MODERN PEN PALS

Modern Pen Pals by Eva Chau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As I turned the last page of Modern Pen Pals, I reflected on the beautiful complexity of human connection. Eva Chau weaves a timeless and refreshing contemporary story, capturing the essence of friendship in a digital age.

The characters are vividly drawn, each with their unique quirks and struggles. I particularly connected with Delilah’s journey of self-discovery through her correspondence with her pen pal & her rise through the darkness of a traumatic experience with the help of wonderful support from her boyfriend Moon Hee. Their exchanges, along with the strong bonding of their group of friends, filled with humor and vulnerability, made me reminisce about my own experiences of building relationships.

Chau's writing is warm and engaging, drawing me into the characters' worlds seamlessly. The themes of loneliness, identity, and the power of words resonate deeply, reminding us how important it is to connect with others, regardless of distance, which can be seen in her relation with her mother.

What struck me most was the balance between lighthearted moments and deeper emotional undertones. The narrative tackles modern issues like mental health and the pressures of social media without feeling heavy-handed. Instead, it feels like a gentle reminder that we’re all navigating our paths, often seeking understanding in unexpected places.

Overall, Modern Pen Pals left me with a smile and a renewed appreciation for the people we meet along the way. It's a delightful read that I would recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming story about connection in today’s world.

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