Stay True

Stay True is a touching memoir by Hua Hsu, a writer and professor, about friendship, identity, and grief. In the book, he remembers his close friendship with a college classmate named Ken, who was later killed in a random act of violence. Through this loss, Hua reflects on what it means to be different, to connect with others, and to grow up as an Asian American in the 1990s.

The story is thoughtful and emotional, showing how a deep friendship can shape who we are—and how we carry those we love with us, even after they’re gone. It’s a quiet, powerful look at life, loss, and becoming who you are.