This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Palaver

   

   Set between Tokyo, Houston, and Jamaica, Palaver follows a young man working as an English tutor in Tokyo who spends his nights at a gay bar and maintains a complicated relationship with a married man. Estranged from his family, he is surprised when his mother arrives unannounced after ten years, prompting tense, candid encounters—often mediated by his cat, Taro. As they share meals, conversations, and a trip to Nara, both confront past hurts and reassess what “home” and family might mean. The novel quietly explores forgiveness, identity, and the fragile bonds that reconnect people.

   The 10540th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Memorial

   

   The novel is a poignant exploration of love, family, and identity, following the complex relationship between two young men, Benson and Mike, living in Houston. When Mike flies to Japan to care for his dying father, leaving Benson with his visiting mother, the narrative delves into themes of cultural dissonance, personal growth, and the challenges of intimacy. As both characters grapple with their own internal struggles and familial duties, the story unfolds through their alternating perspectives, offering a raw and tender look at the intricacies of human connections and the ways in which we seek to find and define home.

   The 11186th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Family Meal

   

   In this poignant narrative, two estranged friends find themselves navigating the complexities of grief, love, and reconciliation in the vibrant backdrop of Houston. As they grapple with personal losses and the challenges of adulthood, their shared passion for cooking becomes a conduit for healing and rediscovery. Through intimate moments and culinary adventures, the story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring power of friendship, offering a heartfelt reflection on the ties that bind us and the meals that bring us together.

   The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Lot

   

   Set against the vibrant backdrop of Houston, this collection of interconnected short stories delves into the lives of its diverse inhabitants, exploring themes of identity, family, and belonging. Through the eyes of a young, unnamed narrator, readers are introduced to a tapestry of characters navigating the complexities of their multicultural neighborhood. Each story captures intimate moments of struggle and resilience, painting a poignant portrait of a community grappling with change, love, and the search for a place to call home.

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