In 'The Girl in the Picture,' Denise Chong unravels the poignant story behind a haunting photograph that has lingered in the public consciousness since the Vietnam War. This captivating narrative explores the life of a young Vietnamese girl, whose image became emblematic of the struggles faced by her people. Through meticulous research and deeply personal accounts, Chong intertwines history with human emotion, shedding light on the impact of war on individual lives. As readers journey through the past, they are invited to confront the complexities of memory, identity, and the quest for reconciliation. This book is not just about a photograph; it's a stirring reminder of the stories behind every image and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
By Denise Chong
Published: 2001
"In the tapestry of our lives, every thread tells a story of struggle, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth; it is in these woven moments that we find our true selves."
"More than any other Vietnam book in recent years, The Girl in the Picture confronts us with the ceaseless, ever-compounding casualties of modern warfare." —The San Francisco Chronicle On June 8, 1972, nine-year-old Kim Phuc, severely burned by napalm, ran from her blazing village in South Vietnam and into the eye of history. Her photograph-one of the most unforgettable images of the twentieth century-was seen around the world and helped turn public opinion against the Vietnam War. This book is the story of how that photograph came to be-and the story of what happened to that girl after the camera shutter closed. Award-winning biographer Denise Chong's portrait of Kim Phuc-who eventually defected to Canada and is now a UNESCO spokesperson-is a rare look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese point-of-view and one of the only books to describe everyday life in the wake of this war and to probe its lingering effects on all its participants.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Brandon Stanton is an American photographer and author, best known for creating Humans of New York, a photography project that shares the personal stories of everyday people. Through his portraits and interviews, Stanton captures the diverse experiences of people in New York City and around the world, offering intimate insights into their lives. Humans of New York has become a global phenomenon, with millions of followers on social media and several best-selling books. Stanton’s work has expanded beyond photography to include fundraising campaigns that have raised millions of dollars for individuals and charitable causes. His ability to connect with people and share their stories has made him one of the most impactful storytellers of his generation.
Jon Hamm is an American actor best known for his role as Don Draper in the critically acclaimed television series "Mad Men," which aired from 2007 to 2015. While Hamm's achievements are primarily in acting, his portrayal of the complex, enigmatic ad executive has been lauded for its depth and nuance, significantly impacting television storytelling. His performance earned him numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy. Beyond "Mad Men," Hamm has appeared in various films and TV shows, showcasing his versatility across genres. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work has influenced contemporary narratives and character development in modern media.
Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
David Blaine is an American illusionist, endurance artist, and magician, known for his daring and extreme stunts, such as being buried alive, encased in ice, and holding his breath underwater for a record-breaking amount of time. Blaine gained fame for his street magic performances, but his endurance feats have pushed the boundaries of what the human body can achieve. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to magic and illusion, combining elements of mysticism with physical and mental challenges. Blaine’s work has captivated audiences worldwide and has set new standards in the world of magic and performance art.
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
Daniel Petre is a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist known for his impactful contributions to the business and literary worlds. He co-founded the venture capital firm AirTree Ventures, which has significantly influenced the technology startup ecosystem in Australia. Petre has authored several influential books on technology and leadership, including "The Clever Country?" and "Father Time," which explore themes of innovation and work-life balance. His writing often reflects his deep commitment to shaping a forward-thinking, inclusive society. Beyond his literary and business endeavors, Petre is also recognized for his substantial philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“In the tapestry of our lives, every thread tells a story of struggle, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth; it is in these woven moments that we find our true selves.”
