What's Happening?
Morgan Radford, a journalist known for her work with NBC News, is delving into her family's roots through her debut novel, 'Now Then.' The novel follows Lily, an 18-year-old freshman at Harvard University,
who navigates her identity amidst her Cuban immigrant mother and Black American father. Radford's exploration is inspired by her great-grandparents' migration from Jamaica and Cuba to the U.S., a journey marked by courage and the search for belonging. Through fiction, Radford aims to uncover the nuances of her family's history, which traditional reporting could not fully capture.
Why It's Important?
Radford's novel highlights the broader theme of migration and identity, resonating with many Americans who trace their roots to immigrant ancestors. It underscores the complexities of racial history and the quest for belonging, offering a narrative that may foster understanding and empathy. By blending fiction with historical elements, Radford provides a platform for discussing the immigrant experience, potentially influencing public discourse on immigration and cultural identity in the U.S.
