Tips for Tuesday - Books: Tea by the Sea and Hangry Hearts

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Books: Tea by the Sea and Hangry Hearts

Today we are talking about Tea by the Sea by Donna Hemans. This is the story of a girl named Plum who is sent away to school in Jamaica where she meets, has an affair with, and becomes pregnant by an older man named Lenworth who was allegedly supposed to be her tutor.  When the baby is born, Lenworth disappears with her allegedly to give Plum a chance to have a better life by not being tied down to a baby while she is still so young. However, even though Plum does go on with her life, she does not do so happily, and she spends 17 years pining after and searching for her missing baby.

Lenworth is a completely unredeemable and unlikable character. Even when he has a chance to attempt to make up for what he did and redeem himself at least a little bit, he does not. Plum is a much more sympathetic character. It is much easier to feel for her. However, the book on the whole is just sad and extremely anger-inducing throughout, and it never gets any better than that. Don't read it, if you are looking for something uplifting.

Today we recommend Hangry Hearts by Jennifer Chen. The Hus and Hurs were once close until a bitter feud tore them apart. Accordingly, when Julie Hu and Randall Hur are assigned to work on a class project together. they are less than thrilled. However, working together reminds them how much they care about each other, and, in fact, even love each other. However, to be together openly, they must get their families to end their feud.

At heart, this book is a delightful nod to Romeo and Juliet. Even the character names hearken back to Shakespeare. In addition to the central characters, Julie and Randall, there are secondary characters named Tyler and Mercy. Also like Romeo and Juliet, the main characters in this story can be quite annoying at times and do things that are quite infuriating. However, they can also be a really sweet couple at times. Tyler like his counterpart, Tybalt can be quite hotheaded. He gets way too involved in and opinionated about his sister Julie's life. Mercy like Mercutio is easygoing, she is very loyal and helpful to her cousin, Randall. 

The book provides great trans representation through the character of Randall. Although he does not transition during the book, his character gives the reader a good idea of what it is like to be on the other side of the transition. Of course, Randall is lucky enough to have a very supportive family which is unfortunately not always the case for everyone.

Numerous descriptions of Tawaneese and Korean foods are provided throughout the book as the two main families run competing food booths. Thus, if you are a foodie or a fan of both or either of these types of food you might not want to read it when you are hungry. On the other hand, if you are interested in learning more about either or both of these cuisines that might add to your enjoyment of the book.

And that's our view. Tune in tomorrow for Where-To-Go Wednesday.

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