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This Moth Saw Brightness
A weird and revelatory debut that vividly captures the dislocation of growing up BIPOC and neurodivergent in a country awash in both conspiracy theories and genuine conspiracies.
"The invisible D in my name is my mother’s second most lasting contribution to my life."
‘Wayne Le—known as "Invisible-D Dwayne" at school—has been invited to participate in a seemingly ordinary, innocuous adolescent health study by a prestigious university. The study has a few nice perks, but most important to ‘Wayne, is the opportunity to give his immigrant father an accomplishment to be proud of—something that's been in sort supply since 'Wayne's mother left.
But the study quickly proves to be anything but ordinary and innocuous, and ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit, and a fellow study participant named Jane (a girl who shall not be manic-pixied) find themselves sucked into an M. C. Escherlike maze of conspiracies that might be entirely in their heads or might truly be a sinister government plot.
"The invisible D in my name is my mother’s second most lasting contribution to my life."
‘Wayne Le—known as "Invisible-D Dwayne" at school—has been invited to participate in a seemingly ordinary, innocuous adolescent health study by a prestigious university. The study has a few nice perks, but most important to ‘Wayne, is the opportunity to give his immigrant father an accomplishment to be proud of—something that's been in sort supply since 'Wayne's mother left.
But the study quickly proves to be anything but ordinary and innocuous, and ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit, and a fellow study participant named Jane (a girl who shall not be manic-pixied) find themselves sucked into an M. C. Escherlike maze of conspiracies that might be entirely in their heads or might truly be a sinister government plot.
448 pages, Hardcover
Published May 27, 2025
17 people are currently reading
2797 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Vacharat
1 book18 followersA. A. Vacharat is an author, artist, and web developer. Her books include elements of science, technology, and at least a hint of absurdity. She includes characters that her child-self longed to see in books, such as children with one Asian parent and autistic protagonists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 24, 2025
ANHPI Heritage Month 2025 #15
Blog Tour - 5/25/25
Suffice to say, I can tell you I've never read a book quite like this. I didn't love it. However, I can respect it for being different.
This story has the weirdest format. I hate the footnotes. If you remember correctly, I loved the footnotes in BABEL. Those are different. Those are relevant.
I can't with these names. Dwayne, but the D is silent? Kermit? I didn't even go frog, I went Kermit Tully from ASOIAF. That's how nerdy I am.
There's a study. There's a missing mom. There's an overinvolved dad. There's a sister that isn't a sister. There are some girls 'wayne is interested in. I don't know. I skimmed the last bits.
📖 Thank you to Dutton Books for Young Readers and Hear Our Voices Tours
Blog Tour - 5/25/25
Suffice to say, I can tell you I've never read a book quite like this. I didn't love it. However, I can respect it for being different.
This story has the weirdest format. I hate the footnotes. If you remember correctly, I loved the footnotes in BABEL. Those are different. Those are relevant.
I can't with these names. Dwayne, but the D is silent? Kermit? I didn't even go frog, I went Kermit Tully from ASOIAF. That's how nerdy I am.
There's a study. There's a missing mom. There's an overinvolved dad. There's a sister that isn't a sister. There are some girls 'wayne is interested in. I don't know. I skimmed the last bits.
📖 Thank you to Dutton Books for Young Readers and Hear Our Voices Tours
April 4, 2025
This Young Adult debut novel is NOT what I was expecting at all!
What begins as a YA-trope book escalates quickly into a novel about a mixed race teen who is dealing with poor grades, an indifferent father, and an absent (literally) mother. He has his best friend who is a tech genius (who strives to use his talents for "good"), and he is hoping to confess his feelings to his crush (who we learn is autistic). When the protagonist is invited to participate in a health study at John Hopkins University, the protagonist hesitates until his father, his best friend, and his crush "convince" him to do it.
This novel delves into mental health, possible government conspiracies, and adolescent struggles congruently. You would believe this would leave the narrative feeling "scattered," but no. Instead, the style is presented using journal entries, asides, footnotes, and emails to demonstrate a different take on stream-of-consciousness.
Readers who have been looking for a different take on the YA genre won't be disappointed with this book!
What begins as a YA-trope book escalates quickly into a novel about a mixed race teen who is dealing with poor grades, an indifferent father, and an absent (literally) mother. He has his best friend who is a tech genius (who strives to use his talents for "good"), and he is hoping to confess his feelings to his crush (who we learn is autistic). When the protagonist is invited to participate in a health study at John Hopkins University, the protagonist hesitates until his father, his best friend, and his crush "convince" him to do it.
This novel delves into mental health, possible government conspiracies, and adolescent struggles congruently. You would believe this would leave the narrative feeling "scattered," but no. Instead, the style is presented using journal entries, asides, footnotes, and emails to demonstrate a different take on stream-of-consciousness.
Readers who have been looking for a different take on the YA genre won't be disappointed with this book!
April 1, 2025
I liked so many things about this book. First, the suspense. I kept reading and reading and just had to keep turning pages to find out what happened. The characters were so endearing, especially the main character, 'Wayne. I worried about him as I too wondered if the study was real. Also, I loved his relationships with his best friend Kermit and with his dad.
In terms of the story set up, I really liked all the interpolated text. I loved the emails from Mom and the study survey questions. There are a ton of original elements to this story which made it interesting and different. I can't wait to see what A. A. Vacharat writes next.
April 2, 2025
Recently I tried reading a few YA novels to explore the genre and This Moth Saw Brightness was definitely my favorite. It was an enjoyable read that made me want to keep going to see what would happen next and how certain relationships would develop.
I appreciated the book for making you think about the things that combine to make you who you are and influence the choices you make..... Further appreciated the book being thought provoking without the heavy handedness that some books contain, and even making me laugh at times. Looking forward to what comes next from this author!
I appreciated the book for making you think about the things that combine to make you who you are and influence the choices you make..... Further appreciated the book being thought provoking without the heavy handedness that some books contain, and even making me laugh at times. Looking forward to what comes next from this author!
April 3, 2025
This is one of those books that skillfully treads (or willfully skips about on) the lines between seemingly contradictory elements. It’s deals with dark themes, it’s foreboding, it’s tense—but then it’s silly! and excited! Think: Mr. Milchick dancing with the Department of Choreography & Merriment’s marching band while Mark S is trying to find The Black Hallway. It is smart and well-written with interesting, many-faceted gems of characters, but it still has a driving plot. It is not trying to be all things for all people, but it does contain multitudes.
