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“A heartwarming, culturally rich romance; highly recommended for all graphic novel collections, especially where slice-of-life stories and manga are popular.”

—School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Li’s debut is a fun and heartfelt exploration of navigating coursework, familial expectations, and relationships–all in a new place and culture… A sweet, charming romance and a thoughtful story of self-discovery.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Last Night I Dreamed of Home

Written by Sophie Li
Illustrated by Sophie Li
Published by Norton Young Readers

This romantic debut graphic novel follows two college freshmen grappling with coursework, new friends, first love, and their Chinese heritage.

After botching the only exam that matters in China, Alice arrives at college eager to party like the North Americans on TV—not to hang out with a studious boy who reminds her why she left home.

All Haoran wants is a business degree. His father has spent all his money sending Haoran overseas, and in return, he must graduate and find a stable job. If only he could get rid of the nagging itch to draw a comic book.

From burnt cooking, a stuck elevator, and late-night bubble tea, Alice and Haoran’s unlikely friendship promises into something more—unless their differences drive them apart. When a creative opportunity arrives, Haoran must choose between his passion and his family, and Alice must discover her own identity or lose touch with her roots altogether.

Primary ISBN: 9781324082859
Publication Date: October 2026
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Young Adult, Age 14 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Canada (Toronto)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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