I thought this was cute! Nothing groundbreaking, and the plot was definitely predictable, but for wanting an easy, emotional read while riding the monthly crimson wave it really hit the spot. I definitely cried a few times. I do think it requires an open mind in the beginning for U.S. readers in particular because it is a Japanese translation, and Japanese culture does have an impact here on how characters are described and what they're wearing in a way we're not used to. All in all, I actually think the author and translator did a pretty good job delivering a heartfelt story about the importance of love and kindness.

I didn't feel like I learned anything new from this, so to speak. I enjoyed it and what bell hooks had to say overall- I don't agree with every single detail, but I do appreciate how she's encouraging us to have an active role in how love shows up in our lives. That said, there are some life events she brings up that I would (and have) handle differently, and that me handling it the way I did allowed me to love in the same way she speaks about. I don't think this book is for someone in a vulnerable place, because it did bring up some self-doubt for me. I had to do a lot of reflecting on this one before coming back to review. I agree with her overarching message wholeheartedly, though.