In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Day of Southern Liberation and National Reunification, which falls on April 30, 2025, Nhà xuất bản Trẻ is unveiling an extensive collection of books that reflect the rich history and culture of Vietnam. This initiative not only commemorates a significant milestone in the nation’s history but also aims to educate and inspire future generations.
The newly introduced collection comprises four main categories: works from the Ho Chi Minh Heritage collection, biographies of notable figures, cultural, geographical, and historical texts, and literature. Each group offers a unique perspective on Vietnam’s journey, particularly emphasizing the contributions of influential leaders and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
Among the highlights of the Ho Chi Minh Heritage collection is the book titled “Uncle Ho, the Name That Illuminates Vietnam’s Beauty.” This English-language photo book features over 150 images and documents that chronicle the life of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. The book is organized chronologically, providing insights into significant events and activities that shaped his legacy, as well as the historical context of the nation. It includes poignant photographs from Ho Chi Minh’s funeral, capturing the deep affection and respect the Vietnamese people have for their leader.
Readers will find artifacts related to historical photographs, such as a model of the Amiral Latouche Tréville ship, the house number 9 on Compoint Alley, and the microphone Ho Chi Minh used to read the Declaration of Independence, all of which add a tangible connection to the past. The English version of this work aims to introduce Ho Chi Minh’s legacy to a broader international audience.
In addition to the Ho Chi Minh Heritage collection, the biographies of notable figures include works such as “Vo Van Kiet - The Fire Starter,” “Nguyen Van Linh - Journey with History,” “Tran Van Giau - A Hundred-Year Mark,” and “Tran Bach Dang - Life and Memories.” These books delve into the lives of individuals who have left indelible marks on the South and Saigon, particularly during pivotal moments in the nation’s history.
The cultural, geographical, and historical category features an array of works, including “Lucky Intelligence Officers - Stories About the H.63 Intelligence Cluster,” “From Buon Ma Thuot to Saigon,” and “Tank Soldier's Notes - Journey to the Independence Palace.” Each of these texts provides a unique narrative that enriches the understanding of Vietnam’s complex history.
One notable addition is “Questions and Answers About Saigon - Gia Dinh Geography,” authored by Nguyen Dinh Dau. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the city’s natural and economic geography, as well as its political and social history from the 17th century to 1975, presented through more than 70 questions and answers. This innovative approach is aimed at helping readers grasp the historical and geographical significance of Saigon, fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s heritage.
Moreover, Nhà xuất bản Trẻ is reissuing several classic works about old Saigon by author Vuong Hong Sen, including “Saigon in the Old Days” and “Saigon Miscellaneous Notes.” These titles are part of a lifetime copyright agreement with the publisher, ensuring their availability for future readers.
In the realm of literature, two standout collections are being highlighted: “The Upside Down Card Game” by Nguyen Truong Thien Ly and “Southern Literature of the Six Provinces” by Nguyen Van Hau. The former is a six-volume series that has been re-released with a new cover and convenient boxset, presenting a captivating narrative inspired by the life of intelligence hero Pham Ngoc Thao. This unique perspective on espionage during the Vietnam War adds a layer of intrigue to the literary landscape.
In conjunction with the book launches, the Vietnam Book and Reading Culture Day 2025 will take place over three days, from April 19 to April 21, 2025. This event, themed “Reading Culture - Connecting the Community,” aims to promote the importance of reading and its role in enriching knowledge and fostering innovation.
The festivities will occur at the Cong Xa Paris construction site and the TP.HCM Book Street, extending to Thu Duc City and 21 other districts in the area. The Department of Culture and Sports of TP.HCM will collaborate with the Publishing, Printing, and Distribution Department to organize a national festival, featuring book displays and introductions of new and re-published titles.
During the festival, 18 exchange and book introduction programs will be held at key locations, showcasing significant works such as the “Saigon - TP.HCM Heritage Collection,” “French - Indochinese Architecture,” and “100 Years of Tan Son Nhat Airport.” These programs will not only celebrate literature but also highlight the cultural and historical significance of these texts.
Additionally, there will be spaces dedicated to film and music, where artistic adaptations of literary works will be showcased. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between literature and other forms of art, creating a holistic cultural experience for attendees. Special attention will also be given to the introduction of digital transformation solutions within the publishing industry, including digital library systems and tools for editing and reviewing using voice technology.
Furthermore, the Department of Culture and Sports will coordinate with the Department of Education and Training to organize activities in schools and educational institutions, encouraging students to participate in the Vietnam Book and Reading Culture Day. This outreach aims to instill a love for reading and learning in young minds, ensuring that the culture of reading continues to thrive in the future.
As Vietnam approaches this significant anniversary, the combination of book launches and cultural events underscores the nation’s dedication to preserving its history and promoting literacy. The efforts of Nhà xuất bản Trẻ and the various cultural organizations involved reflect a commitment to fostering a vibrant reading culture that connects communities and nurtures the aspirations of the Vietnamese people.
