Two story elements you wouldn’t expect to find in the same book: a classic cursed-violin musical deal with the devil, and aliens from another galaxy running a doughnut shop in southern California. Sci-fi and folklore strike brilliant sparks against each other in this delightfully inventive tale of a runaway trans teen violin prodigy; her mysterious musical teacher aka “The Queen of Hell,” who has one more soul to pay to the devil to restore her own music; and the unexpected consequences of their encounter with a family of refugees from very, very far away.
—Ruth, Fireside Books, Palmer, AK
Fantasy. Science Fiction. Magical realism. Characters you love even as you hate. Deals with trauma yet feels hopeful as well as true.
—Soren, Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe, Bend, OR
Yes, we already posted recommendations for this a couple of years ago. But we couldn’t resist featuring some more recommendations during AAPI Heritage Month. It’s in paperback now. Treat yourself!