If you’re looking to read something different, something with a unique structure, something with “weird” people who aren’t just props or stereotypes, and something just apt enough for these uncertain times—you’ve found your book!
If you’re looking to read something different, something with a unique structure, something with “weird” people who aren’t just props or stereotypes, and something just apt enough for these uncertain times—you’ve found your book!
June 23, 2025
This was really different and mostly in a good way. I liked most of the characters (except for Kermit who did annoy me) but actually I wish the book could have been about Jane instead. I think the book is most successful in terms of the conversations about sense of self and mental illness. I also loved the part where Jane said that mostly she likes herself but wished the world did too. This is more of a personal preference but this book is mostly asking questions that you don't get answers to which is very frustrating because I was genuinely trying to figure the study out and the connections. I know the point is to not get answers but I wanted them anyway!!!
Reviewed by Amy, Librarian. Find it at the library here.
Reviewed by Amy, Librarian. Find it at the library here.
May 20, 2025
I first wanna thank the author, publishers, and Netgally for the chance to read my first ever ebook ARC.
That being said, I finished the whole book but found it really hard to get through. The summery sounded really interesting and that is what drew me to it in the first place. I mean who wouldn’t want to read a book about teens taking part of a study with no clear indications on what the study is for and have to figure it out? As I read more and more of it I started to dread picking it back up. It took me over a month to finish reading it (Started 4/1 and finished 5/12).
I love a book with any kind of neurodivergent representation in it, but I feel like it was mentioned constantly in every single chapter one way or another. Like it was mentioned so many times that I was getting annoyed at the reminder. For me it can be mentioned maybe once or twice and that would be enough. But using it to describe some of the actions and thoughts was kinda unnecessary.
Not only that but I feel like the story line got lost a bit. I felt like there was way too much back and forth between teen problems and trying to figure out the study. It flipped way too much in my opinion. I love having some teen drama mixed in. The teen drama would go on for a few chapters then quickly switch with not much context on to what was happening to something else completely.
I also found the change between chapters written like a novel and other written like a screenplay was kinda weird. I couldn’t find the reason for a few of the conversations between dad and son to be written that way. And having some of the dad’s facial expressions written as abbreviations was also pretty confusing. I had to keep going back to the start of the book to remember what the abbreviations stood for.
There was also a random author’s note towards the end that threw me off. I had to start that chapter over since I didn’t fully understand why it was put there. Even one of the chapters switched to a different chapter’s view and it wasn’t noted in the chapter title. That threw me off as well since most of the book was read from Wayne’s point of view.
I felt like this was almost like the first rough draft that need a lot of editing to get the story line smooth. Cut some of the repetitiveness from it and work on the flow between chapter would help.
That being said, I finished the whole book but found it really hard to get through. The summery sounded really interesting and that is what drew me to it in the first place. I mean who wouldn’t want to read a book about teens taking part of a study with no clear indications on what the study is for and have to figure it out? As I read more and more of it I started to dread picking it back up. It took me over a month to finish reading it (Started 4/1 and finished 5/12).
I love a book with any kind of neurodivergent representation in it, but I feel like it was mentioned constantly in every single chapter one way or another. Like it was mentioned so many times that I was getting annoyed at the reminder. For me it can be mentioned maybe once or twice and that would be enough. But using it to describe some of the actions and thoughts was kinda unnecessary.
Not only that but I feel like the story line got lost a bit. I felt like there was way too much back and forth between teen problems and trying to figure out the study. It flipped way too much in my opinion. I love having some teen drama mixed in. The teen drama would go on for a few chapters then quickly switch with not much context on to what was happening to something else completely.
I also found the change between chapters written like a novel and other written like a screenplay was kinda weird. I couldn’t find the reason for a few of the conversations between dad and son to be written that way. And having some of the dad’s facial expressions written as abbreviations was also pretty confusing. I had to keep going back to the start of the book to remember what the abbreviations stood for.
There was also a random author’s note towards the end that threw me off. I had to start that chapter over since I didn’t fully understand why it was put there. Even one of the chapters switched to a different chapter’s view and it wasn’t noted in the chapter title. That threw me off as well since most of the book was read from Wayne’s point of view.
I felt like this was almost like the first rough draft that need a lot of editing to get the story line smooth. Cut some of the repetitiveness from it and work on the flow between chapter would help.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2025
I’m always glad to see more representation of neurodivergent characters in fiction, and This Moth Saw Brightness is a strong addition to that positive trend. A.A. Vacharat brings a fresh voice with an inventive debut that experiments boldly with literary structure and typography.
On one level, I appreciated the creative choices—the shifting typefaces, footnotes, and metafictional elements. It’s exciting to see authors take risks. But the variety of techniques, combined with extremely short chapters, made the book feel too disjointed for me. I struggled to connect with the story or feel invested in the characters.
That said, I really appreciated the book’s commentary on social issues—both big and small. From the sobering idea of what people might be willing to do for healthcare in the near future, to the quiet observation of the death and restructuring of the common shopping mall—these moments were some of the strongest in the novel.
Overall, a creative and ambitious debut. It didn’t quite land for me personally, but I’m interested to see what Vacharat writes next.
Thank you to the Author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the AEC in exchange for an honest review.
On one level, I appreciated the creative choices—the shifting typefaces, footnotes, and metafictional elements. It’s exciting to see authors take risks. But the variety of techniques, combined with extremely short chapters, made the book feel too disjointed for me. I struggled to connect with the story or feel invested in the characters.
That said, I really appreciated the book’s commentary on social issues—both big and small. From the sobering idea of what people might be willing to do for healthcare in the near future, to the quiet observation of the death and restructuring of the common shopping mall—these moments were some of the strongest in the novel.
Overall, a creative and ambitious debut. It didn’t quite land for me personally, but I’m interested to see what Vacharat writes next.
Thank you to the Author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the AEC in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2025
This book made me think in a way that was so organic without being leading. Its thought provoking without being harsh and bitter. I thought about my own mental health and sense of self. I thought about my experience as a parent. I thought of the environment my kids are growing up in. This is not my typical read, but I enjoyed it thoroughly.
June 8, 2025
Health Study or top-secret CIA experiment?
