Why read Ru?

Book cover of Ru

Book description

Ru: In Vietnamese it means lullaby; in French it is a small stream, but also signifies a flow - of tears, blood, money. Kim Thuy's Ru is literature at its most crystalline: the flow of a life on the tides of unrest and on to more peaceful waters. In vignettes…

Explore

Topics

Genres

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Ru as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Gina Roitman

Author

This is a masterpiece of storytelling that paints scenes with a featherlight touch.

With an economy of words I greatly admire, Kim Thúy’s semi-autobiography reveals a rich story about a young girl’s escape from war-torn Vietnam. Ru explores the hardships of being a refugee, one who must grapple with finding her identity in a foreign culture.

I love the lyricism and Thúy's ability to conjure a scene through small, haunting vignettes.

From Gina's list on The best books about the immigrant experience and its aftermath.

Christina Vo

Author

This lyrical and poignant memoir chronicles Kim Thúy's journey from Vietnam to Quebec as a refugee. The book's fragmented narrative mirrors the process of piecing together memories and identities.

I was particularly moved by the author's ability to convey profound emotions with simplicity and elegance, making it a touching exploration of intergenerational trauma and the healing power of storytelling.

From Christina's list on The best books on healing and intergenerational trauma by Vietnamese authors.