“Ghost O’i” by Lawrence-Minh Bùi Davis ‘Channels’ Ocean Vuong, Cathy Linh Che and More — See the Cover! (Exclusive)

The literary world is poised to welcome an exciting new voice with the announcement of the cover reveal for *Ghost O’i*, the debut novel by Lawrence-Minh Bùi Davis. Set for publication on 1 March 2027 by University of Nebraska Press, this work promises to offer a compelling narrative exploring the complexities of identity and ancestry within the Vietnamese diaspora.

Described as “a ghost story of a ghost story”, *Ghost O’i* centres around a young spirit medium navigating her role within the Vietnamese diaspora. The protagonist embarks on a quest to find a teacher, with ghosts and poetry acting as her guides throughout this ethereal journey. The novel creatively intertwines elements of the supernatural with poignant explorations of refugee life, death, and the nuances of language.

Davis, who has carved a niche as the editor-in-chief and co-founder of *The Asian American Literary Review*, brings a wealth of experience in uplifting diverse voices within the literary community. His contributions to forums like the Asian American Literature Festival and the AALF Collective highlight his commitment to fostering a vibrant space for marginalised narratives. In *Ghost O’i*, he takes a step towards personal storytelling, honouring fellow artists from the Vietnamese diaspora, including renowned figures such as Ocean Vuong and Monique Truong.

Davis’s approach to the writing process reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of community. Drawing from his background as an editor and festival director, he emphasises the importance of weaving relationships and exchanges into his work. “Building exchanges and relationships into my writing process was a way of bringing the world off the page, with all its invisible, teeming life, back onto it,” he explained. This perspective not only enriches the narrative but also embodies a collaborative spirit that resonates throughout the book.

The author is particularly sentimental about the timing of the novel’s release, as he faces personal challenges that add depth to his work. Davis shared that he hopes to see *Ghost O’i* published while his mother is still alive, reflecting on the emotional weight associated with her health struggles. “She’s in the last phase of her life; she’s also been in and out of hospitals since I was a teen. The last few years especially have felt like borrowed time,” he remarked. The novel, which he describes as having its heart aligned with his mother’s, represents a significant milestone not just in his career but also in his personal life.

As literary enthusiasts await the arrival of *Ghost O’i*, its themes of loss, memory, and belonging hold particular relevance in today’s society, especially within the context of migration and displacement. The novel seeks to reframe discussions around queer ancestry and the often-silent histories that accompany the experiences of many within the Vietnamese diaspora.

Davis’s contributions to the literary field serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of storytelling and community. The forthcoming release is anticipated to resonate with readers who appreciate narratives that reflect both personal and collective experiences. As he ventures into this new chapter as a novelist, Davis remains dedicated to honouring the stories of those who have come before him.

*Ghost O’i* is now available for pre-order at various bookstores and promises to be a thought-provoking addition to contemporary literature when it hits the shelves. The anticipation surrounding this debut promises to honour the rich tapestry of stories waiting to be told and the unbroken thread of connection that literature can forge across generations.