Episode 244

#244 - Author Chat w/ Tan Twan Eng

On this episode, we are joined by Malaysian novelist Tan Twan Eng to talk about his new Booker Prize long-listed novel The House of Doors, a historical fiction story about British citizens living in colonial Malaya and their personal dramas that play out against the backdrop of significant real life events, including the murder trial Ethel Proudlock and the revolution of Dr. Sun Yat Sen. We chat with Twan about the challenges of writing fiction around real life characters and events as well as his inspiration for writing a story about white settlers in Malaysia.

Follow Twan on instagram at @tan.twan.eng and check out his novel, The House of Doors, available now on the Books & Boba bookshop!

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The Books & Boba October 2023 pick is Natural Beauty by Ling Ling Huang

This podcast is part of Potluck: An Asian American Podcast Collective

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Don't miss Chinese Republicans, a new play from Alex Lin

Coming to the Roundabout Theatre Company this winter, Chinese Republicans is a biting new satirical drama from Alex Lin, directed by Chay Yew, following three high-powered businesswomen who meet for lunch every month to discuss their latest career triumphs, as they’ve done for decades. But the group is jolted when Katie, a bright-eyed 24-year-old new to the workforce, joins to navigate the world of corporate finance. As each of the women attempts to steer Katie towards what they’re certain is best, they’re forced to grapple with how much they already have and are willing to sacrifice to climb the corporate ladder.

Tickets for Chinese Republicans on sale now!

About the Podcast

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Books and Boba
A book club podcast for books by Asian Diaspora authors