Tracing the Creation of "The Gangster We Are All Looking For"

In this multimedia presentation, acclaimed performance artist and author, lê thị diễm thúy, will share the story of how she wrote her book, The Gangster We Are All Looking For. This lyrical autobiographical novel tells the coming-of-age of a Vietnamese refugee growing up in post-Vietnam War California as she navigates grief and the changes within her family, affected by loss, war, identity and economic instability. Join us as thúy recounts her writing journey and encourages readers to tap into their own creativity and stories. This event is part of Queensborough Community College’s (QCC) 2025 Welcome Read, a faculty-driven, community-building experience for first year QCC students taking English classes, in both non-credit programs and credited courses. This program is organized by QCC’s English department and made possible through funding from the Harriet & Kenneth Kupferberg Holocaust Center.

**To attend in person: The event is free and open to all, but registration ahead of time is required and visitors must show ID upon entering the campus at Queensborough Community College (QCC). For directions to QCC’s campus, please visit https://www.qcc.cuny.edu/about/index.html#gettingHere.

Please note this event is being held at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center and not at the KHC. For a campus map, please visit: https://www.qcc.cuny.edu/map/index.html

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Avenue, Queens, United States