Oneworld to publish 'riveting' novel set against backdrop of the Vietnam War

Oneworld has acquired a "riveting" novel set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, written by Vietnamese poet, journalist and translator Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai.

Publisher Juliet Mabey has acquired UK and Commonwealth rights (excluding Canada and Vietnam) from Kendra Poster at Algonquin, on behalf of Julie Stevenson at Massie & McQuilkin. Publication is set for July this year. 

Titled The Mountains Sing, the story tells an enveloping, multi-generational tale of the Trần family, set against the backdrop of Vietnam’s turbulent history. Steeped in the language and traditions of Vietnam, The Mountains Sing brings to life the human costs of the conflict from the point of view of the Vietnamese people themselves.

Mabey said: “Quế Mai has written an electrifying, soulful, and utterly original novel, and I am thrilled to be publishing it on my literary fiction list.”

Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai added: “Juliet Mabey is a visionary publisher and I am thrilled at the chance to work with her and her team at Oneworld in sharing my stories about Vietnam with readers in the UK and Commonwealth countries. There is no bigger joy than being published by someone who is passionate about your work and I am very fortunate The Mountains Sing finds its home at Oneworld.”