KAYA OF THE OCEAN
My debut novel was published on January 7, 2025.
It has been named a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection and chosen by the American Booksellers Association as one of the best debuts on the Winter/Spring 2025 "Indies Introduce" list, as well as a great read on the January 2025 "Kids' Indie Next" list.
“Heartfelt and lyrical, this empowering fantasy grapples with anxiety, family dynamics, and identity in a way that enthralls and speaks directly to the middle-grade reader. I loved everything about this story.”
—Julie Lee, author of Freeman Book Award Winner BROTHER’S KEEPER
“Kaya of the Ocean is an absolutely gorgeous story, shining a light on the very real struggles of growing up and feeling like you are different. With incredibly heartfelt writing and a vivid setting, Kaya’s story can help young people that struggle with anxiety feel seen and heard.”
—Jonathan Pope, Prologue Bookshop, Columbus, OH
Art credit: @polarts_iv
“A realistic story about culture, assimilation, anxiety, and family history set in a beautifully described Hawaii. Gloria Huang has created friendships that are honest, family life that is complicated, and a young heroine who is an inspiration.”
—Kristine Jelstrom-Hamill, Buttonwood Books & Toys, Cohassett, MA
“After an unexpected incident involving flying tuna, an eerie child floating under the water, and a friend’s near drowning, Kaya’s severe anxiety only gets worse, especially when she starts to realize she has supernatural powers and may have caused the entire incident to begin with. This story will have you wanting to give Kaya a big hug and tell her everything will be okay.”
—Kalli King, Rediscovered Books, Boise, ID
“Kaya of the Ocean will steal your heart, transporting you to the lush beaches of Hawaii, and back through time as our young hero seeks answers to her family’s past, along with the mysteries of her own present. With a beautiful speculative twist, and characters full of heart, this is the perfect book to shake off the winter doldrums on Spring Break.”
—Jessica Hahl, Books Inc., San Leandro, CA
.jpg)
Cover courtesy of Holiday House