Thierry Van Landegem

American Yet? Thierry Van Landegem

In "American Yet?" Thierry recounts how family, friends and colleagues think he acts more and more American, while he doesn't really feel like an American. At the same time he finds himself less and less Belgian. And that whilst his children think and live like real Americans. In 2008, Thierry, his wife Anna, their four children and dog departed for the USA, close to New York City. What originally was intended for a few years now is long term. He recounts the hurdles and the hoorah moments, how he got to learn Americans through his kids, the office, at parties, or simply when shopping. But also through the many trips that immersed him in the America of yesterday, of today and of tomorrow to better understand the norms and values of Americans. This is the story why Thierry stays charmed by the country where everybody seems to be friendly, where customer service is a world of difference, where food portions are super sized and where everybody is an optimist. This is also the story why his children became more independent and social, where graduating is a huge celebration, and where everybody from young to old is encouraged because everything is possible.