6 July 2008

Kao Kalia Yang – The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir

Posted by Dirk under: books .

There seems to be a small Hmong community here in Chico. I often cross paths with Hmong as I am out walking my dog. I’ve noticed that the children often seem very frightened of the dog.

I saw this book in the new releases section at the library and decided to check it out, see if it gave me some insight with regards to the Hmong I share this area with.

The book is about Kao Kalia Yang’s family, from a refugee camp in Thailand to Minnesota, where her family moved to when she was 6. It ‘s the story of how her family became Americans. It’s the story of her Grandmother, who never did, but lived with her family here in America.

I think many Americans have a similar story somewhere in their family past. I was reminded several times, while reading this book, of stories my mother has told me, of how she came to America in the 60’s, knowing very little English and being left alone in rural Indiana with just a wee lad named Dirk while my Dad went off to Vietnam.

Kao Kalia Yang’s stories of her Grandmother remind me of my Oma, although I think my sister’s relationship with Oma was probably closer to Kao’s relationship with her Grandma.

You can watch Kao Kalia Yang talking about her book here on Youtube.

Kao Kalia Yang’s website.

The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir

One Comment so far...

Chuck Roche Says:

22 April 2011 at 5:42 pm.

This book was fantastic! Big Thank you to Kao Kalia Yang!

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