Discovering the Magic of Kakigori Summer by Emily Itami
There’s something inherently magical about stories that touch the heart—those that explore brokenness, family dynamics, and the quiet complexities of our relationships. When I stumbled upon Kakigori Summer by Emily Itami, heralded as “dreamy” by Francesca Main, I was instantly drawn in. The promise of a tale woven with the threads of grief and sisterhood ignited my curiosity, and I found myself diving headfirst into an enchanting narrative about healing, heartbreak, and the enduring bonds of family.
Set against the stunning backdrop of two continents, Kakigori Summer follows the lives of three sisters—Rei, Kiki, and Ai—each grappling with their own demons while navigating the impact of their mother’s untimely death. The eldest, Rei, is ensnared in the clutches of responsibility and denial, locked in a burnout-stricken existence in London. Meanwhile, Kiki, the middle sister, juggles the demands of raising her son in Tokyo with a caregiving job that forms the backbone of her life. In stark contrast, Ai shines as a J-pop star, adored by fans but vulnerable to the consequences of her fame.
When scandal erupts after photos of Ai surface, the sisters feel the weight of scrutiny and judgment, compelling Rei to return home. Their moonlit escape to their quaint seaside town—where memories lurk around every corner and their great-grandmother resides—sets the stage for a summer steeped in nostalgia and restoration. It is in this familiar yet emotionally charged space that they begin to confront their past, grappling with grief, trauma, and their fragility.
What struck me most was Itami’s exquisite prose—a blend of poetry and stark reality that elevates the sisters’ journey from mere plot to profound exploration. The pacing felt just right, allowing me to linger on moments of introspection and connection. I found myself particularly moved by the subtle nuances of their interactions, which felt authentic and raw. Take, for example, the way childhood memories flicker to life, or how they express their fears of truly letting go and embracing love once more.
Itami’s portrayal of familial love is beautifully captured in the way the sisters relate—not just to each other, but to their past and the shadows of their mother’s absence. One quote that resonated deeply was about the transient nature of joy—a reminder that life is both messy and divine. As I read the final chapters on my lunch break, tears welled up in my eyes, a testament to the emotional mastery woven throughout the narrative.
Kakigori Summer is a story that reaches into the heart of anyone who has ever felt the weight of loss and the yearning for connection. It’s a poignant reflection on the complexities of love and the layers of identity that come from being part of a family. I wholeheartedly recommend it to those who cherish character-driven stories and enjoy themes of healing, resilience, and, ultimately, hope.
In a world often overshadowed by chaos, Kakigori Summer invites us to turn towards the light, leap into the unknown, and find solace in the familiar. This book is not just a read; it’s an experience that lingers long after the final page. It’s my book of the year so far, and I leave it with a heart full of warmth, reflecting on the beauty of our imperfect lives.