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Holly-Mei #1
The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei
This debut middle grade series follows a girl finding her place in a brand-new world of private school and frenemies when her family moves to Hong Kong.
Holly-Mei Jones couldn’t be more excited about moving to Hong Kong for her mother’s job. Her new school is right on the beach and her family’s apartment is beyond beautiful. Everything is going to be perfect . . . right?
Maybe not. It feels like everywhere she turns, there are new rules to follow and expectations to meet. On top of that, the most popular girl in her grade is quickly becoming a frenemy. And without the guidance of her loving Ah-ma, who stayed behind in Toronto, Holly-Mei just can’t seem to get it right.
It will take all of Holly-Mei’s determination and sparkle (and maybe even a tiny bit of stubbornness) to get through seventh grade and turn her life in Hong Kong into the ultimate adventure!
Holly-Mei Jones couldn’t be more excited about moving to Hong Kong for her mother’s job. Her new school is right on the beach and her family’s apartment is beyond beautiful. Everything is going to be perfect . . . right?
Maybe not. It feels like everywhere she turns, there are new rules to follow and expectations to meet. On top of that, the most popular girl in her grade is quickly becoming a frenemy. And without the guidance of her loving Ah-ma, who stayed behind in Toronto, Holly-Mei just can’t seem to get it right.
It will take all of Holly-Mei’s determination and sparkle (and maybe even a tiny bit of stubbornness) to get through seventh grade and turn her life in Hong Kong into the ultimate adventure!
288 pages, Hardcover
First published April 5, 2022
21 people are currently reading
3565 people want to read
About the author
Christina Matula
7 books52 followersChristina Matula is from Canada and is of Taiwanese-Hungarian heritage. Being a child of immigrant parents, she has always been curious about other cultures and far-off places. Moving to Hong Kong gave Christina the chance to explore her Chinese cultural roots (amazing food, fascinating festivals) and learn some Mandarin (constant uphill climb). She loves eating dumplings, playing field hockey, and hiking with her family and puppy.
She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Hong Kong and is represented by Carrie Pestritto of Laura Dail Literary Agency.
She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Hong Kong and is represented by Carrie Pestritto of Laura Dail Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 22, 2022
You can't help but root for Holly-Mei. Her family quite abruptly relocates from Toronto to Hong Kong when her mother gets a big promotion. The timing is quite convenient as some of her relationships have frayed with friends in Canada. A new start sounds great, although Ah Ma is not coming along. One of Ah Ma's favorite sayings is: kǔ jìn gān lái or Bitterness ends and sweetness begins. Holly-Mei is certain she can jump into her new school in Hong Kong and make a fresh start -- easy peasy. Not so fast. Like family likes to say: Wherever you go, there you are. Holly-Mei will learn that she still needs to think before speaking and work at being a good friend to make new ones. Love this new Own Voices title and hope it gets lots of attention. Includes a Glossary and recipes for Ah-Ma's Dumplings and Red Bean Creamsicles. Yum!
Thank you to Inkyard Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Inkyard Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2022
The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei was such a fun and interesting start to a new middle grade series. With themes and characters that middle grade readers will enjoy, I can't wait to read the next installment
The story itself focuses on Holly-Mei and her family as they move from Toronto to Hong Kong after Holly's mother gets a new position. Leaving everything behind, Holly and her sister end up ending attending an elite private school. Although Holly is thankful for the change after having a falling out with her old friends, she has to make a great deal of adjustments. Holly quickly releases that most of the students who attend the boarding school come from money and have pretty well known parents. Additionally, her mother has become obsessed with being "in" with the "right" people. Readers spend a great portion of the novel following Holly as she learns how adjust to the many changes she faces.
I think what I appreciated most about this movie is that it explored immigration from a different perspective. Holly-Mei is bi-racial moving to Hong Kong and goes through a lot more changes than expected and it's related to changes that some middle school readers can relate to especially when it comes to making new friends. This isn't a book that's hyper-focused on trauma and the author makes sure to point that out at the end of the book. The intention was to showcase Asian characters doing every day things. Matula has some of the best descriptive writing. As a reader, I found myself so immersed in her descriptions of Hong Kong. From the scenery to the descriptions of food, I devoured every page.
Overall, I really enjoyed this introduction to the series! Holly-Mei is a great character and I think a lot of middle grade readers will enjoy her. Definitely give this book a try if you enjoy middle grade realistic fiction.
The story itself focuses on Holly-Mei and her family as they move from Toronto to Hong Kong after Holly's mother gets a new position. Leaving everything behind, Holly and her sister end up ending attending an elite private school. Although Holly is thankful for the change after having a falling out with her old friends, she has to make a great deal of adjustments. Holly quickly releases that most of the students who attend the boarding school come from money and have pretty well known parents. Additionally, her mother has become obsessed with being "in" with the "right" people. Readers spend a great portion of the novel following Holly as she learns how adjust to the many changes she faces.
I think what I appreciated most about this movie is that it explored immigration from a different perspective. Holly-Mei is bi-racial moving to Hong Kong and goes through a lot more changes than expected and it's related to changes that some middle school readers can relate to especially when it comes to making new friends. This isn't a book that's hyper-focused on trauma and the author makes sure to point that out at the end of the book. The intention was to showcase Asian characters doing every day things. Matula has some of the best descriptive writing. As a reader, I found myself so immersed in her descriptions of Hong Kong. From the scenery to the descriptions of food, I devoured every page.
Overall, I really enjoyed this introduction to the series! Holly-Mei is a great character and I think a lot of middle grade readers will enjoy her. Definitely give this book a try if you enjoy middle grade realistic fiction.
November 26, 2023
3.75⭐️
7 abuses of a God’s name
7 abuses of a God’s name
August 11, 2022
An amazing coming of age story, showing the struggles of having your life uprooted.
November 1, 2021
This book is so much fun and I would have been so bummed if I had finished it and that was it. But there are at least two more books in the series and I cannot wait to read more about Holly-Mei and her new friends. Christina Matula brings Hong Kong into the story like it’s one of the main characters, too, and it’s such a treat. I read a review copy and cannot wait to see the final version with illustrations! Not to be missed!
April 11, 2022
2.5/5
It's a cute middle-grade novel that really introduces you to a new -to me- place. It's fun and enjoyable, but not an all-ages book.
