Book Review: 'If At First You Don't Succeed, Try, Try Again' by Zen Cho

Cover art by Shirley Jackson

An enchanting short story by Zen Cho about Byam, an Imugi, a serpent like beast who is determined to transform into a dragon and ascend into Heaven.

But things haven't quite been going to plan for Byam, getting so close to transforming but ultimately falling short over the span of several millennia. But that is until they meet Leslie in a chance encounter, and everything changes, for both of them, as a beautiful relationship blossoms between the pair. 

'If At First You Don't Succeed, Try, Try Again', as the title suggests, is about perseverance, never giving up on chasing your dreams and never giving up on yourself. It's a wonderfully written heartwarming story that is funny, queer, sad but ultimately uplifting and inspirational. Very much recommended and available to read for free from the B&N website.

Zen has also written a sequel, 'Head Of A Snake, Tail Of A Dragon', that's also available to read for free on her website.