This Moth Saw Brightness is the debut novel by author A.A Vacharat and is a quirky coming of age tale following ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit and ‘Wayne’s high school crush Jane as the trio navigate the ins and outs of a mysterious John’s Hopkins health study. With participation being on an “invitation only” basis, ‘Wayne is pleased and a little terrified to find out that his secret crush is also a participant. As the duo compare notes they begin to wonder if there isn’t something more sinister afoot than what is being presented as “daily assignments” and occasional office visits. This speculation reaches a sinister high upon seeing a fellow classmate and participant in the study removed from the school. With their continuing speculations regarding the validity and legality of study growing more with each day, they devise a plan to get answers. But, they must be careful, at best they’ll make themselves look paranoid and steeped in conspiracies and at worst, they could open a pandora’s box that they are not ready to deal with.
I really enjoyed this book, even thought there was a lot going in and a ton to try to keep straight. There is so much more to ‘Wayne than meets the eye. He seems to be under the constant pressure of his dad to do better, and he lives under the shadow of his mother who, after leaving the family years before is now slowly making her way back into their life one email and state at a time. I really loved Vacharat’s use of footnotes through this entire book as a neat way to add small snippets of backstory or commentary without running down a complete rabbit hole, and ‘Wayne’s abbreviations are really amusing. The dynamic Wayne has with Kermit and his family was also refreshing to see as well as ‘Wayne’s relationship with his cousin Olive. A few of the minor characters were just way over the top and completely campy that every time one appeared on scene you knew they were going to do or say something so ridiculous that it would be funny.
I feel that if I say much more I will be giving away more of this book than I want to. If you are looking for a quirky, sometimes funny, sometimes serious coming of age type story where all walks of life are represented A.A. Vacharat’s This Moth Saw Brightness is a great read. After spending so much time with ‘Wayne, Kermit, Jane and the rest of the characters I wonder if a follow up is in store? It could be interesting to see the awkwardness of ‘Wayne and his mother coming face to face again after all these years as well as the developing connection and friendship between him and Jane. Of course, the Hopkins study, while complete for them continues on a grander scale and I’m sure there are many unanswered questions. Time will only tell if Vacharat returns to the Baltimore area to catch up with ‘Wayne and friends, but if she does I’ll be sure to read.
Full disclosure: I was provided a Netgalley copy of this title by the author or their authorized agent, however, have voluntarily provided a review. All opinions are my own.
This Moth Saw Brightness is the debut novel by author A.A Vacharat and is a quirky coming of age tale following ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit and ‘Wayne’s high school crush Jane as the trio navigate the ins and outs of a mysterious John’s Hopkins health study. With participation being on an “invitation only” basis, ‘Wayne is pleased and a little terrified to find out that his secret crush is also a participant. As the duo compare notes they begin to wonder if there isn’t something more sinister afoot than what is being presented as “daily assignments” and occasional office visits. This speculation reaches a sinister high upon seeing a fellow classmate and participant in the study removed from the school. With their continuing speculations regarding the validity and legality of study growing more with each day, they devise a plan to get answers. But, they must be careful, at best they’ll make themselves look paranoid and steeped in conspiracies and at worst, they could open a pandora’s box that they are not ready to deal with.
I really enjoyed this book, even thought there was a lot going in and a ton to try to keep straight. There is so much more to ‘Wayne than meets the eye. He seems to be under the constant pressure of his dad to do better, and he lives under the shadow of his mother who, after leaving the family years before is now slowly making her way back into their life one email and state at a time. I really loved Vacharat’s use of footnotes through this entire book as a neat way to add small snippets of backstory or commentary without running down a complete rabbit hole, and ‘Wayne’s abbreviations are really amusing. The dynamic Wayne has with Kermit and his family was also refreshing to see as well as ‘Wayne’s relationship with his cousin Olive. A few of the minor characters were just way over the top and completely campy that every time one appeared on scene you knew they were going to do or say something so ridiculous that it would be funny.
I feel that if I say much more I will be giving away more of this book than I want to. If you are looking for a quirky, sometimes funny, sometimes serious coming of age type story where all walks of life are represented A.A. Vacharat’s This Moth Saw Brightness is a great read. After spending so much time with ‘Wayne, Kermit, Jane and the rest of the characters I wonder if a follow up is in store? It could be interesting to see the awkwardness of ‘Wayne and his mother coming face to face again after all these years as well as the developing connection and friendship between him and Jane. Of course, the Hopkins study, while complete for them continues on a grander scale and I’m sure there are many unanswered questions. Time will only tell if Vacharat returns to the Baltimore area to catch up with ‘Wayne and friends, but if she does I’ll be sure to read.
Full disclosure: I was provided a Netgalley copy of this title by the author or their authorized agent, however, have voluntarily provided a review. All opinions are my own.
May 27, 2025
ok i haven’t seen this on many people’s radars but i’m here to shout that it SHOULD BE!!!
this was one of the most unique YA books i’ve read. there were characters with depth & quirks that made them feel so spectacularly themselves, dialogue that made me chuckle, funky formatting (app notifications, screenplays, op eds, & more), & such interesting themes of conspiracy, mental illness/neurodivergence, parenthood, assimilation, & others’ expectations
i was so impressed at how this book tackled these topics in a way that was super complex & engaging, while maintaining a YA tone & voice. the characters felt appropriately teenager-y without making me cringe. i loved seeing these little weirdos come into their own, rooting for them as they battled external & internal pressures to fit in
overall this was a book that had so much more depth & heart than the plot lets on, but also so much more levity than the themes would seem to allow for. another review compared it to “Mr. Milchick dancing with the Department of Choreography & Merriment’s marching band while Mark S is trying to find The Black Hallway” & they nailed it imo!!!
pick this up for an off-beat, quirky, mind-bendy read with sweetie pie weirdo characters that’ll steal your heart 💛
this was one of the most unique YA books i’ve read. there were characters with depth & quirks that made them feel so spectacularly themselves, dialogue that made me chuckle, funky formatting (app notifications, screenplays, op eds, & more), & such interesting themes of conspiracy, mental illness/neurodivergence, parenthood, assimilation, & others’ expectations
i was so impressed at how this book tackled these topics in a way that was super complex & engaging, while maintaining a YA tone & voice. the characters felt appropriately teenager-y without making me cringe. i loved seeing these little weirdos come into their own, rooting for them as they battled external & internal pressures to fit in
overall this was a book that had so much more depth & heart than the plot lets on, but also so much more levity than the themes would seem to allow for. another review compared it to “Mr. Milchick dancing with the Department of Choreography & Merriment’s marching band while Mark S is trying to find The Black Hallway” & they nailed it imo!!!
pick this up for an off-beat, quirky, mind-bendy read with sweetie pie weirdo characters that’ll steal your heart 💛
May 24, 2025
What a start... A teen wants nothing more than to get closer to his dad, as things used to be before his mother left but his dad has closed inside himself, and his expectations of his son are very high for success. Being part of this "secret study" is an honor (his father's perception of it) so the kid accepts to participate... (Also, the girl he likes was called to take part, too) Sounds like this study is easy to follow until...
