This story is compelling, heartbreaking and so beautifully written by an author known for her poetry. Nguyen Phan Que Mai does an impressive job of showing us the far reaching impact war has on all those involved...the young servicemen, the ordinary citizens. who struggle to survive and most of all the Ameriasians that through no fault of their own have to deal with the tragic fallout of war. A powerful story with well developed characters. An important novel to increase our understanding of the impact of war. Perfect book club book.