MANILA, PHILIPPINES – In recent years, interest in Asian stories and heritage has grown steadily, with many turning to literature as a means of exploring identity, culture, and history. Whether it’s through fiction, poetry, memoir or design, books offer a powerful gateway into the vast and nuanced experiences of Asian communities across the globe.
To mark #ReadAsian, Fully Booked’s annual celebration of Asian literature, we’ve curated ten outstanding titles that spotlight the richness of Asian voices from timeless epics and folklore to intimate family histories and evocative poetry. There’s something here for every kind of reader.
1. Soy Sauce by Laura Lee
A delightful entry point into East Asian culture, Soy Sauce is a picture book that tells the story of how this beloved condiment connects people across generations and geographies. Written and illustrated by Korean-American author Laura G. Lee, the book is filled with vibrant watercolor illustrations – some painted using actual soy sauce. Ideal for young readers and the young at heart, this book celebrates the universality of food, family and identity.
2. The Boy, the Mountain and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon by Caris Avendaño Cruz
Steeped in the magic of Philippine folklore, this coming of age tale is both fantastical and deeply human. Caris Avendaño Cruz, known for her debut Marikit and the Ocean of Stars, returns with a story that is darker yet just as imaginative. Through haunting prose and mythical elements, Cruz shows how even in the bleakest of times, hope can still be found. A compelling read for lovers of myth and magic.
3. Courtyard Living: Contemporary Houses of the Asia-Pacific by Charmaine Chan
Architecture and culture converge in this beautifully photographed volume that explores the role of courtyards in modern living. Spanning 25 residences from countries like India, Vietnam, and the Philippines, Charmaine Chan’s Courtyard Living is a visual feast that blends traditional sensibilities with modern aesthetics and sustainable design. A must-have for architects, designers, or anyone inspired by the interplay of nature and space.
4. The House of Doors by Tan Twang Eng
Set in 1920s Penang, this historical novel reimagines the time British writer W. Somerset Maugham spent in Malaysia. Tan Twang Eng weaves a masterful narrative filled with intrigue, romance and rebellion, exploring themes of colonialism, sexuality, and storytelling itself. For readers who appreciate lyrical prose and layered storytelling, this novel is an immersive journey into a richly imagined past.
5. UMMA: Korean Mom’s Kitchen Window by Sarah Ahn
Equal parts cookbook and memoir, UMMA is a heartfelt tribute to Korean home cooking and the wisdom passed down from mother to child. Social media personality Sarah Ahn shares over a hundred family recipes, each accompanied by stories that explore culture, memory, and the meaning of home. A perfect gift for aspiring chefs and Korean food enthusiasts alike.
6. The Practice of Not Thinking by Ryunosuke Koike
In today’s fast-paced world, learning to pause is more important than ever. Zen priest Ryunosuke Koike offers a compact but profound guide on how to embrace stillness and presence through the ancient practice of “not thinking.” Drawing on Zen Buddhist philosophy, this book invites readers to rethink how they engage with their thoughts, emotions, and the world around them.
7. Monkey King: Journey to the West by Wu Cheng’en
A cornerstone of Chinese literature, Journey to the West chronicles the adventures of the mischievous Monkey King and his companions on a quest for sacred texts. Combining humor, fantasy, and spiritual lessons, this 16th-century classic continues to captivate readers and inspire countless adaptations from anime to video games. A must read for anyone curious about Asian mythological traditions.
8. The Undressing by Li-Young Lee
In this contemplative poetry collection, Li-Young Lee explores themes of love, intimacy, spirituality, and mortality. Born in Jakarta to Chinese political exiles, Lee’s personal history informs his meditative verse, blending the profound with the everyday. Perfect for poetry lovers, The Undressing offers language that is both tender and intellectually stirring.
9. Himawari House by Harmony Becker
This YA graphic novel follows three exchange students navigating life in Japan, capturing the joys and challenges of finding one’s identity far from home. Through expressive illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, Harmony Becker paints a vivid portrait of young adulthood, friendship, and cultural discovery. Ideal for fans of graphic novels and coming of age tales.
10. Mga Nilalang na Kagila-gilalas by Edgar Calabia Samar
A tribute to Philippine folklore, this illustrated encyclopedia showcases the country’s mythological beings from the chilling aswang to the clever mambabarang. With artwork by celebrated Filipino illustrators such as Leo Kempis Ang and Sergio Bumatay III, this visually arresting book is both educational and enchanting. A treasured addition to any Filipino book lover’s shelf.
From ancient legends to contemporary kitchens, the stories we tell—and read—shape our understanding of who we are and where we come from. These ten titles are just the beginning of what Asia has to offer the literary world.
Explore more books that celebrate Asian culture and creativity with the Asia Reads Collection, available at Fully Booked.
