Deborah Jiang-Stein's debut collection of short stories explores the lives of people who are often overlooked. From flower street vendors to families torn apart by ambition, to a woman on death row awaiting redemption amidst a tumult of memories, Jiang-Stein vividly depicts their struggles. Each story is set in various cities where she has lived: Seattle, Minneapolis, and Tokyo. While these settings differ, they share a common indifference toward human suffering.
In "Lucky Tomorrow," each vignette offers a glimpse into harsh realities that are often difficult to confront, yet are grounded in the lived experiences of those frequently unseen and cast aside. The stories convey powerful themes of longing and fleeting hopes for fresh starts that may never arrive. Although the themes are specific to the characters, they resonate with the universal human experience.
As an activist and advocate, Jiang-Stein has made a significant impact through her extensive work with women in prison. Her personal journey, starting at the age of 12 when she learned that she was born in prison, has led her to a lifetime of advocacy for those on the margins. Through the narratives of Felma and Esther Levin, a reader might detect a little-disguised attempt by the author to place herself in the stories, adding a layer of intimacy and understanding to her work.
Unhoused people, women in prison, children in foster care: these are not just characters but people we can relate to, doing their best in seemingly hopeless situations. Jiang-Stein's storytelling skill allows her to dive deeply into the flaws and foibles of the human condition, contrasting countless betrayals and failures with optimism and trust.
Jiang-Stein's skillful use of place-making and emotional tone allows her to craft a compelling narrative that quickly draws readers in. Despite discomfort and unease, she encourages us to not look away from misery. To witness hardship and empathize with the agony of needs unmet is the start of a newfound resolve toward action, with open eyes and broken hearts.
