Author Tom Lin Explores Astonishment in ‘Babylon, South Dakota’ at Portland Book Festival
Author Tom Lin discussed his novel 'Babylon, South Dakota' at the Portland Book Festival, describing it as a work about astonishment.

Portland, OR, November 2, 2026 — Author Tom Lin recently appeared at the Portland Book Festival, where he discussed his novel, ‘Babylon, South Dakota.’ During his participation, Lin characterized the work as a piece centered on the theme of astonishment.
The Portland Book Festival is an annual event that brings together authors, readers, and publishers to celebrate literature and foster community engagement. It typically features a wide range of authors discussing their latest works, participating in panel discussions, and engaging with attendees. The specific details of Lin’s discussion, including the exact date of his appearance or the length of his presentation, were not provided.
‘Babylon, South Dakota,’ as described by Lin, aims to explore the concept of astonishment. Astonishment, in a literary context, can refer to a state of wonder, surprise, or amazement, often evoked by profound experiences, unexpected discoveries, or challenging realities. Authors use this theme to engage readers with narratives that provoke strong emotional and intellectual responses.
Lin’s novel delves into this central idea, inviting readers to consider its various manifestations. The specific plot points, characters, or settings within ‘Babylon, South Dakota’ that contribute to this theme of astonishment were not detailed in the information provided. The novel’s exploration of astonishment may encompass a spectrum of human experiences, from everyday surprises to life-altering revelations.
Further details regarding the context of Lin’s remarks, such as whether he was part of a panel, giving a solo presentation, or engaging in a Q&A session, were not specified. The Portland Book Festival serves as a significant platform for authors to share their literary visions and connect with the reading public, providing an opportunity for discussions like the one held by Tom Lin to reach a broader audience interested in contemporary literature and its thematic explorations. The author’s characterization of his book as a work about astonishment suggests a narrative designed to provoke deep reflection and a sense of wonder in its readers.
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