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What Members Thought

This was a little slow at times, but an interesting window into the aftermath of the Vietnam War for one man. The narrator’s tone keeps you at arms length throughout; I think it worked well in this case. A worthwhile read, but one you’ll want to talk about. I hope I can remember it by the time book club rolls around!

I really crammed this book in for book club and sometimes I wish I had taken a little more time to read it (although I know I can come back). The writing is beautiful and the story is complex and makes us think a lot about the role of America in the war. One thing that it points out well is how we have left the Vietnamese out of our telling of the Vietnam War.

I really enjoyed this book! Not only did I learn a lot about the fall of Saigon and the refugee experience in the US, I also got a glimpse into the City of Los Angeles during that time period. It was so interesting to learn more of the history of this place I’ve called home for the past 13 years.
(2016 Pulitzer Prize)
(2016 Pulitzer Prize)

this was occasionally a very slow read, but i think it'll be even more interesting the second time around. highly recommended to be read alongside "she weeps each time you're born."
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Jan 23, 2016
Molly
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Aug 29, 2016
Amy
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Dec 03, 2016
Maggie
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Jan 14, 2017
elkemichele
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Apr 02, 2017
Grace
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May 04, 2017
Jenny
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Aug 13, 2017
Emilie
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Mar 07, 2018
Michelle Marie
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Apr 17, 2019
Elizabeth
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Jun 05, 2020
Shannon
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