Talking Books Book Club from uLibrary

Join the Talking Books Book Club from uLibrary, every month there is a great new title to listen to.

January's title is the Convenience Store by the Sea by Sonoko Michida. The quirky, charming Japanese sensation with over half a million copies sold worldwide.

Where to find this month's Talking Books title

Book Club discussion questions for The Convenience Store by the Sea.

Book Club Discussion questions for The Convenience Store by the Sea.

1. How does the convenience store Tenderness function as more than just a shop? What emotional or symbolic role does it play in the lives of the characters?

2. The novel features multiple interconnected stories. Which character's journey resonated most with you, and why?

3. One of the book's themes is the quiet heroism of everyday connection. How do small acts of kindness shape the narrative?

4. If you could visit Tenderness, what would you hope to find there? How might it change you?

The Convenience Store by the Sea by Sonoko Michida

Welcome to Tenderness! A quaint seaside town in Kitakyushu, Mojiko is full of hidden delights. And an unexpected treasure is the convenience store, Tenderness.

At first glance, its a store like any other. Sure, its a bit odd that the handsome manager has his own fan club. And perhaps the customers are somewhat eccentric. But there's a warmth about Tenderness that draws you in. The bright lights are always on. The employees know you by name. And the shelves are stacked with delicious treats, from strong hot coffee to sweet parfaits, egg sandos to ramen, crispy fried chicken to refreshing soda.

After a while, you get the feeling that whatever you need might just be waiting for you here...

Want to listen to The Convenience Store by the Sea? Find it in the Book Clubs tab in uLibrary's app, or log into uLibrary with your Library card and password or PIN and you'll see it in Book Clubs tab in My Account.