60 pages 2 hours read

Malinda Lo

A Scatter Of Light

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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 this

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.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

HL790L

Book Details

Topics

LGBTQ

Genre

Romance

Historical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Themes

Identity: Sexuality

Emotions/Behavior: Grief

Relationships: Friendship