The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir by Thi Bui

The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir By Thi Bui is the heartfelt story of the life of a Vietnamese immigrant and the struggles she has endured in order to make a life for herself and her family in the United States. It gives readers an intimate understanding of what it means to be a refugee, the difficulties of adjusting to an unfamiliar culture, and the strength it takes to break through the feelings of alienation and sorrow.

The story is a journey of self-discovery and resilience told by Thi Bui as she looks back on her family’s life. Growing up in Vietnam, her family experienced the harsh realities of war and poverty, ultimately forcing them to flee to the United States in search of a better life. The book aids readers in understanding the true nature of emigration—not only the complex emotions they face when they must leave behind everything they know, but also the hope and joy that comes with building anew in a different country.

Bui’s illustrations, accompanying her insightful prose, bring this story to life in a powerful and emotional way. They offer a unique glimpse into her memories of her childhood in Vietnam, exquisite glimpses into the culture of Vietnamese food, customs, and culture, as well as a deep exploration into the challenges her family faced in the United States. Her art also conveys the sorrow and joy of relocating, providing readers an honest depiction of what immigrants go through when they have to leave their home and begin anew.

Bui compels readers to get to know her family and reflect on her journey. From a gripping account of the horrors of the Vietnam War to her mother’s hopes for a better future in the United States, readers see the challenges she and her family experienced firsthand. She reveals the difficulties that immigrants face in assimilation and adaptation in a foreign country. She shares her home life with her siblings, her parents’ relationship, and her journey of self-discovery.

Ultimately, this book speaks to all of us, reminding us of the common humanity we share. It gives us an intimate glimpse into the life of an immigrant, and the many difficulties she faced in her journey to a new life in the United States. It is a stirring tale of resilience and strength, one that will stay with readers long after the last page is read. The Best We Could Do is a heart-wrenching journey of self-discovery, accompanied by beautiful illustrations, that will leave readers inspired, moved, and grateful for the power of courage and resilience.