Fireworks

Gr 9 Up–Lulu Li’s last summer before college is all planned out. With her best friends Ester and Stephanie, Lulu will be going to the beach, Hersheypark, and New York City. Things change when Lulu’s childhood friend and first crush, Kai, comes home for the summer. Kai is now known as Kite, and he’s part of the K-pop supergroup Karnival. Lulu loves Karnival and is even a Firework, a member of the official Karnival fan group. Kite and Lulu quickly pick up their friendship, but it soon becomes clear that they both have romantic feelings for each other. Romance is difficult due to Kite’s life in K-pop and some fans who don’t understand boundaries. Together they must navigate first love in one precious summer. Lin’s characters are wonderfully engaging in this quick-paced and addictive K-pop rom-com. While the story is lighthearted, Lin also explores toxic fandoms in a unique but fun way. Some readers may find the story ends too abruptly, but the overall experience is heartwarming and satisfying. Great for fans of K-pop and readers who enjoy books by authors such as Jenny Han.