About the Book
Amber reflects on the journey of growing up as a Lao-American girl in the United States, the daughter of parents who fled the Secret War to build a new life. With a deep sense of personal discovery, she explores the complexities of being a first-generation Asian-American, delving into the challenges of balancing two cultures while seeking a place to belong. Through stories of resilience, sacrifice, and love, this memoir also honors her parents' journey to freedom, shedding light on the untold experiences of Lao refugees. A poignant reflection on identity, family, and history, this book offers readers a window into the heart of the Lao-American experience, inviting those who are first-generation immigrants, and anyone interested in learning about Lao history, to discover their own stories within its pages.
Why We Recommend It: The number of Lao American voices in print, particularly in book form, remains limited. Capturing a diverse range of perspectives from across the diaspora is essential for learning from these experiences, shaping better outcomes for future diaspora communities, and providing real-life examples to inform services that support this population today. She reflects on her own life in relation to her parents and siblings, highlighting generational perspectives within her family. Inthavong addresses topics such as reincarnation, deeply rooted in Lao culture through animism and Buddhism, as well as contemporary issues like teenage pregnancy in the United States. She also reflects on her family's relationship with the 'sponsors' who helped them integrate and begin their lives in the United States, a story that is rarely told or heard. Additionally, the author gives voice to her experiences as a Lao American, particularly her struggles with identity and belonging. Through this articulation, members of the Lao diaspora may find healing in the collective recognition that these feelings are shared.
The story is self-published and told in the first person, with the author sharing accounts of conversations and experiences with her family members, including her mother, father, brother, and sister. The intended audience is the general public, and she provides an accessible overview of the war—a history that many readers may be unfamiliar with. This account aligns with collective memory of the community, acknowledging, of course, that history is always shaped by who records it.
A note for the reader: The book briefly mentions re-education camps and “disappeared” individuals but does not provide detailed accounts; a trigger warning is recommended. Additionally, some parts of the book could be interpreted as critical of the Lao government. While this perspective may be sensitive, it reflects a sentiment shared by many in the diaspora and is an important voice to include. Landmines are referenced as the main type of bomb found in Laos and it should be noted that landmines are categorized under unexploded ordnance (UXO) which includes cluster submunitions.
About the Author
Amber D. Inthavong
Amber is a writer whose work spans themes of identity, culture, and personal discovery. Drawing from her own experiences as a first-generation Lao-American, she explores the complexities of balancing multiple worlds and finding a place to belong. Her storytelling is driven by a deep sense of empathy, resilience, and the power of human connection. Amber’s writing invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, offering insights that resonate across cultures and experiences. With an eye toward both personal and universal stories, she seeks to create work that inspires reflection, understanding, and dialogue.
