JLF • > Recent Status Updates

It took a little bit, but I’m starting to really love this book. I’m glad that Ann Liang doesn’t stick to her same character types every time.

I really hope I don’t end up disliking Leah.

I’m really liking this book so far! Leah seems like a fresh character, and I’m excited for the story to progress. Not my favorite Ann Liang book right now, though.

I’m stopping this book. I just cannot get through it, maybe the outdated topics?

The stories themselves are getting more interesting luckily. Honestly, that’s wha I’m here for — to feel whimsical.

Okay I got through the long introduction and first chapter, so I think I’m about to read the stories she tells now.

This last part was quite painful to read because it was devastating. I think it’s a testament to human complexity that I relate to both Jessica and Jenna in different ways. I resonated with Jenna (rather painfully) in some of the things she said, though obviously, there are some differences.

First of all, I am devouring this book. Second, who the freak is trying to expose Jessica?? And third, of course, AARON CAI MIGHT BE BECOMING MY NEW FAVORITE IN THE ANN LIANG UNIVERSE.

I relate a little too much to certain parts…

Somehow, I find myself relating to both Jessica and Jenna. I’m still really curious about how this whole thing works — where is Jessica Chen?

I really want to finish this book before 2026 because I love it, but I also have to study for finals…

Ann Liang has impressed me, but in a completely different way. The amount of devastating lines and descriptions make my heart ache.

Finally done

I actually started reading this book a few days ago, but forgot to update. I’m really excited already!

School may be taking away my time to cook, but it can’t take away my time to read about food.

This is such a nice read. The language that Rushdie uses is captivating.

I’ve been reading a new food to my mom every night, and it’s our nice little tradition.

I needed a light read.

I’ve been reading this with my mom, and she says I need to tell my dad about the soda section.

I’m really enjoying this. I really thought Reuven and Danny were gay though.

I’m excited to see Reuven and Danny’s friendship blossom.

Really insightful commentary about how our society approaches love.

My Spotify Premium is back, so I can listen.

I forgot to log that I was reading this, but so far it’s been enjoyable! I don’t often read non fiction or philosophical-esqe writing, but so far I’ve really been enjoying Hook’s insights. We could all love a little more :)

So yeah I read almost 100 pages in a sitting. Anyways, I’m really rooting for the author on her journey! I’m glad her life in China was good, but I’m happy that she’s taking steps to move forward South Korea. I only have the last section left, and I’m interested to see how things go and if her family escaped the North Korean regime.

I’m rooting for the author do much on her journey! Also, hearing her raw and honest account is disturbing. I feel like when I hear about things like this, I think of it as something in the past. Yet, to know that all those things were happening in the ‘90s makes me realize how privileged I am to live in a country that, yes still has it’s issues, but still is so far ahead in terms of freedoms.

I love this book, and the chapter titles are so interesting. I’ve made so many annotations already.

Astrid and Charlie better have a happy ending, I swear—

Just as always, everyone is as petty and vain as ever.