Jumia Books If You Could See the Sun

“If You Could See the Sun” by Ann Liang is a young adult fantasy novel that tells the story of Alice Sun, a gifted student at an elite Beijing international boarding school. When her family’s financial situation worsens, Alice discovers she has the ability to turn invisible. She decides to monetize her power by partnering with her academic rival, Henry, to secure tuition for their prestigious school.

Key Elements

• Magical realism: The novel combines realistic settings and characters with supernatural elements, specifically Alice’s invisibility.
• Academic rivals-turned-partners: Alice and Henry’s complex relationship evolves from competition to cooperation as they navigate their shared circumstances.
• Class and privilege: The story explores themes of social class, privilege, and the American Dream, set against the backdrop of an elite international school in Beijing.
• Morally grey heroine: Alice’s decision to blackmail her fellow students for fun and profit raises questions about her moral compass.