Just Another Epic Love Poem

Praise

Kirkus Best Books of the Year
Booklist Editor’s Choice
New York Public Library Best Books of 2024

★ “In Akhbari’s powerful debut, poetry gives life to the text through the verses of Mitra and Bea, as well as the renowned poets they read…This is laugh-out-loud funny, poignant, realistic, and heartbreaking in the best way.” – Booklist, starred review

★ “An achingly poignant combination of coming-of-age and young queer love between two teens of color, this book easily deserves a spot on the shelf alongside Lo’s Last Night at the Telegraph Club.” –BCCB starred review

“A dazzling best-friends-to-lovers sapphic love story…that feels both genuine and extraordinary. If this wonderfully moving novel is what Parisa Akhbari writes her first time out of the gate, I can’t wait to see what her sophomore release will hold!” –Autostraddle

“Akhbari skillfully enmeshes myriad poetic styles with organic depictions of Iranian culture and food, and channels the insecurities of adolescence and the overlapping pressures of growing up to worthy effect in this promising debut.” –Publishers Weekly

“[A] tenderly written novel… A love affair among poetry, Iranian culture, and teenage angst is happily fused in Akhbari’s debut.” –School Library Journal

“Just Another Epic Love Poem is both a beautiful queer love story and a poignant coming-of-age tale about healing and learning to forgive. With lyrical prose, stunning poetry, and unforgettable characters, Akhbari’s debut is a must-read.” – Adiba Jaigirdar, award-winning author of The Henna Wars

“The heartache and longing of witnessing a beloved character pine hopelessly over her best friend has never brought me this much unadulterated joy. My love for this never-ending epic love poem will truly never end!” –National Book Award Finalist Sonora Reyes, author of The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School

“Be prepared to be utterly charmed and have your heart stolen by Mitra and Bea and their story.” – Sara Farizan, author of Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel