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Boat Baby: A Memoir

Description:

In a memoir where heroism meets humor, NBC News anchor and correspondent Vicky Nguyen tells the story of her family’s daring escape from communist Vietnam and her unlikely journey from refugee to reporter with laughter and fierce love.

Starting in 1975, Vietnam’s “boat people”—desperate families seeking freedom—fled the Communist government and violence in their country any way they could, usually by boat across the South China Sea. Vicky Nguyen and her family were among them. Attacked at sea by pirates before reaching a refugee camp in Malaysia, Vicky’s family survived on rations and waited months until they were sponsored to go to America.

But deciding to leave and start a new life in a new country is half the story…figuring out
how to be American is the other. Boat Baby is Vicky’s memoir of growing up in America with unconventional Vietnamese parents who didn’t always know how to bridge the cultural gaps. It’s a childhood filled with misadventures and misunderstandings, from almost stabbing the neighborhood racist with a butter knife to getting caught stealing Cosmo in the hope of learning Do You Really Think You Know Everything About Sex?

Vicky’s parents approached life with the attitude, “
Why not us?” In the face of prejudice, they taught her to be gritty and resilient, skills Vicky used as she combatted stereotyping throughout her career, fending off the question “Aren’t you Connie Chung?” to become a leading Asian American journalist on television. She delivers a uniquely transparent account of her life, revealing how she negotiated her salary in a competitive industry, the challenges of starting a family, and the struggle to be a dutiful daughter.

Funny, nostalgic, and poignant,
Boat Baby is a testament to the messy glue that bonds a family. In the tradition of We Are Dreamers by Simu Liu and Dear Girls by Ali Wong, Vicky Nguyen offers an optimistic story full of heart that illuminates the promise of what America can be.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"How could I love and respect Vicky Nguyen even more? I read her book. Vicky's life story reads like a thriller-and a love story-and a how-to on finding your voice. I am in awe!” — Hoda Kotb, NBC TODAY show anchor

A love letter to all immigrant families. Vicky’s storytelling reels you in and leaves an unforgettable imprint. She honors her family, illustrates the power of grit and inspires us to keep our faith, especially in the face of adversity. A must read!”— Olivia Munn

"This moving story of dogged hard work, courage, and resilience will renew your appreciation for the American dream that Vicky so beautifully personifies."
— Savannah Guthrie, NBC TODAY show anchor

"Uniquely personal and universally inspiring. Equal parts funny, inspiring, and authentic. Vicky's memoir informs, uplifts and reminds us all that America is a place where anything can happen.”
— Andrew Yang

"A profoundly moving narrative that encapsulates the essence of resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of family. I found a personal connection to the story. A testament to the power of love and the enduring human spirit, Vicky has created a masterpiece that will resonate with readers for generations."
— Lisa Sun, bestselling author of Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence

“Nguyen navigated life with spunk, optimism, and the fighting spirit she inherited from her parents. Her funny, candid, heartfelt book is a reminder that, even as we carry our pasts with us, we should keep our sights on where we want to go."
— The Real Simple

About the Author

Vicky is an NBC News senior consumer investigative correspondent and anchor of NBC News Daily. She reports for the Today show, Nightly News with Lester Holt and NBC News Now. She graduated as valedictorian from the University of San Francisco. Vicky lives in New York with her husband and three daughters. Her parents are always nearby.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating read!!

