Do not say we have nothing

This powerful memoir spans three generations of women in China, offering an intimate and harrowing look at the country's turbulent 20th-century history, including the Cultural Revolution. Fans of Thien's deep dive into Chinese political and social upheaval, and the resilience of individuals caught within it, will find this a profoundly moving and informative read.

Like 'Do not say we have nothing,' 'Pachinko' is an epic, multi-generational saga that explores themes of identity, diaspora, and resilience against a backdrop of significant historical and political challenges. Readers will appreciate the intricate family dynamics and the poignant portrayal of characters striving for dignity and belonging amidst discrimination.

This sweeping family saga blends historical realism with magical realism to tell the story of the Trueba family across several generations in an unnamed Latin American country undergoing political upheaval. Its lyrical prose, multi-generational scope, and exploration of love, loss, and political resistance will resonate strongly with Thien's readers.

Tracing the descendants of two half-sisters in Ghana through centuries of history, 'Homegoing' is a powerful exploration of the legacy of slavery, colonialism, and the enduring impact of the past on individual lives. Its ambitious scope, historical depth, and emotional resonance will appeal to those who appreciate Thien's intricate narrative structure and thematic richness.

Set in a small Chinese city shortly after the Tiananmen Square massacre, 'The Vagrants' delves into the lives of various characters grappling with political oppression, moral dilemmas, and the search for meaning. Its unflinching portrayal of post-Tiananmen China and its focus on individual struggles within a repressive regime align closely with the themes in Thien's work.

A classic of Chinese historical fiction, this novel follows the life of a Chinese farmer and his family through decades of hardship, war, and social change. Its focus on resilience, the cyclical nature of life, and the deep connection to land and family will appeal to readers who appreciate the historical sweep and emotional depth of Thien's narrative.

This novel explores the complex relationships between four Chinese immigrant mothers and their American-born daughters, weaving together stories of memory, cultural clash, and family secrets. Readers who enjoyed the multi-generational perspective and the exploration of Chinese identity and diaspora in Thien's book will find similar resonance here.

This monumental novel offers a panoramic view of post-partition India, following four families through a complex web of relationships, political machinations, and social customs. While set in a different country, its epic scope, intricate character development, and deep dive into a specific historical period will captivate readers who enjoyed Thien's detailed historical backdrop.

Set in a remote Turkish city during a snowstorm, this novel explores the clash between secularism and religious fundamentalism, art, love, and political intrigue. Its intellectual depth, atmospheric setting, and examination of individual agency within a politically charged environment will appeal to readers drawn to the philosophical and political undercurrents of Thien's work.

This novel delves into the lives of twin sisters, one who passes for white and one who remains in her Black community, exploring themes of identity, race, family secrets, and the long-term impact of choices across generations. While set in America, its intricate character studies and exploration of identity and family secrets resonate with the emotional depth and complexity of Thien's storytelling.