6 Books To Read Before Visiting Vietnam

One of the things I love to do before traveling to a new place is to read as much as possible about the location. I love books. Novels. History. Politics. Memoirs. They can all offer us a glimpse into a country's culture, landscapes, and history.

There are numerous books available (especially those about Vietnam). Some are better than others. I have tried to narrow down my favorite books about Vietnam, which I hope will give you an overview of the country and its people.

Here are 6 books that I recommend reading before visiting Vietnam.

6 Books To Read Before Visiting Vietnam

THE VIETNAM WAR

By Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken Burns

This first book choice also comes in the form of a documentary series. I have watched the series, and it is a very detailed description of the Vietnam War (the Vietnamese call it the American War). It isn't an easy series to watch, but it is necessary if you want to understand this period in Vietnam.

CATFISH AND MANDELA

By Andrew X Pham

This is a wonderful travel memoir by Andrew X. Pham. Andrew is the son of Vietnamese parents who suffered terribly during the Vietnam War and brought their family to America when he was 10. It is the story of his journey back through Vietnam years later.

The author has written other books about Vietnam. Visit his website at www.andrewxpham.com to learn more about his entire book collection.

THE MOUNTAINS SING

By Nguyen Phan Que Mai

I couldn't put this book down. The Mountains Sing is a historical fiction. Spanning several generations of the same family, the story alternates between two storylines.

Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai's sweeping tale proves on every page that despite wartime tragedies and numbing ugliness, the human desire to forgive and thrive soars as high as the mountains.

A beautifully written book.

THE QUIET AMERICAN

By Graham Greene

This story is a classic novel. It was written in 1956 and adapted to film twice. It is a story set during the French colonial rule of Vietnam. It's a love story for the ages.

The film adaptation of The Quiet American by Graham Greene.

THE SORROW OF WAR

By Bao Ninh

Bao Ninh, a former North Vietnamese soldier, wrote this book. It is an honest and often heart-wrenching account of how the Vietnam War forever changed his life, country, and the people who live there. It was a favorite of mine.

The Women

By Kristin Hannah

The Women is the story of one woman who goes to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country have too often been forgotten. This is a beautiful novel.

If you want to go deeper into Vietnam's war history, check out my blog post on War Museums.

I wish you the best should you travel to the beautiful country of Vietnam.

XOXO

Marla