What Are The Must-Read Vietnamese Books This Year?

On my reading journey this year, 'The Gift of Rain' by Tan Twan Eng caught my attention. While it’s Malaysian, it has close ties to the Vietnamese narrative style, with elements of war and self-identity! If you venture into Vietnamese literature, ‘The Broken Earth’ trilogy by N.K. Jemisin also came to mind. It may not be Vietnamese in origin, but the themes of identity and struggle definitely resonate with Vietnamese experiences.

It's fascinating to see how different cultures tell similar stories through unique lenses. It’s this blend that keeps literature exciting and enriching!

Every year, I find myself diving into the rich world of Vietnamese literature, and this year is no exception! One title that absolutely blew me away is 'The Mountains Sing' by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai. It’s such a heartwarming and tragic tale that spans generations of a Vietnamese family against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. I loved how the narrative intertwines personal stories with historical events, creating a portrait of resilience and hope. The poetic language and vivid imagery pull you into the lives of these characters, and I often found myself reflecting on the broader implications of their struggles.

Another gem that’s grabbing attention is 'The Taste of Salt' by Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Linh. This book is perfect for anyone who appreciates food as a cultural lens! It’s a delightful exploration of how food unites people and communicates various emotions. The author’s storytelling combined with her descriptions of traditional Vietnamese dishes made me incredibly hungry while reading! It gives insight not just into the food, but also the personal stories tied to it, making me connect deeply with the characters.

For those interested in contemporary themes, ‘Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass’ by Nguyễn Nhật Ánh is a must-read. It gives a nostalgic yet fresh take on childhood and the bittersweet nature of growing up in Vietnam. The lighthearted yet profound style drew me in, and I kept reminiscing about my own childhood. It captures the innocence yet complexity of youth beautifully!

If you are into poetry, do not skip on 'Where the Land Meets the Sea' by Phan Huyền Thư. Her verses are powerful, capturing the struggles and identities of modern Vietnam, making me reflect on what home means. Each stanza feels like a soft whisper yet carries a resounding message of strength and identity that resonates beyond borders!

Lastly, ‘The Refugees’ by Nguyễn Thanh Việt has been getting a lot of buzz lately. It interweaves the stories of Vietnamese immigrants facing their pasts while carving out new lives. The way the author captures the complexities of identity and belonging is so relatable. It’s almost like a mirror reflecting various struggles we all can connect with! Reading it has made my heart feel so full, struggling with the threads of history and the future. This year has been a fantastic time for discovering Vietnamese literature!

I just finished reading 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett, and it's got me thinking about identity and family ties, especially in the context of Vietnamese culture. But a must-read if you're exploring Vietnamese authors is 'Paper Towns' by Kim Phan. It narrates the journey of self-discovery which many of us can relate to, regardless of background. I found it beautifully explores the intersection of modern life in Vietnam while still valuing traditions.

In addition, don't skip on ‘The Book of Chameleons’ by José Eduardo Agualusa. It’s a wild ride alongside vibrant characters who navigate through their stories, woven into the cultural fabric of Vietnam. Honestly, it paints such a vivid picture of a society going through changes, and I loved the unique narrative style!

One of the captivating titles I discovered this year is 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides, but if we’re talking Vietnamese talk, 'The Little House' by Kiran Desai really hit home for me. It gives a glimpse into family dynamics that feel universal! The theme of children and their role within the family resonates across cultures, especially for a Vietnamese audience. It's refreshing and thought-provoking. No regrets on picking this up!

Having dabbled in various genres, this year, my heart belongs to 'The Goldfinch' by Donna Tartt for its exploration of beauty amidst chaos. But let’s talk Vietnamese: ‘Frog’s Eye’ by Vũ Trọng Phụng is a title that’s constantly on my mind! It dives into societal contrasts with such wit. Also, ‘Nostalgia’ by Đoàn Mộc Sương really does something special by bridging past and present in a way that feels familiar but exciting. It’s captivating, giving readers an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and connections, weaving through the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture.