American Lives

As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, American writers continue to grapple with what it means to tell the story of a nation.

Women's Prize-winner Tayari Jones is joined by fellow novelist Jay McInerney to reflect on how their characters and narratives explore American ideas of belonging, identity and memory.

Jones discusses 'Kin', her novel of friendship and survival in the American South; McInerney brings 'See You on the Other Side', a sharp reckoning with marriage, mortality and social change.