The Boy You Always Wanted

by Michelle Quach

Francine is from a Chinese Vietnamese family in southern California. Her maternal grandfather has a terminal illness, and a dying wish: a male heir to perform the ancestor worship rites required in Confucianism. Although she is hurt by the feeling that she is not enough, the dutiful and quirky Francine decides that changing her grandfather’s mind would take more time than he has left, and somehow convinces childhood friend Ollie to play the part of honorary grandson. This novel raises universal questions about what you do when your loved ones cling to problematic beliefs, and how to balance your own needs with those of your family. The chapters are alternately narrated by Francine and Ollie, who, as they gradually grow to accept themselves, are increasingly attracted to each other.