The end of summer may be upon us, so Mochi staff members share three recent releases perfect for any time of the year.
“When the Hibiscus Falls” by M. Evelina Galang (June 13, 2023)
Seventeen stories traverse time, languages, and borders in the lives of Filipinas and Filipina Americans. M. Evelina Galang constructs a gorgeous short-story collection in “When the Hibiscus Falls,” which examines the triumphs and sorrows that connect generations of women.
From Philippine provinces to the middle of the United States, “When the Hibiscus Falls” dwells within the complexity of family, community, and Filipino American identity. The literary text entwines Tagalog, Kapampangan, and provincial dialects into the dialogue, mimicking the pause experienced by a Filipino American learning about their history as disruption for the monolingual English reader. I had to read this collection with my mother for quick translation. While reading about roguish daughters, steady mothers, future descendants, and the ancestors who are always looking out, I recognized my own little Philippine family beside me.
M. Evelina Galang writes with range and poignancy to account for the diaspora. From the author I learned that going home can entail returning to the past; it’s filled with grief and missing childhoods. Furthermore, there is no such thing as quiet moments — the ancestors are humming hymns and dancing. — Dorilyn Toledo
“Everyone Wants to Know” by Kelly Loy Gilbert (June 13, 2023)
The Lo family has never known what it’s like not to be in the spotlight. The seven of them — including 16-year-old Honor, from whose point of view the story is written — are best known for their reality show, but also have risen to fame from their podcast, book, and social media influence. Above all, they are Los, as they often say, meaning they are loyal first to one another. When their family’s wholesome and relatable image is shattered by the parents’ separation, that motto…
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