The Tatami Galaxy: A Novel

A college student in Kyoto is on the verge of dropping out, but a chance encounter with a self-proclaimed god sets him on a new course. He is plunged into a series of adventures that take him to four parallel universes, where he is given the opportunity to start over as a freshman and search for a rose-colored campus life. The Tatami Galaxy is a time-traveling romp that speaks to everyone who has wondered what if.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 17 August 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

"SHORTLISTED FOR THE PEN TRANSLATION PRIZE"

An unnamed junior at a prestigious university in Kyoto, on the verge of dropping out, embarks on a captivating journey through four parallel realities in this novel reminiscent of "Groundhog Day" and "The Midnight Library." After rebelling against the dictatorial jock president of the film club, he and his despicable friend, Ozu, find themselves exiled on campus. For two years, our protagonist has made a series of wrong decisions, and he is about to make another mistake. He and Ozu are planning a fireworks attack at the film club's welcoming party for new members. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they encounter a self-proclaimed god, who sets the confused and distraught young man on a new course.

Destiny brings our protagonist together with Akashi, the sophomore he has a crush on, but he cannot overcome his profound disillusionment and the moment is lost. However, what if there is a universe where he joins the club of his dreams, ditches Ozu for good, and gains confidence to pursue the girl? A realm of possibilities opens up as time rewinds, plunging our protagonist into a series of adventures that take him to four parallel universes. In each universe, he starts over as a freshman, seeking a rose-colored campus life.

"Tomihiko Morimi's contemporary classic" is a fantastic journey through time and space, featuring a half-eaten castella cake, a photograph from Rome, and a giant cavi. The inspiration behind the much-loved anime series, this novel offers readers a captivating exploration of the possibilities that exist within our lives. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to make choices that can shape our destinies and create a better future for ourselves.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 134 x 203 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063158450