Weetzie Bat (Weetzie Bat, 1)

“Transcendent.” New York Times Book Review

“Magnificent.” Village Voice

“Sparkling.” Publishers Weekly

Francesca Lia Block’s dazzling debut novel, Weetzie Bat, is not only a genre-shattering, critically acclaimed gem, it's also widely recognized as a classic of young adult literature, having captivated readers for generations.

This coming-of-age novel follows the eponymous Weetzie Bat and her best friend Dirk as they navigate life and love in a timeless, dreamlike version of Los Angeles. When Weetzie is granted three wishes by a genie, she discovers that there are unexpected ramifications….

Winner of the prestigious Phoenix Award, Weetzie Bat is a beautiful, poetic work of magical realism that is perfect for fans of Laura Ruby, Neil Gaiman, and Kelly Link.


  • An Unforgettable LGBTQ Classic: Follows Weetzie and her best friend Dirk’s earnest, heartfelt search for their "Ducks"—the loves of their respective dreams.
  • Punk Rock Fairy Tale: A story shimmering with 80s glam, glitter, bleached-blonde flat-tops, and a magical, timeless Hollywood where anything can happen.
  • Three Magical Wishes: When a genie grants Weetzie three wishes—for a Duck for Dirk, her own Secret Agent Lover Man, and a house to live in—she learns that "happily ever after" is more complicated than it seems.
  • A Lyrical Love Letter to L.A.: Experience a Los Angeles you’ve never seen before, a sun-drenched, gritty, and gorgeous wonderland that’s a character in its own right.

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Published Jul 6, 2004

128 pages

Average rating: 6.36

11 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Mara M. Zonderman
Aug 01, 2023
8/10 stars
This is a stunning book. Part of me wanted there to be more of it because it was so good, but of course the sparseness of the prose is part of what makes this book so beautiful. There is no character like Weetzie anywhere else in literature, and you can't help but love her.
witch.riot
Jun 15, 2023
6/10 stars
Geez, I didn't expect this to be so racist (in the perhaps trying not to be but doing it SO wrong sense). 1989 obviously called. Too bad though, it's a sweet little book.

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