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Digging to America summary
Brief summary
Digging to America by Anne Tyler is a heartwarming novel that delves into the lives of two families who have adopted Korean babies. It explores the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the universal desire for connection.
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Digging to America
Summary of key ideas
The Struggles of Assimilation and Identity
In Digging to America, Anne Tyler takes us on a journey with two families, the Yazdans and the Donaldsons, who meet at the airport when they are both adopting Korean babies. The story revolves around the struggles of assimilation and identity faced by the immigrant Yazdans and the all-American Donaldsons.
From the very beginning, the differences between the families are apparent. The Yazdans are Iranian-Americans, who are more reserved and inclined towards their Iranian heritage. In contrast, the Donaldsons are an extroverted, traditional American family. The arrival of the babies, Jin-Ho for the Donaldsons and Susan for the Yazdans, marks the beginning of a lifelong friendship between the two families.
The Annual Arrival Party Tradition
One of the most significant traditions in Digging to America is the annual arrival party, celebrating the day the babies arrived in America. This event showcases the differences in the families' cultures. The Donaldsons throw a big, loud, and colorful party, while the Yazdans host a more solemn and quiet gathering. The contrast demonstrates the families' attitudes towards their heritage and their struggle with assimilating into American society.
As the years go by, the families continue to celebrate the arrival parties, and we witness the growth and development of the two little girls, who face their own challenges in embracing their Korean heritage while growing up in American society.
Clash of Cultures and Generations
Throughout the novel, we witness the clash of cultures and generations. The older generation, represented by Maryam, Ziba's mother, and Brad's father, Bitsy's father-in-law, struggle to adapt to the American way of life. Maryam, in particular, finds it difficult to assimilate and often feels like an outsider. In contrast, the younger generation, represented by Ziba and Bitsy, are more open to embracing American culture.
As the story progresses, we see Maryam's growing discomfort with the American way of life, and Brad's father's romantic interest in her highlights the generational and cultural differences. This subplot adds depth to the narrative, showing the internal struggles of an immigrant trying to find her place in a new society.
Embracing Differences and Finding Common Ground
Despite their differences, the families in Digging to America find common ground and learn to appreciate each other's cultures. The annual arrival parties become a symbol of their shared experiences as adoptive families and a celebration of their diverse backgrounds.
In the end, the novel highlights the importance of embracing differences and finding common ground. The Yazdans and the Donaldsons may come from different cultural backgrounds, but they share the same love and concern for their children. Their friendship and mutual respect serve as a powerful reminder that, regardless of our origins, we are all more alike than we are different.
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What is Digging to America about?
Digging to America by Anne Tyler delves into the complexities of cultural identity and belonging. When two families, one American and one Iranian, adopt baby girls from Korea, their lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. Through poignant storytelling, Tyler explores the challenges and joys of building connections across different backgrounds.
Digging to America Review
Digging to America (2006) portrays the intertwining lives of two families, one American and one Iranian, brought together by their adopted daughters. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Explores themes of cultural identity and belonging, offering a poignant reflection on what it means to be part of a community.
- Delivers a nuanced portrayal of intercultural relationships and the challenges and joys that come with bridging different worlds.
- With its multilayered characters and intricate plot, it keeps readers engaged and invested in the unfolding story, ensuring a captivating read.
Who should read Digging to America?
Readers who enjoy stories about cultural diversity and immigration
Individuals interested in exploring the complexities of identity and belonging
Those who appreciate character-driven narratives and nuanced family dynamics
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Digging to America FAQs
What is the main message of Digging to America?
The main message of Digging to America explores cultural differences and the bonds that form through unexpected connections.
How long does it take to read Digging to America?
Reading time for Digging to America varies. Our Blinkist summary offers a quick overview in minutes.
Is Digging to America a good book? Is it worth reading?
Digging to America is a nuanced portrayal of cross-cultural relationships, making it a recommended read.
Who is the author of Digging to America?
Anne Tyler is the author of Digging to America.
What to read after Digging to America?
If you're wondering what to read next after Digging to America, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller