ARC Review: “Love Language” by by Christine J. Ko
“Love Language” by by Christine J. Ko
Publishing Date: August 6, 2026
Genre: Fiction, Middle Grade, Contemporary
Page Length: 172 pages (electronic review edition)
Synopsis:
Cassie doesn’t feel at home in her hometown in California. So when her family moves to South Korea, where her parents were born and raised, she thinks life might be easier.
But Cassie soon learns she is wrong. Despite being ethnically Korean, there is so much about her that is American-parts of her she can’t erase.
From English to Korean, chocolate to ho-dduk, can Cassie find a language where she can wholly be loved?
Love Language is a middle grade novel-in-verse that will speak directly to the heart, capturing the soft, often painful part of ourselves that yearns for a place to belong.
Review:
“I am learning
that fitting in
is being me
in different places,
and around family,
in different cultures
with difficult histories,
various religions,
and many philosophies,
in different languages….”
The quote about can best describe the narrative presented in Love Language. At it’s core the story is a journey of self-discovery as Cassie moves from America to Korea and experiences challenges daily. Even with a Korean background she struggles in her new home being labeled as too American by others, and she is unsure where she truly fits in. Though her viewpoint readers follow Cassie’s story of growth, understanding, and education about her own culture.
This novel in verse feels very heartfelt, and reads like a personal diary. The reader feels as if Cassie is talking directly to them as friend while confronting conflicting emotions about her life. It makes the narrative that much more meaningful and Ko writes in a way in which you connect with the story of a deeper level. I like that the novel navigates through Cassie’s family, personal thoughts, and conversations she has with others.
Love Language showcases the mixed feelings that arise around self-identity/culture and choosing how to define it on your own terms. It does a great job illustration various parts of Korean culture and history as well to give the story nuance (also a stepping stone for readers who want to learn more). This is a well written novel, that feels poetic and memorable long after the story ends.
Final Verdict:
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
