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Squid Season
*FINALIST IN LITERARY FICTION AT THE INDEPENDENT AUTHOR AWARDS PRESENTED BY LITERARY GLOBAL*
An enchanting tale of grief, friendship, and the beauty of transitions
Four troubled twentysomethings board a ship in search of a mysterious squid only to discover their captain has gone missing. As they take turns steering the vessel, these newfound companions begin to reveal their natures and unearth the events that have inextricably bound them together.
Featuring narration in prose and dialogue in rhyming verse, Squid Season dares to defy genres—reflecting the dualities of early adulthood through its childlike wonder intertwined with grown-up heartache.
"...delicious moments of rhyme and whimsy while exploring relatable human frailties..." -Independent Book Review
"With its complex quirky characters, suspenseful plot, charming style of writing, and satisfying conclusion, 'Squid Season' is sure to be enjoyed by readers of fantasies who are looking for a tale that is unique." -Reader Views
An enchanting tale of grief, friendship, and the beauty of transitions
Four troubled twentysomethings board a ship in search of a mysterious squid only to discover their captain has gone missing. As they take turns steering the vessel, these newfound companions begin to reveal their natures and unearth the events that have inextricably bound them together.
Featuring narration in prose and dialogue in rhyming verse, Squid Season dares to defy genres—reflecting the dualities of early adulthood through its childlike wonder intertwined with grown-up heartache.
"...delicious moments of rhyme and whimsy while exploring relatable human frailties..." -Independent Book Review
"With its complex quirky characters, suspenseful plot, charming style of writing, and satisfying conclusion, 'Squid Season' is sure to be enjoyed by readers of fantasies who are looking for a tale that is unique." -Reader Views
264 pages, Paperback
Published November 9, 2022
3 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Maithy Vu
5 books13 followersWeaving elements of whimsy into dark subjects, Maithy Vu’s work teeters on the edge of surrealism. Though full of childlike wonder, her prose contains a cacophony of emotions undoubtedly aimed at adult readers.
Vu started out writing poetry and plays while earning her B.A. in Theater Arts at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Her play, Wounded Wisteria, was selected to be a production of the UCSC Chautauqua Festival. After graduating, she published it as a novella, combining fiction in verse with her own watercolor illustrations.
Vu went on to earn her M.L.A. in Creative Writing & Literature at Harvard University. During that time, she completed her novel Squid Season—a finalist in the Independent Author Awards for Literary Fiction. She also co-edited the children’s volume Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers, which was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things.
Her latest works include Poems for Princesses with Peas Under Their Mattresses and Shut Me Up in Prose: Stories.
She lives on a ridge with her husband and two dogs, Watson and Willoughby.
Vu started out writing poetry and plays while earning her B.A. in Theater Arts at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Her play, Wounded Wisteria, was selected to be a production of the UCSC Chautauqua Festival. After graduating, she published it as a novella, combining fiction in verse with her own watercolor illustrations.
Vu went on to earn her M.L.A. in Creative Writing & Literature at Harvard University. During that time, she completed her novel Squid Season—a finalist in the Independent Author Awards for Literary Fiction. She also co-edited the children’s volume Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers, which was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things.
Her latest works include Poems for Princesses with Peas Under Their Mattresses and Shut Me Up in Prose: Stories.
She lives on a ridge with her husband and two dogs, Watson and Willoughby.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 24, 2023
Four young people are on a ship that’s designed like an island. They don’t remember how they got there and they’re all a little bit suspicious of one another. But what they do know is that they’re all gathered there for one simple reason: to find a mysterious squid.
This story surprised me. Rhyming dialogue and poetic prose are usually not my cup of tea to be honest. But here it just worked. It’s very well written. This story managed to captivate me from the very first page and simply kept me hooked from start to finish. The mystery plot is the glue that keeps everything together. And while the climax of the plot could have been better, the plot is simply not the main focus of the story.
The characters are the heart of the story. The characters are fleshed out so well. Each gets their own long chapter as they take control of the wheel. And the character arcs are mesmerizingly beautiful. The way we’re shown all these little flashbacks throughout the current story is just perfectly executed. When there are a lot of flashbacks in a book, this can slow down the story at hand. So as a writer, you don’t want to use them too often. But here it never feels like the story is moving slowly because of them. Quite the opposite in fact, as I was flying through the pages. The flashbacks are always integral to the characters. The characters all struggled in their teenage years. Some common young adult themes are tackled here. Like love, friendship, family conflicts, characters struggling with their own identity and fighting for their personal freedom. The lives of the characters are masterfully intertwined here. And it’s cool to see how the characters all ended up on the ship, searching for the same thing.
