When Haru Was Here

Dustin Thao's 'When Haru Was Here' is a poignant young adult novel exploring grief through the lens of magical realism. Following the death of his best friend, protagonist Eric Ly retreats into imaginary scenarios. His coping mechanism takes a fantastical turn when a boy from one of his imagined memories, Haru Tanaka, appears in his life, visible only to Eric. This unique connection offers Eric solace and a sense of belonging, but as their bond deepens, the line between reality and imagination blurs. The story gently guides Eric, and by extension the reader, through the difficult process of acknowledging loss and learning to let go, even if it means losing a comforting illusion. It is suitable for ages 12-18.

From the New York Times bestselling author Dustin Thao, We Are Okay meets Wandavision in this novel about loss, and learning to let go. After the death of his best friend, Eric Ly creates imaginary scenarios in his head to deal with his grief. Until one of them becomes real when a boy he met last summer in Japan finds his way back into his life. When he least expects it, Haru Tanaka walks into the coffee shop and sits down next to him. The only thing is, nobody else can see him. In a magical turn of events, Eric suddenly has someone to connect with, making him feel less alone in the world. But as they spend more and more time together, he begins to question what is real. When he starts losing control of the very thing that is holding him together, Eric must finally confront his reality. Even if it means losing Haru forever.