I couldn't put this one down, but it's one of those I don't want to finish and let go.. Once we get into the first chapters, we immediately connect to the cover differently, giving the origami another meaning. I like the format of the chapters; super short, sometimes even sms with humorous and fun characters to balance the tension and family awkwardness in dealing with change.
I loved how it switched, I actually thought Wayne had lost his mom, but she is alive and returns.
The connection to the girl he likes is unique and makes her the perfect partner. The book turns into a thriller, and the twists make us doubt everyone near the main character.
I liked the writing style, and I will keep looking forward to new books from this author.
I couldn't put this one down, but it's one of those I don't want to finish and let go.. Once we get into the first chapters, we immediately connect to the cover differently, giving the origami another meaning. I like the format of the chapters; super short, sometimes even sms with humorous and fun characters to balance the tension and family awkwardness in dealing with change.
I loved how it switched, I actually thought Wayne had lost his mom, but she is alive and returns.
The connection to the girl he likes is unique and makes her the perfect partner. The book turns into a thriller, and the twists make us doubt everyone near the main character.
I liked the writing style, and I will keep looking forward to new books from this author.
May 26, 2025
Even 2 weeks later I am still in denial that I finished it. From the first page I was hooked and the character development was amazing. A fun read with realistic characters and an underlying plot that had me questioning a lot. Seriously, read this book! Don’t forget to plan to plan to read the footnotes!!!!!
August 10, 2025
It was SO good! The dialogue between the characters was excellent (i especially liked Jane), the plot really got mysterious and suspenseful in the middle, and you made some bold statements along the way that are still sticking with me. i miss D, Jane, and Kermit already!
dnf
July 2, 2025I was listening to this book, and it is LONG. And BORING AF.
DNF at about 50%.
DNF at about 50%.
June 18, 2025
As I exited this marvelous novel I found myself drifting back into lyrics from Bruce Cockburn's "Night Train." As Cockburn cogently asks, "Isn't that just what secret police are all about???"
The story here involves a high school student, a super-geek buddy, another mindfully dancing through autism, a too-wise younger half-sister, an absent mother wrestling her way free of mental illness, a distracted single dad misunderstood and misunderstanding (but neither), all of their relationships, and, of course, the CIA. Maybe. Maybe not. It asks deep questions about whether we change, or can, or should, and whether we would know if we did, as well as exploring the ramifications of broad-band intrusion into middle America. It is also by turns hilariously funny and deeply poignant. The ending left me pondering for days and required dozens of pages of re-reading in order to start pondering again, folding and refolding my thinking like the origami on the cover and central to the multi-faceted plot.
Then on to Paul Simon. "I know what I know, I'll sing what I said, We come and we go, That's a thing that I keep in the back of my head."
Fold. Unfold. Fold again. Mind the edges.
The story here involves a high school student, a super-geek buddy, another mindfully dancing through autism, a too-wise younger half-sister, an absent mother wrestling her way free of mental illness, a distracted single dad misunderstood and misunderstanding (but neither), all of their relationships, and, of course, the CIA. Maybe. Maybe not. It asks deep questions about whether we change, or can, or should, and whether we would know if we did, as well as exploring the ramifications of broad-band intrusion into middle America. It is also by turns hilariously funny and deeply poignant. The ending left me pondering for days and required dozens of pages of re-reading in order to start pondering again, folding and refolding my thinking like the origami on the cover and central to the multi-faceted plot.
Then on to Paul Simon. "I know what I know, I'll sing what I said, We come and we go, That's a thing that I keep in the back of my head."
Fold. Unfold. Fold again. Mind the edges.
June 20, 2025
This quirky, fun, engaging read kept me turning pages right to the end. I loved the different elements (texts, scripts, lists) inbetween chapters -- they added to the character's voice and the experience. I'd recommend this to anyone who wants something different that won't let you put it down.
August 28, 2025
i’m kind of upset because i was fully prepared to give this book 5 stars until the last 50 pages. great representation, quirky formatting that i found easy to read and lighthearted despite some pretty depressing topics, most definitely not like any book i’ve read before
but. the ending. pmo so much what even was that?? to call it an ending feels insufficient because it was in fact not sufficient. there was no closure or real conclusion about the conspiracy theory which maybe i misunderstood but i thought that was the significant plot point? even the part about his absent mom didn’t come to any sort of wrap up which then confuses me on the point of including it. the ending as a whole honestly made very little sense to me so. not a fan.
i really did want to give it 5 stars because its a very cool book i just wish it had actually come to an end rather than every other relevant plot point simply cutting off
but. the ending. pmo so much what even was that?? to call it an ending feels insufficient because it was in fact not sufficient. there was no closure or real conclusion about the conspiracy theory which maybe i misunderstood but i thought that was the significant plot point? even the part about his absent mom didn’t come to any sort of wrap up which then confuses me on the point of including it. the ending as a whole honestly made very little sense to me so. not a fan.
i really did want to give it 5 stars because its a very cool book i just wish it had actually come to an end rather than every other relevant plot point simply cutting off
May 26, 2025
If you are looking for something a little different, and out of your ordinary genre/tropes; this book would hit that mark. This is considered a YA book. This book is about a bi-racial teen. Who is struggling with the world around him. There is a health study, dwayne's mom is missing, and overinvolved/ enabling father, and teenage love interest. His biggest support is his best friend Kermit. This dives into mental health, adolescent struggles, and some conspiracies. This book wasn't what I was expecting, but also not bad. it definitely got me out of my reading slump.
April 28, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Dutton Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
A.A. Vacharat’s debut novel “This Moth Saw Brightness” is a bold, inventive, and often hilarious dive into the mind of a teenage boy caught between the all-too-real pressures of adolescence and the surreal pull of conspiracy. If you’re looking for a YA novel that breaks the mold—both in style and content—this one will catch you off guard in the best ways.
The story follows ’Wayne Le (the "D" is invisible—trust, it's a whole thing) as he muddles through bad grades, a quietly judgmental father, unrequited crushes, and a complicated home life. When ’Wayne is recruited into a mysterious health study at Johns Hopkins, the novel quickly shifts from everyday teenage struggles into darker territory involving mind control, medical ethics, and possible government conspiracies. As reality splinters around him, ’Wayne—and the reader—must question what’s real and what’s manipulated.
