Lyfoung, Vicky. Hmong: A Graphic History. Vicky Lyfoung, Illus. Translated from the French by Kao-Ly Yang. Lerner/Graphic Universe, 04/2026. 158pp. Graphic. PLB $38.65. 979-8-7656-5981-6. Paper $18.99. 979-8-7656-5982-3. GRADES 6–Adult. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Who are the Hmong? This thought-provoking graphic novel begins with the the history of the exodus of Hmong people from China thousands of years ago to live in the Laos and Vietnam area, moves swiftly through centuries of Hmong history, and draws a vivid picture of Hmong support of the French and Americans in the 1950’s and 1960’s, and the deaths of many as a result of this support. During this time period, the story becomes a memoir, showing the journey Lyfoung’s parents took as they fled Laos to emigrate to France. Detailed b&w pen and ink illustrations depict the many deaths, the sometimes peaceful lives of the Hmong, and finally, what it was like for Lyfoung and her family growing up in France after escaping from Laos and then the refugee camps. This important and readable title introduces a a rich and difficult history, underscored by Lyfoung’s personal connection to the material, that is underrepresented in children’s literature.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library