In 'The Girl in the Picture,' Denise Chong unravels the poignant story behind a haunting photograph that has lingered in the public consciousness since the Vietnam War. This captivating narrative explores the life of a young Vietnamese girl, whose image became emblematic of the struggles faced by her people. Through meticulous research and deeply personal accounts, Chong intertwines history with human emotion, shedding light on the impact of war on individual lives. As readers journey through the past, they are invited to confront the complexities of memory, identity, and the quest for reconciliation. This book is not just about a photograph; it's a stirring reminder of the stories behind every image and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
By Denise Chong
Published: 2001
"In the tapestry of our lives, every thread tells a story of struggle, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth; it is in these woven moments that we find our true selves."
"More than any other Vietnam book in recent years, The Girl in the Picture confronts us with the ceaseless, ever-compounding casualties of modern warfare." —The San Francisco Chronicle On June 8, 1972, nine-year-old Kim Phuc, severely burned by napalm, ran from her blazing village in South Vietnam and into the eye of history. Her photograph-one of the most unforgettable images of the twentieth century-was seen around the world and helped turn public opinion against the Vietnam War. This book is the story of how that photograph came to be-and the story of what happened to that girl after the camera shutter closed. Award-winning biographer Denise Chong's portrait of Kim Phuc-who eventually defected to Canada and is now a UNESCO spokesperson-is a rare look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese point-of-view and one of the only books to describe everyday life in the wake of this war and to probe its lingering effects on all its participants.
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“In the tapestry of our lives, every thread tells a story of struggle, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth; it is in these woven moments that we find our true selves.”
The Girl in the Picture
By Denise Chong
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Denise Chong is a renowned Canadian author known for her compelling narratives that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience. Her notable works include 'The Concubine's Children', which vividly recounts her family's history through the lens of her Chinese heritage, and 'Egg on Mussel Shell', a poignant memoir reflecting on her multicultural background and adopted identity. Chong's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, deep emotional resonance, and a keen sense of place, allowing readers to connect intimately with her characters and their journeys. She has received several awards for her literature, distinguishing her as a vital voice in contemporary Canadian writing.
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