The book’s structure is wildly experimental. Instead of traditional prose, Vacharat builds the story through an assortment of journal entries, text messages, blackout poetry, study surveys, emails, lists, footnotes, and quirky asides. For some, this collage of formats will feel thrillingly fresh and immersive; for others, it may feel distracting or disjointed. The extremely short chapters keep the pace brisk, but they can also make it hard to fully sink into scenes or connect deeply with characters.
That said, “This Moth Saw Brightness” succeeds where it matters most: voice. ’Wayne is an unforgettable protagonist—funny, vulnerable, and painfully real. His friendships, especially with his tech-genius best friend Kermit and his complicated relationship with his crush Jane (who is autistic and refreshingly nuanced), feel authentic and layered. Even the recurring riffs about mundane things like mall culture or Wayne’s frustrating attempts at origami add texture and humor to the story.
Thematically, the book bravely tackles issues like racial identity, mental health, ethical concerns about medical research, and how systems of power exploit the vulnerable. Despite the occasional storytelling chaos, Vacharat anchors everything to real adolescent fears—being overlooked, being misunderstood, being manipulated—all while keeping a sharp wit.
Overall, “This Moth Saw Brightness” is a gem: sharp, heartfelt, and genuinely different from anything else in YA right now. If you like your coming-of-age stories served with a hefty dose of weirdness, social commentary, and offbeat humor, then “This Moth Saw Brightness” belongs on your TBR. A challenging but deeply rewarding debut that leaves you thinking long after you close the book.
A.A. Vacharat’s debut novel “This Moth Saw Brightness” is a bold, inventive, and often hilarious dive into the mind of a teenage boy caught between the all-too-real pressures of adolescence and the surreal pull of conspiracy. If you’re looking for a YA novel that breaks the mold—both in style and content—this one will catch you off guard in the best ways.
The story follows ’Wayne Le (the "D" is invisible—trust, it's a whole thing) as he muddles through bad grades, a quietly judgmental father, unrequited crushes, and a complicated home life. When ’Wayne is recruited into a mysterious health study at Johns Hopkins, the novel quickly shifts from everyday teenage struggles into darker territory involving mind control, medical ethics, and possible government conspiracies. As reality splinters around him, ’Wayne—and the reader—must question what’s real and what’s manipulated.
The book’s structure is wildly experimental. Instead of traditional prose, Vacharat builds the story through an assortment of journal entries, text messages, blackout poetry, study surveys, emails, lists, footnotes, and quirky asides. For some, this collage of formats will feel thrillingly fresh and immersive; for others, it may feel distracting or disjointed. The extremely short chapters keep the pace brisk, but they can also make it hard to fully sink into scenes or connect deeply with characters.
That said, “This Moth Saw Brightness” succeeds where it matters most: voice. ’Wayne is an unforgettable protagonist—funny, vulnerable, and painfully real. His friendships, especially with his tech-genius best friend Kermit and his complicated relationship with his crush Jane (who is autistic and refreshingly nuanced), feel authentic and layered. Even the recurring riffs about mundane things like mall culture or Wayne’s frustrating attempts at origami add texture and humor to the story.
Thematically, the book bravely tackles issues like racial identity, mental health, ethical concerns about medical research, and how systems of power exploit the vulnerable. Despite the occasional storytelling chaos, Vacharat anchors everything to real adolescent fears—being overlooked, being misunderstood, being manipulated—all while keeping a sharp wit.
Overall, “This Moth Saw Brightness” is a gem: sharp, heartfelt, and genuinely different from anything else in YA right now. If you like your coming-of-age stories served with a hefty dose of weirdness, social commentary, and offbeat humor, then “This Moth Saw Brightness” belongs on your TBR. A challenging but deeply rewarding debut that leaves you thinking long after you close the book.
August 8, 2025
I loved This Moth Saw Brightness the young adult novel by A.A. Vacharat so much that I’ve already read it twice, and it’s now dog-eared. The first time I raced through because I had to get to the end to see what happens. What would ’Wayne find out about the study he’s enrolled in. And what was his friend Jane going to do? Also in the mix is Kermit, who I cannot stop thinking about.
The second time I read it slowly so I could do a deeper dive into all of the heady layers that had seeped into my subconscious the first read. Anyway -just an aside here- I used to complain about contemporary athletic shoe boxes because they are made in all one piece instead of a dedicated solo top and bottom the way I like them for holding collections and such. But this book made me think about the shoe boxes from a new angle. An origami angle!
One character, Jane, is an origami master. And Jane talks about the real-world applications of origami to solve design problems. Like how the paper folders helped physicists and rocket scientists figure out how to make satellites small enough to fly into space, and make breakthroughs in medical science. So now I appreciate these boxes in a new way, as origami marvels of folding design. This is just one of the things the book did for me, which was make me draw connections in unexpected ways. Now I see the origami around me everywhere.
I love the book for other reasons too. Never encountered characters like these. And there are so many great lines. Two of my favorites: “Words are only as good as the person who speaks them.” and “Value is spelled I-N-F-O-R-M-A-T-I-O-N.”
The vibe for me is a combination of – a recent teen TV favorite, THE GREENHOUSE ACADEMY, plus my current binge, SEVERANCE – and the book The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. It’s for thoughtful readers who don’t want to be spoon fed what to think, who love the Socratic method (so many questions), and who might enjoy a twisty speculative sci-fi story about the future we hurtle into, the age we live in and the past we repeat.
I highly recommend this book.
The second time I read it slowly so I could do a deeper dive into all of the heady layers that had seeped into my subconscious the first read. Anyway -just an aside here- I used to complain about contemporary athletic shoe boxes because they are made in all one piece instead of a dedicated solo top and bottom the way I like them for holding collections and such. But this book made me think about the shoe boxes from a new angle. An origami angle!
One character, Jane, is an origami master. And Jane talks about the real-world applications of origami to solve design problems. Like how the paper folders helped physicists and rocket scientists figure out how to make satellites small enough to fly into space, and make breakthroughs in medical science. So now I appreciate these boxes in a new way, as origami marvels of folding design. This is just one of the things the book did for me, which was make me draw connections in unexpected ways. Now I see the origami around me everywhere.
I love the book for other reasons too. Never encountered characters like these. And there are so many great lines. Two of my favorites: “Words are only as good as the person who speaks them.” and “Value is spelled I-N-F-O-R-M-A-T-I-O-N.”
