Souvankham Thammavongsa
Acclaimed Canadian writer of short stories and poetry, making her debut as a novelist with Pick a Color; discussed her background (born in a Thai refugee camp) and the novel's themes about salon workers and loneliness.
Best podcasts with Souvankham Thammavongsa
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Jul 1, 2025 • 49min
Souvankham Thammavongsa Reads Samanta Schweblin
Souvankham Thammavongsa, a Laotian-Canadian writer and Giller Prize winner, joins to read Samanta Schweblin's 'The Size of Things.' The discussion highlights the story's haunting imagery and the complex relationship between a toy store owner and a boy named Enrique. Themes of empathy, inheritance, identity, and the burdens of familial dynamics are explored. The conversation also delves into the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and emotional connections, illuminating the intricate dance of childhood innocence and societal expectations.
Oct 13, 2025 • 9min
'Pick a Color' is a novel that takes place over a single day at a nail salon
Souvankham Thammavongsa, an acclaimed Canadian writer and debut novelist, shares insights from her new book, which unfolds over a single day in a nail salon. She explores Ning, the salon manager with a boxing background, drawing parallels between prizefighting and salon work. Thammavongsa discusses the loneliness of salon workers, often overlooked and unheard, and reflects on her own roots as a child born in a refugee camp. The conversation touches on the contrast between knowledge and intelligence, revealing deep truths about resilience and human connection.
