Suki Kim’s debut novel, The Interpreter, delves into the complexities of identity and familial obligations through the life of Suzy Park, a Korean American interpreter drowning in emotional detachment. Just days before her thirtieth birthday in November 2000, Suzy stumbles upon shocking revelations about her parents' unsolved murder in their Bronx grocery store five years prior. This discovery propels her on an introspective journey to uncover the truth behind their deaths.

The Interpreter's World

At the book’s outset, Suzy is employed as a court interpreter, translating for first-generation Korean immigrants embroiled in the legal system. Suzy's job intricately connects her to the tight-knit Korean community in New York City, a world her parents had once been part of through their grocery business. Her work inadvertently brings to light prejudices and secrets that haunt her past.

A Bitter Revelation

In a strikingly ironic scene, Suzy learns that a man she is interpreting for, Mr. Lee, not only knew her parents but harbored disdain towards them, unaware she is their daughter. As detectives question Mr. Lee about employing illegal immigrants, Suzy cleverly manipulates the dialogue to uncover more about his animosity towards her parents. She discovers troubling truths about their ruthless business dealings, which included exploiting and dismissing employees without pay.

Family Ties and Burdens

Suzy’s investigation stirs a desire to reconnect with her estranged sister, Grace. The novel paints a poignant picture of their isolated upbringing. Grace, burdened by the knowledge of their parents’ unethical practices, had always kept Suzy at arm’s length, even during childhood. Her retreat into solitude is symbolized by her refusal of Suzy’s childhood gift—a book—asserting her independence.

Paths of Redemption

Grace’s life, seemingly stable through her career as a teacher, is not as it appears; she mysteriously disappears, leaving Suzy in turmoil. Grace had been forced to bear witness to their parents’ moral failings, including dealings with immigration officials. Her spiritual journey involved frequent visits to Montauk Lighthouse, a place of remembrance and mourning for both sisters.

The Quest for Justice

Suzy uncovers that Kim Young Su, the person her parents wronged, also had a connection to their murder. His wife's suicide, thirteen years earlier, is tied to the Parks’ betrayal. Through her investigation, Suzy realizes Grace was on a mission to confront their parents' killers, which potentially involved a shadowy figure, Mr. Lim.

Language and Power

The Interpreter is more than a murder mystery; it delves into the nuances of language and interpretation. Suzy reflects on the power dynamics inherent in language, recognizing her unique ability to discern truth among the chaos. Her insights often surpass those of judges and juries, highlighting her acute understanding of unspoken meanings.

Cultural Duality

Suzy navigates the tension between her Korean heritage and American life, mirroring themes explored in Chang-rae Lee’s Native Speaker. As a Korean-born, American-raised individual, Suzy is torn between her allegiance to the justice system and her cultural community. This inner conflict is exemplified by her father’s dubious integrity, akin to the character of John Kwang in Lee’s work.

Personal Struggles

Suzy’s emotional detachment is rooted in her tumultuous past, including a sensational scandal during her college years. Her relationship with Damian Brisco, a much older professor, only deepened her isolation. Damian’s inability to provide the love and comfort she sought left her feeling adrift.

Estrangement and Renewal

Suzy’s fallout with her father following the scandal was severe, severing family ties and exacerbating her alienation from Grace. The shock of her parents’ execution-style murder catalyzed her departure from Damian and further distanced her from her sister. Their relationship remained strained, with minimal contact after...