After the death of his best friend, Eric Ly creates imaginary scenarios in his head to deal with his grief. Until one of them becomes real when a boy he met last summer in Japan finds his way back into his life. When he least expects it, Haru Tanaka walks into the coffee shop and sits down next to him. The only thing is, nobody else can see him.

In a magical turn of events, Eric suddenly has someone to connect with, making him feel less alone in the world. But as they spend more and more time together, he begins to question what is real. When he starts losing control of the very thing that is holding him together, Eric must finally confront his reality. Even if it means losing Haru forever.

As I read When Haru was Here by Dustin Thao, I found it poignant and emotional, breaking my heart over and over in all the best ways as the novel addresses loss and how to let go of grief. The very warm family beginning helps set up the rest of the novel as you discover how much Eric is struggling with his loss. And even as he is magically able to spend time with Haru, a boy he met the previous summer, you know that reality won't allow him to keep the friendship.

Whether it is Eric's mind that creates the encounter or magic, it is truly poignant to read as you realize that Haru helps Eric begin to cope with the terrible loss he has struggled with. Connecting with Haru, even when it is not real, leads him to build connections with others and slowly learn to deal with his grief in healthy ways. The story gives you all the emotional ups and downs, as he deals with new relationships both good and bad but ultimately I love how he learns to live his life, despite his loss.

If you like stories that are poignant and emotional, I think this one about dealing with loss through a magical friendship might interest you. It is a beautiful exploration of grief and loss, and about learning to let go so that life can go on, even when there are struggles. If you ever dealt with losing a loved one, you will appreciate the authenticity and truth to the novel. The ending is lovely despite the heartbreaking tone of the overall story.

Rating: 5 out of 5 bracelets ~~ Andrea Rittschof