Our review of : Light from Uncommon Stars

Written by : Ryka Aoki

Release date : 09-28-21

4.5 out of 5 - Based on 268

Retail price : $25.51

Category:

Light from Uncommon Stars is a powerful, poetic book about growing up LGBTQ+ in America. Ryka Aoki shares her own story and those of others to show how resilience and love can light the way through even the darkest moments. This important YA memoir is perfect for anyone who wants to understand what it means to be different – and why that’s something to celebrate.

For who is this book for ?

Light from Uncommon Stars is a powerful, poetic book about growing up LGBTQ+ in America. Ryka Aoki shares her own story and those of others to show how resilience and love can light the way through even the darkest moments. This important YA memoir will be especially beneficial for people who want to understand what it means to be different – why that’s something we should celebrate, not fear.

Pros :

  • The book is very poetic and lyrical, which makes it a beautiful read.
  • It tells powerful stories of resilience that will inspire readers.
  • It provides insight into what it means to grow up LGBTQ+, which is valuable for everyone.

Cons :

  • The author tells a lot of personal stories which can be triggering for some readers
  • It is dense and might be overwhelming for some people to read
  • Some parts of the book are sad and difficult to read

Learn more about the author

Ryka Aoki is a writer, artist, and educator. She is the author of Light from Uncommon Stars (Hay House) and the poetry collection Seasonal Workers (Alice James Books). Ryka has been awarded an NEA Fellowship in Literature, a Lucille Clifton Teaching- Writing Fellowship, two Artist Fellowships from California Arts Councils, and residencies at Hedgebrook Women Writers Retreat and The MacDowell Colony.

Reader Reviews

“This book is absolutely beautiful. Aoki has a gift for storytelling that is both personal and affecting…A must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the LGBTQ+ experience in America.”

“Raw and honest . . .”

“This is an incredibly powerful and important book. Ryka Aoki shares her own story as well as the stories of others to show how resilience and love can light the way through even the darkest moments. This memoir is perfect for anyone who wants to understand what it means to be LGBTQ+, why that’s something to celebrate, and how we can all help make a difference in people’s lives.”

“Aoki’s vulnerable, unapologetic prose fills every page with light.”

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