Summary: <p>DINAW MENGESTU ON THE AFRICAN IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCE: As a young Ethiopian immigrant to Peoria, Ill., Dinaw Mengestu immersed himself in life as an American in the heartland. But as he grew up, doubts and confusion about his identity drew Mengestu back to the culture and turbulent history his parents left behind. Now an acclaimed writer and 2012 recipient of the MacArthur "genius" grant, Mengestu has found his voice capturing the conflicting experiences of the African diaspora in America. He joins Kojo to discuss his work and writing. (52 min.)</p>
