Happy Stories, Mostly by Norman Erikson Pasaribu, translated from the Indonesian by Tiffany Tsao, Is a collection of short stories and prose poems that deserve praise for its exploration of queer themes. While the title suggests happy stories, the stories actually explore themes of people depriving themselves of happiness by failing to connect with loved ones who do not conform to heterosexual norms, particularly mothers rejecting gay sons. It was funny, moving, provocative, and experimental, with every story having a point of view of its own. This book will be one I revisit often. Pasaribu's ability to layer imagery and weave connective passages from one story to the next provides a treasure trove of exploration and discovery.