Book excerpt: “American Hagwon” by Min Jin Lee

November 13, 2026 / 2:06 PM EST / CBS News

We may receive an affiliate commission from anything you buy from this article.

Min Jin Lee's 2017 novel "Pachinko" was a National Book Award finalist about four generations of a Korean family that had emigrated to Japan. She returns with her third novel, "American Hagwon" (published by Cardinal), about Korean immigrants emphasizing education to best prepare their children's future in America.

Read an excerpt below, and don't miss Jo Ling Kent's interview with Min Jin Lee on "CBS Sunday Morning" November 15!

Prefer to listen? Audible has a 30-day free trial available right now.

Tom and Clara observed that Mido had hardly made a sound.

The boys stared meaningfully at their sister, feeling protective yet recognizing that this interview mattered. Earlier that week, Helen had prepared them for this. They wore their Sunday clothes.

"It's okay to be shy," Tom said, and smiled at her.

Mido held her breath. They were watching her, and she swallowed.

"I'd like to study with Yun here. I know I have a lot to learn in Korea." Mido took a breath. "I'm a hard worker. I promise to do all my Eagle hagwon homework.

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/