[Book Review] ‘I Want to Eat Your Pancreas’ by

Yoru Sumino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Yoru Sumino is the author of the novel “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” Yoru Sumino
is a Japanese author born on February18,1980, in Fukuoka, Japan. Not much is
known about his personal life as he prefers to keep a low profile. He is a Japanese
writer known for his emotionally charged storytelling and ability to explore complex
themes. Through his writing, Sumino delves into the depths of human emotions,
creating deeply relatable characters and thought-provoking narratives. Despite his
relatively short bibliography, Sumino’s works have resonated with a wide audience
and have been praised for their heartfelt narratives. “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is
one of his most well-known works, showcasing his talent for crafting poignant and
impactful stories.

REVIEW
“Your relationship with others, is what defines being alive.” - Sakura

“That I wanted to be with her more. That I wanted to always be with her. I could no
longer tell her anything. I could no longer do anything for her. Even though I had
received this many things from her. I, couldn’t do anything…………” - Haruki

The novel beautifully captures the emotional journey of the characters, delving into
their fears, regrets, and hopes. Through Haruki’s perspective, readers witness the
transformation of a reserved and detached individual into someone who learns to
appreciate the fleeting nature of life.

“I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a heart-wrenching Japanese novel written by Yoru

Sumino. The story revolves around an introverted high school student named Haruki
Shiga, who discovers a diary belonging to his classmate Sakura Yamauchi. To his
surprise, the diary reveals that Sakura is suffering from a terminal pancreatic disease
and has only a few months left to live. Despite her disease, Sakura remains
optimistic and decides to spend her remaining days fulfilling her bucket list. Haruki
becomes an unwilling accomplice in her adventures, gradually forming a deep bond
with Sakura as they navigate through life’s joys and sorrows. This poignant tale
explores themes of friendship, love, and the fragility of life, leaving readers with a
profound reflection on the importance of cherishing every moment.
The plot of the book “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a touching novel that explores
themes of life, death, and the power of human connection. The story follows a high
school student who discovers a diary belonging to a classmate with a terminal
illness. As their unexpected friendship develops, the protagonist learns valuable
lessons about cherishing every moment and embracing the beauty of life. The plot is
masterfully crafted, evoking a range of emotions from joy to heartbreak, and leaves a
lasting impact on readers. It is a thought-provoking and beautifully written narrative
that delves deep into the complexities of human existence.

The characters in “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” are incredibly well-developed and
relatable. The protagonist, a reserved and introverted high school student,
undergoes a transformative journey as he forms an unlikely friendship with a
classmate suffering from a terminal illness. The character development is
exceptional, as we witness the protagonist’s growth from a detached observer to
someone who learns to appreciate the value of human connections and the
importance of living life to the fullest. The other characters, including the terminally ill
classmate and their close friends, are equally compelling, each bringing their own
unique perspectives and struggles to the narrative. The author’s ability to create
such multidimensional characters allows readers to empathize with their experiences
and creates a powerful emotional connection throughout the book.

One aspect of “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” that connects to reality is the
exploration of mortality and the fragility of life. Sakura’s terminal illness serves as a
reminder that life is finite and can be unexpectedly cut short. This theme resonates
with the reality that we all face our own mortality and must confront the
impermanence of our existence. The book delves into the emotions and struggles
that arise when confronted with the impending loss of a loved one, highlighting the
importance of cherishing the time we have with others and making the most of every
moment. It prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and relationships,
encouraging them to appreciate the present and prioritize meaningful connections
with others.

The setting of “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” evokes a sense of nostalgia and
melancholy. The story takes place in a small town, where the characters navigate
their daily lives against a backdrop of picturesque landscapes and familiar
surroundings. This setting creates a sense of intimacy and closeness, as the
characters’ lives intertwine and their relationships develop. The contrast between the
serene beauty of the town and the underlying sadness of Sakura’s illness adds depth
to the story, evoking a bittersweet feeling that resonates with readers. The setting
serves as a powerful backdrop for the emotional journey of the characters,
enhancing the impact of their experiences and leaving a lasting impression on the
reader.
In the end, “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” reminds us of the beauty and fragility of
life, leaving readers with a bittersweet sense of appreciation for the fleeting moments
that make it truly meaningful. It is a poignant tale that lingers in the heart long after
the final page is turned. I highly recommend reading “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas”
for its poignant and heartfelt storytelling. This novel beautifully captures the delicate
balance between life’s joys and sorrows, exploring themes of friendship, love, and
the fragility of existence. Through its well-developed characters and emotionally
charged narrative, the book takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, leaving a
lasting impact long after the final page is turned. With its evocative prose and
thought-provoking themes, “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a must-read for those
seeking a captivating and deeply moving literary experience.