About this Event
Join novelist Sarah Wang, author of the novel New Skin, for a free one-day writing workshop on “Reimagining the Asian American Immigrant Narrative” at the Chatham Square branch of the New York Public Library.
How can we develop narrative strategies when writing immigrant stories and characters, particularly in regard to Asian Americans? This generative workshop will discuss approaches to crafting immigrant stories across fiction and nonfiction, as well as how we can move past limiting tropes such as the model minority stereotype and achieving the American dream. Wang’s novel New Skin, which Maggie Nelson describes as “mirthfully and mercilessly abject,” explores such approaches through writing characters who dare to dream beyond meritocracy and belonging, offering a different perspective on the immigrant story.
Attendees will participate in dialogue about their own histories, experiences, and identities during the workshop to foster collaboration and exchange ideas. No writing experience necessary; all levels of participation are welcome. Bring a pen and paper or laptop to write with.
Sarah Wang’s New Skin (Little Brown, 2026), which was named a best book by Apple Books, a favorite by NPR, a most anticipated book by Publisher’s Weekly, and was featured in the Los Angeles Times, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, People, Dazed, and Bloomberg. She has written for The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and the London Review of Books. Wang was a finalist for a Nelson Algren Prize, and the winner of a Barbara Deming Award. She teaches creative writing at Barnard College.
This workshop is open to all Asian American writers and is supported by White Rabbit Trust, Kundiman, Welcome to Chinatown, and Yu & Me Books. Free beverages from Sanzo will be provided.
Registration is limited to 60 participants. Photography may occur during the event.
Event venue & nearby stays
New York Public Library, Chatham Square branch, 33 East Broadway, New York, United States
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