Here I Go, Torching

Here I Go, Torching encompasses everyday narratives of loves, losses and ailments, documenting "American girlhood" and ultimately redefining it. In these poems, Carlina Duan questions: What, and who, is an "American girl"? Who is allowed access to "American girlhood"? What happens when the girl comes from a bilingual family of Chinese immigrants, living in the Midwest? These poems include narratives of new feminism, heritage, rage, joy-a collection that reflects coming of age in the 21st century as a Chinese-American girl, sister, daughter, citizen. Here I Go, Torching is the 2015 winner of the National Federation of State Poetry Societies Edna Meudt Award.