Imagine an entire day unfolding within the vibrant, yet often overlooked, world of a nail salon. That's the captivating premise of 'Pick a Color,' a novel that dares to explore the depths of human experience in a seemingly ordinary setting. Written by Souvankham Thammavongsa, this debut novel introduces us to Ning, the manager of a unique salon where every employee wears a nametag bearing the same name: Susan. But here's where it gets intriguing: Ning isn't just any manager; she's a former prizefighter, a detail that adds a layer of complexity to her character and the story's dynamics.
Set over the course of a single day, 'Pick a Color' delves into the lives of those who work and visit the salon, blending humor, introspection, and sharp observations. Thammavongsa, known for her poetry and short stories, draws from her own experiences as a salon customer, infusing the narrative with authenticity and nuance. And this is the part most people miss: the novel subtly explores the distinction between knowledge and intelligence, challenging readers to reflect on what truly defines wisdom.
In a recent NPR episode, Thammavongsa sits down with Scott Simon to discuss Ning's backstory, the inspiration behind the salon's peculiar naming convention, and the deeper themes woven into the story. Their conversation is both enlightening and thought-provoking, offering a glimpse into the author's creative process and her keen eye for the extraordinary in the everyday.
But here's the controversial part: Is a nail salon—a place often associated with superficiality—the right setting to explore profound themes like identity, struggle, and resilience? Thammavongsa seems to think so, and her novel makes a compelling case. Yet, it raises the question: Can we truly find depth in the mundane, or is this just a literary stretch?
To dive deeper into this conversation, you can listen to the full NPR episode here or embedded below. And if you're eager to support NPR's book coverage while enjoying sponsor-free content, consider signing up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookoftheday.
Published by Little, Brown and Company, 'Pick a Color' is more than just a novel—it's an invitation to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. So, what do you think? Can a nail salon be the backdrop for a profound exploration of life's complexities, or is this setting too unconventional for such themes? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
