Set in early 2000s when Britney and Justin were still together (yes, Nick Bhasin goes there), Hector, a Puerto Rican–Indian American moves to Hollywood to pursue his destiny. His dream is to be a screenwriter who gets his TV script into the right hands – or just any hands, even if it means printing out more than a dozen copies. After all, even a waiter could potentially help Hector meet the right people.

With the connections of his roommate Laura, Hector is hired as a writer’s assistant on a soon-to-be-released TV show. As Hector navigates Hollywood seeking writing success, he is battling body dysmorphia, an eating disorder, and casual racism, all while grieving the unexpected loss of his mother back in his hometown in New Jersey.

I Look Forward to Hearing from You takes you on a journey that depicts what it’s like to go through complex psychological battles, including with intrusive thoughts, and the ongoing grief which memories can spontaneously bring. Bhasin wonderfully describes what it is like being a young adult with ambitions to become great in a cut-throat industry, and the relationships we have with family when there is long distance in-between.

This book will make you laugh from the first page and appreciate its refreshing creativity throughout. Bhasin explores Hector’s relationships in such a way that they are realistic and immensely relatable. The approach Bhasin takes to the challenges of mental health and the drive to improve oneself against all odds is also powerful.

Bhasin shows great insight into how the dreams of people moving to Hollywood can be shaped by those they meet – budding screenwriters may even find a few handy insider tips.