Mina's Matchbox

Mina’s Matchbox by Yōko Ogawa is a poignant coming-of-age novel that beautifully weaves together themes of memory, friendship, and family. The story follows twelve-year-old Tomoko, who moves from bustling Tokyo to the quiet seaside town of Ashiya to live with her wealthy relatives after her parents' separation. There, she meets her enigmatic cousin Mina, a curious and imaginative girl with a unique fascination for collecting matchboxes from around the world.

As the two girls form a deep and enduring friendship, their shared adventures uncover hidden family secrets and explore the delicate complexities of growing up. Through the lens of Tomoko’s memories, Ogawa paints a tender portrait of childhood innocence set against a backdrop of personal and familial change.

With its lyrical prose and deeply introspective narrative, Mina’s Matchbox is a heartfelt story about belonging, nostalgia, and the fleeting nature of time. Yōko Ogawa’s signature storytelling style—both gentle and haunting—offers a beautifully reflective tale that resonates long after the final page.