One-line summary:

“The Mountains Sing” is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the resilience and strength of a Vietnamese family as they navigate through decades of war and hardship.

The story of a resilient family:

“The Mountains Sing” by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous history of Vietnam. Set against the backdrop of war and political upheaval, the story follows the lives of multiple generations of the Trần family, revealing their struggles, sacrifices, and unwavering spirit.

The novel begins in 1972 during the Vietnam War, as Hương, a young girl, and her grandmother, Diệu Lan, flee their village in the face of imminent danger. As they embark on a treacherous journey to find safety, the narrative seamlessly weaves between the past and present, providing a comprehensive understanding of the family’s history.

Through vivid and evocative storytelling, Quế Mai delves into the lives of Hương’s ancestors, chronicling their experiences during the French colonial period, the Japanese occupation, and the Vietnam War. From the hardships endured by Hương’s great-grandmother, Loan, as she fights for her family’s survival during the famine of 1945, to the bravery of Hương’s mother, Linh, as she joins the Viet Cong, each character’s story adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

A testament to resilience:

“The Mountains Sing” is a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people, who have endured unimaginable hardships throughout their history. Quế Mai skillfully portrays the indomitable spirit of the Trần family, highlighting their unwavering determination to protect their loved ones and preserve their cultural heritage.

The novel also explores the profound impact of war on individuals and communities. It vividly depicts the horrors of conflict, the loss of loved ones, and the lasting scars left on survivors. However, amidst the darkness, Quế Mai also emphasizes the power of hope, love, and the human capacity for resilience.

A tale of love, loss, and the power of storytelling:

At its core, “The Mountains Sing” is a deeply moving exploration of the power of storytelling. Throughout the novel, the characters find solace and strength in sharing their stories, passing down their history from one generation to the next. Through their narratives, they preserve their culture, honor their ancestors, and find a sense of identity and belonging.

Quế Mai’s prose is lyrical and poetic, painting a vivid picture of the Vietnamese landscape and immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the story. The author’s own experiences growing up in Vietnam and her extensive research shine through, lending authenticity and depth to the narrative.

In conclusion, “The Mountains Sing” is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that explores the enduring power of family, the impact of war, and the importance of storytelling. Quế Mai’s compelling characters and richly detailed storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and culture.

• The resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people in the face of war and hardship.
• The profound impact of conflict on individuals and communities.
• The power of storytelling in preserving culture and identity.

“We are like the ocean waves that flow back and forth, sometimes gentle, sometimes tempestuous. We are like the wind that moves freely, sometimes calm, sometimes fierce.”