I’m genuinely impressed by how well this was written. Almost all the dialogue rhymes, and yet it still feels realistic and genuine enough for the readers to properly bond with the characters. This had to take a lot of time and effort to get that right. That by itself is almost worthy of the full five stars. But this is also a young adult coming of age story done right. Definitely worth a read if you enjoy this kind of book. Don’t expect too much from the plot though.
This story surprised me. Rhyming dialogue and poetic prose are usually not my cup of tea to be honest. But here it just worked. It’s very well written. This story managed to captivate me from the very first page and simply kept me hooked from start to finish. The mystery plot is the glue that keeps everything together. And while the climax of the plot could have been better, the plot is simply not the main focus of the story.
The characters are the heart of the story. The characters are fleshed out so well. Each gets their own long chapter as they take control of the wheel. And the character arcs are mesmerizingly beautiful. The way we’re shown all these little flashbacks throughout the current story is just perfectly executed. When there are a lot of flashbacks in a book, this can slow down the story at hand. So as a writer, you don’t want to use them too often. But here it never feels like the story is moving slowly because of them. Quite the opposite in fact, as I was flying through the pages. The flashbacks are always integral to the characters. The characters all struggled in their teenage years. Some common young adult themes are tackled here. Like love, friendship, family conflicts, characters struggling with their own identity and fighting for their personal freedom. The lives of the characters are masterfully intertwined here. And it’s cool to see how the characters all ended up on the ship, searching for the same thing.
I’m genuinely impressed by how well this was written. Almost all the dialogue rhymes, and yet it still feels realistic and genuine enough for the readers to properly bond with the characters. This had to take a lot of time and effort to get that right. That by itself is almost worthy of the full five stars. But this is also a young adult coming of age story done right. Definitely worth a read if you enjoy this kind of book. Don’t expect too much from the plot though.
January 13, 2023
I read this book in 4 days, which does not happen often for me. The story was enchanting and gripping, and full of vivid imagery as you follow the 4 main characters lives and what led them to be on this ship.
I was really impressed that the dialogue was all in rhyming verse because for one thing, that seems challenging to do, and for another, it didn't distract or take you out of the story - it very much enhanced it and created a natural pattern and rhythm. The contrast between that rhythm and the nature of the story being about change and transition was so powerful.
Overall the story is full of metaphor and meaning, while also a rich delicious treat that you can melt into. Definitely recommend and I'll probably end up reading it again to catch everything I missed the first time.
I was really impressed that the dialogue was all in rhyming verse because for one thing, that seems challenging to do, and for another, it didn't distract or take you out of the story - it very much enhanced it and created a natural pattern and rhythm. The contrast between that rhythm and the nature of the story being about change and transition was so powerful.
Overall the story is full of metaphor and meaning, while also a rich delicious treat that you can melt into. Definitely recommend and I'll probably end up reading it again to catch everything I missed the first time.
August 29, 2025
Excellent!
July 9, 2023
The adventure begins when four young adults discover that the captain, who is supposed to be piloting their ship, has disappeared. These people must band together as a crew to sail the ship into the unknown. This ship isn’t just any old boat. It is special in that the masts are the trunks of trees, the sails are fruit bearing leaves, and the ropes are vines. It is set on colorful waters, which often reflect turbulence like their emotions. The skies reflect vivid colors and occasionally there are melodic insects that create beautiful music. The group of strangers have gone on this voyage in search of a mysterious elusive squid. Each has their own reason for deciding to do this. They are all haunted by issues from their past. Some of their concerns are connected, but it takes a while for their stories to emerge and the connections to be revealed. This is an incredible journey of discovery for each of them.
“Squid Season” is a beautifully written unique tale by author Maithy Vu. She weaves in a variety of unique ways to narrate her story, including having the dialogue rhyme. This unusual lyrical touch makes the story flow. The scenes are vividly described in colorful detail. The interesting drawing on the cover of the book threw me off. I expected it to be more of a light fantasy. I was pleasantly surprised to see the amount of depth she reveals within each character. Each one is unique, and it was interesting to observe the dynamics of their complex relationships. Their backstories were poignant. Seeing the connections between them added an interesting touch. They didn’t choose to go on this adventure together and when things went wrong, they had to not only deal with their own personal demons, but also their interactions with each other in order to survive. They go through a great deal of personal development as the story evolves. It was interesting to observe not only the complexities of their differences, but also how they had to resolve their own inner issues.
