The Lost Souls of Benzaiten

This heartfelt and quirky young adult fantasy debut follows a young outcast on a journey of transformation . . . into a robot vacuum cleaner.

A fresh twist on Japanese mythology that doubles as a deep, honest dive into mental health.

"I wish to become one of those round vacuum cleaner robots." That's what Machi prays for at the altar of Japanese goddess Benzaiten. Ever since her two best friends decided they want nothing to do with her, Machi hasn't been able to speak. After months of online school and a carousel of therapists, she can no longer see the point of being human. She doesn't expect Benzaiten to hear her prayer, much less offer a different prayer on Machi's behalf--that Machi discover the beauty of humanity, ultimately restoring her to her previous self.

Benzaiten is enamored with the human world and, as she's the goddess of love, humanity is enamored right back. Being second-best once again isn't helping Machi move past her trauma, and with each adventure they share, Machi is reminded of everything she's lost. It isn't until Machi starts interacting with the souls of the dead--which tends to happen around Benzaiten--that she starts to rediscover her place among the living.

From an author to watch, The Lost Souls of Benzaiten is a highly original debut about the nature of happiness and the potential for healing.

Author: Kelly Murashige
Publisher: Soho Teen
Published: 07/23/2024
Pages: 304
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 8.20h x 5.50w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781641295741
Audience: Young Adult


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 04/29/2024
Kirkus Reviews 05/15/2024
Booklist 06/01/2024 pg. 86

About the Author
Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, Kelly Murashige is a writer, reader, and dreamer. She primarily writes contemporary fiction with fantastical twists rooted in Japanese mythology and culture. Though she is a total introvert, she hopes to connect with readers around the world.