Cozy, whimsical novels — often featuring magical cats — that have long been popular in Japan and Korea are taking off globally. Fans say they offer comfort during a chaotic time.

A novel within a novel fueled her hit thriller, “The Plot.” Keeping the stories straight was even harder for “The Sequel.” ...

Filled with art and photography books, Aviary Books is now open in downtown New Bedford, welcoming everyone with a love of stories.