The series “Before the Coffee Gets Cold,” authored by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, presents a captivating collection of books where time travel seamlessly blends with human emotions. The stories unfold in a cozy Tokyo café with a mysterious chair that offers a unique opportunity – the chance to travel into the past. 

However, there’s a catch – those who embark on this temporal adventure must return before their coffee cools down.

A Resounding International Success

The book “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” became an international bestseller, selling over a million copies. Its popularity is a testament to its gripping plot and universal appeal.

Getting to Know the New Characters in Each Part:

Each part of the series introduces readers to a new quartet of characters, each with their own aspirations, regrets, and desires. Through the lens of the magical café, their stories unfold, weaving a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences.

Chronological Sequence

As of today, there are three books released in the “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” series, and the eagerly anticipated fourth book will hit the literary scene in November 2023. To fully immerse oneself in the narrative and grasp all the nuances of the plotline, it’s recommended to read the books in order.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold (2019)

Set in one of Tokyo’s hidden alleyways, this story revolves around a legendary café known for its century-old tradition of serving meticulously brewed coffee. Rumors circulate about an unusual secret – the ability to time travel.

Over the course of a single summer, four individuals visit the café, each yearning for a chance at this incredible adventure. However, the rules of time travel are far from simple, and the most important one states: the journey must conclude before the coffee cools. 

Toshikazu Kawaguchi crafts a heartfelt, poignant, and wonderfully whimsical tale that prompts readers to contemplate the eternal question: If given the chance, which moments from the past would they choose to alter?

Tales from the Cafe (2020)

In this installment, familiar faces and new characters emerge. Stepping into the enigmatic realm of the café, visitors seize the opportunity to relive poignant moments with loved ones. In this story, four visitors confront their past, acknowledging and overcoming their emotions to pave the way for a brighter future. 

Each narrative, from a person seeking reconciliation with a departed friend to a son yearning to connect with his late mother, showcases the power of embracing one’s own history.

Before Memory Fades (2022)

The café “Donna Donna,” nestled against the picturesque Mount Hakodate in northern Japan, captures attention not only with its breathtaking views but also with its unique temporal offering. In this setting, four new characters take the stage, each hoping to make use of the café’s time-traveling capabilities.

Among the recognizable faces from Kawaguchi’s previous works, readers encounter individuals burdened with grief, unrealized dreams, and unspoken emotions. Their journeys transcend time, touching on themes of loss, love, and reconciliation.

Before We Say Goodbye (2023)

The journey continues in the familiar ambiance of Café Funiculi Funicula. Once again, visitors are granted the chance to transcend time’s boundaries, but they are bound by an unyielding rule – to return before the coffee cools. 

Through encounters with the café’s unique gift, readers get acquainted with new characters, each harboring their own intriguing story. These tales encompass unspoken words, unresolved relationships, the desire for closure, and a sincere exploration of the human experience.

“Before The Coffee Gets Cold” Series in Order: Written List

Here’s the recommended reading order for the “Before The Coffee Gets Cold” series:

• Before the Coffee Gets Cold (2019);
• Tales from the Cafe (2020);
• Before Your Memory Fades (2022);
• Before We Say Goodbye (2023).

This list should provide a clear sequence for reading the books in the “Before The Coffee Gets Cold” series.

Is “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” a Sequel?

The book “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” is not a sequel but the first book in the series. Subsequent books, such as “Tales from the Cafe,” “Before Your Memory Fades,” and “Before We Say Goodbye,” are thematically connected through the exploration of time travel and human emotions, but they are not direct continuations of the first book. Each book introduces new characters and stories while maintaining the central concept of the café that enables people, under specific conditions, to travel into the past.

Can I Read “Tales from the Cafe” Before “Before the Coffee Gets Cold”?

Yes, certainly, you can read “Tales from the Cafe” before reading “Before the Coffee Gets Cold.” While “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” is the first book in the series and introduces the concept of time travel through the café, each book in the series has its own set of characters and stories. Therefore, the books can be read in any order, without strictly adhering to chronological sequence.

In “Tales from the Cafe,” unique stories of individuals who visit the café to avail its time-traveling offer are presented. This book delves into their personal experiences and emotions as they revisit significant moments from their past. Reading the first book, “Tales from the Cafe,” won’t disrupt your understanding of the series, and you’ll be able to enjoy the narratives and plots without having read “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” beforehand.

Can a Teenager Read “Before the Coffee Gets Cold”?

Yes, teenagers are likely to be an appropriate audience for the “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” series. The books touch on themes of time travel, relationships, regrets, and emotions, which often resonate with teenagers who are experiencing their own emotions and life experiences. The writing style of the books is generally accessible and engaging, making them a good choice for young adult readers.

However, it’s important to note that the emotional depth and introspective nature of the stories might resonate more with older teenagers who are approaching adulthood and may be encountering the complexities of life choices and relationships. As always, individual reading preferences and maturity levels can vary, so it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the content of the book or read reviews to ensure that the themes and content align with the reader’s interests and comfort level.

Summary

The “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” series invites readers on an enchanting journey where mystery seamlessly blends with emotions. As the series unfolds and new books are released, the exploration of human emotions through the lens of time travel continues to capture the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. Stay tuned for the upcoming release in November 2023 and seize the opportunity to savor the unique flavor of these captivating narratives.