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by Robert H. Dodd (Author), Patricia Rykiel (Author), Beth Jackson (Author)
Feeling life is slipping him by, an American agriculturalist heads to Vietnam to try and make a difference in the lives of the people as part of President Johnson's 'Hearts and Minds' campaign. There's just one big problem - there's a war going on!
Eddie joins a small group of civilian advisors chosen to work with local farmers to help make Vietnam once again self-sufficient in rice. He is drawn to the adventure, the challenge, and the opportunity to make a difference, but he is leaving some problems behind.
His story continues with the ups and downs of cultural and tropical agriculture training in Washington DC and the Philippines, and then his assignment in the Gia Dinh province just outside Saigon. The stakes increase as the war intensifies and Eddie's connections in the country deepen, providing the backdrop for the cultural, political and personal struggles that unfold.
Although this is historical fiction, the late author's words are a nod to the memoir genre as his experiences in life overlap the place and time of the novel. Don't Break My Rice Bowl shines a light on a relatively unknown part of Vietnam War history as elements of Asian history and culture, Philippine and Vietnamese agriculture and rice farming, including the introduction of 'miracle rice', are woven into the challenges of being a civilian trying to work - and live - in a war zone. One might wonder, was Robert Dodd ahead of his time? The novel hints at things to come as ecology, conservation and biodiversity have become increasingly important topics.
With the help of his daughter, granddaughter and second wife, his manuscript has been brought to life in 2022. The fragility of life was the late author's parting lesson; however, these words left behind were his ultimate gift. The additions of a poignant Foreword and Afterword, a rich Appendix, including book club questions, and the beautiful cover and 24 hand-painted chapter illustrations make this book something that will stir the emotions, giving you plenty to ponder or talk and even laugh about, leaving you with words and art to treasure.
The perfect read for a book club or to give as a gift; see and feel one man's story play out amid great outer and inner turmoil during a turbulent time in history. Buy this book and walk in another man's shoes. The ideal book to complement your Vietnamese and global history studies, including GCSE, A-Level and Undergraduate History and English Literature.