S.W. · September 10, 2025

An inspiring and heartfelt read! This book is packed with humor, grit and engaging stories that keep you turning the pages. she writes with such honesty and warmth that you feel like you’re sitting down with a dear friend!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Must-read immigrant version of "Wonder Years" sure to inspire you

P.B. · October 8, 2025

Summer read that I'm finally getting around to posting my review since I cannot recommend this memoir HIGHLY ENOUGH! I was blessed to live close to Vicky for too few years and can attest she is every bit as authentic, inspirational and intelligent while being humble, approachable and kind-hearted as you will learn from this book. Was a complete pleasure to read this collection of inspiring stories chronicling Vicky and her family's adventures coming to the US and forging a life for themselves. This is a classic picture of the American dream and no matter how humble your beginnings there are limitless possibilities for those who are able and willing to roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, sometimes fail, but pick yourself up and persevere through adversity while maintaining and treating others with dignity and respect. This is not just the story of Vicky and her Vietnamese immigrant family's experience in the US, but it is the story of EVERYONE who has ever needed the courage to start a new venture, endure judgment or ridicule from others or navigate challenging relationships at school, work or in your own family. Vicky uses wit and humor to grab the reader and bring you into each moment with her. It reads like an immigrant version of the Wonder Years TV series. I loved how each chapter is a brief vignette making the whole book accessible and easy to pick up and put down (which you really won't want to do the latter). Guaranteed to add some laughter, tears and smiles to your day. Read it alone or read it out loud to others if you want to inspire them!

4.0 out of 5 stars A great read!

P. · August 29, 2025

A wonderful biography of tenacity and family.

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read!!! Bursting with emotions!!!

J. · August 4, 2025

Omg just finished reading “Boat Baby” by Vicky Nguyen who I went to Piner high school with in my small town of Santa Rosa! She was an NBC News anchor and now works for The Today Show!As I’m reading this book on an island looking into the deep blue ocean, I’m consumed with emotions reading each page with a reminder of the tremendous struggles our parents went through to escape Vietnam especially since I was born at a refugee camp.Thanks Vicky for sharing so much of your vulnerability with your beautiful story, I absolutely loved your book 🩵

5.0 out of 5 stars Very inspiring true story!

s. · May 5, 2025

I absolutely loved this book! I’m a big fan of the Today show and enjoy Vicky Nguyen and her always well-researched work, but reading her life story made me see her in a whole new light. It was very inspiring to see how she overcame so much and kept pressing forward. I also like that the chapters are quite short, so if you just have a few minutes to read, you don’t get bogged down.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Story

B.B. · April 7, 2025

This is a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that she shares of her journey to America and living in the new land. Nguyen parents made the decision to leave Vietnam on a boat with many people. That was incredibly difficult: Life vs Death. The trip was relatively short (2 day/2 nights) compared to other Vietnamese boat people's experiences. It is interesting to hear her description of arriving at Malaysia refugee camp: "Paradise." A the end, this story captures the cycle of life. She has started her own family, getting married, raising kids, and eventually her journey toward becoming a successful journalist. It's an amazing story with remarkable achievements. April 30th approaches. 50 years after the fall of Saigon; this is a significant date in Vietnamese history. A good book to read to refresh memory of the past.

5.0 out of 5 stars A touching, funny and heartfelt memoir!

V. · April 10, 2025

What a beautiful and important book. Vicky Nguyen is a wonderful storyteller. You are immediately part of the action in this captivating memoir as we first see Vicky on the verge of getting hired by NBC and the Today Show. Then she takes us back - all the way back to where she came from - by telling us the dramatic and fascinating story of her parents in pre-war, during the war, and post-war Vietnam. Vicky's parents, like millions of others, risked their lives for freedom. The book details the harrowing journey beautifully; you will be on the edge of your seat!. Vicky describes life as an only child of two immigrants as she does a lot of "raising herself" in their new country. It's fun, funny, touching and such a pleasure to read. I'm a big fan of memoir and narrative non-fiction and Boat Baby is one of my all time favorites.

4.0 out of 5 stars Book good, shipping not good

M. · May 7, 2025

I just started reading this book and find it very interesting. I was disappointed with the packaging, however. I’m glad I didn’t buy this for a gift because the paper jacket cover was ripped down the front. The book was shipped in a sealed plastic bag and enclosed in a sturdy box, so I assume the jacket cover was ripped before it was placed in the “protective” plastic bag. The ripped cover should’ve been noticed and not sent. The book is not cheap and I think I should’ve received a book in pristine condition. I won’t send it back for this, but it is a disappointment.

