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| Book cover: Sharing One Home. |
Unique cultural pieces
The 54 ethnic groups across Vietnam each possess a distinct cultural identity, reflected in their languages, clothing, customs, production methods, art forms, and culinary characteristics. Examples include: the Thang Co dish of the Mong, Tay, and Thai people in the northern border highlands; the sun-dried beef with yellow ant salt, a specialty of the ethnic minorities in the Truong Son - Central Highlands region; the Pha Lau, sausages, and Pia cakes – specialties of the Chinese community; unique architectural structures such as the Hmong King's Palace, communal houses, temples, and pagodas; epic poems like "Giving Birth to the Land and Water" of the Muong people, "Dam San," and "Xinh Nha" of the Ede people; the Xoe dance of the Thai people; and the resounding gongs of the Central Highlands ethnic groups…
The unique cultural characteristics of Vietnam's ethnic groups, which may be both familiar and unfamiliar to some, have been scientifically and engagingly compiled in the book "Sharing One Home - Atlas of 54 Vietnamese Ethnic Groups." This is a meticulously researched work on culture by author Vo Thi Mai Chi and illustrator Ho Quoc Cuong (following their previously acclaimed books: "The Land of Brocade - Atlas of Vietnam" in 2022 and "Following the Footsteps of Time: Representative Works of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City" in 2025).
In "Living Together as One Family," readers can experience the unique and distinct nuances of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, reflected in each village, house, food, and festival. They can admire traditional costumes with characteristic patterns and gain a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions of each ethnic group that have been preserved and passed down through generations. All of this is conveyed through carefully selected and concise information, presented through familiar and colorful imagery.
As someone passionate about culture and history, I feel fortunate to have contributed to the visuals for the book "Sharing One Home," hoping to help connect people and inspire readers to learn more about the lives of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam. Artist Ho Quoc Cuong |
A desire to preserve the cultural identity of ethnic groups.
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| Artist Ho Quoc Cuong signed autographs for young readers at the book launch of "Living Together in One House," held at the Ho Chi Minh City Book Street. |
According to author Vo Thi Mai Chi, when delving into the history, culture, life, and customs of each ethnic group, she went from amazement to admiration at the diverse cultural features and rich spiritual life of these groups. All of these elements combine to create a picture of Vietnamese cultural identity. As a Vietnamese citizen, she is immensely proud to be a member of this family. This is the driving force behind her writing the book "Sharing One Home."
The value of the book, reflecting the dedication of its creators and the expectations of those who cherish Vietnamese culture and identity, is evident. However, finding ways to reach a wider audience remains a concern. Researcher Nguyen Thanh Loi argues that investing in publishing a book about Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups with a fresh and engaging presentation is commendable, demonstrating the author's and publisher's commitment. However, getting the work to reach villages and communities is a challenging task. Disseminating the cultural values of these ethnic groups is essential, thereby inspiring exploration, love, and a sense of responsibility in preserving and spreading Vietnamese cultural values.
Thuy Trang - Phuong Uyen
Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/dong-nai-cuoi-tuan/202509/chung-mot-ngoi-nha-b6c29e1/
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