Michiko Aoyama's The Healing Hippo of Hinode Park is a tender, whimsical novel about a mysterious hippo statue in a Tokyo park that seems to offer comfort to those who visit it. Through interconnected stories of people seeking solace, Aoyama explores themes of loneliness, healing, and the unexpected places we find hope. The novel becomes a meditation on how small acts of kindness and moments of connection can transform our lives in profound ways.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Aoyama understands that healing doesn't always come from grand gestures but from quiet moments of presence. This novel reminds us that sometimes what we need most is simply to feel seen, and that magic can be as simple as a statue that listens without judgment.

DETAILS: • Author: Michiko Aoyama • Publisher: Hanover Square Press • Format: Hardcover • Publication Date: September 23, 2025 • ISBN: 9781335016331 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days