Hao is such a gifted writer. His work is moving, genuine, honest and real. He has the ability to seamlessly weave a story from past to present and write about people with such grace and honesty. Somehow I feel like these folks are in the room with me. Hao's life in Vietnam was very different from mine growing up in the U.S., which is precisely why it's such an important read. If we are willing to hear others' experiences, honor them, believe them, and REALLY listen, we will gain understanding and empathy.
