Our Wayward Fate | An Inspiring Coming-of-Age Story You Should Read

4/5 stars

Ali Chu is the only Asian person at her high school in Indiana. To survive, she puts up with racist jokes, eats American food for lunch, and has her friends call her Allie instead of Ali. Her perspective and life are changed when Chase Yu, a Taiwanese boy, enrolls at her school. The two realize they have a connection, but Ali’s mom is unhappy with the pair. As Ali digs deeper to figure out why she uncovers secrets about her family that make her re-evaluate everything she ever knew.

Gloria Chao has done it again with Our Wayward Fate. I appreciated that while being a light read, this story was also a deep coming-of-age story that held my attention the entire time. This was part YA romance with a bit of mystery as Ali plays detective to learn more about her family’s past.

I love Ali’s independent spirit and need to forge her own path. I could relate to her struggles in high school and need to put up with toxic behavior just so she could have some connection. I also enjoyed how the story of The Butterfly Lovers was sprinkled throughout the chapters.

Overall, this was a great YA contemporary fiction that reminds us of the importance of family, friendships, love, and sharing our authentic selves.