About the Author
I’m a proud Vietnamese American, a husband, father, and lifelong learner on a journey to discover more about myself and my roots. I graduated from USC (go Trojans!) and have spent years navigating the maze of corporate America—from the structured hallways of consulting to the magic of Disney and Warner Bros., and now diving into the fast-paced realm of tech start-ups. Along the way, I’ve been learning, growing, and honing in on who I am.
As a child, I often felt distant from my cultural roots, but becoming a father changed everything. Through the process of parenthood, I realized the importance of embracing my identity and sharing it with my children. Inspired by my family and fueled by a desire to pass down the strength, resilience, and joy of the Vietnamese spirit, I decided to write this book.
The process has been a deeply personal experience, allowing me to explore and celebrate the rich history and traditions of my heritage. My hope is that this story reminds young readers (and grown-ups, too!) that our roots are something to be proud of, and that there’s beauty in every journey we take.
About the Book
During the Vietnam War, many families had to leave their homes to find safety and a better future. This big journey is known as the Vietnamese diaspora. Many brave families, called “boat people,” traveled across the South China Sea in small, crowded boats. They faced many challenges like storms, pirates, and running out of food. Despite these hardships, their hope and love for each other kept them going. This story was inspired by the many stories of the Vietnamese “boat people.”
Taking place in Vietnam, this heartfelt tale follows a curious young boy and his ông nội (grandpa) as they share a beautiful bond, filled with precious moments.