The Girl In The Picture : The Story of Kim Phuc, the Photograph, and the Vietnam War - Denise Chong

"The Girl in the Picture: The Story of Kim Phuc, the Photograph, and the Vietnam War" by Denise Chong tells the emotional and powerful story behind the iconic photograph of Kim Phuc, the young girl captured running from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War. The image, taken by photographer Nick Ut in 1972, became a symbol of the war's horrors and shocked the world. The book goes beyond the photograph, detailing Kim's life after the attack, including her years of painful recovery, both physically and emotionally. Despite being thrust into the global spotlight, Kim Phuc struggled with the aftermath of the war, living with severe burns and coping with trauma for years.

The book also delves into the broader historical context of the Vietnam War, examining its lasting impact on both the individuals involved and the world at large. Through Kim's personal journey, Denise Chong explores themes of survival, healing, and the power of forgiveness. Kim eventually became a peace activist, using her story to advocate for the horrors of war and the need for reconciliation. Her experience highlights the lasting scars of conflict, both personal and societal, and the power of images in shaping public perception and inspiring change.