Chronicles of a Village

"Chronicles of a Village" is a poetic novel that explores the legends, tragedies, and histories of a village in Vietnam, weaving together stories of love, nature, war, and ecological destruction. The book is a dreamlike and original exploration of the vanishing beauty and tragic transformation of the village, and is a tribute to the beauty and "fatal historical disabilities" of the land.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2024
Publisher: Yale University Press

A mesmerizing poetic novel that intricately weaves together the legends, tragedies, and histories of a village in Vietnam, "The Book" is a captivating masterpiece that captivates readers with its rich tapestry of characters, poetry, philosophy, romance, violence, and struggle. It is a dreamlike, original, and strangely hopeful book, as praised by Kirkus Reviews.

Nestled at the foot of Mun Mountain in central Vietnam, a self-appointed scribe sets out to gather the stories of his neighbors, delving into tales of love, nature, and war. Through crystalline fragments that resemble prose poems, he immortalizes the vanishing beauty and tragic transformation of the village—its sacred forests, awe-inspiring animals, mythical figures, and human lives nurtured by a profound love for soil and sky. However, this idyllic existence is not without its share of catastrophes: ecological destruction, political purges, suffocating modernity, violence, and indoctrination in the name of progress.

"Chronicles of a Village," the writer's first work to be translated into English, is a poignant elegy for a place and a people. It is a profound meditation on the creation, destruction, manipulation, and rewriting of history. At the same time, it pays tribute to the beauty and the "fatal historical disabilities of a land."

Nguyễn Thanh Hiệns' writing is a testament to his talent and his deep understanding of the human condition. His words evoke a sense of wonder and awe, as he transports readers to a world that is both familiar and utterly unique. Through his vivid descriptions and powerful storytelling, he paints a vivid picture of the village and its inhabitants, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles, joys, and triumphs.

"Chronicles of a Village" is a masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it. It is a testament to the power of literature to transcend time and space, to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures, and to shed light on the complexities of human existence. Whether you are a lover of poetry, history, or just seeking a captivating and thought-provoking read, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 202g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300276404