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A review by aprilyang1
Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee
adventurous
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book holds a special place in my heart because it is the first time I truly felt represented in a book. The Hmong as a community often go unnoticed, unless you're from an area with a prominent Hmong community. Lori M. Lee's work is groundbreaking as one of the first, if not the first, Hmong authors to feature a Hmong character, endorsed by someone as influential as Rick Riordan (author of the Percy Jackson series). It's a feat I never even thought possible. Through Pahua Moua, Lori showcases that we are more than the stereotypes imposed upon us and more than our physical appearance.
Pahua is an exceptional character, embodying strength, confidence, and vulnerability all at the same time. She reminded me of myself so much it’s actually a little crazy. Lori does such a great job building the background to Pahua’s life and personal struggles while also creating this magical world that emulates Hmong culture. I found myself wondering how non-Hmong readers envisioned this world and Pahua’s experiences because it just felt so relatable to what I know and what I’ve experienced. I think everyone should read this book, no matter how old you are, to learn something new about other people and maybe even discover something about themselves.
Also, I want to point out that there have been two distinct moments where I felt truly represented and proud to be Asian: after watching 'Crazy Rich Asians' and reading the first few chapters of this book.
I truly truly hope that this series can become more known and readers can enjoy this series as much as Harry Potter or Percy Jackson 🫶🏻
Pahua is an exceptional character, embodying strength, confidence, and vulnerability all at the same time. She reminded me of myself so much it’s actually a little crazy. Lori does such a great job building the background to Pahua’s life and personal struggles while also creating this magical world that emulates Hmong culture. I found myself wondering how non-Hmong readers envisioned this world and Pahua’s experiences because it just felt so relatable to what I know and what I’ve experienced. I think everyone should read this book, no matter how old you are, to learn something new about other people and maybe even discover something about themselves.
Also, I want to point out that there have been two distinct moments where I felt truly represented and proud to be Asian: after watching 'Crazy Rich Asians' and reading the first few chapters of this book.
I truly truly hope that this series can become more known and readers can enjoy this series as much as Harry Potter or Percy Jackson 🫶🏻
Content Warnings
Minor: Abandonment