The vibe for me is a combination of – a recent teen TV favorite, THE GREENHOUSE ACADEMY, plus my current binge, SEVERANCE – and the book The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. It’s for thoughtful readers who don’t want to be spoon fed what to think, who love the Socratic method (so many questions), and who might enjoy a twisty speculative sci-fi story about the future we hurtle into, the age we live in and the past we repeat.
I highly recommend this book.
May 20, 2025
💡 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙈𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙎𝙖𝙬 𝘽𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨
Do you ever just find yourself drawn to a book? Like a moth to a flame? You’re not quite sure what’s drawing you in, but you just have to read it?
Maybe it’s the #moodreader in me, but this one seemed a little out of my typical realm, but I was also all in and completely enthralled by the premise at the same time.
This book is…how can I even describe it? It can’t be boxed in- that’s for sure. It’s one of the most unique and complex reads I’ve had to pleasure of sinking into in a while.
Where do I start? Well…there is great BIPOC and neurodivergent representation in a country that is steeped in conspiracy theories and genuine conspiracies. ‘Wayne Le’s mom left when he was young- his unique name (with an invisible ‘D’) being her only lasting contribution. ‘Wayne has been invited to participate in a secretive health study by a prestigious university. ‘Wayne ways to make his father proud, and he’s sees this study as a way to do just that. Except the study is rather…odd. Participants are relatively blind to what is going on- they wear a tracker bracelet, they perform various tasks and “games” at certain times as prompted by their phones, and they take mysterious pills…all in the name of research… ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit, and another study participant, Jane, all get sucked into the conspiracies surrounding this mysterious study and wonder if it’s all in their heads or if the government is really up to something secretive and sinister.
Prose, emails, text messages, study questions and tasks, journal entries, and footnotes all make up the story, which you may think would make things a bit disjointed, but it all just “fits”.
The book was both very thought provoking and light and humorous at the same time- like, how? I’m not sure I can explain it, but again, it just worked. It’s dark, but it’s not. It’s weird, but it’s not.
This one just needs read.
🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
*Thank you @duttonbooks and @penguinteen for this #gifted copy! Def check this one out by @quillypig 🖤
Do you ever just find yourself drawn to a book? Like a moth to a flame? You’re not quite sure what’s drawing you in, but you just have to read it?
Maybe it’s the #moodreader in me, but this one seemed a little out of my typical realm, but I was also all in and completely enthralled by the premise at the same time.
This book is…how can I even describe it? It can’t be boxed in- that’s for sure. It’s one of the most unique and complex reads I’ve had to pleasure of sinking into in a while.
Where do I start? Well…there is great BIPOC and neurodivergent representation in a country that is steeped in conspiracy theories and genuine conspiracies. ‘Wayne Le’s mom left when he was young- his unique name (with an invisible ‘D’) being her only lasting contribution. ‘Wayne has been invited to participate in a secretive health study by a prestigious university. ‘Wayne ways to make his father proud, and he’s sees this study as a way to do just that. Except the study is rather…odd. Participants are relatively blind to what is going on- they wear a tracker bracelet, they perform various tasks and “games” at certain times as prompted by their phones, and they take mysterious pills…all in the name of research… ‘Wayne, his best friend Kermit, and another study participant, Jane, all get sucked into the conspiracies surrounding this mysterious study and wonder if it’s all in their heads or if the government is really up to something secretive and sinister.
Prose, emails, text messages, study questions and tasks, journal entries, and footnotes all make up the story, which you may think would make things a bit disjointed, but it all just “fits”.
The book was both very thought provoking and light and humorous at the same time- like, how? I’m not sure I can explain it, but again, it just worked. It’s dark, but it’s not. It’s weird, but it’s not.
This one just needs read.
🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
*Thank you @duttonbooks and @penguinteen for this #gifted copy! Def check this one out by @quillypig 🖤
April 7, 2025
As soon as I opened THIS MOTH SAW BRIGHTNESS, I knew I was in for something special. The very first page is unlike the first page of any other novel I’ve read—puzzling, intriguing, and definitely need to read more—and it’s just a taste of what’s to come. The book is brilliant, dryly hilarious, alarmingly real and yet completely fictional at the same time, and did I mention hilarious?
’Wayne Le (the D is invisible) is used to provoking his father’s DNS face (Disappointed Not Surprised). He’s taken to sneaky spy missions to keep his not-great grades a secret. His best and only friend Kermit is prone to cruel pranks that only Kermit finds funny and keeps hacking his tech passwords. He spends way too much time making bad origami, which he hates, because of his unspoken and unrequited love for Jane, an origami champion who doesn’t know he exists. And everyone—his dad included—loves his eleven-year-old sister (not his sister) Olive (not her name) way better than they love ’Wayne, ’Wayne included. Then a letter arrives addressed to Mr. Dwayne Le, the invisible D clearly and incorrectly visible. URGENT, the envelope screams. OPEN IMMEDIATELY. ’Wayne doesn’t open it immediately, but when he finally does, it’s not only his life that changes. A lot of other lives will be ruined if he can’t convince someone that the top secret government mind control experiment he’s gotten himself involved in isn’t all in his own, off-kilter mind.
Like I said, brilliant, intriguing—and hugely enjoyable. Every short chapter contains a surprise that leaves you wondering how A.A. Vacharat does it and why there aren’t a million more A.A. Vacharat books out there waiting for you to read them.
’Wayne Le (the D is invisible) is used to provoking his father’s DNS face (Disappointed Not Surprised). He’s taken to sneaky spy missions to keep his not-great grades a secret. His best and only friend Kermit is prone to cruel pranks that only Kermit finds funny and keeps hacking his tech passwords. He spends way too much time making bad origami, which he hates, because of his unspoken and unrequited love for Jane, an origami champion who doesn’t know he exists. And everyone—his dad included—loves his eleven-year-old sister (not his sister) Olive (not her name) way better than they love ’Wayne, ’Wayne included. Then a letter arrives addressed to Mr. Dwayne Le, the invisible D clearly and incorrectly visible. URGENT, the envelope screams. OPEN IMMEDIATELY. ’Wayne doesn’t open it immediately, but when he finally does, it’s not only his life that changes. A lot of other lives will be ruined if he can’t convince someone that the top secret government mind control experiment he’s gotten himself involved in isn’t all in his own, off-kilter mind.
Like I said, brilliant, intriguing—and hugely enjoyable. Every short chapter contains a surprise that leaves you wondering how A.A. Vacharat does it and why there aren’t a million more A.A. Vacharat books out there waiting for you to read them.
May 24, 2025
🏵 BOOK TOUR + REFLECTION POST 🏵
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I haven’t been doing book tours in a while, but I’m glad that I get to do another one for @hearourvoicestours today. I’m posting a little late but I’m here! Thanks again so much for this opportunity for me to share my thoughts on THIS MOTH SAW BRIGHTNESS by A. A. Vacharat!
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One of the things that I liked about this book, and what made me think about how I related to this book was some of my similarities with ‘Wayne Le. Growing up feeling like I had to fit myself into a mold that made people understand me, or listen to me rather than push me to the side... well it was just difficult and came with a lot of heartache. Was this due to growing up with different cultures that didn’t all relate to one another, or was it because I didn’t follow the same thought process as others? It may not be exactly as what ‘Wayne went through, but it made me think of some things.
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I also appreciate that we get a YA book that talks more about mental health. Growing up, it wasn’t something that was as openly supported or talked about, and seeing more books go deeper into the subject from more perspectives than cis-white characters helps us understand that it’s important for all of us to take proper care of our mental health as best as we can. I also liked that this was in the format of a journal or even a case study file, and I’m curious to see how it would have been like if I had the chance to listen to the audiobook.
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🏷️ #weneeddiversestories #bipocbookstagram #chamorrosread #asianbookie #wellreadblackgirl #browngirlsread #blackbookstagramunite #readmorediversebooks #thismothsawbrightness #hearourvoices #hov
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I haven’t been doing book tours in a while, but I’m glad that I get to do another one for @hearourvoicestours today. I’m posting a little late but I’m here! Thanks again so much for this opportunity for me to share my thoughts on THIS MOTH SAW BRIGHTNESS by A. A. Vacharat!
•
One of the things that I liked about this book, and what made me think about how I related to this book was some of my similarities with ‘Wayne Le. Growing up feeling like I had to fit myself into a mold that made people understand me, or listen to me rather than push me to the side... well it was just difficult and came with a lot of heartache. Was this due to growing up with different cultures that didn’t all relate to one another, or was it because I didn’t follow the same thought process as others? It may not be exactly as what ‘Wayne went through, but it made me think of some things.
•
I also appreciate that we get a YA book that talks more about mental health. Growing up, it wasn’t something that was as openly supported or talked about, and seeing more books go deeper into the subject from more perspectives than cis-white characters helps us understand that it’s important for all of us to take proper care of our mental health as best as we can. I also liked that this was in the format of a journal or even a case study file, and I’m curious to see how it would have been like if I had the chance to listen to the audiobook.
•
🏷️ #weneeddiversestories #bipocbookstagram #chamorrosread #asianbookie #wellreadblackgirl #browngirlsread #blackbookstagramunite #readmorediversebooks #thismothsawbrightness #hearourvoices #hov
August 7, 2025
‘Wayne Le is a perfectly normal high school kid, who doesn’t talk much to his father and cares deeply about his younger sister, who isn’t actually related to him. Since his mother left when he was a kid, ‘Wayne hasn’t done much to make his father proud. So when he is selected to be part of a Johns Hopkins study, he sees it as a way to impress his father and also find a way forward in his life since his grades won’t get him into college. But when he starts the study, he steadily realizes that it’s not what he was told at first. Along the way, he meets Jane, a girl from school who he’s had a crush on for years and hasn’t had the courage to speak with. He and Jane, who is also in the study, start to meet regularly to discuss what is happening. Kermit, ‘Wayne’s best friend, is convinced that it’s a vast conspiracy, but what happens when conspiracy theories might just end up being true?
Vacharat has written a multi-layered and gorgeous novel that explores what it means to change who we are and how that happens. She uses a variety of devices in her novel, including prompts from the app in the study, stilted scripts for ‘Wayne’s conversations with his father, and folded paper when Jane speaks to the reader. She has created very human characters, including ‘Wayne who finds himself changing whether due to the study or not, and Jane, who is autistic and makes origami, but is definitely not a manic pixie girl, thank you very much.
Whiplash smart and incredibly engrossing, this novel is unique, insightful and uproariously funny. Appropriate for ages 13+.
Vacharat has written a multi-layered and gorgeous novel that explores what it means to change who we are and how that happens. She uses a variety of devices in her novel, including prompts from the app in the study, stilted scripts for ‘Wayne’s conversations with his father, and folded paper when Jane speaks to the reader. She has created very human characters, including ‘Wayne who finds himself changing whether due to the study or not, and Jane, who is autistic and makes origami, but is definitely not a manic pixie girl, thank you very much.
Whiplash smart and incredibly engrossing, this novel is unique, insightful and uproariously funny. Appropriate for ages 13+.
August 13, 2025
This moth saw brightness by A.A. Vacharat Is truly one of the most original novels I have read to date. Do not be fooled, this is a novel that all adults can appreciate, not just those coming of age... It is an unexpected, compelling, and nuanced story with authentically complex characters who come to life through smart dialog, subtle details and a focused lens into each individual's psyche. It deftly offers the "neurotypical" reader a glimpse into the inner and outer workings of the spectrum experience, and a platform for those experiencing neurodivergence to be seen and understood.
The story line bounces expertly between darker, worldly concerns and adolescent tainted sass, nonchalance, and anxiety which feels so true and relatable. The author expertly and hysterically illustrates the dichotomy between the perceptiveness and brilliance of young people and the not so well-earned authority of adults....
The narritive is further enhanced by an interesting mix of traditional literary structure interspersed with text, screenshots and emails making it feel contemporary and exciting.
Honestly, I was unable to put the book down for more than a few hours at a time which spurred me to finish it in a couple days leaving me wanting more and feeling slightly unsettled by it's unconventional ending.
Congratulations on writing a truly unique, smart and highly sensitive book which brilliantly observes the questions left unanswered and the muddled yet obvious link between our known experiences and our perceived understanding of the world...
August 24, 2025
This book captivated me from page one and held me until the very end. I was drawn in by the clever plotline - teenagers participating in a “health study.” And though the study’s thread provided intrigue throughout the book, what captivated me – and what I will remember long after closing the book – was the characters. I found myself really rooting for ‘Wayne and Jane, not only as they navigated the study, but more so as they navigated their lives and relationships. The characters’ teenage quirkiness is thoughtfully rendered, and their coming-of-age is well portrayed and relatable. I loved the ancillary characters too.
A.A. Vacharat has a way of writing that had me re-reading many passages. For instance, in describing a character experiencing self-disappointment: “I am a popped balloon in the hand of a toddler. I am a dropped ice cream cone. I am that fish that never learned how to breathe underwater and drowned and then floated on the top of the water for a week and then started to decay and sank back to the bottom.” Brilliant!
