60 pages • 2 hours read
A Scatter Of Light
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
California • 2010s
2022
YA
18+ years
HL790L
Super Short Summary
In A Scatter of Light by Malinda Lo, 18-year-old Aria Tang West spends the summer of 2013 in California with her artist grandmother after a classmate shares her nude photos online without consent. While grappling with her sexuality and personal identity, Aria is embraced by an older queer friend group and explores the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in the Bay Area, all while learning about art and family. The story addresses a young person's experience of having nude photos taken and shared without consent.
Contemplative
Emotional
Romantic
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
11,006 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A Scatter of Light by Malinda Lo is lauded for its evocative prose and exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, capturing the intricacies of self-discovery and first love. Critics appreciate the rich character development but note the pacing can be slow. While the narrative resonates emotionally, some find it predictable. Nonetheless, it's a poignant, reflective addition to queer literature.
Who Should Read A Scatter Of Light?
A reader who would enjoy A Scatter Of Light by Malinda Lo is likely a fan of nuanced LGBTQ+ narratives and coming-of-age stories. Ideal for those who appreciated Alice Oseman's Heartstopper series or Becky Albertalli's Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, it appeals to readers who cherish themes of self-discovery, identity, and complex relationships.
11,006 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Joan West
Joan West
Joan is Aria’s paternal grandmother, a well-known artist who mentors Aria and offers her a safe space full of artistic inspiration and exploration.
Steph Nichols
Steph Nichols
Steph is Aria’s first love interest of the same gender, a thoughtful gardener and musician who helps Aria explore her evolving sexuality.
Matthew West
Matthew West
Matthew is Aria’s father, a caring but somewhat awkward author and professor who is Aria's primary guardian post-divorce.
Alexis Tang
Alexis Tang
Alexis, Aria’s mother, is a frequently traveling opera singer whose career ambitions have created distance in her relationship with Aria.
Tasha Lewis
Tasha Lewis
Tasha is Aria’s best friend since childhood, a wealthy and understanding confidante who experiences parallel personal growth alongside Aria.
336
Novel • Fiction
California • 2010s
2022
YA
18+ years
HL790L
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