Bich Minh Nguyen

Writer
Questions and Answers

FAQ

Q: Who is Bich Minh Nguyen?
A: Bich Minh Nguyen is an author and professor. She is best known for her novel "Pioneer Girl," which was named a best book of the year by The Washington Post, The Kansas City Star, and Salon. She is currently a professor of English and Creative Writing at the University of San Francisco.
Q: What is "Pioneer Girl" about?
A: "Pioneer Girl" is a novel that explores themes of identity and cultural heritage. It tells the story of a Vietnamese-American woman named Lee Lien, who embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her family's ties to Laura Ingalls Wilder, the author of the "Little House on the Prairie" books. Through her search, Lee Lien explores her own personal history and what it means to be a pioneer.
Q: Has Bich Minh Nguyen received any awards?
A: Yes, Bich Minh Nguyen has received several awards for her writing. Her debut novel "Short Girls" won the PEN/Jerard Award, and she has also received an American Book Award for her work. In addition, she has been recognized as a Fulbright Scholar and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the American Institute of Indian Studies.
Q: What is Bich Minh Nguyen's academic background?
A: Bich Minh Nguyen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan. She has also completed a Ph.D. in English and American Literature from the University of Pennsylvania.
Q: What other books has Bich Minh Nguyen written?
A: In addition to "Pioneer Girl" and "Short Girls," Bich Minh Nguyen has written a nonfiction memoir titled "Stealing Buddha's Dinner." This memoir explores her experiences growing up as a Vietnamese immigrant in the Midwest and the intersection of food, culture, and identity.