What do you think?
The Warung Between Worlds
The Warung stands, as it always has, on the edge of the Night Market. It’s the kind of nondescript warung you drive by on balik kampung roadtrips, with its twinkling fairy lights, its torn plastic table cloths, the scratched-up surfaces of its bright red chairs. Within its thin wooden walls, three Aunties whip up delicious delicacies for weary travellers, lost souls and adventurers on the way from Sini to Sana—as long as you’re willing to pay the price. Many cross the threshold of the Warung, and whether human or fae or something in between, the Aunties serve them all and take what is owed: a memento, a memory, a moment in time.
So if you see its neon sign winking at you through the crowd, if the smell of its wares entices you to climb its well-worn steps, come. Rest your feet. Refresh yourself. No matter what’s on the menu, it’s sure to satisfy.
After all, the Warung Between Worlds always knows what you need.
So if you see its neon sign winking at you through the crowd, if the smell of its wares entices you to climb its well-worn steps, come. Rest your feet. Refresh yourself. No matter what’s on the menu, it’s sure to satisfy.
After all, the Warung Between Worlds always knows what you need.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
188 pages, Paperback
First published May 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 15, 2026
First and foremost, I am still not over that cover. Ever since it was revealed, I have been completely obsessed with it because it is simply gorgeous. I have lost count of how many times I have stared at it, and at this point, I could probably tell you every creature featured on it and exactly where each one is placed. The fact that it belongs to a book by one of our local authors makes it all the more delightful.
I had a completely different expectation going into this book. As someone who enjoys healing literature, I naturally assumed this would be one of those warm, comforting reads, so I was quite excited to start it. Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be nothing like that (after all, this is an unassuming warung). Maybe I read too much into the hints, but despite my mistaken expectations, I still enjoyed the story for what it was.
The book follows a mysterious roadside eatery called the Warung Between Worlds, run by three Aunties who serve travellers from both the human and supernatural realms at the edge of a night market. But every meal comes at a price, whether it be a memory, a memento, or a moment in time. When Arya Razali journeys to Langkawi Down Below to reclaim something her father once bargained away, she finds herself making a dangerous deal of her own. Caught sneaking into the Warung, Arya is given three chances to impress the Aunties with her cooking before sunrise. As she races against time, the story gradually reveals the heartbreaking reason behind her quest and the lengths she is willing to go to save her father.
Knowing Hanna Alkaf's signature style (or at least from the works of hers that I have read or heard about), I expected themes of mental health to play a significant role. This book feels like a refreshing departure from that familiar approach. While the premise suggests something entirely different, there is an emotional undercurrent from the very beginning that quietly builds and pays off beautifully by the end, leaving me with more than a few tears. In many ways, it is still emotional, still blue, just a different shade.
When people say this book is unapologetically Malaysian, I can only nod in agreement. Some lines had me grinning from ear to ear because they captured experiences that felt instantly familiar. I have said before that I do not often pick up local works, but there is something special about reading a story that feels this close to home. Catching cultural references and recognizing shared experiences adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
The Langkawi folklore featured in the book was another highlight. While I recognized some of the stories, others were completely new to me, making them a delight to discover. Given Hanna Alkaf's connection to the state, I never felt the need to question the authenticity of the folklore she presents. It felt like killing two birds with one stone: not only do you get an emotional story that tugs at your heartstrings, but you also come away knowing a little more about Malaysia's cultural heritage.
I also agree with the sentiment that this book is best enjoyed for what it is. At first, I thought it was fun but not particularly remarkable. In hindsight, however, the epilogue was what truly won me over. I am an emotional reader at heart, and that final punch was enough to leave a lasting impression.
This feels like one of those books that becomes less enjoyable the more you try to dissect every detail. Instead, it invites you to sit back and enjoy the ride. You get hungry reading about all the food, learn snippets of Langkawi folklore along the way, and spend time with a cast of characters who feel vividly familiar. Even the Aunties, who turned out to be far more savage than the comforting sanctuary I initially imagined, added to the book's charm. They are frustrating, amusing, and oddly endearing all at once—much like the aunties many of us know in real life.
Perhaps that is what I enjoyed most about the book. It is not trying to be overly profound or groundbreaking. Instead, it offers an experience that feels warm and distinctly Malaysian.
I had a completely different expectation going into this book. As someone who enjoys healing literature, I naturally assumed this would be one of those warm, comforting reads, so I was quite excited to start it. Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be nothing like that (after all, this is an unassuming warung). Maybe I read too much into the hints, but despite my mistaken expectations, I still enjoyed the story for what it was.
The book follows a mysterious roadside eatery called the Warung Between Worlds, run by three Aunties who serve travellers from both the human and supernatural realms at the edge of a night market. But every meal comes at a price, whether it be a memory, a memento, or a moment in time. When Arya Razali journeys to Langkawi Down Below to reclaim something her father once bargained away, she finds herself making a dangerous deal of her own. Caught sneaking into the Warung, Arya is given three chances to impress the Aunties with her cooking before sunrise. As she races against time, the story gradually reveals the heartbreaking reason behind her quest and the lengths she is willing to go to save her father.
Knowing Hanna Alkaf's signature style (or at least from the works of hers that I have read or heard about), I expected themes of mental health to play a significant role. This book feels like a refreshing departure from that familiar approach. While the premise suggests something entirely different, there is an emotional undercurrent from the very beginning that quietly builds and pays off beautifully by the end, leaving me with more than a few tears. In many ways, it is still emotional, still blue, just a different shade.
When people say this book is unapologetically Malaysian, I can only nod in agreement. Some lines had me grinning from ear to ear because they captured experiences that felt instantly familiar. I have said before that I do not often pick up local works, but there is something special about reading a story that feels this close to home. Catching cultural references and recognizing shared experiences adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
The Langkawi folklore featured in the book was another highlight. While I recognized some of the stories, others were completely new to me, making them a delight to discover. Given Hanna Alkaf's connection to the state, I never felt the need to question the authenticity of the folklore she presents. It felt like killing two birds with one stone: not only do you get an emotional story that tugs at your heartstrings, but you also come away knowing a little more about Malaysia's cultural heritage.
I also agree with the sentiment that this book is best enjoyed for what it is. At first, I thought it was fun but not particularly remarkable. In hindsight, however, the epilogue was what truly won me over. I am an emotional reader at heart, and that final punch was enough to leave a lasting impression.
This feels like one of those books that becomes less enjoyable the more you try to dissect every detail. Instead, it invites you to sit back and enjoy the ride. You get hungry reading about all the food, learn snippets of Langkawi folklore along the way, and spend time with a cast of characters who feel vividly familiar. Even the Aunties, who turned out to be far more savage than the comforting sanctuary I initially imagined, added to the book's charm. They are frustrating, amusing, and oddly endearing all at once—much like the aunties many of us know in real life.
Perhaps that is what I enjoyed most about the book. It is not trying to be overly profound or groundbreaking. Instead, it offers an experience that feels warm and distinctly Malaysian.
June 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I'm grateful to be one of the early readers for this book. It's heartwarming and heart wrenching simultaneously, and the story just hits a little too close to home.
Hanna Alkaf's books are always so unapologetically Malaysian and this one is no different. Set in Langkawi, filled to the brim with familiar local delicacies and Langkawi's famous legends/folklore—this book is a much needed hug. A break. The touch of a hand.
I feel for the main character Arya. I feel for her anticipatory grief and desperation to save her father from the cruel hands of cancer. I feel for her need to buy more time, even if it's only 10 minutes.
Hanna Alkaf pay for my therapy bills!
I'm grateful to be one of the early readers for this book. It's heartwarming and heart wrenching simultaneously, and the story just hits a little too close to home.
Hanna Alkaf's books are always so unapologetically Malaysian and this one is no different. Set in Langkawi, filled to the brim with familiar local delicacies and Langkawi's famous legends/folklore—this book is a much needed hug. A break. The touch of a hand.
I feel for the main character Arya. I feel for her anticipatory grief and desperation to save her father from the cruel hands of cancer. I feel for her need to buy more time, even if it's only 10 minutes.
Hanna Alkaf pay for my therapy bills!
July 21, 2026
Rating: 5/5 stars
As far as middle-grade books go, this one is just perfect.
It has the right amount of whimsy and warmth, and it's so unapologetically Malaysian. But then again, I don't expect anything less from Hanna Alkaf. That's arguably the reason why I love her books so much (and what inspired me to write my own novel).
This is the kind of book I can easily see parents gifting their children. It's fun, heartfelt and just leaves you feeling... happy.
This is part of the Hamra and the Jungle of Memories universe, but it can be read as a stand-alone.
No negative notes.
Highly, highly recommend.
I guess this is the right excuse for me to have Laksa for lunch today.
p.s. I had the chance to meet Hanna Alkaf yesterday, and it was genuinely a dream come true. I'm still not over it.
As far as middle-grade books go, this one is just perfect.
It has the right amount of whimsy and warmth, and it's so unapologetically Malaysian. But then again, I don't expect anything less from Hanna Alkaf. That's arguably the reason why I love her books so much (and what inspired me to write my own novel).
This is the kind of book I can easily see parents gifting their children. It's fun, heartfelt and just leaves you feeling... happy.
This is part of the Hamra and the Jungle of Memories universe, but it can be read as a stand-alone.
No negative notes.
Highly, highly recommend.
I guess this is the right excuse for me to have Laksa for lunch today.
p.s. I had the chance to meet Hanna Alkaf yesterday, and it was genuinely a dream come true. I'm still not over it.
June 16, 2026
[25|2026]
The Warung Between Worlds || Hanna Alkaf
Antara sebab utama membeli karya ini tidak lain adalah kerana ilustrasi kulit depan yang bagi saya berjaya membuatkan pembaca tertarik untuk membelinya. Kombinasi warna yang saya kira memang menjadi perhatian anak sekolah mahupun remaja. Untuk itu, tahniah buat pereka kulit hadapan buku ini.
Berbalik kepada jalan cerita, apa yang boleh saya simpulkan walaupun ianya tipis sahaja sekitar 169 halaman, namun ceritanya terisi dengan momen-momen yang saya kira berjaya menjentik rasa saya sebagai pembaca, terutamanya melibatkan babak antara Arya dan Ayah. Ditambah lagi apabila babak itu melibatkan adegan si Ayah bercerita tentang kisah kisah dongeng atau legenda, membuatkan karya ini antara karya yang patut ibu ayah belikan buat anak-anak.
Keseluruhannya, buku The Warung Between Worlds nukilan Hanna Alkaf ini antara karya terbaik bagi tahun 2026 ini. Bukan sahaja padat dengan kisah fantasi, namun paling penting terletak di situ tentang kekuatan hubungan antara anak dan ayah. Tahniah buat Hanna Alkaf!
The Warung Between Worlds || Hanna Alkaf
Antara sebab utama membeli karya ini tidak lain adalah kerana ilustrasi kulit depan yang bagi saya berjaya membuatkan pembaca tertarik untuk membelinya. Kombinasi warna yang saya kira memang menjadi perhatian anak sekolah mahupun remaja. Untuk itu, tahniah buat pereka kulit hadapan buku ini.
Berbalik kepada jalan cerita, apa yang boleh saya simpulkan walaupun ianya tipis sahaja sekitar 169 halaman, namun ceritanya terisi dengan momen-momen yang saya kira berjaya menjentik rasa saya sebagai pembaca, terutamanya melibatkan babak antara Arya dan Ayah. Ditambah lagi apabila babak itu melibatkan adegan si Ayah bercerita tentang kisah kisah dongeng atau legenda, membuatkan karya ini antara karya yang patut ibu ayah belikan buat anak-anak.
Keseluruhannya, buku The Warung Between Worlds nukilan Hanna Alkaf ini antara karya terbaik bagi tahun 2026 ini. Bukan sahaja padat dengan kisah fantasi, namun paling penting terletak di situ tentang kekuatan hubungan antara anak dan ayah. Tahniah buat Hanna Alkaf!
June 25, 2026
My thoughts?
1. I really love Hamra & The Jungle Of Memories before this. I have a feeling that I am going to love The Warung Between Worlds too. And I am so damn right!
2. Arya fmc buku ni travel curi2 masuk ke The Warung Between World. TWBW ni bagi aku macam pit stop antara dunia nyata dan alam ghaib la lebih kurang. Siapa yang makan kat situ kena bayar dengan secebis memory or a memento. So Arya punya mission ni dia nak retrieve balik apa yang ayah dia bayar sebelum ni.
3. TWBW di manage oleh 3 orang Aunties. Aunties ni bagi peluang 3 kali untuk Arya impress diorang dengan masakan kalau nak ambil balik apa yang ayah dia dah bayar. Kalau tak berjaya Arya kena duduk kerja kat warung tu sampai bila2.
4. Apa yang Arya masak? Berjaya ke dia dalam cabaran tu? Korang kena baca sendiri haha. Yang penting memang banyak pengajaran yang aku boleh dapat masa Arya pilih dish apa yang patut dia serve. Dan apa meaning di sebalik challenge tu sendiri.
5. Aku kalau cerita pasal ayah ni memang sensitif sikit 🤧 Moments Arya dengan ayah beliau memang buat aku berair mata masa baca. It reminds me of how I missed my dad so bad.
6. Overall, this story is a very magical, enchanting and heartwarming like one of those Studio Ghibli movies but with Malaysian folklore and involves a lot of cooking! And I love it very very much. Thank you.
1. I really love Hamra & The Jungle Of Memories before this. I have a feeling that I am going to love The Warung Between Worlds too. And I am so damn right!
2. Arya fmc buku ni travel curi2 masuk ke The Warung Between World. TWBW ni bagi aku macam pit stop antara dunia nyata dan alam ghaib la lebih kurang. Siapa yang makan kat situ kena bayar dengan secebis memory or a memento. So Arya punya mission ni dia nak retrieve balik apa yang ayah dia bayar sebelum ni.
3. TWBW di manage oleh 3 orang Aunties. Aunties ni bagi peluang 3 kali untuk Arya impress diorang dengan masakan kalau nak ambil balik apa yang ayah dia dah bayar. Kalau tak berjaya Arya kena duduk kerja kat warung tu sampai bila2.
4. Apa yang Arya masak? Berjaya ke dia dalam cabaran tu? Korang kena baca sendiri haha. Yang penting memang banyak pengajaran yang aku boleh dapat masa Arya pilih dish apa yang patut dia serve. Dan apa meaning di sebalik challenge tu sendiri.
5. Aku kalau cerita pasal ayah ni memang sensitif sikit 🤧 Moments Arya dengan ayah beliau memang buat aku berair mata masa baca. It reminds me of how I missed my dad so bad.
6. Overall, this story is a very magical, enchanting and heartwarming like one of those Studio Ghibli movies but with Malaysian folklore and involves a lot of cooking! And I love it very very much. Thank you.
July 13, 2026
the dishes chosen for attempts 1 2 3 were so good. love their symbolic
September 26, 2026
In recent years, Langkawi has turned into parody of itself. Too expensive, too lame, boring. So tanks Hanna for returning the magic of Langkawi to me. This has been one of the better cosy fantasy I've read recently, mostly because it didn't overstay it's welcome. I'm always a sucker for food stories, & father-daughter moments.
June 15, 2026
This novella is all about the things we are willing to do for our love ones.
Meet Arya Razali, a girl from Langkawi who went to Langkawi Down Below: the other side of Langkawi - the mythical side, in order to retrieve something that her father bargained for at the Warung Between Worlds.
She was caught by the three Aunties: Maklong, Makngah and Maksu while she tried to sneak in. Arya made a bargain of her own and she have to cook and impress the Aunties before sunrise. She had three chances. If she failed, she will be trap in the Warung for all eternity.
In between her cooking the dishes and bantering with the cicaks, we found out what brings her to the Down Below: her father and his fight with cancer.
My thoughts:
🧅 It just so happened that I just finished Hamra & The Jungle of Memories last month so Langkawi Down Under and its landscape is still fresh on my mind. This novella was like another side story that came out of that book and it fits nicely with the whole mythical Langkawi vibes.
🧅 Hanna said it herself that this novella is made for Malaysian and you can definitely see/listen/taste the unique flavors that made this so dear to all Malaysian, especially if you are from Langkawi.
🧅 I just lost my dad a month ago so yes, the ending had me bawling. That closing line hits differently for sure. I can definitely relate to what Arya went through and I too, am willing to do anything and everything to have more time with my dad, to hear his voice again.
🧅 For fan of foodies, this one is definitely for you. Who else is copying that Asam Laksa recipe?
🧅 Now, this is what I called a cozy book. It's short yet an endearing read. I expect nothing less from Hanna.
Story 5/5
Characters 5/5
Development 4/5
Enjoyment 4/5
Style of writing 5/5
Overall 4.8/5
Meet Arya Razali, a girl from Langkawi who went to Langkawi Down Below: the other side of Langkawi - the mythical side, in order to retrieve something that her father bargained for at the Warung Between Worlds.
She was caught by the three Aunties: Maklong, Makngah and Maksu while she tried to sneak in. Arya made a bargain of her own and she have to cook and impress the Aunties before sunrise. She had three chances. If she failed, she will be trap in the Warung for all eternity.
In between her cooking the dishes and bantering with the cicaks, we found out what brings her to the Down Below: her father and his fight with cancer.
My thoughts:
🧅 It just so happened that I just finished Hamra & The Jungle of Memories last month so Langkawi Down Under and its landscape is still fresh on my mind. This novella was like another side story that came out of that book and it fits nicely with the whole mythical Langkawi vibes.
🧅 Hanna said it herself that this novella is made for Malaysian and you can definitely see/listen/taste the unique flavors that made this so dear to all Malaysian, especially if you are from Langkawi.
🧅 I just lost my dad a month ago so yes, the ending had me bawling. That closing line hits differently for sure. I can definitely relate to what Arya went through and I too, am willing to do anything and everything to have more time with my dad, to hear his voice again.
🧅 For fan of foodies, this one is definitely for you. Who else is copying that Asam Laksa recipe?
🧅 Now, this is what I called a cozy book. It's short yet an endearing read. I expect nothing less from Hanna.
