Thank you Netgalley and Soho Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Kelly Murashige’s “The Yomigaeri” Tunnel is a deeply moving exploration of grief, healing, and self-discovery, wrapped in a compelling story of magical realism. With its heartfelt storytelling and raw emotional depth, this book takes you on a journey that is both painful and hopeful—one that lingers long after the final page, showing that there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. There are content warnings provided at the beginning as the book does focus on grief; substance abuse is also explored in the book. Ultimately, this is a story of hope and moving on.

The story follows Monika, an 18-year-old navigating the most challenging year of her life. Struggling to process the loss of Shun, a childhood friend and classmate with whom she had a complicated history, Monika learns about the Yomigaeri Tunnel—a mythical passageway said to resurrect the dead. Intrigued by the possibility of reviving Shun, she ventures into the tunnel, only to find herself partnered with Shiori, a headstrong girl determined to bring her mother back to life.

The tunnel itself is an emotional crucible, forcing Monika and Shiori to relive their most painful memories and confront their deepest fears. Through vivid scenes reminiscent of “A Christmas Carol,” Monika’s journey through her past grief—including the loss of other loved ones like her uncle and grandparents—becomes a powerful vehicle for self-reflection and growth. Murashige’s prose beautifully captures the weight of Monika’s emotions, making her pain, regret, and eventual healing profoundly relatable.

The relationship between Monika and Shiori is another highlight of the book. Initially strangers with clashing motives, the two girls slowly develop a bond based on trust and mutual support. Shiori’s struggle with her abusive, manipulative mother adds another layer of complexity, as she grapples with her love for her mother despite her trauma. Their dynamic serves as a testament to the power of shared vulnerability and the necessity of human connection in the face of grief. Murashige doesn’t shy away from difficult themes. However, beneath the book’s darker moments lies a resounding message of hope: that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

Ultimately, “The Yomigaeri Tunnel” is a beautifully crafted novel about acceptance, closure, and moving forward. Monika’s growth as she learns to let go of the past and embrace her future is deeply inspiring, and the book’s ending is as poignant as it is uplifting. For those who have experienced loss or are looking for a story that balances sorrow with redemption, this book is an unforgettable journey. Highly recommended for fans of heartfelt, introspective stories with a touch of magical realism.