Tomoyo Shiino’s best friend Mariko had a rough life of abuse and depression but was always able to rely on Shiino’s support. Shiino has a crappy job and is going through a rough patch and hadn’t heard from her friend in awhile. Until Shiino unfortunately hears of her friend’s suicide. Bravely saving her ashes from her abusive father, Shiino goes to take a trip with her friend one last time.
There is also a side story about Yiska, a young Native man trying to cross the border and ends up meeting a man fleeing from his old gang.
The main story is really sad. Watching a normally snarky Shiino struggle to deal with her best friend’s death is very real; alternating between shock, anger, humor, and pain in a way you can’t help but empathize with. Of course if this subject matter is triggering for you, I’d avoid this book but if not, it’s moving and in the end I’m glad I read it. 4.5 out of 5.