Story 5/5
Characters 5/5
Development 4/5
Enjoyment 4/5
Style of writing 5/5
Overall 4.8/5
August 20, 2026
While I was reading chapter 17 when Arya decided to make sambal bilis as a homage to her dad, I was instinctively reminded of the sambal tumis my mom made that's currently in the fridge. Mom always known how much I love her sambal tumis. But back when she was working, and I wasn't home much because of boarding school, then COVID before I studied abroad, I never get to taste it that much. After I recently completed my studies and came back home, I noticed that my mom always have two to three tupperwares of her sambal tumis stored in the fridge, so that I can eat it anytime i want. Hanna Alkaf has a way with words, the delicious description of sambal bilis makes me fantasize eating nasi lemak tomorrow with my mom's sambal tumis. Then I remember I haven't stored the rice in the rice cooker into the fridge, which means that tomorrow it will be rotten. So I went downstairs at 12:30 am to save the rice. Thank you The Warung Between Worlds, for making me think of food until I'm reminded of the rice that would've gone bad.
Anyway! Enough of my silly ramblings. Time to talk about the book. If I were to be honest, I thought of giving this book a mere 3 stars, I also spent time on this book longer than I usually do with Malay books, simply because I just don't gravitate towards it. I have outgrown young adult genre, it is cute and all but it's heavy handed, the protagonist is always either rash or annoying and the plot is always predictable. The writing in this book however, saves it. The choice of vocabulary and tone is very whimsical, fantastical and unapologetically Malaysian. As someone who has never been to Langkawi and is ignorant of the folktales, I really appreciate how they're integrated in this story with intentionality. Arya's apathetical response to her dad's stories when she gets older is an interaction that is very pertinent to today's generation. What relevance is there in knowing old stories? People from back then were kinda dumb and hasty, but Ayah's answer was right. "You have a point but there is also something to learn from it." I can see myself in Arya and I like that Hanna always know how to connect her readers with her characters.
I think the most significant aspect that shifts my opinion about this book is the way it engages with the nature of life as something fleeting. The last few paragraphs of this book makes me reflect my relationship with my parents. We never appreciate much who and what are in front of us until they go away. I have my own little skirmishes with my parents and I have a lot of unsaid dissatisfaction or disagreement, but with the little time my parents have now as they're both older than 60, I just want to make the best with what time we have. They've given me so much but no matter how much I give back it can never matches. I wish I could make them as happy as I could with no regrets later in my life :')
The beauty of a book is when it implores you to think, either during or after. I think the Warung Between Worlds accomplishes this.
"She now knows what the Aunties gave her. They gave her the gift of acceptance; the ability to understand the permanence of this journey her father is about to take, his final adventure; the courage to face the fact that he is going somewhere she cannot follow.
They don't have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye.
Sometimes that's all the time you need"
I hope I will also have enough time to love my parents, and for them to love me.
Anyway! Enough of my silly ramblings. Time to talk about the book. If I were to be honest, I thought of giving this book a mere 3 stars, I also spent time on this book longer than I usually do with Malay books, simply because I just don't gravitate towards it. I have outgrown young adult genre, it is cute and all but it's heavy handed, the protagonist is always either rash or annoying and the plot is always predictable. The writing in this book however, saves it. The choice of vocabulary and tone is very whimsical, fantastical and unapologetically Malaysian. As someone who has never been to Langkawi and is ignorant of the folktales, I really appreciate how they're integrated in this story with intentionality. Arya's apathetical response to her dad's stories when she gets older is an interaction that is very pertinent to today's generation. What relevance is there in knowing old stories? People from back then were kinda dumb and hasty, but Ayah's answer was right. "You have a point but there is also something to learn from it." I can see myself in Arya and I like that Hanna always know how to connect her readers with her characters.
I think the most significant aspect that shifts my opinion about this book is the way it engages with the nature of life as something fleeting. The last few paragraphs of this book makes me reflect my relationship with my parents. We never appreciate much who and what are in front of us until they go away. I have my own little skirmishes with my parents and I have a lot of unsaid dissatisfaction or disagreement, but with the little time my parents have now as they're both older than 60, I just want to make the best with what time we have. They've given me so much but no matter how much I give back it can never matches. I wish I could make them as happy as I could with no regrets later in my life :')
The beauty of a book is when it implores you to think, either during or after. I think the Warung Between Worlds accomplishes this.
"She now knows what the Aunties gave her. They gave her the gift of acceptance; the ability to understand the permanence of this journey her father is about to take, his final adventure; the courage to face the fact that he is going somewhere she cannot follow.
They don't have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye.
Sometimes that's all the time you need"
I hope I will also have enough time to love my parents, and for them to love me.
August 16, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
June 8, 2026
4.5 🌟
I cried at the end. This story hits too close to home. It brings back memories of taking care of my grandma who battled cancer. Sometimes an extra 10 mins is all you need 😭
I cried at the end. This story hits too close to home. It brings back memories of taking care of my grandma who battled cancer. Sometimes an extra 10 mins is all you need 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2026
this book membawa makna yg mendalam & juga tersirat, kalau faham betul akan jadi lagi best !! 🫶🏻
ada vibe alice in wonderland.
ada vibe alice in wonderland.
June 10, 2026
My Chemical Romance - Cancer
This book made me laugh so much, and I was fully buckled up for a cozy read. It reminded me of Nadiah Zakaria's The Creature Keepers !! I love Hanna Alkaf's dialogues, the manglish, the informality when speaking, it seems more authentic (sorry ancestors). The characters are so cool and funny, TSOM and P. Ramlee mentioned !!! All I could imagine while she was cooking was the Dungeon Meshi cooking theme song !!
So about buckling in for a cozy read, I was GRAVELY (ha) mistaken upon the ending. The "running out of time" aspect of it really got me in the feels. The Sambal Bilis story got me emotional already, but seeing how Ayah lit up like all his pain went away after withering away every day was what started the water works. Man, how I'd kill to see my loved ones like that again. "Arya Razali is no thief, but cancer sure is one" hit me right at home like a truck. Was a crying mess afterwards. Thanks, Hanna //shaky thumbs up
This book made me laugh so much, and I was fully buckled up for a cozy read. It reminded me of Nadiah Zakaria's The Creature Keepers !! I love Hanna Alkaf's dialogues, the manglish, the informality when speaking, it seems more authentic (sorry ancestors). The characters are so cool and funny, TSOM and P. Ramlee mentioned !!! All I could imagine while she was cooking was the Dungeon Meshi cooking theme song !!
So about buckling in for a cozy read, I was GRAVELY (ha) mistaken upon the ending. The "running out of time" aspect of it really got me in the feels. The Sambal Bilis story got me emotional already, but seeing how Ayah lit up like all his pain went away after withering away every day was what started the water works. Man, how I'd kill to see my loved ones like that again. "Arya Razali is no thief, but cancer sure is one" hit me right at home like a truck. Was a crying mess afterwards. Thanks, Hanna //shaky thumbs up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2026
When Hanna Alkaf first announced the book, I’m so excited because the premise is very interesting. Then, when she announced the book will be published under Bookiut, a Malaysian publisher, I knew this book will feel extra special.
The story follows Arya Srikandi, a girl who always thought she’s merely a background character all her life, took charge as main character for the first time. I’ll leave it there. I think it’s best to just head first and read it without really think what is the book about. Because really, the book doesn’t really require you to think, you can just sit, read, and relax.
Throughout the book, I feel reading a mashup of the 2019 K-drama Mystic Popup Bar, and Masterchef, with a sprinkle of the classic Narnia and a plate of nasi lemak telur mata on top. It’s unapologetically Malaysian through and through. Some international readers might think this book might not be for you, but fret not! It didn’t make me, an Indonesian, struggled to read it. Sure, Indonesia and Malaysia share a lot of culture and history; and I have absorbed enough of Malaysian culture for the past (almost) four years I live here. But everything else is one Google search away. It wasn’t that hard to search who Mahsuri was or if the town called Kuah—literally means gravy—really exist in Langkawi (it does, and apparently it’s a resort town!)
The book is quite short, only around 170 pages. But the story itself didn’t feel short-paced. It’s enjoyable, and I easily immersed by the story to the point I didn’t realized the book has ended.
I give The Warung Between Worlds a solid 5/5 stars. The book does feel “authentic Malaysian” as she intended, but still be a perfect intro for many non-Malaysian readers who wants to start reading Hanna Alkaf books or just want to start reading something from Malaysian authors.
The story follows Arya Srikandi, a girl who always thought she’s merely a background character all her life, took charge as main character for the first time. I’ll leave it there. I think it’s best to just head first and read it without really think what is the book about. Because really, the book doesn’t really require you to think, you can just sit, read, and relax.
Throughout the book, I feel reading a mashup of the 2019 K-drama Mystic Popup Bar, and Masterchef, with a sprinkle of the classic Narnia and a plate of nasi lemak telur mata on top. It’s unapologetically Malaysian through and through. Some international readers might think this book might not be for you, but fret not! It didn’t make me, an Indonesian, struggled to read it. Sure, Indonesia and Malaysia share a lot of culture and history; and I have absorbed enough of Malaysian culture for the past (almost) four years I live here. But everything else is one Google search away. It wasn’t that hard to search who Mahsuri was or if the town called Kuah—literally means gravy—really exist in Langkawi (it does, and apparently it’s a resort town!)
The book is quite short, only around 170 pages. But the story itself didn’t feel short-paced. It’s enjoyable, and I easily immersed by the story to the point I didn’t realized the book has ended.
I give The Warung Between Worlds a solid 5/5 stars. The book does feel “authentic Malaysian” as she intended, but still be a perfect intro for many non-Malaysian readers who wants to start reading Hanna Alkaf books or just want to start reading something from Malaysian authors.
