Ark Must Reads: Books for the Heart

The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki

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There’s a myth that if you’re kind to cats, one day they’ll return the favor. And if that cat happens to be special, you might just find yourself at a pop-up coffee truck under a full moon and sparkling stars, sipping the drink of your dreams and indulging in the sweetest desserts.

The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki, a national bestseller translated from Japanese, is a heartwarming tale of love, gratitude, and self-discovery—guided by magical talking cats and the wisdom of astrology. A beloved entry in the popular Japanese genre of “healing fiction,” it left me breathless with just two words, my chest tightening before tears spilled down my face.

A must-read for the month of love.

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For Brown Girls With Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts by Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez

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Bold, unapologetic, and deeply empowering, For Brown Girls With Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts by Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez is both a love letter and a battle cry for women of color navigating a world that was not built for them.

With poetic honesty and sharp wisdom, Rodríguez weaves personal stories with cultural critique, offering guidance on reclaiming power, breaking barriers, and embracing one’s full, authentic self. It is a book that validates, challenges, and ultimately heals—urging readers to stand tall in their sharpness and find strength in their tenderness.

A must-read for those seeking love, justice, and radical self-acceptance.
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Funny Story
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Witty and heartfelt, Funny Story by Emily Henry is a love story that unfolds in the most unexpected ways. Navigating love, loss, and the beautiful mess in between, Henry tells this tale with warmth and her signature irresistible humor. This novel is a reminder that breakups don’t mean the end of love—and that even in life’s chaos, joy can be found in the most surprising places and people. A perfect read for those who believe in love and the magic of new beginnings.
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