It's a cute middle-grade novel that really introduces you to a new -to me- place. It's fun and enjoyable, but not an all-ages book.
March 22, 2023
This was a really cute and quick middle-grade book. It is a great series starter and I can see many middle-graders liking the main characters Holly-Mei. This book follows Holly-Mei as she and her family move from Toronto to Hong Kong and as she starts school there. She learns about the different culture and expectations there. I loved the incorporation of Mandarin Chinese and Cantonese words throughout the book. Overall this was a great middle-grade read.
April 29, 2024
Based on some of the author's own experiences, this was a heartfelt coming of age middle grade story featuring a Canadian Chinese girl who moves to Hong Kong when her mom gets a new job. Perfect for fans of the NetFlix show XO, Kitty and great on audio narrated by Natalie Naudus. A fish out of water story about learning about your roots and trying to fit into both a new school and a new country. I'm looking forward to reading more in the Holly-Mei series!
February 24, 2025
This book is amazing fun and worth your time and attention.
This book is about a girl named Holy Mei, Mei lives in Canada and really likes it there. Though her parents decided to move to Hong Kong in China. It is so far away and Mei doesn’t speak Chinese. This story is about Mei telling about her life and how she gets over the move and her life in Hong Kong.
This book is about a girl named Holy Mei, Mei lives in Canada and really likes it there. Though her parents decided to move to Hong Kong in China. It is so far away and Mei doesn’t speak Chinese. This story is about Mei telling about her life and how she gets over the move and her life in Hong Kong.
April 20, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this advance reader copy.
Description from NetGalley:
Holly-Mei Jones couldn’t be more excited about moving to Hong Kong for her mother’s job. Her new school is right on the beach and her family’s apartment is beyond beautiful. Everything is going to be perfect . . . right?
Maybe not. It feels like everywhere she turns, there are new rules to follow and expectations to meet. On top of that, the most popular girl in her grade is quickly becoming a frenemy. And without the guidance of her loving Ah-ma, who stayed behind in Toronto, Holly-Mei just can’t seem to get it right.
It will take all of Holly-Mei’s determination and sparkle (and maybe even a tiny bit of stubbornness) to get through seventh grade and turn her life in Hong Kong into the ultimate adventure!
This middle grade book is fun, fast paced, and very cute. Holly-Mei wading through both moving to a new school and a new country and culture. It’s not the typical immigration story that I am used to reading. The writing was great.
Overall: 4/5
Description from NetGalley:
Holly-Mei Jones couldn’t be more excited about moving to Hong Kong for her mother’s job. Her new school is right on the beach and her family’s apartment is beyond beautiful. Everything is going to be perfect . . . right?
Maybe not. It feels like everywhere she turns, there are new rules to follow and expectations to meet. On top of that, the most popular girl in her grade is quickly becoming a frenemy. And without the guidance of her loving Ah-ma, who stayed behind in Toronto, Holly-Mei just can’t seem to get it right.
It will take all of Holly-Mei’s determination and sparkle (and maybe even a tiny bit of stubbornness) to get through seventh grade and turn her life in Hong Kong into the ultimate adventure!
This middle grade book is fun, fast paced, and very cute. Holly-Mei wading through both moving to a new school and a new country and culture. It’s not the typical immigration story that I am used to reading. The writing was great.
Overall: 4/5
April 4, 2022
Holly-Mei moves with her family, all but her Ah-ma (grandmother), from Canada to Hong Kong. She had just gotten herself into trouble with her friends for speaking up against cheating, so she's looking forward to the move. Her grandmother warns her that it might take time to make some friends in Hong Kong, but Holly-Mei thinks all will be well once she moves. She just knows she'll make some instant friends.
What I loved about this book: the food! There were soooo many wonderful descriptions of the different foods. I definitely recommend this for those of you that love to read about foods.
Next, the setting! The descriptions of Hong Kong had me wanting to go immediately.
And last, I absolutely loved the way Holly-Mei works through all of her troubles with her friends - both new and old. There were some truly heartwarming scenes while everything was wrapping up.
What I didn't love: There was too much time where I didn't feel connected to Holly-Mei or what she was doing. The plot didn't have enough progression; it was slow and I was bored.
Overall, I found myself glad that I picked this up and thanks to Inkyard Press and HarperCollins for sending me an arc!
What I loved about this book: the food! There were soooo many wonderful descriptions of the different foods. I definitely recommend this for those of you that love to read about foods.
Next, the setting! The descriptions of Hong Kong had me wanting to go immediately.
And last, I absolutely loved the way Holly-Mei works through all of her troubles with her friends - both new and old. There were some truly heartwarming scenes while everything was wrapping up.
What I didn't love: There was too much time where I didn't feel connected to Holly-Mei or what she was doing. The plot didn't have enough progression; it was slow and I was bored.
Overall, I found myself glad that I picked this up and thanks to Inkyard Press and HarperCollins for sending me an arc!
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April 1, 2022Categories
Young Adult Social Issues, Young Adult Family, Young Adult People & Places
Miniseries
A Holly-Mei Book (Book #1)
Young Adult Social Issues, Young Adult Family, Young Adult People & Places
Miniseries
A Holly-Mei Book (Book #1)
May 5, 2022
Picked this up for a quick audiobook listen. It was cute and fun and a perfect story for its age group. Very enjoyable.
July 24, 2022
A little middle grade always makes the day better.
In all honestly I loved how this book was written. I moved states when I was 10 and had such a hard time with it. Overall it displayed all the emotions I felt moving to a new school and I loved how personal it felt reading.
In all honestly I loved how this book was written. I moved states when I was 10 and had such a hard time with it. Overall it displayed all the emotions I felt moving to a new school and I loved how personal it felt reading.
October 12, 2022
Holly-Mei's family has moved from Canada to Hong Kong. She's struggling to find her place with friends and at a very exclusive private school, where the expectations and social class issues are heightened.
November 25, 2022
was a great book and if you like kelly yang I suggest u read this!!
March 18, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book was fine I guess. We follow Holly-Mei as she and her family move to Hong Kong. They have to start over in a new place which of course means new friends for Holly-Mei and her sister. Judging by the synopsis I was expecting some difficulty with the transition but there was very little. Every bit of struggle that Holly-Mei faces is solved rather quickly and without much effort. Things never actually get bad for HM even at the worst of her experiences when she moves or even for the duration of the book. The couple tiny issues that do come up are resolved super quickly without much thought and little to no effort.
As previously stated, this was fine. I just didn't get anything from it.
This book was fine I guess. We follow Holly-Mei as she and her family move to Hong Kong. They have to start over in a new place which of course means new friends for Holly-Mei and her sister. Judging by the synopsis I was expecting some difficulty with the transition but there was very little. Every bit of struggle that Holly-Mei faces is solved rather quickly and without much effort. Things never actually get bad for HM even at the worst of her experiences when she moves or even for the duration of the book. The couple tiny issues that do come up are resolved super quickly without much thought and little to no effort.
As previously stated, this was fine. I just didn't get anything from it.
April 25, 2022
Holly Mei's habits of obsessive rule-following and blurting out her every thought has alienated all her friends in Toronto, including her best friend. So when her mother gets a prestigious job in Hong Kong, Holly Mei gets excited. A huge new condo on the beach with day help, a fantastic new top-tier private school, what could be better? The kids at the school are nice, and Holly Mei encounters only one frenemy, the uber-rich and privileged Jenna, who is under pressures that Holly Mei is just coming to understand. Why is Holly Mei's mother now so obsessed with how Holly Mei's behavior reflects on her (her mother)? To the point of telling her she can't try out for the field hockey team, Holly Mei's one true love, if Holly Mei's group project doesn't go perfectly? Holly Mei also misses her Ah-Mah, who stayed behind in Toronto. Still, Holly Mei loves exploring Hong Kong with her new friends, and basically, life is pretty good!
I don't know why this one didn't wow me. The descriptions and world-building are well-done, the pressures on the children of the uber-rich are made clear, and Holly Mei learns how to become a better friend. But overall, there wasn't much friction in this. The kids at the new school are nice, and include Holly Mei in everything. Hong Kong is great, and every place they explore is interesting. There's some parental pressure, but not a huge amount. There's one incident with a frenemy, but they get over it. Holly Mei has a sister I kept forgetting about--her character didn't make much of an impression on me. Holly Mei makes male friends who interest her, but nothing happens. Holly Mei is bi-racial, like other kids at her school, and it's not an issue (which is nice). I'm struggling with thinking there should have been more awareness of life in those areas for the not-uber-rich, but also thinking that not all books have to teach those lessons. Maybe I'm also struggling with the promotion of a Crazy Rich Asians lifestyle? Or maybe this just wasn't the book for me!
I don't know why this one didn't wow me. The descriptions and world-building are well-done, the pressures on the children of the uber-rich are made clear, and Holly Mei learns how to become a better friend. But overall, there wasn't much friction in this. The kids at the new school are nice, and include Holly Mei in everything. Hong Kong is great, and every place they explore is interesting. There's some parental pressure, but not a huge amount. There's one incident with a frenemy, but they get over it. Holly Mei has a sister I kept forgetting about--her character didn't make much of an impression on me. Holly Mei makes male friends who interest her, but nothing happens. Holly Mei is bi-racial, like other kids at her school, and it's not an issue (which is nice). I'm struggling with thinking there should have been more awareness of life in those areas for the not-uber-rich, but also thinking that not all books have to teach those lessons. Maybe I'm also struggling with the promotion of a Crazy Rich Asians lifestyle? Or maybe this just wasn't the book for me!
November 12, 2022
i jumped into the not-so-uniform life of holly-mei with high expectations, and finished completely unimpressed.
the first thing i noticed was the writing style. it's simplistic, and often feels choppy and disjointed. the book is also heavily reliant on dialogue, which wasn't that enjoyable. i think it's meant for middle grade, but younger readers (i'm talking 5-7 year olds) might like this more.
maybe it's part of the writing style, but i really disliked the story's pacing. the entire book was rushed through holly mei's day-to-day life, and there weren't any large events of significant importance.
the plot was predictable and lackluster at best. judging by the synopsis, i expected some difficulty in holly mei's transition from canada to hong kong, but there wasn't any. there were a couple tiny issues that could have been solved immediately if a little effort was put into it.
the characters have no personality and none of them acted like middle schoolers. they're supposed to be the same age i am and yet they all act like children. not to mention their unoriginal names. i mean, rainbow, snowy, and rosie? those are a kindergartener’s favourite names.
the not-so-uniform life of holly-mei wasn't bad, but nothing made it special either. it was fine.
the first thing i noticed was the writing style. it's simplistic, and often feels choppy and disjointed. the book is also heavily reliant on dialogue, which wasn't that enjoyable. i think it's meant for middle grade, but younger readers (i'm talking 5-7 year olds) might like this more.
maybe it's part of the writing style, but i really disliked the story's pacing. the entire book was rushed through holly mei's day-to-day life, and there weren't any large events of significant importance.
the plot was predictable and lackluster at best. judging by the synopsis, i expected some difficulty in holly mei's transition from canada to hong kong, but there wasn't any. there were a couple tiny issues that could have been solved immediately if a little effort was put into it.
the characters have no personality and none of them acted like middle schoolers. they're supposed to be the same age i am and yet they all act like children. not to mention their unoriginal names. i mean, rainbow, snowy, and rosie? those are a kindergartener’s favourite names.
the not-so-uniform life of holly-mei wasn't bad, but nothing made it special either. it was fine.
April 7, 2022
Listen. Is this a book that most US-based middle schoolers will see themselves reflected in? NO. But do they have to be? Absolutely not!
I love that the main character is second-generation British and Taiwanese. I love that she grew up in Toronto. I love that her family moves to Hong Kong, where they suddenly have a LOT of money. And I love that we get to experience all that third-culture kid (and just regular ol' middle school) drama through the eyes of Holly-Mei.
Adults read books about lives super different to theirs all the time... It's how we learn and also how we grow empathy. So, honestly, why shouldn't kids? I think readers who aren't being kind in their reviews are adults (🙄) who have a) never experienced life outside the US and/or b) are making judgements on what tweens are like from a wholly US perspective. We are not the center of the world, people.
Personally, I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, and I think it would make an *especially* entertaining tv show. Sort of like a Chinese (2004) Rebelde mixed with the wholesomeness of The Babysitters Club 😂.
