Paul is visiting his older brother Theo who is teaching in Taiwan. Paul could care less about going out and experiencing the city of Changbei and spends his days on his phone in Theo's apartment. After a friend eggs him on to go find a specific video game sold only in Taiwan, Paul gets completely lost and can't find his way back to the apartment. Eventually, he gets help from Peijing and her cousin Wallace. Over the course of a transformative 24 hours, Paul discovers the wonders of Taiwan and learns more about himself and the value of friendships. Scenic illustrations and lively street scenes have a transportive effect; teens will soak up the atmosphere of Taiwan. ( )

teen/middlegrade graphic novel (ages 12 and up) - Eisner-nominated author was a former English teacher in Taiwan (during which 2.5 years he learned a lot about Taiwanese culture)

moody highschooler Paul leaves his older brother Theo's apartment in Changbei, Taiwan in search of the new Nintendo Swoop, but becomes hopelessly lost when his phone falls into a storm drain; Peijing (who learned English while studying abroad in a homestay last year) offers to drive him around town on her moped (while she delivers starfruit) to see if he recognizes anything, and they get to enjoy lots of tasty treats and learn a little about the local customs along the way.

Gorgeous artwork, an engaging story, awesome storytelling and an incredible setting. I loved the part where Peijing explains to Paul:
'I'm a real person, Paul. I'm not "exotic."
Taiwan is my home.... Your culture isn't the "normal" culture. And mine isn't the "weird" culture.'

published May 22 2023 ( )

This has a fairly simple message about how going to new places can help you learn more things about yourself -- and that's a great message. I found the storytelling a little blocky, but the art is tremendous and the love for Taiwan is evident in every page. Beautiful. ( )

Cute! I was pleasantly surprised the book addressed the “manic pixie girl” vibes and Paul’s limited view of Taiwan. He was overall pretty bratty but came around eventually. Everything doesn’t change overnight but Paul’s perspective does after a fun journey around Taiwan with a sweet girl.

Peijing and her family were very accommodating. Usually, natives when they spot you lost somewhere are pretty helpful, but they were super nice! Depending on how cynical you are, this can feel farfetched or relatable.

The sketchiness of the artwork adds personality to the story. But I most liked the background/landscape shots. They were simplified but beautiful.
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Sulky teen Paul is reluctantly visiting his brother in Taiwan. After vegetating on the sofa for days, he finally makes a solo outing only to end up hopelessly lost miles from his brother's apartment. Luckily, he's rescued by an English-speaking girl who helps him move past his "ugly American" ways in how he views the local culture and makes progress in getting his head extracted from his butt in regards to his personal relationships.

This love letter to Taiwan has a nice, idealized story that is a little too pat with its feel-good outcomes but still pleases. ( )