“White Ivy” Author Susie Yang’s “Thank You, I’m Sorry” Is a Complex Eldest Daughter Story — See the Cover (Exclusive)

Bestselling author Susie Yang is set to release her latest novel, *Thank You, I’m Sorry*, next summer, which delves into the intricacies of love and familial bonds experienced by first-generation immigrants. The cover of the novel was exclusively revealed by PEOPLE, offering a glimpse into the poignant narrative that Yang has crafted.

The story revolves around Hope, a daughter of Chinese immigrants, who finds herself thrust into the role of caretaker at an early age. Following her mother’s departure and their father’s unreliability, Hope takes responsibility for her twin siblings, an experience that shapes her identity and relationships throughout her life. As she matures, the weight of her childhood burdens lingers, and she grapples with her aspirations for independence alongside her obligations to family.

Hope plans to leave her husband, Ralph, and start anew in New York City, but her intentions are complicated by a sudden health crisis affecting her sister, Faye. The unexpected turn of events forces Hope to bring Faye into her home, making her confront the patterns of her past while she considers the direction of her future.

Yang, famous for her previous work *White Ivy*, draws upon her own upbringing when crafting the experiences of her characters. She reflects on her childhood marked by her parents’ long commutes for work and education, often leaving her and her brother to navigate their early lives largely independently. This perspective resonates throughout the novel, as Yang explores the realities faced by immigrant children who are often left to fend for themselves.

“I aimed to capture the intensity of that childhood experience,” Yang says. “I wanted to uncover how such an upbringing influences sibling dynamics over time and the complex feelings it generates towards parents who were frequently absent during formative years.” Her narrative questions how these experiences shape one’s ability to forge lasting connections with romantic partners and the nuances of intimacy.

Originally, Yang perceived the story to dwell in tragedy, focusing on the toxicity of some “well-intentioned relationships” within families. However, as she delved deeper into the narrative, it evolved into a story filled with hope, forgiveness, and the potential for reconciliation among family members. The journey of the Yu family ultimately transformed into a celebration of love in its many forms.

As Yang puts it, her aim is for readers to engage with the multifaceted portrayals of love and the complexities that come with familial relationships. “What emerged from the writing process was a narrative that unveiled gratitude, tenderness, and faith, despite the shadows of the past,” she shares.

*Thank You, I’m Sorry* is scheduled for publication on 8 June 2027, and it is currently available for preorder. Yang’s reflection on her characters and their struggles is expected to resonate with many readers, particularly those who understand the nuances of immigrant experiences and the sacrifices entwined with familial love.

The novel promises to weave a tapestry of emotion and connection while inviting readers to reflect on the intricate web of relationships that define their own lives. With its vibrant storytelling and compelling character development, Yang hopes her latest offering will strike a chord with those navigating their own complicated familial ties.