Light from Uncommon Stars

How do Lan’s experiences as an intergalactic refugee mirror the real-life experiences of refugees in our own world? Consider her struggles and strengths as a mother as well.

Ryka Aoki named Douglas Adams as one of her authorial influences. What elements of this novel seem inspired by Adams’s works? How does it differ from his works?

Aoki, a composer herself, uses her knowledge of the music world to add believable details and nuance to the story. What commentary does she make about the violin community in particular, and of what aspects is she most critical?

The majority of the characters in this novel are women. Examine the few male characters (Tremon Philippe, Markus Tran, Edwin Tran, Andrew Matía). How are they portrayed? Why do they not play as large of a role as the female characters?

Both Lan’s ex-husband and her son Markus seem particularly susceptible to the violent side effects of the Endplague sickness. What commentary is Aoki making about men and masculinity in our own society?

Compare Lan’s treatment of Shirley with the treatment Katrina receives from her parents. How can Shirley’s identity as a non-biological person be compared to Katrina’s identity as a transgender woman? Where does the comparison succeed versus stumble?

Discuss the role that “legacy” plays in the actions of the characters, particularly Shizuka, Lan, and Lucy. How does legacy tie into their perceptions of their children (biological or otherwise) or parents?

How does this book use its setting to explore the experiences of Asian-American urban communities?