Dust Child: 'Dazzling. Sharply drawn and hauntingly beautiful.' Elif Shafak

In 1969, sisters Trang and Quynh leave their rural village to work as bar girls in Saigon during the Vietnam War. Decades later, Dan and Phong, two men whose lives were affected by the war, struggle to move on. When these four characters unexpectedly reunite, they are forced to confront the legacy of their past decisions, which continue to impact their lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Elif Shafak, the acclaimed author of "The Island of Missing Trees," has crafted a lyrical and deeply empathetic novel that delves into the lives of four individuals intertwined by decisions made during a time of conflict. Set in 1969, sisters Trang and Quynh witness the devastating impact of war on their rural village as they navigate the treacherous journey to the bustling city of Sai Gon, where they become bar girls, offering themselves to American GIs in exchange for financial support. What ensues is a test of their sisterhood that pushes them to their limits and unveils unforeseen consequences.

Decades later, Vietnam has successfully emerged from the shadows of war, fostering a thriving economy. However, Dan and Phong, two men whose lives were profoundly shaped by their experiences on opposing sides of the conflict, find themselves grappling with the weight of their past. When these four characters unexpectedly converge once more, they are forced to confront the enduring legacy of their decisions, which continues to resonate through their lives in profound ways.

Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai is a storyteller like no other, weaving a tapestry of emotions and narratives that linger long after the last page is turned. Her novel "Dust Child" is a testament to her exceptional talent, earning her widespread acclaim and numerous accolades. Natalie Jenner, the internationally bestselling author of "The Jane Austen Society," praises Mai's work, describing it as "a Best Book of the Year" and a "Most Anticipated Title."

The novel has been celebrated by numerous publications and literary communities, including Book Riot, the Buzz Magazines, Cosmopolitan, and Reader's Digest. It has also been highly anticipated by critics and readers alike, with Sydney Morning Herald, Salon, NB Magazine, and SheReads listing it as one of their most anticipated titles of the year.

"Dust Child" is a captivating and unforgettable story that explores the complexities of human relationships, the scars of war, and the enduring power of memory. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for forgiveness and redemption. Through the lives of Trang, Quynh, Dan, and Phong, Mai offers a profound reflection on the human experience and the profound impact of our choices on the world around us.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 242 x 163 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861545407