The Convenience Store by the Sea

‘The Convenience Store by the Sea makes magic from life’s simple moments . . . an unexpected treasure revealing what’s truly important in life. I will hold it close for when I need a reminder!’ Laurie Gilmore, bestselling author of The Pumpkin Spice Cafe

‘If you loved Before The Coffee Gets Cold you will love this!’

‘A perfect, feel-good story about finding joy in unexpected connections, ideal for those who love a cosy, heartwarming escape!’

‘Bubble bath fiction’ The Herald

‘A delightful tale of community and connection’ My Weekly

Welcome to Tenderness!

A quaint seaside town in Kitakyushu, Mojiko is full of hidden delights. And one unexpected treasure is the 24/7 convenience store, Tenderness.

At first glance, it’s a store like any other.

Sure, it’s a bit odd that the handsome manager has his own fan club. And perhaps the customers are somewhat eccentric. But there’s a warmth about Tenderness that draws you in.

The bright lights are always on. The employees know you by name. And the shelves are stacked with delicious treats, from strong hot coffee to sweet parfaits, egg sandos to ramen, crispy fried chicken to refreshing soba.

After a while, you get the feeling that whatever you need might just be waiting for you here…

The Convenience Store by the Sea is the heartwarming international bestseller from award-winning Japanese author Sonoko Machida. A a series of interconnected vignettes set in a 24/7 Japanese convenience store, the novel tells the delightfully quirky and heartfelt stories of the store’s customers and employees, offering us all a unique recipe for a good, fulfilling life. Translated by Bruno Navasky.