I love that the main character is second-generation British and Taiwanese. I love that she grew up in Toronto. I love that her family moves to Hong Kong, where they suddenly have a LOT of money. And I love that we get to experience all that third-culture kid (and just regular ol' middle school) drama through the eyes of Holly-Mei.
Adults read books about lives super different to theirs all the time... It's how we learn and also how we grow empathy. So, honestly, why shouldn't kids? I think readers who aren't being kind in their reviews are adults (🙄) who have a) never experienced life outside the US and/or b) are making judgements on what tweens are like from a wholly US perspective. We are not the center of the world, people.
Personally, I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, and I think it would make an *especially* entertaining tv show. Sort of like a Chinese (2004) Rebelde mixed with the wholesomeness of The Babysitters Club 😂.
October 31, 2021
A light, highly readable middle grade novel. Holly-Mei is a Taiwanese-Canadian whose life is unexpectedly uprooted when her mother gets a two year promotion in Hong Kong. Within two weeks Holly-Mei, her mother, her sister, and her father have all moved to a luxury apartment in Hong Kong, leaving behind Holly-Mei's beloved grandmother an unresolved issues with her best friend in Canada. Holly-Mei and her sister attend an ultra elite private school where they make both new friends and accidentally step into a few rivalries. References to Pride and Prejudice abound, some rather less subtle than others. While enjoyable, there were times it was hard to believe that the main characters were middle school and elementary school students, as their behaviors (and dress sense!) often seemed more appropriate to high school students or 20 somethings. Nonetheless, I'd be interested in reading more about both Holly-Mei and her new friends -- this could be the start of an interesting series.
August 15, 2022
A fun, engaging series starter about friendship and family set in Hong Kong. Here are five things I really enjoyed:
The Main Character
The novel opens in Toronto with Holly-Mei on the outs with her BFF, field hockey teammates, and classmates for “always having to be right, do the right thing...even if it hurts others.”
When her Taiwanese mom receives a work promotion requiring the family to move to Hong Kong for two years, Holly-Mei initially is reluctant. (Holly-Mei’s dad is British.) But given her situation in Canada, Holly-Mei eventually welcomes Hong Kong’s promise of a clean slate.
The problem, of course: No matter where you go, there you are. Holly-Mei’s social skills still are developing. (Her mom tells her it’s like learning “any other subject at school.”) Soon after arriving in Hong Kong, Holly-Mei has created friction with her cousins, new friends and frenemies.
Nevertheless, Holly-Mei is an endearing character with a good heart, and she stole mine as she tried to correct her mistakes, learn, and grow.
The Setting
A dreamy new apartment with a live-in maid. An elite, beachside prep school with students from the most powerful families. A classmate’s birthday party on a yacht. The story brings a fun, Crazy-Rich-Asians-but-make-it-middle-school vibe. Food is so much about place, and I enjoyed the food descriptions here—and there are even a couple of recipes!
Other Characters
Upon arriving in Hong Kong, Holly-Mei’s Mom suddenly becomes focused on everyone making a good impression and with Holly-Mei befriending “all the right people.” The implication is that Holly-Mei’s social missteps could hurt Mom in her high-powered job.
Millie, Holly-Mei’s slightly younger sister, is one of my favorite characters. I love how the story flips big-sister stereotypes by having Millie help Holly-Mei with make-up and serve as the savvier sister.
Readers also will enjoy getting to know Holly-Mei’s new friends, who are interesting, caring, and imperfect, like real people. One of Holly-Mei’s strengths is her willingness to communicate through conflicts, which often is difficult for people, no matter their age. Holly-Mei also encourages long-feuding friends to talk it out.
Themes
Readers will connect with themes around honor, loyalty, duty to family, and parental pressures. This effervescent read also nods slightly to racism, such as the skin-whitening creams advertised in Hong Kong, and to the struggles and sacrifices of immigrants, such as Holly-Mei’s grandmother and mom. But this isn’t a tale of trauma. It’s about Asian kids being kids, as the author points out in a note at the end.
Diversity & Girl-Sports Rep
We know representation is important, and young Asian readers will enjoy cheering for a mixed-race Asian girl surrounded by characters from a variety of Asian cultures. Non-Asian readers will see that “Asian” isn’t just one thing while also getting a fun and heartfelt friendship and family story set in an interesting location.
I appreciated Holly-Mei’s approach to field hockey. She enjoys it and wants to improve, but it’s not an obsession. She also recognizes how running and playing the sport helps her process her feelings, which is a great example for all readers.
Disclaimer: I only post about books I finished and enjoyed.
The Main Character
The novel opens in Toronto with Holly-Mei on the outs with her BFF, field hockey teammates, and classmates for “always having to be right, do the right thing...even if it hurts others.”
When her Taiwanese mom receives a work promotion requiring the family to move to Hong Kong for two years, Holly-Mei initially is reluctant. (Holly-Mei’s dad is British.) But given her situation in Canada, Holly-Mei eventually welcomes Hong Kong’s promise of a clean slate.
The problem, of course: No matter where you go, there you are. Holly-Mei’s social skills still are developing. (Her mom tells her it’s like learning “any other subject at school.”) Soon after arriving in Hong Kong, Holly-Mei has created friction with her cousins, new friends and frenemies.
Nevertheless, Holly-Mei is an endearing character with a good heart, and she stole mine as she tried to correct her mistakes, learn, and grow.
The Setting
A dreamy new apartment with a live-in maid. An elite, beachside prep school with students from the most powerful families. A classmate’s birthday party on a yacht. The story brings a fun, Crazy-Rich-Asians-but-make-it-middle-school vibe. Food is so much about place, and I enjoyed the food descriptions here—and there are even a couple of recipes!
Other Characters
Upon arriving in Hong Kong, Holly-Mei’s Mom suddenly becomes focused on everyone making a good impression and with Holly-Mei befriending “all the right people.” The implication is that Holly-Mei’s social missteps could hurt Mom in her high-powered job.
Millie, Holly-Mei’s slightly younger sister, is one of my favorite characters. I love how the story flips big-sister stereotypes by having Millie help Holly-Mei with make-up and serve as the savvier sister.
