Own Voices
Own Voices is a genre where authors write about characters and experiences that reflect their own identity and lived experiences, bringing authenticity and representation to the narrative.
The Kiss Quotient
by Helen Hoang
Series: The Kiss Quotient (#1)
In 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang, we follow the story of Stella Lane, a brilliant econometrician with Asperger's who struggles with relationships. Determined to improve her romantic skills, she hires escort Michael Phan to help her practice intimacy. As they navigate this unconventional arrangement, both Stella and Michael find themselves confronting their own insecurities and fears, leading to a heartfelt exploration of love, acceptance, and self-discovery. This novel beautifully weaves together themes of communication, vulnerability, and the complexities of human connection, offering a refreshing and honest take on relationships in a modern world.
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
by Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong's 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' is a remarkable and poignant exploration of identity, family, love, and the complexities of human connections. The novel is written as a letter from a son to his illiterate mother, delving into their shared history as Vietnamese immigrants in America. Vuong's lyrical prose weaves together themes of trauma, queerness, and generational trauma with breathtaking beauty and raw honesty. Through vivid imagery and poetic language, the book captures the struggles of navigating cultural divides and the search for acceptance and understanding. 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' is a deeply moving and profound work that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page.