In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe celebrates Asian Heritage Month by spotlighting the global impact of Asian voices in storytelling. Joined by bestselling authors Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh, the conversation explores how heritage, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we read and why those stories resonate far beyond any one place or perspective.

From the influence of cultural traditions to the responsibility of telling stories rooted in personal and collective history, Lisa and Zoulfa share how their backgrounds inform their writing and connect with readers around the world. This episode highlights the power of global storytelling, the importance of representation in literature, and the way deeply personal narratives can feel universal.

If you’re looking to celebrate Asian Heritage Month through books, discover globally resonant stories, or better understand how culture shapes the stories that stay with us, this conversation is a meaningful place to start.

Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!

Who’s in this episode:

Lisa See - Website
Daughters of the Sun and Moon – coming June 9, 2026
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women

Zoulfa Katouh - Website
The Ocean Would Paint Me Blue - coming June 2, 2026
As Long as the Lemon Tree Grows

Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title
00:00:23 Intro
00:00:57 Welcome to Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh
00:02:22 A conversation on Asian heritage, culture and the impact on writing
00:23:41 Being Authentic and Intentional
00:29:02 Lisa See reflects on conversations about racism with her father
00:40:47 What does home mean to you in your work?
00:47:07 What do you hope readers take with you from your work?
00:51:51 Thank you and outro

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!

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We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!

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