Readers also will enjoy getting to know Holly-Mei’s new friends, who are interesting, caring, and imperfect, like real people. One of Holly-Mei’s strengths is her willingness to communicate through conflicts, which often is difficult for people, no matter their age. Holly-Mei also encourages long-feuding friends to talk it out.
Themes
Readers will connect with themes around honor, loyalty, duty to family, and parental pressures. This effervescent read also nods slightly to racism, such as the skin-whitening creams advertised in Hong Kong, and to the struggles and sacrifices of immigrants, such as Holly-Mei’s grandmother and mom. But this isn’t a tale of trauma. It’s about Asian kids being kids, as the author points out in a note at the end.
Diversity & Girl-Sports Rep
We know representation is important, and young Asian readers will enjoy cheering for a mixed-race Asian girl surrounded by characters from a variety of Asian cultures. Non-Asian readers will see that “Asian” isn’t just one thing while also getting a fun and heartfelt friendship and family story set in an interesting location.
I appreciated Holly-Mei’s approach to field hockey. She enjoys it and wants to improve, but it’s not an obsession. She also recognizes how running and playing the sport helps her process her feelings, which is a great example for all readers.
Disclaimer: I only post about books I finished and enjoyed.
May 20, 2024
3.5 Stars. I know its probably realistic that eleven and twelve year olds from wealthy families would be very interested in material things and appearances, but as truthful as that depiction may be its kind of disheartening to see so much of that superficiality in one story. I guess I would have liked to have at least one character offering a less priviledged perspective, and maybe see Holly Mei stick to her personal style (athletic clothes and unplucked eyebrows), just so the readers could have a few different options for relatability and ways of thinking and being.
For kid readers, the intended audience for this book, the adult behavior in this will probably for the most part escape their notice, but as an adult reading this, the changes in the mom’s view of things seemed too abrupt, it was like she was a different person the moment they touched down in Hong Kong, and I mean, I could see, under pressure with a big new job a change like that happening in a person, however, I’d just imagine it would be more gradual than it happens here. As for the dad, he’s pretty absent, which some parents are like that, true, but the narrative never address how absent and uninvolved this guy is, his wife takes this hard turn towards shaming their daughter and he seemingly has nothing to say on the subject, and it just seemed odd that Holly Mei, in her thoughts (if not out loud) didn’t even once go, it would be nice if dad would do more than offer to cook with me or cuddle (without even asking her what was wrong). I just didn’t understand the point of his character existing if he wasn’t going to be involved in the story or be called out for his lack of involvement or at least indicate why no one would call him out, it may as well have been written as a single parent household for how irrelevant he was to the story.
I did like how well Holly Mei rebounds whenever things go wrong her and I enjoyed her relationship with her grandmother though I wish that had featured more here. I also appreciated that Holly Mei and her sister genuinely care for each other and the arc between Holly Mei and her rival unfolded at a good pace with decent depth.
I don’t recall ever reading a book set in Hong Kong before so that was actually my primary reason for picking up this book and this did deliver a solid taste of the varied scenery from the city to the countryside as well as food, shopping/bartering in a marketplace, etc., I enjoyed all of that.
For kid readers, the intended audience for this book, the adult behavior in this will probably for the most part escape their notice, but as an adult reading this, the changes in the mom’s view of things seemed too abrupt, it was like she was a different person the moment they touched down in Hong Kong, and I mean, I could see, under pressure with a big new job a change like that happening in a person, however, I’d just imagine it would be more gradual than it happens here. As for the dad, he’s pretty absent, which some parents are like that, true, but the narrative never address how absent and uninvolved this guy is, his wife takes this hard turn towards shaming their daughter and he seemingly has nothing to say on the subject, and it just seemed odd that Holly Mei, in her thoughts (if not out loud) didn’t even once go, it would be nice if dad would do more than offer to cook with me or cuddle (without even asking her what was wrong). I just didn’t understand the point of his character existing if he wasn’t going to be involved in the story or be called out for his lack of involvement or at least indicate why no one would call him out, it may as well have been written as a single parent household for how irrelevant he was to the story.
I did like how well Holly Mei rebounds whenever things go wrong her and I enjoyed her relationship with her grandmother though I wish that had featured more here. I also appreciated that Holly Mei and her sister genuinely care for each other and the arc between Holly Mei and her rival unfolded at a good pace with decent depth.
I don’t recall ever reading a book set in Hong Kong before so that was actually my primary reason for picking up this book and this did deliver a solid taste of the varied scenery from the city to the countryside as well as food, shopping/bartering in a marketplace, etc., I enjoyed all of that.
October 28, 2022
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
When her mother gets a fantastic new job as the Chief Operating Officer of an international company, Holly-Mei's family, including her sister Millie and British-born father, move to Hong Kong for two years. While her grandmother stays behind, her father has a brother living in the new city, and her cousins go to the same elite private school she will attend, Tai Tam Prep. It's a tough move, and the heat of Hong Kong is a change from Toronto, but Holly-Mei had recently had a big fight with her friends back home because of her habit of blurting things out, and she is glad for a new start. Life in Hong Kong is different; they have a housekeeper who cooks their meals, her mother is suddenly obsessed with meeting "the right people", and the privileged students at the school include mean girl Gemma, with whom Holly-Mei doesn't get along. When she has to work on a school project with Gemma, things get complicated, especially when Holly-Mei submits a project proposal without checking with her group. There's a lot to learn about going to school with the children of the wealthy and influential, and Holly-Mei has to navigate upgrading her sporty look, getting along with classmates, and settling in to life in a new environment.
Strengths: It is always great to see stories set in other countries, and Holly-Mei's time in Tai Tam Prep is a glimpse into a very rarified lifestyle that my middle class Midwestern readers will find fascinating. Having taught at a much less fancy private school (and read Crazy Rich Asians), the level of privilege seems about right, but it's hard to get my brain around having a housekeeper! There's enough friend drama and some family drama to hit the sweet spot of middle grade, and I appreciated that while Holly-Mei missed her grandmother and wasn't completely thrilled with moving, she tried to make the best of it. Like Linda Gerber's coverage of Japan, Matula's experience living abroad adds a lot of detail.
Weaknesses: There could have been just a tiny bit more information about this history of Hong Kong for young readers who might not be familiar with the background.
What I really think: This felt a bit like Lisi Harrison's The Clique, but set in Hong Kong! I loved the cast of characters, the details about going to school, and the over-the-top school production. Definitely purchasing.
When her mother gets a fantastic new job as the Chief Operating Officer of an international company, Holly-Mei's family, including her sister Millie and British-born father, move to Hong Kong for two years. While her grandmother stays behind, her father has a brother living in the new city, and her cousins go to the same elite private school she will attend, Tai Tam Prep. It's a tough move, and the heat of Hong Kong is a change from Toronto, but Holly-Mei had recently had a big fight with her friends back home because of her habit of blurting things out, and she is glad for a new start. Life in Hong Kong is different; they have a housekeeper who cooks their meals, her mother is suddenly obsessed with meeting "the right people", and the privileged students at the school include mean girl Gemma, with whom Holly-Mei doesn't get along. When she has to work on a school project with Gemma, things get complicated, especially when Holly-Mei submits a project proposal without checking with her group. There's a lot to learn about going to school with the children of the wealthy and influential, and Holly-Mei has to navigate upgrading her sporty look, getting along with classmates, and settling in to life in a new environment.
Strengths: It is always great to see stories set in other countries, and Holly-Mei's time in Tai Tam Prep is a glimpse into a very rarified lifestyle that my middle class Midwestern readers will find fascinating. Having taught at a much less fancy private school (and read Crazy Rich Asians), the level of privilege seems about right, but it's hard to get my brain around having a housekeeper! There's enough friend drama and some family drama to hit the sweet spot of middle grade, and I appreciated that while Holly-Mei missed her grandmother and wasn't completely thrilled with moving, she tried to make the best of it. Like Linda Gerber's coverage of Japan, Matula's experience living abroad adds a lot of detail.
Weaknesses: There could have been just a tiny bit more information about this history of Hong Kong for young readers who might not be familiar with the background.
What I really think: This felt a bit like Lisi Harrison's The Clique, but set in Hong Kong! I loved the cast of characters, the details about going to school, and the over-the-top school production. Definitely purchasing.
May 11, 2023
Holly-Mei is having a rough patch with some friends when her tendency to say whatever she is thinking got the whole class in trouble for cheating. She was hoping the end of school would restore at least some friendships, but that doesn't seem to be the case. So when her mom announces that she got a huge promotion and the family is moving to Hong Kong for 2 years Holly-Mei is excited to start over in a new place with new friends, though she is sad her Ah-ma isn't coming with them. Ah-ma warned Holly-Mei that you usually have to get through some bitterness often to get to the sweet, but Holly-Mei is sure life in Hong Kong and at her new international school will be a breeze. Or will it?
I've been to Hong Kong a couple of times, and Christina Matula does a fabulous job of bringing this place to life. (I've even done the hike that Holly-Mei goes on with a club, and the description of it was very good.) I teach at an international school, and while some of the things Holly-Mei experiences will ring true for all international school students, most don't quite have the clientele, or campus, or club options that Tai Tam Prep has. It feels a teensy bit mythical from my perspective. What will ring true for other international students are the experiences of being in a classroom with people from all over the world. In Asia, the pressures that Holly-Mei experiences academically and family honor-wise are all too real. And unfortunately, the pressures from ad campaigns for Asians to look a certain way are very real too. Having a helper who handles many household chores is also very common in Asia, though whether the helper lives in the home varies from location to location. I am excited to put this on the shelves because I think many of our students will find Holly-Mei to be one of the closest reflections of their own lives in kids' lit today. They'll identify with her struggles, and hopefully start thinking about whether the pressures they are taking on are necessary or not, and whether friendships are worth the work.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There's an accident that is very close to drowning someone, but they are saved. Another accident results in some girls being locked in a spot for a while. There's some passive aggressive bullying going on, but it is resolved well by the end of the book.
I've been to Hong Kong a couple of times, and Christina Matula does a fabulous job of bringing this place to life. (I've even done the hike that Holly-Mei goes on with a club, and the description of it was very good.) I teach at an international school, and while some of the things Holly-Mei experiences will ring true for all international school students, most don't quite have the clientele, or campus, or club options that Tai Tam Prep has. It feels a teensy bit mythical from my perspective. What will ring true for other international students are the experiences of being in a classroom with people from all over the world. In Asia, the pressures that Holly-Mei experiences academically and family honor-wise are all too real. And unfortunately, the pressures from ad campaigns for Asians to look a certain way are very real too. Having a helper who handles many household chores is also very common in Asia, though whether the helper lives in the home varies from location to location. I am excited to put this on the shelves because I think many of our students will find Holly-Mei to be one of the closest reflections of their own lives in kids' lit today. They'll identify with her struggles, and hopefully start thinking about whether the pressures they are taking on are necessary or not, and whether friendships are worth the work.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There's an accident that is very close to drowning someone, but they are saved. Another accident results in some girls being locked in a spot for a while. There's some passive aggressive bullying going on, but it is resolved well by the end of the book.
March 29, 2022
Thank you to Inkyard Press and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei by Christina Matula is a delightful middle-grade novel that will appeal to fans who have grown out of the American Girl series. The story revolves around Holly-Mei Jones, whose mother announces one day that she's moving from America to Hong Kong. She's facing huge culture shock. Hong Kongers are very diferent, from culture to behavior. Will she be able to survive seventh grade in Hong Kong?
Here is an excerpt from Chapter 1, when Holly Mei's mother has a big announcement:
"She nods and starts to speak. “Like I was trying to say, I have something important to announce. Something that affects the whole family.”
“You girls are in for a great surprise.” Dad gives us a wide grin.
“I’ve been offered a promotion. You’re looking at the new chief operating officer for Asia-Pacific for Lo Holdings International.” Her smile is huge.
...
I’m about to bite into my pancake when my mom starts speaking again.
“Obviously, the COO for the Asia-Pacific role won’t be based in Toronto, so in two weeks we’ll be moving to Hong Kong.”
Overall, The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei is a delightful middle-grade novel that will teach readers are guanxi, losing "face" and bubble tea.. One highlight of this book is that it is by an #ownvoices author who has lived in Hong Kong for a long time. My parents immigrated here from Hong Kong, and I rarely hear about it outside of my family, so I'm so happy to see it represented in this book.
Another highlight of this book is the Chinese glossary at the end of the book. I thought that it was very helpful, especially since there were some Mandarin words that I had not known before looking at the glossary. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're looking for a middle-grade book set in a different country, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in April!