The Girl in the Picture
By Denise Chong
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Denise Chong is a renowned Canadian author known for her compelling narratives that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience. Her notable works include 'The Concubine's Children', which vividly recounts her family's history through the lens of her Chinese heritage, and 'Egg on Mussel Shell', a poignant memoir reflecting on her multicultural background and adopted identity. Chong's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, deep emotional resonance, and a keen sense of place, allowing readers to connect intimately with her characters and their journeys. She has received several awards for her literature, distinguishing her as a vital voice in contemporary Canadian writing.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'In the Plex', Steven Levy takes readers deep inside the inner workings of Google, exploring its innovative culture and groundbreaking technologies. Through captivating anecdotes and insightful interviews, he reveals how Google's quest for information reshapes our digital landscape and influences everyday life. The book delves into the minds of its founders, the challenges they've faced, and the ethical dilemmas that arise from their ambitions. As Levy paints a vivid picture of this tech giant, he invites readers to ponder the implications of living in a world dominated by algorithms. This insightful examination not only uncovers the magic behind one of the world's most influential companies but also challenges us to consider the future of technology itself.
In 'Human Rights and United States Policy Toward Latin America,' Lars Schoultz delves into the complex interplay between U.S. foreign policy and human rights in Latin America. The book challenges conventional narratives by revealing how strategic interests often overshadow humanitarian concerns. Through meticulously researched case studies, Schoultz illustrates the paradoxes that define American intervention in the region. Readers will encounter gripping confrontations between moral imperatives and political machinations, inviting reflection on the true cost of policy choices. This compelling analysis prompts us to reevaluate the ethical dimensions of power and complicity in shaping the lives of millions.
No summary available
In 'In Defense of a Liberal Education,' Fareed Zakaria passionately argues for the relevance of a broad-based education in today's rapidly changing world. He critiques the narrow focus of vocational training and highlights the vital skills cultivated through liberal arts—critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. Zakaria's compelling narrative weaves personal anecdotes and historical insights, demonstrating how a well-rounded education prepares individuals for the complexities of modern life. As he champions the idea that true knowledge empowers and enriches society, readers are left questioning the current educational trends. This thought-provoking exploration invites us to reconsider what we value in education and its role in shaping our future.
In 'An Autobiography', Mohandas K. Gandhi shares the remarkable journey of his life, revealing the evolution of his philosophy of non-violence and truth. From his early years in India to his transformative experiences in South Africa, Gandhi exposes the struggles that shaped his commitment to social justice. His candid reflections on faith, morality, and personal growth challenge conventional beliefs and inspire readers to question their own values. This gripping narrative not only details his political activism but also provides an intimate look at his family life and spiritual pursuits. Discover the profound insights that guided one of history's most influential leaders in his quest for freedom and equality.
In 'A History of Economic Theory', Jürg Niehans takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of economic thought. From ancient philosophies to contemporary paradigms, the book unravels how ideas have shaped economic practices across cultures and eras. With each chapter, Niehans reveals the intellectual battles and breakthroughs that have defined the discipline. Rich in historical context, this work challenges readers to consider the relevance of past theories in today's economy. Dive into this scholarly adventure and discover how the past continually influences our understanding of wealth and value.
In 'The Tell-Tale Brain,' renowned neuroscientist V. S. Ramachandran delves into the complexities of the human brain to uncover what defines our humanity. He explores fascinating case studies of brain disorders that reveal profound truths about perception, identity, and consciousness. Through captivating anecdotes and groundbreaking research, Ramachandran invites readers on a journey to understand the intricate mechanisms that shape our thoughts and behaviors. What happens when the brain's normal functions are disrupted? This thought-provoking exploration will leave you questioning the very essence of what it means to be human.
In 'Alone Against the North', adventurer Adam Shoalts ventures into the unforgiving Canadian wilderness, driven by a desire for exploration and solitude. Facing treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather, and the lurking danger of wildlife, he embarks on a quest that tests both his physical limits and mental resilience. With each step deeper into the wild, Shoalts uncovers the harsh beauty of nature but also confronts the shadows of isolation. This gripping narrative paints a vivid picture of humanity's struggle against nature's vastness, stirring deep reflections on adventure, survival, and self-discovery. Will he prevail in his quest, or will the North claim another solitary soul?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