The book is peppered with unconventional pages that are a delight to encounter: study questions on a phone, origami folds, pages from the study, replays of conversation, etc. Short chapters with clever titles added page-turning enjoyment. And the footnotes…again, brilliant.
Bottom line…come for the health study and conspiracy theories, and stay for the characters and poignant writing. Loved this book and will eagerly snatch up A.A. Vacharat’s next work.
A.A. Vacharat has a way of writing that had me re-reading many passages. For instance, in describing a character experiencing self-disappointment: “I am a popped balloon in the hand of a toddler. I am a dropped ice cream cone. I am that fish that never learned how to breathe underwater and drowned and then floated on the top of the water for a week and then started to decay and sank back to the bottom.” Brilliant!
The book is peppered with unconventional pages that are a delight to encounter: study questions on a phone, origami folds, pages from the study, replays of conversation, etc. Short chapters with clever titles added page-turning enjoyment. And the footnotes…again, brilliant.
Bottom line…come for the health study and conspiracy theories, and stay for the characters and poignant writing. Loved this book and will eagerly snatch up A.A. Vacharat’s next work.
April 21, 2025
This novel sounded like it was right up my alley (the dark side of university research studies, a close-knit diverse friend group, teen sleuths), but it ended up being such a disjointed read that I quickly lost interest and wanted to be done with the book.
I feel like I'm missing the underlying theme of the story because the plot points felt like they were unrelated to each other. In addition, the extremely short chapters, coupled with random asides like Wayne's mom's articles, lists, quizzes from Kermit, numerous directions from the Hopkins study app, and even quirky interjections from the author/narrator near the end, distracted me from the main plotline and the heart of the story.
Because of all that, it was difficult to get to know Wayne (I still don't understand the invisible "D" thing unless he's just trying to be ~different), Wayne's family, or Jane. I wanted to like each character, but they all read like stereotypes and stock characters. Kermit's the tech nerd. Jane's the not-manic pixie dream girl that Wayne likes. Etc.
I think this might be a cool way for teens to learn about the history of university research studies, especially its sordid past when it comes to lack of consent and focus on eugenics.
But other than that, this read like a rough draft that seriously needed polishing. The prose chapters needed to be longer with a lot less of the other stuff. The amount of quizzes, articles, etc. felt unnecessary and read like it was a way for the author to skip out on writing prose.
Thank you to Dutton Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for this arc.
I feel like I'm missing the underlying theme of the story because the plot points felt like they were unrelated to each other. In addition, the extremely short chapters, coupled with random asides like Wayne's mom's articles, lists, quizzes from Kermit, numerous directions from the Hopkins study app, and even quirky interjections from the author/narrator near the end, distracted me from the main plotline and the heart of the story.
Because of all that, it was difficult to get to know Wayne (I still don't understand the invisible "D" thing unless he's just trying to be ~different), Wayne's family, or Jane. I wanted to like each character, but they all read like stereotypes and stock characters. Kermit's the tech nerd. Jane's the not-manic pixie dream girl that Wayne likes. Etc.
I think this might be a cool way for teens to learn about the history of university research studies, especially its sordid past when it comes to lack of consent and focus on eugenics.
But other than that, this read like a rough draft that seriously needed polishing. The prose chapters needed to be longer with a lot less of the other stuff. The amount of quizzes, articles, etc. felt unnecessary and read like it was a way for the author to skip out on writing prose.
Thank you to Dutton Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for this arc.
May 18, 2025
Review: This Moth Saw Brightness by A.A. Vacharat
#PenguinTeenPartner
Okay… so this one was definitely a ride. I went in expecting something contemporary with a twist, and somehow ended up feeling like I was caught in a kaleidoscope of sci-fi vibes, brain-bending conspiracies, and characters with names that made me pause and reread more than once. (Invisible-D Dwayne?? Kermit?? IYKYK.)
There’s no denying the writing is creative and the themes are important—being BIPOC, neurodivergent, and trying to find your place in a world that feels upside down. I really wanted to connect with this story, but I found myself struggling to keep up with the direction it was going, and at times I felt more confused than intrigued.
That said, I can totally see how readers who love offbeat, mind-twisty plots with social commentary baked in might really enjoy this one! It just wasn’t quite the right fit for me—but I still appreciate Penguin Teen for the opportunity to check it out!
#PenguinTeenPartner
Okay… so this one was definitely a ride. I went in expecting something contemporary with a twist, and somehow ended up feeling like I was caught in a kaleidoscope of sci-fi vibes, brain-bending conspiracies, and characters with names that made me pause and reread more than once. (Invisible-D Dwayne?? Kermit?? IYKYK.)
There’s no denying the writing is creative and the themes are important—being BIPOC, neurodivergent, and trying to find your place in a world that feels upside down. I really wanted to connect with this story, but I found myself struggling to keep up with the direction it was going, and at times I felt more confused than intrigued.
That said, I can totally see how readers who love offbeat, mind-twisty plots with social commentary baked in might really enjoy this one! It just wasn’t quite the right fit for me—but I still appreciate Penguin Teen for the opportunity to check it out!
August 13, 2025
I'm genuinely impressed with "This Moth Saw Brightness". A.A. Vacharat created an incredible, genre-bending novel that feels like a perfect mashup of literary fiction and YA. As a not-so-young adult I found it extremely entertaining. It's so smart and layered, making it the perfect book club read because you'll have so much to unpack.
The plot is both fun and complex, diving into modern conspiracies in a way that’s incredibly relevant and nuanced. It makes you think about whether the truth of a conspiracy even matters as much as the bigger societal issues it reveals.
The voice is really unique and the character development is so original. Jane, the autistic co-protagonist, is so authentically written-—it's such a validating and powerful representation.
Seriously, this book is a must-read. Kirkus Reviews called it "superb" and The Horn Book praised it as a "standout work of speculative fiction," and I totally agree. It's clever, page-turning, and delightfully creative!
The plot is both fun and complex, diving into modern conspiracies in a way that’s incredibly relevant and nuanced. It makes you think about whether the truth of a conspiracy even matters as much as the bigger societal issues it reveals.
The voice is really unique and the character development is so original. Jane, the autistic co-protagonist, is so authentically written-—it's such a validating and powerful representation.
Seriously, this book is a must-read. Kirkus Reviews called it "superb" and The Horn Book praised it as a "standout work of speculative fiction," and I totally agree. It's clever, page-turning, and delightfully creative!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews