Join host Michelle Glogovac on Read The Damn Book as she sits down with award-winning author Winnie M. Li to discuss her powerful new novel, What We Left Unsaid. In this thought-provoking conversation, Michelle and Winnie explore family dynamics, immigration stories, and the complexities of sibling relationships that shape identity.

Winnie opens up about the personal experiences and cross-country research on Route 66 that inspired her storytelling. They dive into the challenges of motherhood, navigating cultural expectations, and the often-overlooked chapters of American history. This episode is perfect for readers who love multi-generational family dramas, immigrant narratives, and literary fiction that unpacks belonging and identity.

What We're Talking About...

• Winnie's novel addresses powerful themes like immigration and family dynamics.
• The story is centered around a road trip that reveals hidden family secrets.
• Sibling relationships are complex and often fraught with misunderstandings.
• The past significantly influences the characters' present lives.
• Winnie's personal experiences shaped her writing and research for the novel.
• The book explores the immigrant experience in America.
• Motherhood brings its own set of anxieties and expectations.
• Cultural identity plays a crucial role in the characters' lives.
• Historical context is essential to understanding the characters' journeys.
• The novel encourages readers to reflect on their own family dynamics and histories.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Author Background

01:00 Themes of Family and Immigration

03:50 Sibling Dynamics and Relationships

06:57 Exploring the Past: The 1991 Road Trip

10:51 Researching Route 66 and Personal Experiences

18:06 Driving and Personal Growth

21:59 Motherhood and Family Expectations

25:49 Cultural Identity and Guilt

30:07 Historical Context and American Identity

Links Mentioned

What We Left Unsaid by Winnie M Li

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/What-We-Left-Unsaid/Winnie-M-Li/9781982190880

What We Left Unsaid Kirkus Review

https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/winnie-m-li/what-we-left-unsaid/

Winnie M Li’s Website

https://www.winniemli.com/