June 26, 2026
Hanna Alkaf is a must-buy author for me and it should be the same for you too.
It is essentially a 'spin-off' from Hamra and the Jungle of Memories where it features the 'WARUNG'. I love how this is essentially a Malaysian answer to The Fates from the Greece mythology but with our own Malaysian spin to it.
Whilst for me the story itself is not the best from Hanna but as a heartwarming story of a daughter's love for her father, it made me tear up.
It tells the story of Arya, who got caught by the three Aunties after trying to sneak into the warung to get back the thing her father trade for many years ago. Thus, a deal is made where Arya have three chances to impress the Aunties with her cooking to get back what was given up.
It is told in a back and forth way with flashbacks from her past and we get to see glimpses of her family life, seamlessly tie in with the folklore style of Hanna Alkaf as well as the beauty of Malaysian cuisine. I wish that they had a merch that is recipe cards for the three food featured here because I was hungry reading this.
A short read but immensely packed. Hanna Alkaf's capability for worldbuilding is totally one of the best among Malaysian contemporary literary scene (no, I'm not exagerating).
It is essentially a 'spin-off' from Hamra and the Jungle of Memories where it features the 'WARUNG'. I love how this is essentially a Malaysian answer to The Fates from the Greece mythology but with our own Malaysian spin to it.
Whilst for me the story itself is not the best from Hanna but as a heartwarming story of a daughter's love for her father, it made me tear up.
It tells the story of Arya, who got caught by the three Aunties after trying to sneak into the warung to get back the thing her father trade for many years ago. Thus, a deal is made where Arya have three chances to impress the Aunties with her cooking to get back what was given up.
It is told in a back and forth way with flashbacks from her past and we get to see glimpses of her family life, seamlessly tie in with the folklore style of Hanna Alkaf as well as the beauty of Malaysian cuisine. I wish that they had a merch that is recipe cards for the three food featured here because I was hungry reading this.
A short read but immensely packed. Hanna Alkaf's capability for worldbuilding is totally one of the best among Malaysian contemporary literary scene (no, I'm not exagerating).
August 29, 2026
if i had a nickel for every time i read a book about the main character struggling with the loss of their father to a chronic illness and had to go on a quest as way to deal with their grief back-to-back, i’d have two nickels, which isnt a lot and this expression probably doesn’t even make sense in this context but still its funny how it happened twice. because i read stesen hikayat before this book, to be clear. also because i, too, lost my father, but this isnt about me so idrc about that right now.
anywho, arya is truly THAT girl. like she’s so relatable that i find so much comfort in it because she really is just a girl. and i adore her. one of my comfort characters ever because she is me and i am her. my girl had to sneak pass a literal portal to a world that isnt even meant for her by STALKING her classmate and watching her like a hawk like she’s actually so funny for that because she really did NOT gaf about anything else except for saving her dad. like she was DETERMINED. was she scared and shitting her pants the entire time? probably! but she did it anyway.
i loved how realistic she was. like (to her at least) she’s no hero or leader or warrior, she was just a regular girl trying her best to retrieve something important for her father, the person she loved most in the world. and truly what defines a hero? what makes other people more special than others? that’s just straight bs because we are the main characters of our lives, the heroes of our own stories, so who are you to determine otherwise?
lovedddd her dynamic with dayang i hope they rekindle their friendship and become friends again bc they’re honestly funny as hell together. they would heal eachother, i think.
this story was also extremely comforting in a way, and i loved the way every making of each meal was written, it made me INCREDIBLY hungry even though im on a literal calorie deficit diet which #sucks but at least i can live vicariously through the 3 aunties. or whatever.
neways, i also loved the 3 little cicaks, do, re, and mi. my shaylas. i love fun little sidekicks in books. they were sooooo funny and the bit with the consent had me CACKLING. and its also funny how arya was getting roasted left and right like give my girl a BREAK. i also loved how much personality arya had like she was the perfect example of a moody, feisty, girl who still had a heart of gold despite everything. words can’t express how much i adore her. and i also felt like she was an unreliable narrator in respect to her character and how others perceived her, because dayang literally proved otherwise. my shayla. arya really is just a girl. she means the world to me.
this was my first ever book from hana alkaf and i can tell why people are obsessed with her works. she’s somehow capable of having the perfect bland of humour, angst, and sentimental value that i find soooooo captivating to read. like she’s funny asf, and i appreciate it. also she’s woke, which i also appreciate. she’s a cool one, i can guarantee you that. my favourite thing to do when reading books is that you can just tell what type of person the author is because their personality tends to bleed into the stories they write, and hana alkaf is a person i know i would like if i ever met her. which sounds incredibly parasocial lmao but #yeah. i loved this and i will be checking out more of her works!!
i wish this book was a little longer and we caught a glimpse of the povs of other heroes and their quests because i just find this universe so incredibly interesting. but yeah, it was so unapologetically malaysian like every time a word was written in malay i gasped and said “omg i know that one!”.
this was a really good book, a short (?) one but i still read it in one sitting. its 4 am i should sleep but i hope wherever she is, arya will always find happiness in her life, and that she’s allowed to take up space, because she is the hero of her own story, and she owns it. my girl. im gonna miss this universe :(
to whoever read this, ik its a mess and im not making any sense so please dont flame me for this bc im no professional writer, i just love reading books and vomiting my thoughts on them, even if they make absolutely zero sense. <3
anywho, arya is truly THAT girl. like she’s so relatable that i find so much comfort in it because she really is just a girl. and i adore her. one of my comfort characters ever because she is me and i am her. my girl had to sneak pass a literal portal to a world that isnt even meant for her by STALKING her classmate and watching her like a hawk like she’s actually so funny for that because she really did NOT gaf about anything else except for saving her dad. like she was DETERMINED. was she scared and shitting her pants the entire time? probably! but she did it anyway.
i loved how realistic she was. like (to her at least) she’s no hero or leader or warrior, she was just a regular girl trying her best to retrieve something important for her father, the person she loved most in the world. and truly what defines a hero? what makes other people more special than others? that’s just straight bs because we are the main characters of our lives, the heroes of our own stories, so who are you to determine otherwise?
lovedddd her dynamic with dayang i hope they rekindle their friendship and become friends again bc they’re honestly funny as hell together. they would heal eachother, i think.
this story was also extremely comforting in a way, and i loved the way every making of each meal was written, it made me INCREDIBLY hungry even though im on a literal calorie deficit diet which #sucks but at least i can live vicariously through the 3 aunties. or whatever.
neways, i also loved the 3 little cicaks, do, re, and mi. my shaylas. i love fun little sidekicks in books. they were sooooo funny and the bit with the consent had me CACKLING. and its also funny how arya was getting roasted left and right like give my girl a BREAK. i also loved how much personality arya had like she was the perfect example of a moody, feisty, girl who still had a heart of gold despite everything. words can’t express how much i adore her. and i also felt like she was an unreliable narrator in respect to her character and how others perceived her, because dayang literally proved otherwise. my shayla. arya really is just a girl. she means the world to me.
this was my first ever book from hana alkaf and i can tell why people are obsessed with her works. she’s somehow capable of having the perfect bland of humour, angst, and sentimental value that i find soooooo captivating to read. like she’s funny asf, and i appreciate it. also she’s woke, which i also appreciate. she’s a cool one, i can guarantee you that. my favourite thing to do when reading books is that you can just tell what type of person the author is because their personality tends to bleed into the stories they write, and hana alkaf is a person i know i would like if i ever met her. which sounds incredibly parasocial lmao but #yeah. i loved this and i will be checking out more of her works!!
i wish this book was a little longer and we caught a glimpse of the povs of other heroes and their quests because i just find this universe so incredibly interesting. but yeah, it was so unapologetically malaysian like every time a word was written in malay i gasped and said “omg i know that one!”.
this was a really good book, a short (?) one but i still read it in one sitting. its 4 am i should sleep but i hope wherever she is, arya will always find happiness in her life, and that she’s allowed to take up space, because she is the hero of her own story, and she owns it. my girl. im gonna miss this universe :(
to whoever read this, ik its a mess and im not making any sense so please dont flame me for this bc im no professional writer, i just love reading books and vomiting my thoughts on them, even if they make absolutely zero sense. <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2026
This book is unapologetically Malaysian and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. I feel seen, I feel heard and I am in love. It is whimsical, it is funny, it is cozy, and it brings an unexpected dash of reality beneath the fantasy. The distinctive Malaysian English tone, the legends and myths, the detailed descriptions of mouthwatering Malaysian delicacies- oh, this book has my heart, truly.
I love the way the author describes the making of each delicacy in such detail. I can feel the love, the passion, the effort, and it feels like I am there in the Warung’s kitchen, watching and praying for Arya’s success. The emotions in this book were so palpable, it is like the gates of my heart had been opened without warning, to allow a flood of emotions to pass through it.
Food is a major theme in this book, and I truly, truly feel the love and the care and the togetherness that it brings in this story. The final dish hits so close to my heart, and it is most definitely my favourite dish.
I love the relationship between Arya and her father, and I can truly empathise with her desperation. The author put so much work into showing why her father is so important to her, that it wasn’t difficult at all to understand why this journey means even more than the world to her.
I also love Do, Re and Mi. Especially Mi. Those three naughty cuties have my heart. Also Mak Long, Mak Ngah and Mak Su. I would totally read a book dedicated for them. I love that they have rough edges but still have a softness to them. Especially Mak Ngah, memang vibe acik2 betul!
And the final message of the story was so heart-wrenching . It adds a touch of reality, which gives a perfect balance to the otherwise whimsical story. How important time is, indeed. How precious it is. The ending ties things up so nicely, that it makes this story even more memorable to me.
Going onto the weaknesses of the book📝:
I feel that there is so much more that can be explored in the plot. The story focuses so much on Arya, that the world-building becomes neglected despite having so much potential. The Warung knows everything that the heroes need, and provide meals to help them in their quests. If this aspect is to be explored even more, like how exactly the meal is chosen for each hero and the significance of that meal in helping the heroes continue their journey, it would’ve made the plot even more whole.
And how exactly does one become a hero anyway? The heroes are travelling from Sini to Sana, but what is Sini and Sana? What do the heroes find there? Is there some kind of magic fountain or magical being that grants wishes there? The start of the story pushes the reader immediately into this whole hero thing, but with zero further explanation . And the fact that this is vital because it is literally the reason for the Warung’s existence, makes it even more confusing and leave the readers flabbergasted with this random but incomplete info dump.
The main character, Arya is also a bit of a Debbie Downer. She insists and has it drilled in her brain that she is not a hero. And she keeps repeating this to the reader, shoving it to our face that she’s no hero, to the point that it becomes annoying. And the entire conflict with Dayang worsens my annoyance. Dayang to me, sounds like a normal kid. And yet to Arya, she is obviously a hero although it is not obvious at all to me. Then she lashes out at Dayang and Dayang gives her some sense. It makes Arya’s character rather shallow. If the author wanted to create a pessimistic character, showing why the character is pessimistic would’ve been less grating than telling the reader, repeatedly.
Nevertheless , this was an enjoyable read. I think if I were to read this when I was younger, I would be even crazier about this book. So if younger friends read this- older elementary schoolers or middle schoolers, I think they would enjoy this very much. This story left a mark in my heart, and it is a story I treasure.
I love the way the author describes the making of each delicacy in such detail. I can feel the love, the passion, the effort, and it feels like I am there in the Warung’s kitchen, watching and praying for Arya’s success. The emotions in this book were so palpable, it is like the gates of my heart had been opened without warning, to allow a flood of emotions to pass through it.
Food is a major theme in this book, and I truly, truly feel the love and the care and the togetherness that it brings in this story. The final dish hits so close to my heart, and it is most definitely my favourite dish.
I love the relationship between Arya and her father, and I can truly empathise with her desperation. The author put so much work into showing why her father is so important to her, that it wasn’t difficult at all to understand why this journey means even more than the world to her.
I also love Do, Re and Mi. Especially Mi. Those three naughty cuties have my heart. Also Mak Long, Mak Ngah and Mak Su. I would totally read a book dedicated for them. I love that they have rough edges but still have a softness to them. Especially Mak Ngah, memang vibe acik2 betul!
And the final message of the story was so heart-wrenching . It adds a touch of reality, which gives a perfect balance to the otherwise whimsical story. How important time is, indeed. How precious it is. The ending ties things up so nicely, that it makes this story even more memorable to me.
Going onto the weaknesses of the book📝:
I feel that there is so much more that can be explored in the plot. The story focuses so much on Arya, that the world-building becomes neglected despite having so much potential. The Warung knows everything that the heroes need, and provide meals to help them in their quests. If this aspect is to be explored even more, like how exactly the meal is chosen for each hero and the significance of that meal in helping the heroes continue their journey, it would’ve made the plot even more whole.
And how exactly does one become a hero anyway? The heroes are travelling from Sini to Sana, but what is Sini and Sana? What do the heroes find there? Is there some kind of magic fountain or magical being that grants wishes there? The start of the story pushes the reader immediately into this whole hero thing, but with zero further explanation . And the fact that this is vital because it is literally the reason for the Warung’s existence, makes it even more confusing and leave the readers flabbergasted with this random but incomplete info dump.
The main character, Arya is also a bit of a Debbie Downer. She insists and has it drilled in her brain that she is not a hero. And she keeps repeating this to the reader, shoving it to our face that she’s no hero, to the point that it becomes annoying. And the entire conflict with Dayang worsens my annoyance. Dayang to me, sounds like a normal kid. And yet to Arya, she is obviously a hero although it is not obvious at all to me. Then she lashes out at Dayang and Dayang gives her some sense. It makes Arya’s character rather shallow. If the author wanted to create a pessimistic character, showing why the character is pessimistic would’ve been less grating than telling the reader, repeatedly.
Nevertheless , this was an enjoyable read. I think if I were to read this when I was younger, I would be even crazier about this book. So if younger friends read this- older elementary schoolers or middle schoolers, I think they would enjoy this very much. This story left a mark in my heart, and it is a story I treasure.
August 24, 2026
It has been quite some time since I last read an English book by a local author, and even longer since I picked up a young adult novel. Going into The Warung Between Worlds, I already had fairly high expectations because I’ve read Hanna Alkaf’s fiction before, although I’d never read any of her fantasy work. And I’m glad to say that this was such a wonderful little book to return to.
What immediately stood out to me was how unique the premise was. The story takes a place as familiar as Langkawi. Which is historically we Malaysian knows that is a place already rich with its own legends and folk tales. This book expands it into this whimsical fantasy world filled with heroes, magical creatures, talking animals and adventures. There’s even a little bit of MasterChef energy thrown into the mix, which I honestly found really fun.
At the centre of it all is Arya, a girl who essentially inserts herself into someone else’s hero story because she needs to obtain something that could help her father. What I liked about Ari is that she isn’t necessarily the strongest or most capable person from the beginning. She’s determined, willing to learn and, more importantly, desperate to hold on to the life and the person she loves. As her adventure progresses, the story reminds us that sometimes getting what you want isn’t about strength. You need to be smart, witty and, ultimately, honest.
But perhaps my favourite thing about this book is just how Malaysian it feels.
I loved the casual conversations, the Malaysian English, the direct translations and all those little expressions and mannerisms that Malaysian readers will immediately recognise. I think that’s especially important for younger readers. English literature doesn’t always have to sound British or American. English can be diversified within our own local context while still being beautifully written, and I love that a young Malaysian reader can pick up this book and recognise pieces of home in it.
Underneath all the fantasy and adventure, though, this is also quite a sad story. At its heart, I think it’s about grief, family and the limited amount of time we sometimes have with the people we love.
One of the messages that stayed with me is that we should make an effort to appreciate someone’s presence while they’re still in our lives. It doesn’t necessarily have to be hours or days. Sometimes even ten minutes matters. When time is limited, what matters is choosing to be present and making something meaningful out of whatever time remains.
The ending captures that beautifully:
“They don’t have all the time in the world, but they have enough time to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye. Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
That line really stayed with me. We can’t always control how much time we’re given with someone, especially in moments of illness and grief. But we can choose what we do with the time that we have. Sometimes there is enough time to love someone, appreciate them and, eventually, say goodbye.
My only real criticism is that I wish certain parts of the story had been more detailed. At around 170 pages, it’s a very short and quick read, and there were moments where I would have loved the story and its world to be explored more deeply. At the same time, I think that simplicity works in its favour for its intended audience. It’s approachable, easy to follow and something I could see being a wonderful introduction to English literature and fantasy for younger Malaysian readers, particularly primary-school-aged readers who are beginning to read longer English fiction.
Overall, The Warung Between Worlds was a beautiful, whimsical and surprisingly emotional read. It’s short, accessible and unmistakably Malaysian.
What immediately stood out to me was how unique the premise was. The story takes a place as familiar as Langkawi. Which is historically we Malaysian knows that is a place already rich with its own legends and folk tales. This book expands it into this whimsical fantasy world filled with heroes, magical creatures, talking animals and adventures. There’s even a little bit of MasterChef energy thrown into the mix, which I honestly found really fun.
At the centre of it all is Arya, a girl who essentially inserts herself into someone else’s hero story because she needs to obtain something that could help her father. What I liked about Ari is that she isn’t necessarily the strongest or most capable person from the beginning. She’s determined, willing to learn and, more importantly, desperate to hold on to the life and the person she loves. As her adventure progresses, the story reminds us that sometimes getting what you want isn’t about strength. You need to be smart, witty and, ultimately, honest.
But perhaps my favourite thing about this book is just how Malaysian it feels.
I loved the casual conversations, the Malaysian English, the direct translations and all those little expressions and mannerisms that Malaysian readers will immediately recognise. I think that’s especially important for younger readers. English literature doesn’t always have to sound British or American. English can be diversified within our own local context while still being beautifully written, and I love that a young Malaysian reader can pick up this book and recognise pieces of home in it.
Underneath all the fantasy and adventure, though, this is also quite a sad story. At its heart, I think it’s about grief, family and the limited amount of time we sometimes have with the people we love.
One of the messages that stayed with me is that we should make an effort to appreciate someone’s presence while they’re still in our lives. It doesn’t necessarily have to be hours or days. Sometimes even ten minutes matters. When time is limited, what matters is choosing to be present and making something meaningful out of whatever time remains.