Boat Baby: A Memoir

Product ID: U1668025566
Condition: New

4.6

AED12364

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Hardcover
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

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Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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Boat Baby: A Memoir

Product ID: U1668025566
Condition: New

4.6

Boat Baby: A Memoir-0
Type: Hardcover

AED12364

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

In a memoir where heroism meets humor, NBC News anchor and correspondent Vicky Nguyen tells the story of her family’s daring escape from communist Vietnam and her unlikely journey from refugee to reporter with laughter and fierce love.

Starting in 1975, Vietnam’s “boat people”—desperate families seeking freedom—fled the Communist government and violence in their country any way they could, usually by boat across the South China Sea. Vicky Nguyen and her family were among them. Attacked at sea by pirates before reaching a refugee camp in Malaysia, Vicky’s family survived on rations and waited months until they were sponsored to go to America.

But deciding to leave and start a new life in a new country is half the story…figuring out
how to be American is the other. Boat Baby is Vicky’s memoir of growing up in America with unconventional Vietnamese parents who didn’t always know how to bridge the cultural gaps. It’s a childhood filled with misadventures and misunderstandings, from almost stabbing the neighborhood racist with a butter knife to getting caught stealing Cosmo in the hope of learning Do You Really Think You Know Everything About Sex?

Vicky’s parents approached life with the attitude, “
Why not us?” In the face of prejudice, they taught her to be gritty and resilient, skills Vicky used as she combatted stereotyping throughout her career, fending off the question “Aren’t you Connie Chung?” to become a leading Asian American journalist on television. She delivers a uniquely transparent account of her life, revealing how she negotiated her salary in a competitive industry, the challenges of starting a family, and the struggle to be a dutiful daughter.

Funny, nostalgic, and poignant,
Boat Baby is a testament to the messy glue that bonds a family. In the tradition of We Are Dreamers by Simu Liu and Dear Girls by Ali Wong, Vicky Nguyen offers an optimistic story full of heart that illuminates the promise of what America can be.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"How could I love and respect Vicky Nguyen even more? I read her book. Vicky's life story reads like a thriller-and a love story-and a how-to on finding your voice. I am in awe!” — Hoda Kotb, NBC TODAY show anchor

A love letter to all immigrant families. Vicky’s storytelling reels you in and leaves an unforgettable imprint. She honors her family, illustrates the power of grit and inspires us to keep our faith, especially in the face of adversity. A must read!”— Olivia Munn

"This moving story of dogged hard work, courage, and resilience will renew your appreciation for the American dream that Vicky so beautifully personifies."
— Savannah Guthrie, NBC TODAY show anchor

"Uniquely personal and universally inspiring. Equal parts funny, inspiring, and authentic. Vicky's memoir informs, uplifts and reminds us all that America is a place where anything can happen.”
— Andrew Yang

"A profoundly moving narrative that encapsulates the essence of resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of family. I found a personal connection to the story. A testament to the power of love and the enduring human spirit, Vicky has created a masterpiece that will resonate with readers for generations."
— Lisa Sun, bestselling author of Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence

“Nguyen navigated life with spunk, optimism, and the fighting spirit she inherited from her parents. Her funny, candid, heartfelt book is a reminder that, even as we carry our pasts with us, we should keep our sights on where we want to go."
— The Real Simple

About the Author

Vicky is an NBC News senior consumer investigative correspondent and anchor of NBC News Daily. She reports for the Today show, Nightly News with Lester Holt and NBC News Now. She graduated as valedictorian from the University of San Francisco. Vicky lives in New York with her husband and three daughters. Her parents are always nearby.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating read!!

