Vietnamerica: A Family's Journey

The graphic memoir opens with Dzung Chung Tran, GB’s mother, reminding her son that at 30 years old, he’s currently the same age his father was when his parents left Vietnam. On April 25, 1975, Dzung Chung and GB’s father, Tri Huu, boarded a US cargo plane just days before the fall of Saigon. The first illustration features a plane taking off amid a smoke-filled, blood red sky, and the narrative transitions to the modern day, in which GB and his parents are on a flight to Vietnam. GB’s maternal grandmother and paternal grandfather both passed away within months of each other, and the family returns to Vietnam to pay their respects.

GB and his parents visit the seaside town of Vung Tau to attend memorial services for Thi Mot, GB’s maternal grandmother. He assumes the occasion will be sad, but his Uncle Vinh corrects him and tells him the event is celebratory. GB’s mother, Dzung Chung, reunites with many relatives who haven’t seen her in 30 years. Most of the illustrations in Vung Tau depict a bright blue sky and smiling faces. GB meets countless relatives, and the household bustles with laughter, a feast, and lively conversation.