When Haru Was Here
Written by Dustin Thao
Published by Wednesday Books
After the death of his best friend, Eric Ly creates imaginary scenarios in his head to deal with his grief. Until one of them becomes real when a boy he met last summer in Japan finds his way back into his life. When he least expects it, Haru Tanaka walks into the coffee shop and sits down next to him. The only thing is, nobody else can see him.
In a magical turn of events, Eric suddenly has someone to connect with, making him feel less alone in the world. But as they spend more and more time together, he begins to question what is real. When he starts losing control of the very thing that is holding him together, Eric must finally confront his reality. Even if it means losing Haru forever.
Primary ISBN: 9781250762061
Publication Date: September 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 12 or older
Community Represented: Japanese/Japanese American, Vietnamese/Vietnamese American
Themes: Arts, Cross-Group Dating, Cross-Group Friendship, Genre: Fantasy & Folklore, Genre: Romance, LGBTQIA+, Mental Health, Own Voices/Lived Experience, Trauma & Healing, Trauma & Healing: Death of Family or Friend
Setting: United States (Chicago IL)
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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Source: Wednesday Books