Award-winning author Sid Balman Jr. discusses his "Seventh Flag" trilogy and latest release, "Murmuration," a harrowing and timely new novel that explores Somali diaspora, immigration, white supremacy, Islamic radicalization and mixed marriages and faiths –– all topics that are part of the national conversation about what it means to be an American in the 21st century. Sid drew on his personal experiences in Somalia and visiting Somali immigrant communities in the U.S. to create the main character Charlie Christmas –– a Somali interpreter, whose journey from his homeland torn by famine and war to a new home in the U.S. is both a tale of spiritual evolution and physical struggle.

Along with being an award-winning author, Sid is a Pulitzer-nominated war and national security correspondent, and Writer in Residence at Sul Ross State University. More at https://www.sidbalman.com/