Bronze Drum

A "gripping historical adventure" of ancient Vietnam based on the true story
of two warrior sisters who raised an army of women to overthrow the Han
Chinese and rule as kings over a united people, for readers of Circe and The
Night Tiger (Booklist).

Gather around, children of Chu Dien, and be brave.
For even to listen to the story of the Trung Sisters is,
in these troubled times, a dangerous act.

In 40 CE, in the Au Lac region of ancient Vietnam, two daughters of a
Vietnamese Lord fill their days training, studying, and trying to stay true to
Vietnamese traditions. While Trung Trac is disciplined and wise, always
excelling in her duty, Trung Nhi is fierce and free spirited, more concerned
with spending time in the gardens and with lovers.

But these sister's lives--and the lives of their people--are shadowed by the
oppressive rule of the Han Chinese. They are forced to adopt Confucian
teachings, secure marriages, and pay ever‑increasing taxes. As the peoples'
frustration boils over, the country comes ever closer to the edge of war.

When Trung Trac and Trung Nhi's father is executed, their world comes crashing
down around them. With no men to save them against the Han's encroaching
regime, they must rise and unite the women of Vietnam into an army.
Solidifying their status as champions of women and Vietnam, they usher in a
period of freedom and independence for their people.

Vivid, lyrical, and filled with adventure, The Bronze Drum is a true story of
standing up for one's people, culture, and country that has been passed down
through generations of Vietnamese families through oral tradition. Phong
Nguyen's breathtaking novel takes these real women out of legends and
celebrates their loves, losses, and resilience in this inspirational story of
women's strength and power even in the face of the greatest obstacles.