47 pages • 1 hour read
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98
Play • Fiction
Arkansas • 1970s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Vietgone by Qui Nguyen tells the story of Quang and Tong, two Vietnamese refugees who meet in a camp in Arkansas after the fall of Saigon. Quang wishes to return to Vietnam, while Tong seeks a new life in the US. Despite family pressures and cultural clashes, they develop a complex romantic relationship. Decades later, their son interviews Quang to understand his parents' past, offering a nuanced look at love and displacement amidst war.
Humorous
Romantic
Adventurous
Emotional
Playful
340 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Vietgone by Qui Nguyen is praised for its fresh and irreverent take on the Vietnam War, blending humor, hip-hop, and heartfelt storytelling. The characters are richly developed, making the narrative both engaging and relatable. However, some critics feel the modern language can be jarring in historical settings. Overall, it's a bold, innovative piece that challenges traditional war narratives.
Fans of Exit West by Mohsin Hamid and The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen will enjoy Vietgone by Qui Nguyen. This play appeals to readers who appreciate dynamic storytelling, humor, and insightful explorations of immigration and identity, blending historical perspective with modern-day narration and pop culture references.
340 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tong
A refugee in the US who sees this as an opportunity for a new life, contrasting with Quang's desire to return to Vietnam.
Nhan
Quang's best friend who supports him on his journey and often serves as the voice of reason, urging Quang to consider the consequences of his actions.
Huong
Tong's mother, who opposes assimilation and desires to return to Vietnam, often clashing with her daughter over their future in the US.
Bobby
Tong's part-time love interest, whose limited understanding of Vietnamese culture highlights the challenges of cultural assimilation.
The Playwright
Qui Nguyen, who serves as a sort of narrator, incorporating his personal background and familial stories to shape the narrative.
Redneck Biker
Represents a conservative and hostile American attitude towards Vietnamese refugees through his confrontational and aggressive behavior.
Hippie Dude
Embodies the anti-war sentiment in America, claiming credit for aiding Vietnamese refugees by opposing the war.
98
Play • Fiction
Arkansas • 1970s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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