The book "Letters to You - Love Letters Through Wars" - a compilation of 400 handwritten letters by Major General Hoang Dan and National Assembly member Nguyen Thi An Vinh - was reprinted for the 8th time, surpassing 30,000 copies sold in October. In this context, on the afternoon of November 14, 2024, the Author Talk: "Letters to You - Love Letters Through Wars" was successfully organized by TDTU INSPiRE Library in collaboration with the Archive and Library Center of the People's Police University. The event took place at Hall 10F and was livestreamed, attracting over 500 students from both institutions. Special guests included the author Hoang Nam Tien, Vice Chairman of the Council at FPT University, and Ms. Nguyen Mai Phuong, the co-author of the book.
The love story between Major General Hoang Dan and Mrs. Nguyen Thi An Vinh – one of the first female National Assembly delegates – unfolded over four decades through handwritten letters. This heartfelt tale was brought to life through the narratives of author Hoang Nam Tien and Ms. Mai Phuong. Their genuine reflections highlighted the human values and meaningful messages conveyed by the book. The letters reveal not only a personal love story but also reflect the experiences of an entire generation dedicated to the nation's liberation. The book portrays the sacrifices, aspirations, and unwavering commitment to ideals through every letter, memory, and moment of war and peace. Author Hoang Nam Tien shared, "My parents' love was not unique; their whole generation was like that. I believe today's young readers can see the blend of revolutionary romance and marital devotion interwoven with patriotism. A whole generation had to suppress personal and familial love to dedicate themselves to the country."
The messages conveyed by "Letters to You - Love Letters Through Wars" resonated deeply with all attendees, offering valuable lessons on love, companionship, sharing in life, and the responsibilities of youth in protecting and building the nation.
A highlight of the event was the interaction between students and the author and guest speakers. Questions from the audience not only demonstrated interest in the book's content but also touched on contemporary issues for today's youth, such as "Youth, Love, and Ideals." Through the discussion, author Hoang Nam Tien offered insightful answers and provided key solutions for young people's challenges. He remarked, "True love elevates one another’s worth."
Sharing about youth, the author recounted valuable life lessons gained during summers spent with his father at work. He emphasized the idea of "du nhi tri" - acquiring knowledge through travel and engaging with diverse people, including experts known as "gurus". The author also introduced the communication technique of the "elevator pitch", which involves conveying ideas succinctly within 30 to 60 seconds or 75 to 150 words. He encouraged young people to be prepared for any life question.
From the wisdom of Major General Hoang Dan, "Love isn’t just looking at each other but holding hands and moving forward together", the author advised couples, especially the young, to strive for intellectual balance within their relationships. He recommended reading and discussing books like "The Defining Decade" by Meg Jay and "Chatter" by Ethan Kross. These books offer insights to help couples navigate challenges and engage in meaningful self-dialogue. The author also suggested simple activities like watching films and daily conversations to grow together.
To find one's "mission" and pursue it wholeheartedly, the author recommended "What Money Can’t Buy" by Michael Sandel, which explores priceless values. The author was particularly inspired by Vietnam’s peacekeeping forces in Africa, a once unimaginable feat that has become a familiar international image. He believed today’s youth could fulfill President Ho Chi Minh’s wish for Vietnam to stand among world powers, contributing with intelligence, innovation, and youthfulness as global citizens.
To foster connections between TDTU students and People's Police University learners, the event featured a "Letter Exchange" activity, where attendees exchanged handwritten letters to build friendships, encourage one another, or simply offer mutual support in their studies and development. As part of the activity, author Hoang Nam Tien selected three pairs of participants for special book gifts.
Additionally, students participated in a quiz competition to gain further insights about the author, the book, and to promote inter-school connections. Top contestants received valuable prizes, while all participants received a copy of "Letters to You - Love Letters Through Wars.".
The event concluded with a book-signing session by author Hoang Nam Tien. The meaningful stories and messages conveyed by "Letters to You - Love Letters Through Wars" touched the hearts of attendees and inspired a love for reading, patriotism, and a sense of responsibility among the younger generation.
Here are some photos from the event:
