Amirah 🍉🇸🇬 | bookstagram

A new year brings a fresh wave of #japaneseliterature releases, and I’m especially excited to see what new gems will join the “healing fiction” genre—think along the lines of Before the Coffee Gets Cold and its heartwarming, soul-soothing magic ✨🥺 🏷️ #asianliterature #asianlit #japaneselit #japanesenovels

I’ve noticed a trend—many #japanesenovels feature cats on the cover, and honestly, they’re onto something! Cats (and animals in general) really do have a transformative magic about them 👏 On that note, if you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your life, please consider checking out local shelters or cat cafes—so many sweet cats are looking for their forever homes. Or, you know, just adopt the one hanging out downstairs 😆 Also, have you seen the new drama trailer with Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun Jin?! OMOMGOMGOMG! 🙌 What other Japanese or Korean lit books with cats on the cover have I missed? And are any of you planning to watch #TheTrunk on Netflix? 🏷️ #asianliterature #asianlit #japaneseliterature #japaneselit #koreanliterature #koreanlit

I went into “More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop” with modest expectations after finding the first book, “Days at the Morisaki Bookshop”, just okay. But wow—this sequel completely exceeded them and hit me in all the feels. The first book followed Takako as a sad, lost character finding hope by the end. In the sequel, she’s undergone significant character growth, emerging as a much stronger and more grounded person. The focus shifts to the relationships in her life and how the shared love of books connects everyone around her. One moment that really stood out was when Takako reflected on how she wouldn’t be where she is, surrounded by people she loves, if not for the heartbreak that set her on this path. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the hardest experiences can lead to the most meaningful changes. The relationships in this book are so wholesome, especially between Takako, her uncle, and her aunt. Their bond shows that love and support don’t have to come from immediate family; they can come from anyone who truly cares about you. Watching Takako break down her emotional walls and grow closer to others was so heartwarming. On a broader level, the book is also about life itself. Takako’s time at the bookshop after work illustrates that life isn’t just about career achievements—it’s about the moments you share with the people around you. It’s a reminder not to take those relationships for granted because you never know when they might be gone. This sequel beautifully captures the importance of connection, growth, and finding joy in the simple things, like a shared love of books. If you enjoyed the first book—or even if you didn’t—give this one a chance. It’s heartwarming, hopeful, and absolutely worth the read. 🏷️ #asianliterature #asianlit #japaneseliterature #japaneselit #cozybooks

Since the weather’s rainy, here are some heartwarming middle grade books by Asian authors to cozy up with! 🌧️📚 These books not only offer captivating stories but also introduce readers to diverse cultures, rich traditions, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re in the mood for magical adventures, emotional journeys, or just a touch of whimsy, there’s something for everyone on this list. What middle grade books would you add to the list? Let me know! 😊 🏷️ #middlegradebooks #middlegraderecommendations #middlegradefantasy #middlegradeadventure #asianauthors #asianliterature #asianlit

Remy Lai (rrremylai) is so good at what she does. I love how she blends illustrations into her stories—it makes everything so much more immersive. ‘Fly on the Wall’ sits somewhere between an illustrated novel and a diary-style notebook, and it’s done brilliantly 😩 First, there’s her signature cartoon style, written from Henry’s notebook POV. Then there’s the second style—his Fly on the Wall posts—which he learned in class. Both are so distinct and really bring Henry’s world to life 👏 Henry’s humor is hilarious. It’s the kind of snort-laugh, ridiculous funny where his imagination just has no bounds. But while ‘Pie in the Sky’ leans more into sad heaviness, ‘Fly on the Wall’ is more nail-biting heavy. Henry does so many wrong things, and you feel the weight of his guilt constantly hanging over him. It’s all angst, justifications, and dealing with the impact of his actions 😅 I also love how the book highlights that families show love in different ways. Henry’s parents express their care through actions, even if it feels overprotective or frustrating to him. It’s the only way they know to show they care, and that adds so much depth to the story 💖 The friendships are also so well done. Friends can hurt each other, drift apart, and sometimes come back together. But the book also shows that it’s okay to give others a chance because new friendships can form if you’re open to them 🙌 Henry’s tendency to make mountains out of molehills and jump to assumptions causes a lot of misunderstandings, but the best part is his growth. He learns that not everything is about him and begins to understand challenges from others’ perspectives. It’s such a great reminder to step outside your own bubble and think about what others might be going through 💪 I highly recommend this book. It’s funny, heartfelt, and packed with so much depth and relatability. Whether you’re a fan of Remy Lai’s previous works or just looking for a great middle-grade read, ‘Fly on the Wall’ is a must-read 🙆‍♀️ 🏷️ #middlegradebookstagram #middlegradebooks #middlegraderecommendation #middlegradefiction #graphicnovels

This book was a wild ride, like a non-stop rollercoaster. All the characters—Kurara, Haru, Himura, Tomoe, and Sayo—go through so much, each dealing with their own struggles and growth 🎢 I really felt for Kurara, but I have to say, Himura stole the spotlight for me. His character growth throughout the trilogy was insane. He worked so hard to make amends, constantly carrying the weight of his guilt, and it made his journey so compelling. Definitely my favorite character from the series 😭😭🫶 The world-building in this series is phenomenal. Ann Sei Lin creates a vivid and immersive world of flying ships and sky cities that feels alive and full of history. The magic system, though intricate, is easy to grasp, which is a testament to the author’s skill. It’s woven seamlessly into the story, making the world feel organic and rich 🪄 As is often the case in epic fantasy stories, the path to the characters’ goal is never simple. Kurara and her crew must rely on their strength, courage, and knowledge to overcome countless obstacles that lie ahead. The story is packed with political intrigue, rebels, betrayal, and sacrifice, keeping the stakes high and the tension palpable 🤚 ‘Rebel Dawn’ was a satisfying conclusion to an incredible trilogy. Ann Sei Lin masterfully ties everything together, delivering a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional 💔 Thank you #pansing @definitelybooks for sending this my way! ‘Rebel Dawn’ is available at all good bookstores 📚 🏷️ #bookrecommendations #asianliterature #asianlit #asianauthors #yafantasy

I should’ve known after ‘Happy Place’ (which, to me, wasn’t happy at all—maybe call it Unhappy Place). But this? Somehow even worse. Not funny in the slightest. The funny story here is how I managed to finish it with my sanity intact 😪 Daphne was my biggest issue. I get that her childhood shaped who she is, and Miles too, but at some point, when you’re an adult, you have the capacity to think through your decisions. You can’t blame everything on your past. And if you do, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Holding onto all that baggage is only dragging her down 👎 Then there was so much internal monologue about her dad and Sadie. I get that her dad hurt her, and giving him another chance was kind of her way of testing if she could trust him again, but how many times can she get burned before she learns. It was frustrating to read 😤 And the whole “are we, are we not” with Miles was painful. If you like that kind of back-and-forth, fine, but I was over it 🤚 I think the book’s trying to say something about life being messy and complicated, and how it’s okay to hurt and argue sometimes without shutting people out completely. And sure, unexpected moments can be beautiful. But the ending? Daphne should’ve chosen herself—it would’ve been so much stronger. That speech about putting herself first was pointless if she wasn’t going to follow through 🙃 At least I borrowed this and didn’t buy it. No regrets there. But yeah, after ‘Book Lovers’, I think I’m done with Emily Henry 👋 Have you read ‘Funny Story’?! Lmk your thoughts 😍

‘Pawcasso’ by Remy Lai (rrremylai) is an absolute delight that feels like a warm invitation to join a community brimming with love, laughter, and the unexpected magic of a basket-toting dog. With expressive and vibrant illustrations, this graphic novel is a feast for the eyes and the heart, blending Remy Lai’s signature humor with tender, aww-worthy moments that will stay with you long after you turn the last page 🥹 The story beautifully captures the ripple effect of small actions, as Jo’s initial boredom transforms into a summer filled with art classes, book clubs, and friendships—all sparked by the charming Pawcasso. It’s a gentle reminder of how one special connection can open doors to a world of new experiences and relationships 👯‍♀️ What makes this book truly heartwarming is its emphasis on community. From the petition to let Pawcasso shop off-leash to the rallying of neighbors with differing opinions, the story shows how even the smallest towns can come together to celebrate what they love. By the end, you don’t just feel like a reader; you feel like a part of Pawcasso’s vibrant and loving world 🗺️ With its themes of honesty, connection, and the joy of belonging, ‘Pawcasso’ is a must-read for dog lovers and animal enthusiasts of all ages. It’s more than a book—it’s an open invitation to embrace kindness, laughter, and the beauty of community 🥰 🏷️ #middlegradebookstagram #middlegradebooks #middlegraderecommendation #middlegradefiction #graphicnovels

Relentless rain poured down as a monsoon surge hit Singapore, and it looks like we’re in for a few wet days ahead. Perfect weather to stay indoors and cozy up with a good book! Here’s a list of cozy reads by Asian authors to get you through the rainy days 🌧️✨ Have you read any of these? Or do you have a favorite cozy read that should be on this list? Let me know! 📚☕ 🏷️ #bookrecommendations #asianliterature #asianlit #asianauthors #japaneseliterature #japaneselit #koreanliterature #koreanlit #japaneseauthors #koreanauthors #translatedfiction #translatedbooks

‘The Chibineko Kitchen’ is a beautifully bittersweet novel about loneliness, grief, and the courage to heal. It captures the ache of loss and the quiet hope that life can hold new beginnings, even after the deepest sorrow 💔 At the heart of the story is Kai, the young chef of the Chibineko Kitchen, who prepares kagezen—remembrance meals designed to evoke memories of lost loved ones. These meals bring an ephemeral miracle: the departed return, staying until the steam from the food fades. For Kotoko, this means a fleeting reunion with her older brother, whose voice she hears as the world grows hazy around her. Their brief, heartfelt conversation gives her the strength to begin moving forward after his death 🌈 The book weaves together interconnected stories, as Kotoko, inspired by her own experience, recommends the Chibineko Kitchen to Taiji, who then passes the gift on to Yoshio, a man grappling with a terminal illness. Each meal sparks a transformation—grief giving way to acceptance, despair yielding to hope. Adding to the charm is Chibi, the resident cat who plays a surprisingly significant role in the story 🐱 Even Kai, the chef who orchestrates these moments for others, undergoes his own journey. Having never experienced the miracles of the Chibineko Kitchen himself, he’s in for a life-changing surprise, with Kotoko by his side to return the favor 🎁 This is a story that lingers like the scent of a well-loved dish. It’s a tender exploration of loss and connection, with a touch of whimsy that feels like magic. The inclusion of recipes allows readers to carry a piece of the story into their own kitchens, making its message of hope and healing all the more tangible 🍚 Thank you #pansing @definitelybooks for sending this my way! ‘The Chibineko Kitchen’ is now available at all good bookstores 📖 🏷️ #asianliterature #asianlit #japaneseliterature #japaneselit #japanesenovels #healingfiction

‘Surviving the Wild: Star the Elephant’ by Remy Lai (rrremylai) is a heartwarming yet poignant tale that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the eyes of Star, a young elephant separated from his herd. Written from Star’s perspective, the story gives readers a raw and emotional glimpse into the challenges elephants face due to deforestation and human activity 🐘 Star’s journey is filled with moments that tug at your heartstrings—like his initial fear of humans and his brave yet misguided attempts to protect himself from rangers who are, in reality, trying to help. His story sheds light on the harsh realities elephants endure, including long migrations to find food and the constant threat of losing their habitats 😞 What makes this book even more impactful is knowing it’s inspired by the true story of three bull elephants in 1990 who were displaced in Malaysia due to deforestation. It hit especially close to home learning how Malaysia and Singapore came together—the Singapore Armed Forces, Malaysia Wildlife Department, and Singapore Zoo collaborated to track and relocate the elephants to a national park in Malaysia 🇲🇾🇸🇬 Adding to the experience are the fun elephant facts at the end of the book, like how their low-frequency sounds can travel up to 16km through vibrations felt by other elephants. The book also offers tips on how we can help protect elephants and their habitats, reinforcing the idea that we can all play a role in conservation 🫶 This beautifully illustrated and educational story is perfect for young readers and adults alike. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact humans have on wildlife and the importance of working together to protect our planet 🌍 🏷️ #middlegradebookstagram #middlegradebooks #middlegraderecommendation #middlegradefiction #graphicnovels #wildlifeconservation

Thank you @watermelonreads for this wonderful and inspiring review. ☝️ #MYFRIENDJOHN #FriendsMakeYouFeelGood #KindnessAlwaysWins #FriendshipGoals #BeTheChangeYouWantToSee