NPR's Book of the Day

Two historical fiction novels focus on women's lives during wars in Southeast Asia

Jan 12, 2024
This podcast explores two historical fiction novels centered around women's experiences during wars in Southeast Asia. The first novel follows a mother in 1945 Malay dealing with the consequences of her work as a spy during the Japanese occupation. The second novel focuses on two American wives reflecting on their friendship in Saigon during the Vietnam War. The podcast discusses the lack of Southeast Asian narratives in war discussions, the author's journey as a writer, the significance of female relationships, and the value of charity.
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