When Haru Was Here by Dustin Thao

When Haru Was Here is a tender and emotionally powerful novel by Dustin Thao, the bestselling author of You’ve Reached Sam. This deeply moving story explores love, grief, mental health, and the healing power of human connection.

Eric Ly feels lost in his own life, weighed down by expectations, loneliness, and unspoken pain. Everything begins to change when he meets Haru, a mysterious boy who appears unexpectedly and slowly becomes a source of comfort, warmth, and understanding. Through quiet moments and shared conversations, Haru helps Eric feel seen and understood in a way no one else ever has.

But as their bond deepens, Eric begins to realize that Haru may not be exactly who he seems. As the truth unfolds, Eric must confront his grief and learn how to move forward, even when letting go feels impossible.

Heartbreaking yet hopeful, When Haru Was Here is a poignant coming-of-age novel that will resonate with readers who love emotionally rich, character-driven stories.