jpanslabyrinthofbooks 's review for:

When Haru Was Here by Dustin Thao

4.0

challenging emotional hopeful sad slow-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

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A hear wrenching, emotional, Rollercoaster that brings the eventuality of grief into unexpected perspectives. 

After Eric loses his best friend, he us left navigating the world in what feels like a lonesome narrative. But a chance visit to Japan finds him meeting the endearing Haru, travelling away from the group and taking in the sights of the Festival of Light. But in their rushed meeting, Eric is unable to retrieve Haru's number and leaves for Chicago soon after. From here, Eric must face reality and the tragic realization that to love, is also to lose. 

I can't encapsulate in words the devastation and heart ache this book delivers.