69 pages • 2 hours read
Nguyễn Phan Quế MaiThe Mountains Sing
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Mountains Sing by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai is a multigenerational family saga set against the backdrop of Vietnam's turbulent 20th-century history, focusing on the lives of Hương and her grandmother Diệu Lan. The narrative alternates between Diệu Lan's experiences from the 1930s to the 1950s, encompassing French colonialism, World War II, the Great Famine, and the Communist Land Reform, and Hương's story during the Vietnam War and its aftermath in the 1970s. The novel explores themes of resilience, family bonds, and the impact of historical events on personal lives. The book addresses issues including wartime violence, death, trauma, and systemic oppression.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai's The Mountains Sing receives acclaim for its lyrical prose and emotional depth, portraying the Vietnamese experience during the 20th century with a strong focus on family resilience and cultural heritage. However, some reviewers note that the narrative's pacing can be inconsistent. Overall, it is praised for its evocative storytelling and historical insight.
Who Should Read The Mountains Sing?
Readers who enjoy multigenerational family sagas set against historical backdrops will appreciate Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai’s The Mountains Sing. Fans of Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing and Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko will find its richly detailed narrative and exploration of Vietnamese history compelling. Perfect for those who love poignant, character-driven stories.