Kao Kalia Yang

Writer Kao Kalia Yang reflects on her friendship with an older couple who has guided her life – and her career.

‘In my closet, I have a shirt that once belonged to my grandmother… When I’m an old woman, I should like to wear it.’

I live in the music of your words creating a world in which lives like yours and mine are possible.

Thirty years ago, the record-setting storm was one of the most incredible natural experiences of one Minnesotan’s life.

In memory of the homes that have taught me about survival, how to be a family, and how to ride the winds of hope.

For the first time in my life, I stand unprotected by the towering figures of my brothers.

My dreams were built on the foundations of my grandmother’s life. They were not her dreams for herself but for us.

Friends are instrumental to your journey. Even if they aren’t perfect or don’t behave the way others’ do.

Like you, I was afraid of how I would sound in English to the people who were born speaking the language.

Here in this country, you have to learn how to do things the way other people do, to survive.