Don't Break My Rice Bowl: A beautiful and gripping novel, highlighting the personal and tragic struggles faced during the Vietnam War, bringing the late author and his 'forgotten' manuscript to life

The Foreword by his daughter, an Afterword by his second wife, the Appendix, and 25 hand-painted illustrations by his granddaughter provide added poignant layers to the story. The fragility of life was the later author's parting lesson; however, these words left behind were his ultimate gift.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2023
Publisher: Holey Jumper Press

A determined American agriculturalist embarks on a mission to impact the lives of the people in Vietnam as part of President Johnson's Hearts and Minds campaign. However, he soon realizes that a formidable obstacle stands in his way: a raging war. Undeterred, Eddie joins a select group of civilian advisors, entrusted with collaborating with local farmers to restore Vietnam's rice self-sufficiency. The allure of adventure, the thrill of challenges, and the chance to make a profound difference captivate his heart. Yet, he cannot escape the weight of his past problems.

Eddie's journey unfolds through a series of captivating experiences. He undergoes rigorous cultural and tropical agriculture training in Washington DC and the Philippines, preparing himself for the task ahead. Eventually, he finds himself stationed in the Gia Dinh province, just outside Saigon. As the war intensifies, the stakes rise, and Eddie's connections within the country deepen, setting the stage for the cultural, political, and personal struggles that unfold.

This fictional memoir offers a unique perspective on a lesser-known chapter of Vietnam War history. It seamlessly weaves elements of Asian history and culture, including the introduction of "miracle rice," into the challenges faced by civilians attempting to work and thrive in a war-ravaged region. The Foreword by Eddie's daughter, the Afterword by his second wife, the Appendix, and 25 hand-painted illustrations by his granddaughter add poignant layers to the story, enhancing its emotional impact.

In the end, Eddie's life teaches him a profound lesson about the fragility of existence. However, the words he leaves behind serve as his ultimate gift, a testament to his unwavering spirit and the lasting impact he made on the lives he touched.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781739615536
Edition number: 2 New edition