8 Books to Read in Vietnamese before You are Alive

“The Sorrow of War” by Bảo Ninh

One of the most profound novels to come out of Vietnam, “The Sorrow of War” (Nỗi Buồn Chiến Tranh) is a must-read. The book provides a raw and unfiltered look at the Vietnam War from the perspective of a North Vietnamese soldier. Bảo Ninh, himself a veteran, writes with a level of authenticity and emotional depth that is unparalleled. The novel is not just about the physical battles but also delves into the psychological scars that war leaves behind.

Reading this book will expose you to a wide range of vocabulary related to war, emotions, and Vietnamese culture. The narrative style can be challenging, but it’s an excellent way to improve your reading comprehension and understand complex sentence structures in Vietnamese.

“Dumb Luck” by Vũ Trọng Phụng

Originally published in 1936, “Dumb Luck” (Số Đỏ) is a satirical novel that critiques the rapid Westernization of Vietnamese society during the colonial period. Vũ Trọng Phụng uses humor and irony to expose the absurdities and contradictions of this transformation. The protagonist, Red-haired Xuân, is a con artist who exploits the changing social norms to his advantage, leading to a series of hilarious and thought-provoking situations.

This book is particularly useful for language learners because it offers a glimpse into the historical context of Vietnam during the early 20th century. The satirical tone and witty dialogues will help you understand the nuances of Vietnamese humor and idiomatic expressions.

“The Tale of Kiều” by Nguyễn Du

Considered one of the greatest works of Vietnamese literature, “The Tale of Kiều” (Truyện Kiều) is an epic poem written in the early 19th century. The poem tells the tragic story of Thúy Kiều, a young woman who sacrifices herself to save her family. The narrative is rich with themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny, making it a timeless classic.

While the language in this poem is quite archaic, it provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the literary history of Vietnam. Reading “The Tale of Kiều” will not only improve your language skills but also give you a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese poetry and its cultural significance.

“Paradise of the Blind” by Dương Thu Hương

“Paradise of the Blind” (Những Thiên Đường Mù) is a novel that explores the complexities of life in Vietnam during the post-war period. The story follows a young woman named Hang, who reflects on her family’s struggles and the impact of political ideologies on their lives. Dương Thu Hương’s writing is poignant and evocative, capturing the essence of a society in transition.

This book is an excellent resource for language learners because it offers a modern perspective on Vietnamese life and culture. The descriptive language and emotional depth of the narrative will help you expand your vocabulary and improve your understanding of contemporary Vietnamese.

“When Heaven and Earth Changed Places” by Lê Ly Hayslip

This autobiographical memoir offers a harrowing yet inspirational account of Lê Ly Hayslip’s experiences during the Vietnam War. “When Heaven and Earth Changed Places” (Khi Đất Trời Đổi Chỗ) provides a unique perspective on the conflict, as seen through the eyes of a young girl who survives the atrocities of war and eventually finds a new life in America.

Reading this memoir will not only improve your language skills but also provide you with a deeper understanding of the human side of the Vietnam War. The personal narrative and vivid descriptions will help you grasp complex emotions and cultural nuances in Vietnamese.

“The Mountains Sing” by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai

“The Mountains Sing” (Những Ngọn Núi Hát) is a multigenerational family saga that spans the tumultuous history of Vietnam in the 20th century. The novel follows the Trần family through wars, political upheavals, and personal tragedies. Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai’s lyrical prose and compelling storytelling make this book a captivating read.

This novel is particularly valuable for language learners because it offers a wide range of vocabulary related to family, history, and emotions. The rich narrative and vivid characterizations will help you improve your reading comprehension and cultural understanding.

“The Book of Salt” by Monique Truong

Although written in English, “The Book of Salt” by Vietnamese-American author Monique Truong is an essential read for anyone interested in Vietnamese literature. The novel tells the story of Bình, a Vietnamese cook working for Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas in 1930s Paris. Through Bình’s eyes, we explore themes of identity, exile, and the complexities of human relationships.

Reading this book will give you a different perspective on the Vietnamese diaspora and the challenges faced by Vietnamese immigrants. The rich narrative and complex characters will help you appreciate the depth and diversity of Vietnamese literature.

“Sacred Willow: Four Generations in the Life of a Vietnamese Family” by Mai Elliott

This historical memoir traces the history of Vietnam through the lens of one family over four generations. “Sacred Willow” (Cây Liễu Thiêng) by Mai Elliott offers a detailed and personal account of Vietnam’s turbulent past, from the colonial era to the Vietnam War and beyond. The book provides a unique blend of historical context and personal anecdotes, making it an engaging read.

For language learners, this memoir offers a wealth of vocabulary related to history, family, and culture. The detailed descriptions and personal narratives will help you improve your reading comprehension and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese history.

Conclusion

Reading literature in its original language is one of the most effective ways to master a new language. Vietnamese literature offers a rich tapestry of stories, emotions, and cultural insights that can greatly enhance your language learning journey. The eight books listed above are not just essential reads for language learners but also provide a window into the soul of Vietnam. By immersing yourself in these literary works, you will not only improve your Vietnamese language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. Happy reading!