The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei by Christina Matula is a delightful middle-grade novel that will appeal to fans who have grown out of the American Girl series. The story revolves around Holly-Mei Jones, whose mother announces one day that she's moving from America to Hong Kong. She's facing huge culture shock. Hong Kongers are very diferent, from culture to behavior. Will she be able to survive seventh grade in Hong Kong?
Here is an excerpt from Chapter 1, when Holly Mei's mother has a big announcement:
"She nods and starts to speak. “Like I was trying to say, I have something important to announce. Something that affects the whole family.”
“You girls are in for a great surprise.” Dad gives us a wide grin.
“I’ve been offered a promotion. You’re looking at the new chief operating officer for Asia-Pacific for Lo Holdings International.” Her smile is huge.
...
I’m about to bite into my pancake when my mom starts speaking again.
“Obviously, the COO for the Asia-Pacific role won’t be based in Toronto, so in two weeks we’ll be moving to Hong Kong.”
Overall, The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei is a delightful middle-grade novel that will teach readers are guanxi, losing "face" and bubble tea.. One highlight of this book is that it is by an #ownvoices author who has lived in Hong Kong for a long time. My parents immigrated here from Hong Kong, and I rarely hear about it outside of my family, so I'm so happy to see it represented in this book.
Another highlight of this book is the Chinese glossary at the end of the book. I thought that it was very helpful, especially since there were some Mandarin words that I had not known before looking at the glossary. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're looking for a middle-grade book set in a different country, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in April!
May 2, 2023
I enjoyed The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei and I want to thank Inkyard Press for sending me this copy in return for my review.
Holly-Mei has recently moved with her family from Toronto, Canada to Hong Kong because of her mother's new - and pretty high-pressure job. And it couldn't have happened soon enough. There was drama going on with her best friend Natalie, leaving her feeling left out of the social group she used to hang out with. So why not make a new start in a new city on a new continent?
Hong Kong seems glamorous, filled with beaches, high rises, and families with lots of money. Holly-Mei's new school, a prestigious prep school, offers lots of experiences that she didn't have in Toronto. She's enjoying all these new experiences, including some friendships with boys that she didn't have in her previous life.
But, as is often the case, all is not as it seems. The change in culture means a change in expectations and slowly, Holly-Mei realizes that her actions in adult company influence her mother's reputation, something her mother isn't always happy about. Many of the students she mingles with are working under tremendous pressure to maintain a certain set of family expectations.
As she learns more, she comes to appreciate that maybe things weren't so horrible back in Toronto. Every place has its challenges. Like many middle-grade books with happy endings, this one comes with a positive resolution of her friendship with Natalie, and the formation of new friendships with Gemma, Rainbow, Snowy, Theo, and Dev.
Filled with the right amount of adventure, friendship-sorting-out, and an interesting setting, this is a book I think many realistic fiction lovers will enjoy. It's the first book in the series and I think many readers will want to continue reading about Holly-Mei's adventures. She's got the right amount of spunk and thoughtfulness that kids can identify with.
Holly-Mei has recently moved with her family from Toronto, Canada to Hong Kong because of her mother's new - and pretty high-pressure job. And it couldn't have happened soon enough. There was drama going on with her best friend Natalie, leaving her feeling left out of the social group she used to hang out with. So why not make a new start in a new city on a new continent?
Hong Kong seems glamorous, filled with beaches, high rises, and families with lots of money. Holly-Mei's new school, a prestigious prep school, offers lots of experiences that she didn't have in Toronto. She's enjoying all these new experiences, including some friendships with boys that she didn't have in her previous life.
But, as is often the case, all is not as it seems. The change in culture means a change in expectations and slowly, Holly-Mei realizes that her actions in adult company influence her mother's reputation, something her mother isn't always happy about. Many of the students she mingles with are working under tremendous pressure to maintain a certain set of family expectations.
As she learns more, she comes to appreciate that maybe things weren't so horrible back in Toronto. Every place has its challenges. Like many middle-grade books with happy endings, this one comes with a positive resolution of her friendship with Natalie, and the formation of new friendships with Gemma, Rainbow, Snowy, Theo, and Dev.
Filled with the right amount of adventure, friendship-sorting-out, and an interesting setting, this is a book I think many realistic fiction lovers will enjoy. It's the first book in the series and I think many readers will want to continue reading about Holly-Mei's adventures. She's got the right amount of spunk and thoughtfulness that kids can identify with.
July 9, 2025
Cross-posted from my blog where there's more information on where I got my copy and links and everything.
This was so good. And it felt very different from other books I’ve read with similiar stories. I feel like stories of kids moving to Canada or America are pretty common, but stories about kids moving abroad are… sometimes not great, honestly, about how they depict those countries. After the initial freak out of being abruptly told they’re moving countries, Holly-Mei and her sister don’t treat moving to Hong Kong as a punishment. Hong Kong is not treated as worse than Canada – it’s just different.
In fact, some parts of their lives are actually better in Hong Kong. It’s sort of implied (if you’re an adult) that the move and promotion means their mom is making a fair amount more money, so they move into a much fancier apartment building, and the girls go to a fancier school. The things that they have to adjust to are how the cultural expectation for children is so different and there’s much different pressures on them in Hong Kong than what they were used to.
Also this book talks so much about food, and it all sounded so good. I want to try pineapple buns so bad now. And as mentioned, there are also some recipes included!
This was funny and sweet and very unique. If you’re looking for a middle grade series to get into, this one should be on your list. I’d also say that this could be really good for younger middle grade readers, as the writing is very approachable and engaging.
Representation: Holly-Mei is mixed race, white and Chinese. Her mom’s family is not from Hong Kong, though, they are from Taiwan, and her dad’s white family actually lives in Hong Kong, which I thought was cool.
Content notes: A child is at risk of drowning.
This was so good. And it felt very different from other books I’ve read with similiar stories. I feel like stories of kids moving to Canada or America are pretty common, but stories about kids moving abroad are… sometimes not great, honestly, about how they depict those countries. After the initial freak out of being abruptly told they’re moving countries, Holly-Mei and her sister don’t treat moving to Hong Kong as a punishment. Hong Kong is not treated as worse than Canada – it’s just different.
