Tales of the Mekong Delta Bluesman - by Son Hoang Vo (Paperback)

About the Book

An enduring and inspiring story of a musician born during the Vietnam War in Saigon, rising out of hardships, abuse, and homelessness to finally find success in music.

Book Synopsis

Just as Saigon was about to fall, Son Vo (courtesy of Henry Kissinger) flew out of Vietnam to begin an adventurous life in the United States. His tales, some witty, some heart-wrenching, span not only the Pacific but his newfound country. Finding family where he could through a stream of changing faces and homes, he discovered his passion for music, allowing him to meet challenges with the goal of finding the good in them. An Asian immigrant, an orphan, and a child of abuse, Son persevered with unyielding hope, which led to a spectacular milestone; finding a father he had never known, and sharing the stage with him.

Here, he shares his trials and triumphs, his excellent sense of humor, and some practical advice for musicians, all from the place of where and who he is today: The Mekong Delta Bluesman.

Review Quotes

A beautiful memoir about healing the human spirit through the power of music

Back in my college days, I took an excellent elective course called "History of Rock and Roll" at Washington State University. Although I had always enjoyed music, the lessons I learned from the professor really taught me to appreciate the people behind them. I very much enjoy learning about various musicians from all walks of life, so this recommendation was right up my alley. This book is a very touching and moving memoir by Son Vo, a Vietnamese-American musician. Vo retells his life, from his childhood in Saigon, which he escaped a mere two weeks before it fell during the Vietnam War, to coming to the United States where he became a very talented musician. I appreciated his candor, delving into the more difficult parts of his life, and not sugarcoating it as with other autobiographies I have read of other notable musicians. The book is not just about the rough aspects of his life, but it's also a story of hope, resilience, and the power of music to heal, which are reflected in the themes of the music he has created. It is an incredible and powerful story that is well worth a read for people who not only enjoy music but also have an interest in learning a more personal perspective of those affected by the Vietnam War.

Heartfelt and Inspiring!

Son Vo beautifully narrated his life from when he was born in Vietnam and his migration to the United States with his sister and mother. Through his stepfather, Frank, they were able to avoid the fall of Saigon in 1975. His childhood is interesting, and I was amazed at how he remembered most of the events and described them in detail. I enjoyed reading the book and following Son Vo's adventures. While reading his story, I was able to picture every event because of his vivid descriptions, and I really felt what he felt through his words. Son Vo faced many challenges in life, but he found hope and solace in music. Music helped him overcome all the trials that came to his life. I love reading autobiographies and learning how they overcame various life challenges and seeing how interesting they lived their lives. This book is one of the most interesting autobiographies I've read.

Inspiring!

Through his words, Son Vo shares his trials and triumphs, seamlessly blending humor and sincerity to make readers laugh and cry at the same time. His journey is one of resilience and self-discovery. Even though he faced numerous hardships throughout his life, his hope and passion for music became his guiding light, helping him navigate the challenges that came his way. His candid and straightforward writing style lays bare his soul and engages readers from start to finish and the pacing of the narrative keeps the reader hooked.

His exploration of his passion for music and the role it played in his life adds another layer of depth to his memoir. Through his musical journey, readers witness the power of art in overcoming adversity and finding solace.

Vo's autobiography is a testament to the human spirit and the power of hope, a story that resonates long after the final page is turned.

If you appreciate honest and compelling memoirs, Son Vo's narrative will both inspire and entertain you.