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A Scatter of Light by Malinda Lo
5.0

What a complicated, stunning, heartwarming book. I've been waiting for this book since I heard about it almost a year ago and it was definitely worth the wait. I'm so grateful Lo didn't give up on Aria throughout the decade of creating her story. The Summer before starting college is the Summer of exploration for Aria when she is forced to move across the country to live with her grandmother. Of course, she meets the grandmother's gardener and gets whisked away to queer music festivals and dyke marches with her new friend and her friends. I love books that make me feel proud and deeply part of the queer community- Aria's relationships and the humor in this book is sapphic and if you don't get it, you don't get it. Lo clearly made this book for her community, which I am excited to announce, I am a part of. A friends to lovers trope, Asian representation, complicated family dynamics, and strong friendships are things I look for in books and Lo hits all of them (plus a very cute dog). Lo is specific and detailed in her descriptions of the events, places, and art throughout the book. Her dialogue is relatable, as are Aria's fears and awe and eagerness. I love that this is a stand alone novel but also beautiful calls back to Telegraph Club, an all time favorite book of mine. I also loved the way it ended- open but knowing, simple but hopeful.