Sarah Thankam Mathews

Mathews reflects on the intersections of identity and community through narratives that resonate with readers navigating similar complexities. In her debut novel, "All This Could Be Different," Mathews crafts a poignant tale centered on a South Asian queer protagonist in Milwaukee during the challenging times of the Great Recession and the Obama presidency. The novel's thematic exploration of love, friendship, and career challenges highlights her focus on immigrant journeys and forging a sense of belonging in unfamiliar environments. Mathews' background, growing up between Oman and India and later immigrating to the United States, infuses her work with authentic insights into the immigrant experience, lending her prose a rich, nuanced perspective.\n\nBeyond her literary contributions, Mathews has engaged in impactful community organizing, notably founding the mutual aid collective Bed-Stuy Strong. Her activism in areas such as climate, immigration, and mutual aid complements her literary themes of community and collective resilience. As a Rona Jaffe Fellow at the Iowa Writers Workshop, and currently a visiting professor there, she continues to shape new voices in literature. Her work has received critical acclaim, including a nomination for the 2022 National Book Award for Fiction, demonstrating her ability to connect deeply with audiences and critics alike. This bio underscores Mathews' commitment to both storytelling and social change, making her an influential figure for those interested in the intersections of narrative and community activism.