Turning Pages Across Borders: Children's Book Deals to Vietnam in 2023

In 2023, the children's book market in Vietnam experienced a remarkable influx of international literature, highlighting a vibrant year for publishers and readers alike. This movement underscored the global interconnectedness of storytelling, bringing diverse narratives to Vietnamese children and contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.

At the forefront of this wave was Kate DiCamillo's "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane," a deal secured by Nha Nam. DiCamillo, an author celebrated for her profound storytelling, introduced Vietnamese readers to a tale that transcends borders with its universal themes of love and resilience. Similarly, Jenny Han's "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" trilogy, acquired by Kim Dong, resonated with a broad audience, capitalizing on its international Netflix adaptation success to engage and expand its fanbase in Vietnam.

Another deal worth noting was the innovative "Hello Ruby" series by Linda Liukas, which includes "Expedition to the Internet" and "Robot's First Day at School." Kim Dong partnered with Wise Consulting Finland to introduce computational thinking and coding concepts to young learners. This partnership was a testament to the evolving landscape of children's literature, which now embraces technology and STEM education as vital components of early childhood development.

"JUST ASK!" by Sonia Sotomayor and Rafael Lopez, and "The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh" by Helen Rutter, deals concluded in August and June respectively, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and resilience. Sotomayor's work, in particular, brought the narrative power of a U.S. Supreme Court Justice to bear on themes of diversity and acceptance, illustrating the capacity of children's literature to engage with complex societal issues in accessible ways.

The early part of the year saw Kevin Sands' "Children of the Fox" and "Seekers of the Fox" series, along with "Autism and Me" by Katie Cook, enrich the Vietnamese market with tales of adventure, mystery, and understanding. These stories, which mix historical elements and promote awareness of autism, respectively, reflect the broad spectrum of experiences and challenges addressed by contemporary children's literature.

Jennifer L. Holm's "The Lion of Mars," another noteworthy addition, was also one of the year's notable deals with its January acquisition by Khai Minh. Holm's reputation as a Newbery Honor author promised a deeply emotional and imaginative story, enriching the Vietnamese children's literature scene with its unique blend of emotional depth and fantastical exploration.

In retrospect, 2023's book deals not only enriched Vietnam's children's book market with global voices but also underscored the importance of literature in shaping young minds. Through these carefully curated selections, Vietnamese publishers have shown a keen understanding of the transformative power of books, ensuring that young readers have access to stories that entertain, educate, and inspire.