Ep 1. The Cat and the Book of Friend

Natsume's Book of Friends is an anime series based on the manga of the same name by Yuki Midorikawa. The story follows a young orphan boy named Takashi Natsume who can see spirits and yokai, which are supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore.

In the first episode of the series, titled "The Cat and the Book of Friend", we are introduced to Takashi Natsume as he moves into a new home with his new foster parents. We see that he has had a troubled childhood, frequently moving from one foster home to another, as a result of his ability to see spirits and yokai. Throughout the episode, we start to slowly get a peek into the depth of Natsume's power and how it has given him a life of loneliness.

Natsume stumbles upon a shrine while playing in the woods, where he encounters a yokai who is trapped in the form of a cat. Natsume quickly realizes that the cat is being possessed by a powerful yokai, who has cursed the cat for stealing its most treasured possession, the Book of Friends. The Book of Friends, which belonged to Natsume's grandmother, is a powerful artifact that allows the possessor to control yokai. The yokai now wants the Book of Friends back, and the only way for the cat to be freed from the curse is if Natsume agrees to hand it over.

Throughout the episode, we see Natsume's internal struggle and how he must come to terms with his supernatural ability. He remembers his grandmother's teachings, that the Book of Friends should only be used to bring peace to spirit and yokai, not to control or manipulate them. He decides that he will not give in to the yokai, even if it means the cat remains cursed.

The episode is filled with beautiful and touching moments. Natsume slowly starts to realize that he has not only been given this power, but he has also been given the ability to see the world in a different way, which he sees as a gift. We also get to see the importance of friendship and how even the smallest of friends can make a difference.

Overall, the first episode of Natsume's Book of Friends is a fantastic start to a well-constructed anime series. The animation and musical scores are beautiful and emotionally engaging. As the viewer, we can't help but feel invested in the characters and their struggles. The show is perfect for anyone who enjoys a story about overcoming obstacles and discovering the power of friendship.