#97 – Author Chat with I.W. Gregorio

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On this episode we chat with author Ilene Wong (aka I.W. Gregorio) about her new YA novel This is My Brain in Love, A story between two teens working at a Chinese restaurant over the summer, who find common ground with each other while dealing with immigrant parents, mental health, and falling in love. We chat with Ilene about her experiences writing the book, her own history with mental health, and how she ended up as a writer who became a surgeon.

Follow Ilene at @IWGregorio and pick up This is My Brain in Love at your favorite bookseller Tuesday, April 14!

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#96 – The Map of Salt and Stars by Zehn Joukhadar

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On this episode we discuss our March 2020 book club pick The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar, a novel about two girls on parallel journeys, one a Syrian-American refugee on a journey for safety after her home is shelled in the opening days of the Syrian Civil War, and one a girl posing as a boy to become an apprentice to a legendary cartographer on an epic journey to see the world.

For additional thoughts and discussion, visit the Books & Boba Goodreads forums on Goodreads.

March & April 2020 Books by Asian Authors to Support During COVID-19

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It’s a difficult time for authors and booksellers around the world due to the coronavirus pandemic. Book tours are being cancelled and bookstores are closing their doors to ensure social distancing. Many authors, especially debut authors, rely on signings and speaking engagements to promote their books, so the situation is particularly disheartening to authors whose books are releasing this spring.

Good news is that there are still plenty of ways to support authors during quarantine. While bookstores may not be open for public browsing, many are still fulfilling online orders, digital purchases, and pre-orders. Here are some March and April 2020 books by authors of Asian descent you can order from your local bookstore now.

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#95 – Author Chat with Jessica Kim

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On this episode we chat with author Jessica Kim about her debut middle-grade novel Stand Up, Yumi Chung! A delightful story about a girl stuck between her immigrant parent’s expectations and her dream of becoming a stand-up comic. We chat with Jessica about her inspirations about the book, her journey from teacher to published author, and relive our memories of hagwons and perms. Oh and Reera shares some Korean dad jokes!

Follow Jessica at @jesskimwrites and pick up Stand Up Yumi Chung! at your favorite bookseller today (call in your order and use curbside delivery)!

For additional thoughts and discussion, visit the Books & Boba Goodreads forums on Goodreads.