The ending captures that beautifully:
“They don’t have all the time in the world, but they have enough time to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye. Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
That line really stayed with me. We can’t always control how much time we’re given with someone, especially in moments of illness and grief. But we can choose what we do with the time that we have. Sometimes there is enough time to love someone, appreciate them and, eventually, say goodbye.
My only real criticism is that I wish certain parts of the story had been more detailed. At around 170 pages, it’s a very short and quick read, and there were moments where I would have loved the story and its world to be explored more deeply. At the same time, I think that simplicity works in its favour for its intended audience. It’s approachable, easy to follow and something I could see being a wonderful introduction to English literature and fantasy for younger Malaysian readers, particularly primary-school-aged readers who are beginning to read longer English fiction.
Overall, The Warung Between Worlds was a beautiful, whimsical and surprisingly emotional read. It’s short, accessible and unmistakably Malaysian.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2026
"But sometimes it takes getting everything you dreamed of to realise it was too much.." -- Ayah
"If you let your mind too crowded, you're not giving the food you prepare - especially food you prepare for others - the respect and care that it deserves.." -- Ayah
First time reading Hanna Alkaf and I understand the hype. Her writing is easy to follow & read. Perfectly suitable for a young/middle age reader or someone who wants to get out from the reading slump. I finish this book only in one seating.
The story is about a girl named Arya Razali who's in quest to search for something important that her father has sacrificed (as a hero) before. She knew should not break into the Warungs but she felt it's important to have that 'thing' as her father's dying. As she tried to break in, she was caught by three aunties (Mak Long, Mak Ngah & Mak Su -- typical panggilan aunty in Malaysia) and she was put in quest to cook three meals for them in order to retrieve her father's monument.
There are many whimsical things happening:-
- three talking lizards (which later Arya named them as Do, Re and Mi)
- unlimited supplies of the kitchen but the kitchen will only supply if you clearly know of things you want to cook
- full-of-surprise cabinets. One moment it supplies the ingredients, but later it can flood your whole kitchen! It even has a desert in it!
- talking creatures and animals
What I like about this book:-
- Arya's choice of meals. There are three meals she cooked --> [1) Beef Wellington as she might wanna impress those aunties; 2) Asam Laksa because of her mom's root; and 3) Sambal Bilis because of her dad]. In between of the meals, there are snippets of memories and stories she remembered by told by Ayah. So much wisdom coming from Ayah when it comes to preparing the food, the never-ending stories they shared together, the phase when Arya didn't want to listen to her Ayah's story, the moment she realize her father's dying.
"They don't have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other and time enough to say goodbye.."
- "Something about its perfection, she thinks, makes for a better dish" -- Arya
I like how the author put the recipes and how some recipes are not made in perfection (especially the cutting) but as much as we put our heart into it, the cooking will be special nonetheless.
- The bond between daughter and father. As a daughter myself, I find the story is beautifully written. You would want to treasure your father's sacrifice and wisdom despite you may have a cold relationship before.
This might be my comfort book, if I ever wanna read something cozy again in future.
"If you let your mind too crowded, you're not giving the food you prepare - especially food you prepare for others - the respect and care that it deserves.." -- Ayah
First time reading Hanna Alkaf and I understand the hype. Her writing is easy to follow & read. Perfectly suitable for a young/middle age reader or someone who wants to get out from the reading slump. I finish this book only in one seating.
The story is about a girl named Arya Razali who's in quest to search for something important that her father has sacrificed (as a hero) before. She knew should not break into the Warungs but she felt it's important to have that 'thing' as her father's dying. As she tried to break in, she was caught by three aunties (Mak Long, Mak Ngah & Mak Su -- typical panggilan aunty in Malaysia) and she was put in quest to cook three meals for them in order to retrieve her father's monument.
There are many whimsical things happening:-
- three talking lizards (which later Arya named them as Do, Re and Mi)
- unlimited supplies of the kitchen but the kitchen will only supply if you clearly know of things you want to cook
- full-of-surprise cabinets. One moment it supplies the ingredients, but later it can flood your whole kitchen! It even has a desert in it!
- talking creatures and animals
What I like about this book:-
- Arya's choice of meals. There are three meals she cooked --> [1) Beef Wellington as she might wanna impress those aunties; 2) Asam Laksa because of her mom's root; and 3) Sambal Bilis because of her dad]. In between of the meals, there are snippets of memories and stories she remembered by told by Ayah. So much wisdom coming from Ayah when it comes to preparing the food, the never-ending stories they shared together, the phase when Arya didn't want to listen to her Ayah's story, the moment she realize her father's dying.
"They don't have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other and time enough to say goodbye.."
- "Something about its perfection, she thinks, makes for a better dish" -- Arya
I like how the author put the recipes and how some recipes are not made in perfection (especially the cutting) but as much as we put our heart into it, the cooking will be special nonetheless.
- The bond between daughter and father. As a daughter myself, I find the story is beautifully written. You would want to treasure your father's sacrifice and wisdom despite you may have a cold relationship before.
This might be my comfort book, if I ever wanna read something cozy again in future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2026
"When cooking, you must clear your mind and focus. If you let your mind get too crowded, you're not giving the food you prepare, especially food you prepare for others, the respect and care it deserves".
Awal aku beli buku ini pure karena suka banget sama covernya yang cantik. Eh pas baca sinopsisnya kok menarik sama temanya unik ngambil unsur warungan yang dibalut fantasi tipikal-tipikal novel heartwarming yang sering kubaca. Tapi kali ini bukan dari Asia Timur, melainkan Asia Tenggara.
Cerita buku ini setting-nya di Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia dan ngulik dua sisi pulau tersebut, dunia nyata sama dunia tak terlihat alias ghaib. Fokus utamanya tuh lebih ke soal hubungan ayah dan anak perempuannya, sambil nyelipin berbagai folktales asli sana.
Menceritakan sebuah kedai misterius di pinggiran night market yang dijaga tiga Aunties (bibi): Mak long, Mak ngah, Mak Su. Warung itu bernama 'The Warung Between Worlds'. Pelanggannya unik, dari manusia biasa sampe makhluk halus alias ghaib. Tapi, bayar makanannya nggak pake duit, melainkan harus dituker pake kenangan, barang berharga, atau waktu.
Nah, tokoh utamanya, Arya Razali, nekat dan mencoba menysup ke warung magis itu buat nebus sesuatu yang dulu sempet ditukar ayahnya. Tapi, ia malah ketahuan sama para Aunties. Arya dikasih tiga kali kesempatan untuk masak dan membuat terkesan para Aunties sebelum fajar tiba. Kalau gagal, Arya bakal terperangkap di warung itu selamanya. Kita bakal pelan-pelan dikasih liat alasan menyayat hati di balik kenekatannya, dan seberapa jauh dia rela berjuang demi sang ayah.
Ceritanya emang manis, hangat, dan kerasa whimsical. Vibesnya mirip kek lagi nonton ghibli. Bagian favoritku udah pasti pas adegan masaknya. Aku suka banget cara penulis ngejelasin proses bikin tiap makanannya secara detail. Ada beberapa makanan yang dimasak Arya dan favoritku Asam Laksa ddan Sambal Bilis. Penggambaran makanannya tuh ngebuat kita ikutan bikin ngiler dan bisa mencium aroma makanannya yang lezat. Cozy banget lah.
Di balik semua unsur fantasi magis dan perjalanan Arya, sebenernya cerita yang lumayan sedih. Inti ceritanya menurutku ngebahas tentang grief, keluarga, dan betapa terbatasnya waktu kita bareng orang-orang yang kita sayangi.
Aku Sangat menikmatinya. Jika kalian mencari healing literatur atau comfort book bertemakan makanan, aku sangat merekomendasikan buku ini.
“They don’t have all the time in the world, but they have enough time to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye. Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
Awal aku beli buku ini pure karena suka banget sama covernya yang cantik. Eh pas baca sinopsisnya kok menarik sama temanya unik ngambil unsur warungan yang dibalut fantasi tipikal-tipikal novel heartwarming yang sering kubaca. Tapi kali ini bukan dari Asia Timur, melainkan Asia Tenggara.
Cerita buku ini setting-nya di Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia dan ngulik dua sisi pulau tersebut, dunia nyata sama dunia tak terlihat alias ghaib. Fokus utamanya tuh lebih ke soal hubungan ayah dan anak perempuannya, sambil nyelipin berbagai folktales asli sana.
Menceritakan sebuah kedai misterius di pinggiran night market yang dijaga tiga Aunties (bibi): Mak long, Mak ngah, Mak Su. Warung itu bernama 'The Warung Between Worlds'. Pelanggannya unik, dari manusia biasa sampe makhluk halus alias ghaib. Tapi, bayar makanannya nggak pake duit, melainkan harus dituker pake kenangan, barang berharga, atau waktu.
Nah, tokoh utamanya, Arya Razali, nekat dan mencoba menysup ke warung magis itu buat nebus sesuatu yang dulu sempet ditukar ayahnya. Tapi, ia malah ketahuan sama para Aunties. Arya dikasih tiga kali kesempatan untuk masak dan membuat terkesan para Aunties sebelum fajar tiba. Kalau gagal, Arya bakal terperangkap di warung itu selamanya. Kita bakal pelan-pelan dikasih liat alasan menyayat hati di balik kenekatannya, dan seberapa jauh dia rela berjuang demi sang ayah.