In fact, some parts of their lives are actually better in Hong Kong. It’s sort of implied (if you’re an adult) that the move and promotion means their mom is making a fair amount more money, so they move into a much fancier apartment building, and the girls go to a fancier school. The things that they have to adjust to are how the cultural expectation for children is so different and there’s much different pressures on them in Hong Kong than what they were used to.
Also this book talks so much about food, and it all sounded so good. I want to try pineapple buns so bad now. And as mentioned, there are also some recipes included!
This was funny and sweet and very unique. If you’re looking for a middle grade series to get into, this one should be on your list. I’d also say that this could be really good for younger middle grade readers, as the writing is very approachable and engaging.
Representation: Holly-Mei is mixed race, white and Chinese. Her mom’s family is not from Hong Kong, though, they are from Taiwan, and her dad’s white family actually lives in Hong Kong, which I thought was cool.
Content notes: A child is at risk of drowning.
October 25, 2022
🌊🏖️🩴The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei🩴🏖️🌊
Holly-Mei Jones hopes to have a fresh start in Hong Kong. However, she soon becomes frenemies with the richest and most popular girl in school. Suddenly, her life has changed and she deals with different problems than before. Holly-Mei hopes to turn the tables and, with wit, grit, and friendship, make her new start a memory to remember forever.
*This is all from an objective standpoint. And solely my opinion, it is not meant to offend you in any way, shape or form.
Mani pedis's, eyebrow threading, boys, yacht parties, girl jealousy, bikini's, crushes, expensive clothes and parties, just don't interest me. These weren't the only things the book was about but they were elements to the story. This is all from an objective standpoint, but I just wasn't the right person to read this book. I cannot say it's bad. . . because I overall ended up enjoying it to some extent and can see several people loving this story.
Holly is a good protagonist, kind, brave, and a girl hoping to find friendship. It wasn't the plot or the characters I really had problems with because just many of the topics/elements of the story. Diamond earrings, jade artifacts, the richest, the most popular girl-hating protagonist, the protagonist being not like other girls, a popular girl liking a boy. . . boy being friendly to the protagonist, and brooding boys who are enemies? Those just didn't click with my taste. Despite this, I could appreciate the other topics; belonging, being yourself, forgiveness, friendship, and the ending was very uplifting.
🆗PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
Holly-Mei Jones hopes to have a fresh start in Hong Kong. However, she soon becomes frenemies with the richest and most popular girl in school. Suddenly, her life has changed and she deals with different problems than before. Holly-Mei hopes to turn the tables and, with wit, grit, and friendship, make her new start a memory to remember forever.
*This is all from an objective standpoint. And solely my opinion, it is not meant to offend you in any way, shape or form.
Mani pedis's, eyebrow threading, boys, yacht parties, girl jealousy, bikini's, crushes, expensive clothes and parties, just don't interest me. These weren't the only things the book was about but they were elements to the story. This is all from an objective standpoint, but I just wasn't the right person to read this book. I cannot say it's bad. . . because I overall ended up enjoying it to some extent and can see several people loving this story.
Holly is a good protagonist, kind, brave, and a girl hoping to find friendship. It wasn't the plot or the characters I really had problems with because just many of the topics/elements of the story. Diamond earrings, jade artifacts, the richest, the most popular girl-hating protagonist, the protagonist being not like other girls, a popular girl liking a boy. . . boy being friendly to the protagonist, and brooding boys who are enemies? Those just didn't click with my taste. Despite this, I could appreciate the other topics; belonging, being yourself, forgiveness, friendship, and the ending was very uplifting.
🆗PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
November 21, 2021
THE NOT-SO-UNIFORM LIFE OF HOLLY-MEI by Christina Matula has the friendship smarts of THE BABY-SITTERS CLUB with the immersive, detail rich, please have snacks prepared ahead of time worldbuilding of CRAZY RICH ASIANS.
Taiwanese/British 7th grader Holly-Mei is transplanted to the fanciest prep school in Hong Kong when her mom gets a big promotion. Principled, hardworking, & athletic, Holly-Mei also has the tendency to blurt out the first thing that comes into her head, something that got her in trouble with her old friends in Toronto. Can she navigate the yachts and named donors of the upper class; her mom’s high expectations; and her tendency to think she knows better than others while remaining gloriously bold Holly-Mei?
Y’all, I LOVED everything about this book. A great sister relationship, a phenomenal Ah-ma, real flaws and growth in all the characters, own voices mixed race protagonist, this amazing cover art by Yao Xiao with design throughout by Erin Craig, a great group of friends, a strong sense of place & above all THE FOOD. Y’all need to prepare your snacks in advance for this one, with dim sum on speed dial. From bolo bao to Ladurée macarons, green guava to wood-fired pizza. Recipes for both red bean creamsicles (made! delicious!) & dumplings are included in the back along with a glossary.
As Ah-ma teaches, ku jin gan lai, bitterness finishes, sweetness begins. This is the first in a series. And if this is is any indication of the quality of middle grade to come from Inkyard, I cannot wait for more. Out April 5, 2022.
Taiwanese/British 7th grader Holly-Mei is transplanted to the fanciest prep school in Hong Kong when her mom gets a big promotion. Principled, hardworking, & athletic, Holly-Mei also has the tendency to blurt out the first thing that comes into her head, something that got her in trouble with her old friends in Toronto. Can she navigate the yachts and named donors of the upper class; her mom’s high expectations; and her tendency to think she knows better than others while remaining gloriously bold Holly-Mei?
Y’all, I LOVED everything about this book. A great sister relationship, a phenomenal Ah-ma, real flaws and growth in all the characters, own voices mixed race protagonist, this amazing cover art by Yao Xiao with design throughout by Erin Craig, a great group of friends, a strong sense of place & above all THE FOOD. Y’all need to prepare your snacks in advance for this one, with dim sum on speed dial. From bolo bao to Ladurée macarons, green guava to wood-fired pizza. Recipes for both red bean creamsicles (made! delicious!) & dumplings are included in the back along with a glossary.
As Ah-ma teaches, ku jin gan lai, bitterness finishes, sweetness begins. This is the first in a series. And if this is is any indication of the quality of middle grade to come from Inkyard, I cannot wait for more. Out April 5, 2022.
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