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AAPI authors are writing some of the most incredible books out there right now.
AAPI stands for Asian American and Pacific Islander, which includes people from so many unique cultures across Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Their stories are packed with creativity, emotion, and perspectives we don’t see enough of.
I’ve got books for every mood—whether you’re into fantasy worlds, heartfelt memoirs, or laugh-out-loud fiction.
These authors are absolutely killing it, and their work deserves a spot on everyone’s shelf.
Trust me, you’re going to love these!
Must-Read Books by AAPI Authors
1. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
This memoir hit me right in the feels. Michelle Zauner, of Japanese Breakfast, writes about losing her mom, reconnecting with her Korean roots through food, and figuring out her identity.
It’s such a beautiful, honest story of grief and family.
Her descriptions of Korean dishes made me so hungry—and her vulnerability made me tear up more than once.
2. Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
This fantasy is pure magic. Xingyin’s peaceful moon life shatters when her powers are exposed, and she has to take on epic adventures to save her mom.
Think Chinese mythology, forbidden magic, and a little romance.
The world is so lush and vibrant—it’s like stepping into a fairytale. I was completely swept up in her journey.
3. The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri
This book is a mix of forbidden magic, intense politics, and fierce women.
Malini, a princess locked away by her cruel brother, and Priya, a maid with secrets, join forces to take him down.
The world feels alive, and the slow-building tension between the characters had me hooked.
It’s dark, gripping, and made me want to dive straight into the next book.
4. On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong’s writing is gorgeous, just like the title.
It’s a letter from a son to his mom, unraveling their family’s past and his own struggles with identity and love.
The way he writes about pain and beauty is stunning—I couldn’t stop highlighting lines.
This one is emotional, raw, and feels so deeply personal.
5. A Wild Sheep Chase by Haruki Murakami
This book is wild in the best way.
A guy’s dull life spirals into a bizarre hunt for a mystical sheep, with quirky characters and surreal twists everywhere.
Murakami’s style is so unique—philosophical one moment, hilarious the next.
It’s weird, but in a way that makes you think about life’s randomness.
6. Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee
Casey Han’s life after Princeton is messy, ambitious, and so relatable.
She’s stuck between her immigrant parents’ traditions and Manhattan’s shiny elite world.
It’s about identity, class, and figuring yourself out.
Min Jin Lee writes characters that feel so real—I saw bits of myself in Casey’s struggles and I appreciated how funny, moving, and endlessly insightful the book was.
7. Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi
This one hit close to home.
Jayne and June are estranged sisters thrown back together by cancer and some shady insurance fraud.
It’s messy, emotional, and brutally honest about family dynamics.
The writing is sharp and funny, but it also doesn’t hold back on the heavy stuff. I couldn’t stop rooting for them.
8. A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
This book absolutely wrecked me, so I’ll forever recommend it to everyone.
It follows four college friends through their highs and heartbreaking lows, especially Jude’s struggles with his past.
It’s intense and so, so emotional—I can’t lie, it left me crying.
But the writing is gorgeous, and the story stays with you. It’s not an easy read, but it’s unforgettable.
9. Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
When June, a struggling white writer, steals her friend’s manuscript and pretends to be Asian, her life spirals into chaos.
It’s sharp, hilarious, and so relevant, tackling big topics like racism and cultural appropriation.
I couldn’t stop cringing at June’s choices—but also, I couldn’t look away.
10. When I’m Gone, Look for Me in the East by Quan Barry
Two twin brothers, one a monk and the other not-so-much, travel across Mongolia to find a reincarnated lama.
The landscape and the writing are just breathtaking.
It’s a quiet, reflective story that made me think about faith, family, and what really matters in life.
11. Oh My Mother! by Connie Wang
This memoir is a riot. Connie and her mom travel the world, getting into all kinds of shenanigans—Magic Mike shows, edibles, and even Versailles.
But beneath the laughs, it’s a sweet, honest look at their complicated relationship.
It made me think about how messy and wonderful mother-daughter bonds can be.
12. The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang
Anna’s dealing with burnout and family drama, while Quan is everything she needs but didn’t expect.
Their chemistry is electric, but the real beauty is how they help each other heal.
This lovely book is romantic, emotional, and felt so real—definitely a story that sticks with you.
From exciting adventures to moving memoirs, there’s something here for everyone.
Which one are you picking up first?
Let me know your favorite, and feel free to share this list with anyone looking for their next great read!
