Kiki's Delivery Service - Eiko Kadono
It’s such a delightful, heartwarming read, comforting in a way that feels like a warm hug. I love that this book takes us through Kiki’s journey and is quite relatable to all of us because it takes us through something we've experienced/will experience if minors. I think it's very rare that someone knows where they stand in life or knows exactly what they want and I think we see it with Kiki embracing her witchy little self.
I think what makes the story so wholesome is the combo of Kiki and Jiji. Kiki faces challenges that aren’t over-the-top or dramatic but are the kind of obstacles you’d encounter in real life: losing confidence, feeling lonely, figuring out who you are, and how you fit in. Her struggles, like botching a delivery or not knowing how to respond when people are unkind, feel so relatable. Watching her work through these moments with kindness and resilience is what makes the book such a joy to read.
And then there’s the world itself—simple yet magical in the best way. I loved how Kiki’s magic isn’t about spells or grand feats but is part of her everyday life. Her broomstick becomes not just a means of transportation but a symbol of her independence and growth. And Jiji! He’s the perfect mix of sass and sweetness, and his friendship with Kiki adds so much warmth and humour to the story.
What I love most though is how the book teaches important life lessons without ever feeling preachy. It’s all in how Kiki learns through her experiences, about being herself, embracing her flaws, and finding joy in small moments. It’s one of those stories that feels light and cosy but still has so much heart.
This was pretty much what I’ve gone to expect from Japanese authors… gentle, and a tiny bit quirky. I didn’t really expect it to be as episodic as it is, and I think I would have enjoyed it more with some kind of more meaningful arc than just “a year to come-of-age, anc prove yourself. Maybe I just like my children’s fantasy to have more of a high stakes plot I guess, rather than slice of life type stuff. Just a preference. I see the appeal here too. I wonder if the other books in the series give deeper character development.
