Dust Child: The International Bestseller

In Dust Child, Elif Shafak explores the lives of four individuals intertwined by decisions made during the Vietnam War, decades later, they unexpectedly converge. The book is a sweeping epic of family secrets and hidden heartache, from an internationally celebrated author.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Dust Child, a novel by Elif Shafak, delves into the lives of four individuals who are connected by decisions made during a time of conflict. Decades later, their paths unexpectedly converge once more, setting the stage for a captivating and emotionally resonant story.

The novel opens with Trang and Quynh, sisters who leave their rural village in search of work in the bustling city of Saigon. Desperate to alleviate their parents' poverty, they take jobs as "bar girls," paid to flirt with American GIs. However, their decision to abandon their former lives and embrace a new identity comes with a heavy cost. They must confront the moral dilemmas and emotional complexities that arise from their choices.

Another central character is Phong, a mixed-race child abandoned by his American father and Vietnamese mother. Phong grows up in a society that rejects and insults him, labeling him a "Black American imperialist" and a "child of the enemy." Despite the hardships he faces, Phong never loses hope of finding his parents and proving his worth beyond his societal labels. His journey is filled with rejection, but it also showcases his resilience and determination.

Dan, a former American helicopter pilot, is another character who grapples with the consequences of his actions during the Vietnam War. Haunted by regrets and a sense of guilt, Dan returns to Vietnam in search of closure. He hopes to confront the demons that have haunted him for years and find a way to make amends for his past mistakes.

Dust Child spans a significant period, from the Vietnam War to the present day, and is a sweeping epic of family secrets and hidden heartache. The novel explores the complexities of identity, loyalty, and the search for belonging in a society that often rejects and marginalizes individuals.

Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai, the author of Dust Child, is a unique storyteller who has captivated readers worldwide with her powerful and evocative writing. Her ability to create vivid characters and intricate narratives has earned her numerous accolades and awards.

Natalie Jenner, the internationally bestselling author of The Jane Austen Society, praises Dust Child as a "Best Book of the Year" and a "Most Anticipated Title." She describes the novel as "lyrical, satisfying, and deeply empathetic," highlighting the author's ability to delve into the hearts and minds of her characters.

In conclusion, Dust Child is a captivating and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of historical events. Elif Shafak's writing is masterful, and Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai's storytelling is exceptional. This novel is a must-read for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and is interested in exploring the depths of the human experience.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861547135