Ryka Aoki’s LIGHT FROM UNCOMMON STARS follows a violinist who has made a deal with the devil; a young trans violin student who has just run away from home; and a retired starship captain and interstellar refugee. The book beautifully intertwines their lives as they find each other and themselves. It explores themes of survival, community, and love. It’s also ridiculous and I loved every minute of it! I love the characters and the way the author connected various experiences between them. 

 

The writing is gentle and hopeful and I looked forward to returning to it each time I picked it up. I know this book doesn’t work for everyone, but it worked extremely well for me! It has a lot of things I love—sci-fi elements, strong character development and an intriguing world. But what I love most about this story is its focus on survival and the ways we support one another. Amidst the hardships these characters face, there is kindness and understanding. There is room for joy and loving life. These characters learn how to love themselves and each other, which makes the story real even through the silliness of aliens, donuts, and devils. It’s a beautiful, powerful and strange book and I’m so glad I read it.