Ru by Kim Thúy
A Mosaic of Memory, Migration, and Resilience
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Ru by Kim Thúy is our latest Book Club selection—a luminous, mosaic-like novel that traces one woman’s journey from war-torn Vietnam to new beginnings in Canada.
In Ru, Thúy crafts an autobiographical narrative through a series of intimate vignettes. Each short chapter offers a glimpse into the protagonist’s life: the chaos and fear of fleeing Vietnam, the challenges and small victories of resettling as a refugee, and the quiet triumphs and heartbreaks that come with building a new identity far from home.
What sets Ru apart is Thúy’s lyrical, gentle prose. The novel unfolds with a delicacy that is both powerful and subtle, inviting readers to reflect on identity, motherhood, and the threads that bind us to our heritage. It’s a celebration of resilience and the enduring spirit of the human heart.
As you read, consider your own stories of change and belonging. How have your roots shaped your journey? Ru is not just a story of survival, but of transformation—a meditation on how we carry our histories, our pain, and our hope into new worlds.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. If you’re drawn to poetic, fragmented storytelling or stories of migration and identity, Ru is a book to savor and share.
Where to Read:
Ru by Kim Thúy is available on Amazon .
If you’re craving a taste of Vietnam after reading Ru, check out my authentic Vietnamese Pho recipe for a perfect pairing with this novel.