Ceritanya emang manis, hangat, dan kerasa whimsical. Vibesnya mirip kek lagi nonton ghibli. Bagian favoritku udah pasti pas adegan masaknya. Aku suka banget cara penulis ngejelasin proses bikin tiap makanannya secara detail. Ada beberapa makanan yang dimasak Arya dan favoritku Asam Laksa ddan Sambal Bilis. Penggambaran makanannya tuh ngebuat kita ikutan bikin ngiler dan bisa mencium aroma makanannya yang lezat. Cozy banget lah.
Di balik semua unsur fantasi magis dan perjalanan Arya, sebenernya cerita yang lumayan sedih. Inti ceritanya menurutku ngebahas tentang grief, keluarga, dan betapa terbatasnya waktu kita bareng orang-orang yang kita sayangi.
Aku Sangat menikmatinya. Jika kalian mencari healing literatur atau comfort book bertemakan makanan, aku sangat merekomendasikan buku ini.
“They don’t have all the time in the world, but they have enough time to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye. Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
July 26, 2026
Arya grew up helping her father at his humble warung, where she also developed a love for listening to the folklore and legends he shared.
What intrigued me most was when Arya asked her father, "Do you think she was happy here?" She was referring to her late mother, who had given up her successful career and comfortable life in KL to move to Langkawi with her husband.
That single question made me curious about her mother's story. Although Hanna Alkaf doesn't explore this part of the story in depth, I didn't mind in the end because the novel's true focus lies elsewhere. This book represents a beautiful reminder that love is preserved through our actions rather than our possessions. This is the lesson Arya must learn as she embarks on her biggest mission which is passing the aunties' test at the magical warung.
The Aunties challenge Arya to understand what her father truly left behind. Through the dishes she prepares, she gradually realizes that a recipe alone can never recreate the warmth of her father's cooking. A recipe can tell you what ingredients to use and the exact measurements to follow, but it can never capture the patience, kindness, love, and care that transformed an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. Those are the ingredients that matter most.
If you enjoyed The Chibineko Kitchen, I think you'll love this book as well. Both stories use food as a language of love, memory, and healing, reminding us that the meals we prepare carry pieces of ourselves.
"When cooking, you must clear your mind and focus. If you let your mind get too crowded, you're not giving the food you prepare, especially food you prepare for others, the respect and care it deserves".
For me, this quote perfectly captures the heart of the novel. Cooking isn't simply about following a recipe, it's about pouring your heart into every dish. The most important thing is, the people we love never truly leave us. They continue to live on through the lessons they taught us, the traditions they entrusted to us, and the love we choose to pass forward.
What intrigued me most was when Arya asked her father, "Do you think she was happy here?" She was referring to her late mother, who had given up her successful career and comfortable life in KL to move to Langkawi with her husband.
That single question made me curious about her mother's story. Although Hanna Alkaf doesn't explore this part of the story in depth, I didn't mind in the end because the novel's true focus lies elsewhere. This book represents a beautiful reminder that love is preserved through our actions rather than our possessions. This is the lesson Arya must learn as she embarks on her biggest mission which is passing the aunties' test at the magical warung.
The Aunties challenge Arya to understand what her father truly left behind. Through the dishes she prepares, she gradually realizes that a recipe alone can never recreate the warmth of her father's cooking. A recipe can tell you what ingredients to use and the exact measurements to follow, but it can never capture the patience, kindness, love, and care that transformed an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. Those are the ingredients that matter most.
If you enjoyed The Chibineko Kitchen, I think you'll love this book as well. Both stories use food as a language of love, memory, and healing, reminding us that the meals we prepare carry pieces of ourselves.
"When cooking, you must clear your mind and focus. If you let your mind get too crowded, you're not giving the food you prepare, especially food you prepare for others, the respect and care it deserves".
For me, this quote perfectly captures the heart of the novel. Cooking isn't simply about following a recipe, it's about pouring your heart into every dish. The most important thing is, the people we love never truly leave us. They continue to live on through the lessons they taught us, the traditions they entrusted to us, and the love we choose to pass forward.
August 18, 2026
A very fast-paced book — I think most readers can easily finish this in one sitting.
This is not a serious, complex fantasy/fictional-realm kind of story. So if you’re going into this expecting a deeply built magical world, this might not be the book for you.
But what I really loved is how genuinely Malaysian this book feels. It is set in Langkawi, introduces our local food, and somehow makes something as simple as food feel so close to home.
Because one thing I’ve always believed can unite Malaysians is… food. 😂
And this book is not really about food itself.
It’s about a father preparing food for his beloved daughter. A father bringing food to the table for his princess. And a daughter preparing food just to bring back her father’s most priceless memory — for one last time. 🥹
And despite all the challenges, she made it.
Despite what the cicaks muttered.
Despite what the Aunties said.
And I LOVE how the Aunties fit the setting so naturally:
MakLong — strict but actually very loving.
MakNgah — always snorting because she can’t show her love properly, but she’s kind tbh 😂
Maksu — obviously everyone’s favourite.
My first impression? I honestly didn’t think this book was for me. It was giving me “okay… baca jelah” vibes. 😂
But somewhere along the way, it changed my mind from “nope” to “yes.”
A light, refreshing read. Fast-paced, entertaining, with a little bit of sadness.
And very, very Malaysian. 🇲🇾💓
on the other side; I am not a very big fans of the character, Ayra.
I really feel bad for how she reacts to her father (purposely) but I love how she agree to sacrifice everything for her father.
I am not a fan of hot-tempered, impatient chatacter lagi-lagi perempuan but a fiction maintain a fiction.
Cuma kita geram sikit 🤏🏻
This is not a serious, complex fantasy/fictional-realm kind of story. So if you’re going into this expecting a deeply built magical world, this might not be the book for you.
But what I really loved is how genuinely Malaysian this book feels. It is set in Langkawi, introduces our local food, and somehow makes something as simple as food feel so close to home.
Because one thing I’ve always believed can unite Malaysians is… food. 😂
And this book is not really about food itself.
It’s about a father preparing food for his beloved daughter. A father bringing food to the table for his princess. And a daughter preparing food just to bring back her father’s most priceless memory — for one last time. 🥹
And despite all the challenges, she made it.
Despite what the cicaks muttered.
Despite what the Aunties said.
And I LOVE how the Aunties fit the setting so naturally:
MakLong — strict but actually very loving.
MakNgah — always snorting because she can’t show her love properly, but she’s kind tbh 😂
Maksu — obviously everyone’s favourite.
My first impression? I honestly didn’t think this book was for me. It was giving me “okay… baca jelah” vibes. 😂
But somewhere along the way, it changed my mind from “nope” to “yes.”
A light, refreshing read. Fast-paced, entertaining, with a little bit of sadness.
And very, very Malaysian. 🇲🇾💓
on the other side; I am not a very big fans of the character, Ayra.
I really feel bad for how she reacts to her father (purposely) but I love how she agree to sacrifice everything for her father.
I am not a fan of hot-tempered, impatient chatacter lagi-lagi perempuan but a fiction maintain a fiction.
Cuma kita geram sikit 🤏🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2026
This book is actually the first book that I read written by Hanna Alkaf. There was a lot of buzz around this writer, hence I thought I would like to check out her works.
My verdict:
The book is a little bit too predictable. There was like no suspense element in the book. The story is a bit too simplistic, it was kinda expected that the heroine will eventually succeeded.
What I like:
1. The ending is heartwarming and give a good message.
2. The writer's style of writing is clear and pretty interesting.
3. I like the cover and the spray edge effect.
What I don't like:
1. I just don't like the heroine. She is very unlikable, annoying, and consistently at that. Only when the story reached it's finale, she was a little bit bearable.
2. I understand that this book was intended to Malaysian readers, but I think some glossary should be included at the back of the book, to kinda explain what certain words mean?
3. I think the price is not justifiable. For a book this thin with Ghibli-inspired sceneries and such straight forward predictable story like that, that price is just urgh. No.
4. Sometimes the author wrote 'too much' to explain or describe something that rather than sounding smart or funny or witty, it sounds irritating. There was a part or two that were a lil bit cringe but I can forgive that.
All in all, it was okey and justifiable if the price is not that expensive.
My verdict:
The book is a little bit too predictable. There was like no suspense element in the book. The story is a bit too simplistic, it was kinda expected that the heroine will eventually succeeded.
What I like:
1. The ending is heartwarming and give a good message.
2. The writer's style of writing is clear and pretty interesting.
3. I like the cover and the spray edge effect.
What I don't like:
1. I just don't like the heroine. She is very unlikable, annoying, and consistently at that. Only when the story reached it's finale, she was a little bit bearable.
2. I understand that this book was intended to Malaysian readers, but I think some glossary should be included at the back of the book, to kinda explain what certain words mean?
3. I think the price is not justifiable. For a book this thin with Ghibli-inspired sceneries and such straight forward predictable story like that, that price is just urgh. No.
4. Sometimes the author wrote 'too much' to explain or describe something that rather than sounding smart or funny or witty, it sounds irritating. There was a part or two that were a lil bit cringe but I can forgive that.
All in all, it was okey and justifiable if the price is not that expensive.
