Te-Ping Chen, an accomplished author and journalist, is set to release her debut novel titled *Sojourners*, scheduled to hit the shelves on 1 June 2027. The novel delves into the complexities of family, identity, and loss, all set against the backdrop of 1920s Hawaii. PEOPLE has obtained exclusive insights into this much-anticipated work, which promises to captivate readers with its blend of personal and historical narratives.
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*Sojourners* centres on the lives of Kana and Leilani Kau, two sisters growing up in a small village on Hawaii’s Big Island. They are the daughters of Hilo, the owner of the town’s only general store, who dreams of passing down the family business to his children. However, the peaceful existence of their family is irrevocably altered when Leilani goes missing, eventually being presumed dead. This tragic event thrusts Kana, still in her teenage years, into the role of caretaker for the store while her parents grapple with their grief.
The novel provides a nuanced look at the evolving demographic landscape of Hawaii during this era. As plantation workers from Japan, China, and Portugal arrive in droves, the sisters are forced to navigate their identities in a rapidly changing world. Meanwhile, tourism begins to flourish as mainland Americans flock to the islands, further complicating the societal fabric of their community.
In her reflections on the novel, Chen states, “I really loved getting to immerse myself in a period in Hawaiian history that I found deeply fascinating.” Her passion for the history of Hawaii shines through as she depicts a time when the islands were on the brink of significant change. Her portrayal is not just a backdrop for the sisters’ story; it shapes their experiences and influences their destinies.
The narrative takes a turn when Kana hears a voice that she believes to be Leilani’s while listening to the radio. This revelation prompts her to attend a live performance by a singer whose voice resonates with memories of her sister. This moment acts as a catalyst for Kana’s journey, challenging her perceptions of loss and hope and leading her to grapple with the realities of her changed circumstances.
Te-Ping Chen expressed her mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness as her debut novel approaches publication. “It’s about sisters, motherhood and family, so inevitably it feels very personal,” she shared. The blending of familial dynamics with historical elements promises to provide readers with a compelling exploration of emotional complexities.
The cover of *Sojourners* has already drawn acclaim, with author Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai describing it as “a miracle of a novel” in an early review. Chen herself appreciates how the cover encapsulates the sense of mystery that permeates the relationships within the story. “At times, that mystery is most palpable with the people who are closest to us,” she notes, underscoring the intimate connections between the characters.
As *Sojourners* prepares for its release, it is already available for pre-order through various book retailers. The combination of Chen’s evocative storytelling and her deep appreciation for Hawaiian history presents a unique opportunity for readers to engage with a narrative that is both heartfelt and enlightening.
With a promising debut ahead, Te-Ping Chen’s *Sojourners* is positioned to resonate with readers looking for engaging narratives that explore sibling bonds, loss, and cultural change. As the book’s release date approaches, anticipation is building for what is likely to be one of the standout literary offerings of 2027.