© 2025 Boise State Public Radio
NPR in Idaho
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Twin Falls Refugee's New Book Chronicles Life Of Struggle And Compassion

Frankie Barnhill
/
Boise State Public Radio
Liyah Babayan (right) with her son Dominic at Boise State Public Radio's studios

As we reflect on 2019, we're looking back at some of our best interviews, through challenging conversations and illuminating storytelling. This segment originally aired July 23, 2019. 

Thanks for being a part of Idaho Matters this year! Have a question or story idea for 2020? Email us: idahomatters@boisestate.edu

Original post: In 1992, a young girl named Liyah Babayan found herself in a strange and new place: Twin Falls, Idaho. She and her family were Armenian refugees, who were resettled by the College of Southern Idaho. Fast-forward to today, and Liyah is a business owner in downtown Twin Falls, the mother of two children and an advocate for children who have experienced war around the world. Now, she can add author to her resume. Her new memoir called "Liminal" chronicles her life in Ajerbaijan, then Armenia and then in Idaho as a refugee. Idaho Matters sat down to talk with her about her new book, which is on shelves at Rediscovered Bookshop in downtown Boise and online.

Have a question or comment for the show? Tweet @KBSX915 using #IdahoMatters

Stay Connected
Frankie Barnhill was the Senior Producer of Idaho Matters, Boise State Public Radio's daily show and podcast.

You make stories like this possible.

The biggest portion of Boise State Public Radio's funding comes from readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

Your donation today helps make our local reporting free for our entire community.