August 3, 2026
Think MasterChef, but throw in a little magic, a whole lot of chaos and characters who are wonderfully impossible and you’ll get this book! 😂🪄
This book is pure whimsy. I absolutely adored the characters, especially Do, Re and Mi. These three are funny, ridiculously annoying bullies one minute and the kindest, sweetest souls the next. Honestly, they drove me crazy… but I loved them anyway! 😂❤️
And can we talk about the Malay language and slang sprinkled throughout the story? I LOVED it. It felt so natural, so authentic, so familiar — so us. 🇲🇾 It brought an extra bit of magic to the story and made this fantastical world feel wonderfully close to home.
But beneath all the magic, humour and delicious chaos, this is also a story about something much deeper.
It is a journey of grief, of holding on to happy memories@and of learning that sometimes, the people we lose continue to live on in the little pieces of ourselves they leave behind.
It is Arya’s journey of searching — searching for herself, searching for acceptance and ultimately learning to embrace who she is.
And perhaps that’s what made this book so special to me. Beneath all the whimsy, it carries a tender little reminder: sometimes, finding yourself is a magical journey of its own. ✨💛
A little funny. A little chaotic. A little heartbreaking. And wonderfully magical. 🪄
This book is pure whimsy. I absolutely adored the characters, especially Do, Re and Mi. These three are funny, ridiculously annoying bullies one minute and the kindest, sweetest souls the next. Honestly, they drove me crazy… but I loved them anyway! 😂❤️
And can we talk about the Malay language and slang sprinkled throughout the story? I LOVED it. It felt so natural, so authentic, so familiar — so us. 🇲🇾 It brought an extra bit of magic to the story and made this fantastical world feel wonderfully close to home.
But beneath all the magic, humour and delicious chaos, this is also a story about something much deeper.
It is a journey of grief, of holding on to happy memories@and of learning that sometimes, the people we lose continue to live on in the little pieces of ourselves they leave behind.
It is Arya’s journey of searching — searching for herself, searching for acceptance and ultimately learning to embrace who she is.
And perhaps that’s what made this book so special to me. Beneath all the whimsy, it carries a tender little reminder: sometimes, finding yourself is a magical journey of its own. ✨💛
A little funny. A little chaotic. A little heartbreaking. And wonderfully magical. 🪄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2026
Kali pertama baca buku written by Hanna Alkaf. Beautifully written. Mesmerising realm building. Interesting narratives and folklore are woven into the story.
It breathes life back into the kitchen. I used to like and love cooking, and fell out of love - rasa renyah dan penat kalau memasak, especially the pre- and post-cooking part.
The story reframes the act of cooking as something meaningful. It serves as a gentle reminder that it’s possible to genuinely enjoy the process again, even if the exhaustion remains.
There are a bunch of quotable lines, reminders, and messages. It’s about time. About love. A lovely father-daughter relationship and an intrapersonal relationship. It really makes you introspect.
And it leaves me with the question: Have I ever loved someone so deeply that I will do anything and everything in my power for them? Will I be able to do the same as what the main character willingly did for her father?
The line that broke me:
“They don’t have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye.
Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
This last paragraph and line leave me ugly crying berhingus.
It breathes life back into the kitchen. I used to like and love cooking, and fell out of love - rasa renyah dan penat kalau memasak, especially the pre- and post-cooking part.
The story reframes the act of cooking as something meaningful. It serves as a gentle reminder that it’s possible to genuinely enjoy the process again, even if the exhaustion remains.
There are a bunch of quotable lines, reminders, and messages. It’s about time. About love. A lovely father-daughter relationship and an intrapersonal relationship. It really makes you introspect.
And it leaves me with the question: Have I ever loved someone so deeply that I will do anything and everything in my power for them? Will I be able to do the same as what the main character willingly did for her father?
The line that broke me:
“They don’t have all the time in the world. But they have time enough to love each other, and time enough to say goodbye.
Sometimes that’s all the time you need.”
This last paragraph and line leave me ugly crying berhingus.
June 7, 2026
When I first read the book, it seems so familiar. Then I remembered Hamra and The Jungle of Memories instantly as I came across Langkawi, the warung and 3 aunties. Oh then I knew they shared the same universe 😗 got excited that I flipped through my kindle to find the warung haha.
The story tells us abour Arya, who are in her journey of seeking something that belongs to her father. Then there's magical warung which have no menus. They just know what you need. Mak Long, Mak Ngah and Mak Su seems like very garang aunties but they actually care ☺️
There's food (makes me hungry throughout, now I want ikan bilis cili 🙈), cooking (I don't enjoy cooking much, but I guess maybe it's time to appreciate it more), folklores of Langkawi (I love stories of Langkawi!), cicaks (yes, the lizard) and most importantly relationship of a daughter with her beloved father. I can relate so much with Arya. I lost my late mum because of cancer. Yeah, hate cancer 🥲 but qadarullah, kan. Got teary at the end. I enjoyed the reading experience very much. It hit me with just the right amount of excitement and sadness. Such a roller coaster ride of emotions.
A wonderful piece from @hanna.alkaf , as usual ☺️Loved it ! 😍
The story tells us abour Arya, who are in her journey of seeking something that belongs to her father. Then there's magical warung which have no menus. They just know what you need. Mak Long, Mak Ngah and Mak Su seems like very garang aunties but they actually care ☺️
There's food (makes me hungry throughout, now I want ikan bilis cili 🙈), cooking (I don't enjoy cooking much, but I guess maybe it's time to appreciate it more), folklores of Langkawi (I love stories of Langkawi!), cicaks (yes, the lizard) and most importantly relationship of a daughter with her beloved father. I can relate so much with Arya. I lost my late mum because of cancer. Yeah, hate cancer 🥲 but qadarullah, kan. Got teary at the end. I enjoyed the reading experience very much. It hit me with just the right amount of excitement and sadness. Such a roller coaster ride of emotions.
A wonderful piece from @hanna.alkaf , as usual ☺️Loved it ! 😍
September 27, 2026
My first ever experience of Hanna Alkaf's masterpiece. It was great and now Im looking forward to reading more of her works.
Tbh, Im not a big fan of english novels but this time I told myself to explore more. So here I am experiencing it with this novel. Very Malaysian vibe, oh I am home.
The storyline is quite simple (Make it masterchef but with quest) but the message? It is deep. Very deep.Throughout the story, I expected Arya would become the typical hero the "dont give up, im a hero". But, she is very human. Full of flaws. The emotion she feels is very valid. Feeling like I was looking in the mirror at some point.
The storyline is well written and smooth transition between the main storyline and Arya-Ayah memories.
However, I felt left hanging about a few secrets from Ayah's past (The one Arya wondered about too). But, maybe some stories are just never meant to be told
Tbh, Im not a big fan of english novels but this time I told myself to explore more. So here I am experiencing it with this novel. Very Malaysian vibe, oh I am home.
The storyline is quite simple (Make it masterchef but with quest) but the message? It is deep. Very deep.Throughout the story, I expected Arya would become the typical hero the "dont give up, im a hero". But, she is very human. Full of flaws. The emotion she feels is very valid. Feeling like I was looking in the mirror at some point.
The storyline is well written and smooth transition between the main storyline and Arya-Ayah memories.
However, I felt left hanging about a few secrets from Ayah's past (The one Arya wondered about too). But, maybe some stories are just never meant to be told
September 18, 2026
“How else do you think heroes are made? Find your purpose, little one, and stick to it.” (69)
I cried in the end. I think all these snippets from the book is enough to give my overall feeling.
"And when you're young, time is something you have so much that it doesn't seem to matter if you give a little of it up." (167)
"And he [...] never realised how much ten minutes can be until- [...] there aren't any minutes left." (168)
And especially the third last paragraph on the last page. I will let you get to it.
The whole chaos in the book that Arya had to go through showed her rollercoasters of emotions. Grief does that. And I truly, sincerely, understand.
I cried in the end. I think all these snippets from the book is enough to give my overall feeling.
"And when you're young, time is something you have so much that it doesn't seem to matter if you give a little of it up." (167)
"And he [...] never realised how much ten minutes can be until- [...] there aren't any minutes left." (168)
And especially the third last paragraph on the last page. I will let you get to it.
The whole chaos in the book that Arya had to go through showed her rollercoasters of emotions. Grief does that. And I truly, sincerely, understand.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2026
I cried. Really bowling my eyes out on this. Didn’t expect this fantasy-mystical-journey novella can give me the warmth, joyment of crying over a beautiful relationship between a father and a daughter (or is it because of the rain just now when reading this, the vibe though). It somehow remind me of my own relationship with my Ayah, someone who said not much but done SO MUCH for me. Until now. The unspoken love. Every daughter really need a good, kind & protective father by her side so she knows that she will always feel safe for the rest of her life. Thank you Hanna for this story.
June 30, 2026
I don't know how else to say this except that it made me feel things. It was so good, I enjoyed the writing and the plot. The concept too felt refreshing.
I want to see more of this world that Hanna Alkaf has built. Perhaps another story about the Warung? Of a different hero/protagonist?
There's potential for this world to be expanded upon. And I'd love to read more.
Thank you, Hanna Alkaf for this beautifully written piece.
Playlist while reading:
https://open.spotify.com/album/766a5f...
I want to see more of this world that Hanna Alkaf has built. Perhaps another story about the Warung? Of a different hero/protagonist?
There's potential for this world to be expanded upon. And I'd love to read more.
Thank you, Hanna Alkaf for this beautifully written piece.
Playlist while reading:
https://open.spotify.com/album/766a5f...
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