Less about books and reading than I had assumed and would have liked. It is more a story about depression, moving on and the pressure of (Japanese) society. With some books on the side.

This is a very Japanese story. The problems, the way people react to situations and the overall tone are very Japanese. 
I was annoyed at some of the characters reactions to things etc but that was just from my point of view and I know that these reactions and actions are not uncommon in Japan.

Overall an interesting if slow story. Nothing breathtaking but an interesting look into Japanese society and struggles.

Also  I should not be surprised  by the

character has terminal illness

trope anymore. It pops up quite a lot in Japanese stories.