With its complex quirky characters, suspenseful plot, charming style of writing, and satisfying conclusion, “Squid Season” is sure to be enjoyed by readers of fantasies who are looking for a tale that is unique. It would also make an excellent selection for a readers’ group. I look forward to reading more works by Maithy Vu.
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“Squid Season” is a beautifully written unique tale by author Maithy Vu. She weaves in a variety of unique ways to narrate her story, including having the dialogue rhyme. This unusual lyrical touch makes the story flow. The scenes are vividly described in colorful detail. The interesting drawing on the cover of the book threw me off. I expected it to be more of a light fantasy. I was pleasantly surprised to see the amount of depth she reveals within each character. Each one is unique, and it was interesting to observe the dynamics of their complex relationships. Their backstories were poignant. Seeing the connections between them added an interesting touch. They didn’t choose to go on this adventure together and when things went wrong, they had to not only deal with their own personal demons, but also their interactions with each other in order to survive. They go through a great deal of personal development as the story evolves. It was interesting to observe not only the complexities of their differences, but also how they had to resolve their own inner issues.
With its complex quirky characters, suspenseful plot, charming style of writing, and satisfying conclusion, “Squid Season” is sure to be enjoyed by readers of fantasies who are looking for a tale that is unique. It would also make an excellent selection for a readers’ group. I look forward to reading more works by Maithy Vu.
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Click to share on Linke
July 19, 2025
Had this one on my to-read shelf since I saw Thibault Busschots's review. Bought the paperback as a treat to myself during my summer leave. And so happy to have done so!
I hope more readers will find their way to this one. I loved it. I was thrilled to have a train ride planned between Leuven and Luxembourg to get more reading time. Read it in just 4 sittings because it was so good.
It is original, creative, interesting. The interactions in theatre-script style and prose worked well for me. It made their thoughts flow and connect more.
Craftly interweaves past and present from different perspectives.
And there is much meaning, many metaphors hidden in their journey.
I liked all characters in their own way. Think I'm most of all a Camelle ().
Love the colourful artwork on the cover moreover. This will be a nice treasure on my bookshelf as well as a souvenir of this summer.
Recommended!
I hope more readers will find their way to this one. I loved it. I was thrilled to have a train ride planned between Leuven and Luxembourg to get more reading time. Read it in just 4 sittings because it was so good.
It is original, creative, interesting. The interactions in theatre-script style and prose worked well for me. It made their thoughts flow and connect more.
Craftly interweaves past and present from different perspectives.
And there is much meaning, many metaphors hidden in their journey.
I liked all characters in their own way. Think I'm most of all a Camelle ().
Love the colourful artwork on the cover moreover. This will be a nice treasure on my bookshelf as well as a souvenir of this summer.
Recommended!
June 13, 2023
What a joy to read! Vu has taken a risk in choosing a unique form for this story, but her knack for capturing the unique voices of her characters, and her ability to patiently unfold their injured lives before the reader results in a rich reward for its readership.
Like Shakespeare meets Breakfast Club, the interweaving of these four apparent strangers only deepens as the story progresses, layer by layer. Alongside the slant rhymes, one finds a careful observation of humanity viewed through the lens of desire, alongside moments of poignant humor. In the end, the mysteries that lie at the center of Squid Season are earned by an attentive reader.
I couldn't help myself. I read it in a single day. Hope you do too.
Like Shakespeare meets Breakfast Club, the interweaving of these four apparent strangers only deepens as the story progresses, layer by layer. Alongside the slant rhymes, one finds a careful observation of humanity viewed through the lens of desire, alongside moments of poignant humor. In the end, the mysteries that lie at the center of Squid Season are earned by an attentive reader.
I couldn't help myself. I read it in a single day. Hope you do too.
January 23, 2024
A beautiful book full of lyrical prose, beautiful imagery, and interconnected characters and stories. I loved uncovering the different ways the characters were connected, while simultaneously, each character discovered their own purpose. If you're a fan of Emily St. John Mandel, I'd highly recommend picking this one up!
