MLF26: The Observer Book Club with Min Jin Lee

Acclaimed Korean American author Min Jin Lee, internationally celebrated for the bestselling Pachinko, discusses her long-awaited new novel, American Hagwon.  

Spanning decades and continents, this sweeping contemporary epic follows three generations of one family as they navigate migration, identity, sacrifice and the enduring pursuit of a better life. 

Beginning in South Korea before moving through Australia and the United States, American Hagwon is a panoramic novel of profound emotional richness, exploring the bonds of family, the transformative power of education and the choices we make for those we love.  

One of today’s most acclaimed and insightful novelists, Min will reflect on her exploration of family and diaspora and the themes that have captivated readers since Pachinko.  

‘A profoundly generous and humane novel about duty, family and the dream of a better life … I was fully absorbed by the fates of the Koh family … Masterful’ Douglas Stuart 

‘An absolutely propulsive read. If your faith in either humanity or storytelling has dimmed, American Hagwon will make it blaze again’ Kamila Shamsie 

A Manchester Literature Festival event co-presented with the Centre for New Writing and Creative Manchester. 

Min Jin Lee is the author of the internationally bestselling novels Free Food for Millionaires and Pachinko. Pachinko was selected as one of the New York Times ‘100 Best Books of the Century.’ She is the New York State Author Laureate (2025 – 2027), recognised for her outstanding contribution to contemporary literature. 

This event will be recorded for The Observer Book Club podcast, hosted by the Observer’s Literary Editor, Tom Gatti. The Observer Book Club brings to life great stories, ideas and debate. You can listen in your preferred podcast app.