38 pages • 1 hour read
Paradise of the Blind
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Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
Vietnam • 1980s
1988
Adult
18+ years
720L
Super Short Summary
Paradise of the Blind by Duong Thu Huong follows Hang, a young Vietnamese woman working in Russia, who is summoned to Moscow by her Uncle Chinh, leading her to reflect on her family's troubled past. Her story unfolds through flashbacks, revealing the turmoil caused by Vietnam's Land Reform, which divided her family and left lasting scars. Through various family conflicts and personal sacrifices, Hang ultimately seeks to break free from the cycle of suffering that has plagued her lineage.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
2,963 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Paradise of the Blind by Duong Thu Huong is lauded for its vivid, evocative prose and stark portrayal of postwar Vietnamese life, capturing the struggles and resilience of its characters. Critics appreciate its rich cultural details, though some find the narrative bleak and the pacing uneven. Overall, it provides a poignant insight into personal and political turmoil.
Who Should Read Paradise of the Blind?
Readers who relish intricate family dynamics and socio-political commentary will find Paradise of the Blind compelling. Similar to Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club and Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner, this novel blends personal narrative with broader historical themes. Fans of vivid, culturally rich storytelling will appreciate this poignant Vietnamese tale.
2,963 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Que
Que
Hang’s mother who raises her on her own and is caught between her brother's Communist actions and her sacrifices, which often create tension within the family.
Uncle Chinh
Uncle Chinh
Hang’s uncle and a fervent Communist who is involved in land reform, creating conflicts and divisions in the family due to his political beliefs and actions.
Aunt Tam
Aunt Tam
The sister of Hang’s father, representing traditional values and providing Hang with support and affection in contrast to the political conflicts dividing the family.
272
Novel • Fiction
Vietnam • 1980s
1988
Adult
18+ years
720L
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