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Curious about which books to read before your journey to Vietnam, or hoping to experience this captivating country from home? At Shanti Travel, we’ve guided travelers for over 20 years and know that the right book can bring Vietnam’s history, culture, and landscapes vividly to life. For those planning a trip or simply seeking insight, discovering the best books about Vietnam is the perfect starting point. To further inspire your literary exploration, learn more about travel to Vietnam with our Vietnam travel programs—and dive into our expertly curated book recommendations below.
We believe that every traveler, whether a history buff, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, will find something compelling within Vietnam’s rich literary landscape. Here is our selection, enriched with expert insights to help you choose the right book for your interests:
The Sorrow of War – Bao Ninh: A haunting narrative delving into the emotional aftermath of the Vietnam War from a North Vietnamese soldier's perspective. Acclaimed for its psychological realism, it provides a deeply personal look at the legacy of conflict.
The Quiet American – Graham Greene: Set in early 1950s Saigon, this classic novel explores the interplay of innocence, idealism, and political intrigue, offering a Western perspective on Vietnam with themes still relevant today.
Paradise of the Blind – Duong Thu Huong: Written by a Vietnamese author, this novel tells the story of a woman grappling with family expectations and tradition in post-war Vietnam. It’s rich in cultural references and offers insights into the shifting roles of women and evolving society.
Saigon: An Epic Novel of Vietnam – Anthony Grey: Spanning generations, this sweeping saga traces the fate of Vietnamese families through war and peace, illuminating both the beauty and tragedy of Vietnam’s recent history.
The Beauty of Humanity Movement – Camilla Gibb: Set in modern-day Hanoi, this novel interweaves the stories of locals and returnees, portraying contemporary urban life and the persistence of Vietnamese traditions. Food, art, and family resilience are at the heart of the narrative.
Mad About the Mekong – John Keay: Part historical recount, part travelogue, this book charts an adventure along the Mekong River, revealing Vietnam’s striking natural beauty and the stories tied to its waters.
Vietnam: Rising Dragon – Bill Hayton: A revealing look at contemporary Vietnam—its political evolution, economic energy, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. Essential reading for those wanting to grasp the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing society.
The Best We Could Do – Thi Bui: This graphic memoir explores the journey of a Vietnamese family immigrating to America. It’s a poignant account of the Vietnamese diaspora experience and the effects of war across generations.
A Dragon Apparent – Norman Lewis: A travel classic from the 1950s, offering observations about Indochina on the eve of momentous change. Valuable for readers interested in the echoes of colonialism and the region’s pre-war society.
At Home in the World – Thich Nhat Hanh: The celebrated Zen master shares his experiences and philosophy, providing deep spiritual insights against the backdrop of Vietnam’s landscapes and monastic tradition.
Vietnamese literature isn’t limited to stories of war. Recent years have seen exciting releases that reveal the vibrancy and complexity of modern Vietnam:
The Mountains Sing – Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai: A multigenerational family saga that highlights both the hardships of war and the enduring strength of Vietnamese culture and tradition.
Dust Child – Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai: Set between Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, this moving novel intertwines the lives of sisters and a former U.S. soldier, spotlighting urban–rural contrasts and family ties in postwar Vietnam.
Night, Again – Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai: A collection of short stories painting intimate portraits of everyday Vietnamese life, love, and resilience outside the shadow of war.
The Dragon Hunt – Trần Vũ: Through short fiction, this book reflects on the shifts in Vietnamese culture, nostalgia, and modernization from both internal and diasporic viewpoints.
For travelers who savor culture through flavor, these books will transport you straight to the bustling streets and markets:
Vietnamese Food Any Day – Andrea Nguyen: Accessible recipes and engaging cultural context make this an excellent entry for anyone aspiring to recreate Vietnamese meals at home.
The Food of Vietnam – Luke Nguyen: Blending personal stories with mouthwatering photography, this cookbook takes you on a journey through regional Vietnamese kitchens and markets.
Into the Vietnamese Kitchen – Andrea Nguyen: Praised for its thoroughness, this book explores culinary techniques and traditions that define the country’s diverse food landscape.
Vietnamese Food and Food Culture: A Life-changing Journey: A narrative exploration of street food, regional specialties, and local eating habits revealing Vietnam’s communal dining ethos.
A Very Asian Guide to Vietnamese Food – Cat Nguyen: This approachable, illustrated book introduces classic dishes and the spirit of Vietnamese eating, suitable for newcomers to the cuisine or families traveling with children.
| Reader Type | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| History & Culture Enthusiasts | The Sorrow of War, The Mountains Sing, Vietnam: Rising Dragon, Paradise of the Blind |
| Modern Life Explorers | The Beauty of Humanity Movement, Dust Child, Night, Again |
| Food Lovers | Vietnamese Food Any Day, The Food of Vietnam, Into the Vietnamese Kitchen |
| Travelers Seeking Practical Insight | Vietnam: Rising Dragon, Mad About the Mekong, Vietnamese Food and Food Culture |
| Readers of Political/Conflict Fiction | The Sympathizer (Viet Thanh Nguyen), The Quiet American, The Dragon Hunt |
Whichever book you select, remember that literature is one of the most rewarding ways to understand Vietnam’s layered identity—before, during, or after your trip. Let your reading journey complement your real-life discoveries. And if you wish for more personalized reading recommendations or travel tips, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Vietnam experts at Shanti Travel. We’re passionate about sharing authentic cultural insights, whether through the pages of a book or the paths of Vietnam itself.
Happy reading and even happier travels!
