What better way to celebrate AAPI month than by supporting immensely talented Asian American and Pacific Islander authors? These six stories offer a multi-media experience, available both by page and on the big screen:
- Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
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Never Let Me Go is the ideal amalgamation of science fiction, mystery and romance. It is simultaneously a moral examination of our society and a beautiful, albeit original, coming-of-age story. Starring Andrew Garfield, Keira Knightley and Carey Mulligan, the movie adaptation is a must-see.
- Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
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In this hilarious debut novel by Kevin Kwan, three insanely rich Chinese families gossip and scheme when the heir to one of the most massive fortunes in China brings his American-Born Chinese girlfriend to the largest wedding of the season. Though it’s nearly impossible you haven’t at least seen the trailer, the multi-award-winning film has to be on your watchlist.
- First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung
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From the perspective of a survivor of the Cambodian genocide, this national bestseller chronicles the story of a young girl and her family under the regime of Pol Pot. In this artful narrative of war crimes and desperation, Loung Ung reveals the strength and perseverance of her family. Directed by Angelina Jolie, the 2017 film adaptation received a well-deserved Golden Globe, BAFTA and Critics’ Choice Movie Award.
- To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
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This list wouldn’t be complete without your classic, cheesy YA rom-com. Though it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before is an iconic Netflix original, so massively successful that it prompted two sequels starring Lana Condor and Noah Centineo.
- Perfect Addiction by Claudia Tan
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Based on her sensational Perfect series on Wattpad, which garnered over 160 million reads, this novel by Claudia Tan is perfect for those looking for a steamy romance. Though the movie isn’t out quite yet, it’s definitely worth having on your radar.
- Dial A For Aunties Jesse Q. Sutanto
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Another absolutely hilarious read, Dial A For Aunties, is the perfect comedic page-turner. It tells the story of a single wedding attended by three generations of an immigrant Chinese-Indonesian family and the accidental murder and the possible curse that ensues. The film is also one to look forward to, as it is currently in development.
There’s certainly something for everyone on this list: whether you’re a romance stan, a non-fiction girl or the deep, introspective type. Happy reading (and watching)!