The different voices of the father and daughter weave an interesting and intimate narrative of the Hmong diaspora. The Song Poet reveals the devastation of war and the difficulties of learning how to live in a completely foreign environment and it is beautifully written.

If you haven't read Yang's memoir The Latehomecomer you should because it is a powerful beautifully written account of the Hmong experience. I've been looking forward to her follow up and if the first few pages are any indication her writing has gotten even stronger.

I highly recommend the audio version of this book. Multigenerational, epic storytelling that explores complex issues and characters to lay bare the effects of slavery on two sisters and their descendants. Put this one near the top of your TBR list.

I like a good old fashioned dysfunctional family and this one definitely doesn't function well together. You won't love the characters and might just want to reach in and give them a shake or two but this is a fun read. Don't go in expecting more. The dust jacket design is impeccable though.

Minnesota is not Lake Wobegon. This is a compelling and sobering look at race in MN in particular but also in the US as a whole. Highly recommend.

Do those lists of 100 books every smart person should read drive you crazy? This book examines why and how we should reevaluate the canon. Besides that, it's just plain fun.

A little literary activism on a rainy afternoon.

Coffee shop, iced tea, book = a good day

I love the premise but just liked the follow through.

Staying up late to finish this. Started kind of slow but things have definitely picked up in the last section.

Next up is a little bit of murder.

A much more traditional take on Austen than others.

This is turning into an Austen revisited week.

First book of my summer break. So far it's a fun reimagining of Pride & Prejudice.