Digging to America

Anne Tyler's 'Digging to America' beautifully explores themes of family, cultural identity, and assimilation through the lens of two American families adopting Korean infants. On August 15th, 1997, two tiny Korean babies arrive in Baltimore, destined for two vastly different households: the traditional, somewhat staid Donaldson family and the boisterous, free-spirited Androvic clan. What begins as a shared 'Arrival Day' celebration for the two families soon evolves into an annual, increasingly elaborate, and subtly competitive tradition. As Susan and Jin-ho grow up and become American, the families navigate their own distinct journeys of parenthood, cultural understanding, and self-discovery. Tyler masterfully delves into the intricacies of human relationships, the challenges of bridging cultural divides, and the often-unspoken dynamics that shape our sense of belonging, all while infusing her narrative with her signature warmth, wit, and profound insight into the everyday lives of her characters.