street, north of Fuyacho Street, Nakagy Ward. It can only be found by those truly in need of ‘psychiatric’ help. Prospective patients of the clinic often hear about this place through convoluted referrals. Those entering the building must first navigate past a less-than-friendly nurse who will grant them access to an eccentric doctor. A doctor who prescribes a rather unconventional remedy: a cat! Along with a cat, each patient is given a leaflet that includes detailed care instructions and necessary supplies.
So, who are the individuals being treated by the doctor? Shuta Kagawa, unhappy at work and suffering from insomnia, is prescribed Bee, a female gray cat. Yusaku Koga, struggling with a work-related problem, receives Margot, a sensitive female cat. Aoba Minamida, dealing with school cliques, is given Koyuki, a fluffy white kitten. Tomoka Takamine, a business owner and perfectionist, is paired with Tank, an American Shorthair. Ms Ami Takeda, burdened by guilt and a broken heart, finds solace with Mimita, a Scottish Fold.
Every feline operates in mysterious ways to support their human companions in finding comfort and attaining a sense of harmony. By the middle of the book, a surprising twist is introduced that adds a new layer of depth to the story, making the connections between the doctor and patients even more heartfelt.
We’ll Prescribe You a Cat is sure to leave readers feeling warm and fuzzy, just like the comforting presence of a beloved pet. It’s a perfect choice for those who adore cats. I’ll definitely be recommending this novel as a perfect gift for all my friends who love cats (it will also be my stocking stuffer for Christmas).