The Gangster We Are All Looking For," written by lê thi diem thúy, is a true-life novel about a Vietnamese refugee family in San Diego, told from the perspective of the family’s daughter, who is just six years old when they arrive. The narrator and her parents struggle to adapt to life in an unfamiliar land, while simultaneously dealing with a troubled marriage, a father’s mysterious past, and the loss of a brother, in this painful, magical, and poetic novel. Purchase "The Gangster We Are All Looking For" from Warwick's bookstore.
Read the discussion guide
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The first chapter introduces us to our anonymous narrator and the beginning of her migration. -
Matt BomanChapter two describes a family reuniting and the realizations of immigration. -
Davidlohr BuesoThe third chapter delves into symbolic representations during a turbulent time for the family. -
Tatiana GerusProblems unfold in chapter four. -
Kevin KingThe last chapter finalizes the transition and feelings of the young narrator.
More
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"My hope is that, through readings of The Gangster We Are All Looking For, San Diego itself-- its history, people, and neighborhoods-- becomes a rich point of focus." Read what lê thị diễm thúy, author of the 2011 One Book One San Diego selection, has to say about being chosen, her inspiration in writing, and her love for our very own San Diego public libraries. -
We'll speak to lê thi diem thúy, author of “The Gangster We Are All Looking For,” the KPBS One Book selection for 2011.
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The Gangster We Are All Looking For is the 2011 One Book, One San Diego selection. Listen to a plot summary by the author, lê thi diem thúy, given during her visit to San Diego in February 2011.
