How Art Keeps History Alive: Thao Thai on The Seekers of Deer Creek (E233)
Today's episode features Thao Thai, bestselling author of Banyan Moon. She joins us to discuss her latest novel, The Seekers of Deer Creek, a captivating story of two estranged sisters whose search for a lost painting uncovers long-buried family secrets stretching across generations and continents.
In our conversation, we explore the many ways art preserves history and memory, the fascinating world of art conservation, and what it truly means to be an artist. Thao shares how her travels inspired the settings in the novel, why creativity is essential even in the busiest seasons of life, and how motherhood has shaped her writing. We also discuss the joy of reading physical books, the importance of making space for creativity, and why everyone has an inner artist waiting to be discovered.
Episode Highlights
The inspiration behind The Seekers of Deer Creek
Why art is one of history's greatest storytellers
The unseen work of preserving paintings and cultural artifacts
Vietnamese identity and artistic legacy
Balancing motherhood and a creative career
The value of reading physical books
Why everyone should embrace their inner artist
Thao's book flight includes books about art and artists
Connect with Thao:
Some links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
All the Beauty in the World by Patrick Bringley
Sula by Toni Morrison
Clutch by Emily Nemens
Book Flight
Almost Life by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress
Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez
Be sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening!
