In an atmosphere that blends sadness and hope, and written in a beautiful style, the novel tells the story of Suzu, a young woman who lives alone and isolates herself from others. One day, she is presented with an opportunity to rediscover life and understand its meaning in the form of a job she never imagined. Despite the loneliness and darkness that pervade her life, she embarks on a mission to help those who suffer from loneliness, those forgotten by everyone and who died alone (or "kodokushi" in Japanese culture). She sets out on a journey to confront her feelings about life in an attempt to overcome her solitude. Will she succeed? And will this work change her life?