May 5, 2024
This was the best book I read in 2023. The review was long overdue.
This is a beautiful 'pick me up' book and you can never go wrong reading it or giving it as a gift. It starts very poetic and feels like eating your favorite meal in a book form. It is an absolute favorite of mine.
This is a beautiful 'pick me up' book and you can never go wrong reading it or giving it as a gift. It starts very poetic and feels like eating your favorite meal in a book form. It is an absolute favorite of mine.
April 20, 2023
I got the kindle edition of this book when the author was giving it away for free on her birthday. It's an odd little book. I have a lot of questions, but would suggest it to others.
June 12, 2023
Diving into Squid Season was an absolute joy that has truly remained with me. This beautifully crafted piece of art explores the intricacies of the phases and seasons of life. With masterful skill, Vu combines prose and rhyming verse, creating a captivating and unique reading experience.
Four characters in the daybreak of adulthood (that bewildering time we call our "twenties") embark on a ship in search of a mysterious squid. From the very beginning, Vu unfolds their narratives with finesse, weaving a tapestry of revelation and connection.
The setting of the story, a strange ship, serves as a metaphorical backdrop for the characters' growth and development. As time passes, the ship evolves alongside them, mirroring their personal transformations. Vu's vivid descriptions give this distinctive environment a pulsating vitality, leaving an indelible impression on your imagination. The text, characters, and settings beautifully mirror the ebb and flow of nature, streaming thematic and metaphorical currents throughout. Even within the realms of realism, a touch of enchantment finds its way.
What amazed me about Squid Season is how whimsical elements are seamlessly blended into darker themes. The book embraces surrealism, infusing wonder with complex universal emotions. The flowing prose and rich character development take you on an emotional journey of sorrow, distress, strength, dedication and adversity.
Squid Season resonates long after the final page. The little details - the color of matches, the temperament of vines, the peculiar phrases such as "mother of pearl spit," - linger in your mind and find themselves in your everyday.
Embark on an extraordinary literary adventure with Squid Season, where flawless storytelling, seamless poetry and prose, and a skillful fusion of whimsy and profound human emotions await.
Four characters in the daybreak of adulthood (that bewildering time we call our "twenties") embark on a ship in search of a mysterious squid. From the very beginning, Vu unfolds their narratives with finesse, weaving a tapestry of revelation and connection.
The setting of the story, a strange ship, serves as a metaphorical backdrop for the characters' growth and development. As time passes, the ship evolves alongside them, mirroring their personal transformations. Vu's vivid descriptions give this distinctive environment a pulsating vitality, leaving an indelible impression on your imagination. The text, characters, and settings beautifully mirror the ebb and flow of nature, streaming thematic and metaphorical currents throughout. Even within the realms of realism, a touch of enchantment finds its way.
What amazed me about Squid Season is how whimsical elements are seamlessly blended into darker themes. The book embraces surrealism, infusing wonder with complex universal emotions. The flowing prose and rich character development take you on an emotional journey of sorrow, distress, strength, dedication and adversity.
Squid Season resonates long after the final page. The little details - the color of matches, the temperament of vines, the peculiar phrases such as "mother of pearl spit," - linger in your mind and find themselves in your everyday.
Embark on an extraordinary literary adventure with Squid Season, where flawless storytelling, seamless poetry and prose, and a skillful fusion of whimsy and profound human emotions await.
August 17, 2023
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
Such a beautifully written story, the flowing prose, the character development, the intertwining stories. A refreshing way of telling of heartbreak, angst, commitment, trauma and reconciliation. The setting, which in itself takes place onboard a strange ship, serves perfectly as a backdrop for the characters unfolding and development with the ship changing with them as time passes. My only one complaint and regret is that the ending was a tad abrupt and i read the whole novel in a day instead of savouring it.
I also made this Goodreads account just to post this.
Such a beautifully written story, the flowing prose, the character development, the intertwining stories. A refreshing way of telling of heartbreak, angst, commitment, trauma and reconciliation. The setting, which in itself takes place onboard a strange ship, serves perfectly as a backdrop for the characters unfolding and development with the ship changing with them as time passes. My only one complaint and regret is that the ending was a tad abrupt and i read the whole novel in a day instead of savouring it.
I also made this Goodreads account just to post this.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews