In 'Afterparties,' Anthony Veasna So crafts a tapestry of narratives that explore the Cambodian-American experience with a blend of humor and heart. Through each story, readers get a glimpse into the lives shaped by the Khmer Rouge's shadow, depicting a community's struggle with identity, sexuality, and the complexities of life as refugees' offspring. From nostalgia-driven confrontations, such as a former badminton champion's quest for victory, to raw moments of transformation, like a tech entrepreneur's venture into romance, these tales present characters wrestling with their past and forging paths of resilience. The collection culminates in a poignant tale where a child learns of his mother's traumatic encounter with a school shooter, reflecting the enduring scars and indefatigable spirit of the community.