S.W. · September 10, 2025

An inspiring and heartfelt read! This book is packed with humor, grit and engaging stories that keep you turning the pages. she writes with such honesty and warmth that you feel like you’re sitting down with a dear friend!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Must-read immigrant version of "Wonder Years" sure to inspire you

P.B. · October 8, 2025

Summer read that I'm finally getting around to posting my review since I cannot recommend this memoir HIGHLY ENOUGH! I was blessed to live close to Vicky for too few years and can attest she is every bit as authentic, inspirational and intelligent while being humble, approachable and kind-hearted as you will learn from this book. Was a complete pleasure to read this collection of inspiring stories chronicling Vicky and her family's adventures coming to the US and forging a life for themselves. This is a classic picture of the American dream and no matter how humble your beginnings there are limitless possibilities for those who are able and willing to roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, sometimes fail, but pick yourself up and persevere through adversity while maintaining and treating others with dignity and respect. This is not just the story of Vicky and her Vietnamese immigrant family's experience in the US, but it is the story of EVERYONE who has ever needed the courage to start a new venture, endure judgment or ridicule from others or navigate challenging relationships at school, work or in your own family. Vicky uses wit and humor to grab the reader and bring you into each moment with her. It reads like an immigrant version of the Wonder Years TV series. I loved how each chapter is a brief vignette making the whole book accessible and easy to pick up and put down (which you really won't want to do the latter). Guaranteed to add some laughter, tears and smiles to your day. Read it alone or read it out loud to others if you want to inspire them!

4.0 out of 5 stars A great read!

P. · August 29, 2025

A wonderful biography of tenacity and family.

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read!!! Bursting with emotions!!!

J. · August 4, 2025

Omg just finished reading “Boat Baby” by Vicky Nguyen who I went to Piner high school with in my small town of Santa Rosa! She was an NBC News anchor and now works for The Today Show!As I’m reading this book on an island looking into the deep blue ocean, I’m consumed with emotions reading each page with a reminder of the tremendous struggles our parents went through to escape Vietnam especially since I was born at a refugee camp.Thanks Vicky for sharing so much of your vulnerability with your beautiful story, I absolutely loved your book 🩵

5.0 out of 5 stars Very inspiring true story!

s. · May 5, 2025

I absolutely loved this book! I’m a big fan of the Today show and enjoy Vicky Nguyen and her always well-researched work, but reading her life story made me see her in a whole new light. It was very inspiring to see how she overcame so much and kept pressing forward. I also like that the chapters are quite short, so if you just have a few minutes to read, you don’t get bogged down.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Story

B.B. · April 7, 2025

This is a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that she shares of her journey to America and living in the new land. Nguyen parents made the decision to leave Vietnam on a boat with many people. That was incredibly difficult: Life vs Death. The trip was relatively short (2 day/2 nights) compared to other Vietnamese boat people's experiences. It is interesting to hear her description of arriving at Malaysia refugee camp: "Paradise." A the end, this story captures the cycle of life. She has started her own family, getting married, raising kids, and eventually her journey toward becoming a successful journalist. It's an amazing story with remarkable achievements. April 30th approaches. 50 years after the fall of Saigon; this is a significant date in Vietnamese history. A good book to read to refresh memory of the past.

5.0 out of 5 stars A touching, funny and heartfelt memoir!

V. · April 10, 2025

What a beautiful and important book. Vicky Nguyen is a wonderful storyteller. You are immediately part of the action in this captivating memoir as we first see Vicky on the verge of getting hired by NBC and the Today Show. Then she takes us back - all the way back to where she came from - by telling us the dramatic and fascinating story of her parents in pre-war, during the war, and post-war Vietnam. Vicky's parents, like millions of others, risked their lives for freedom. The book details the harrowing journey beautifully; you will be on the edge of your seat!. Vicky describes life as an only child of two immigrants as she does a lot of "raising herself" in their new country. It's fun, funny, touching and such a pleasure to read. I'm a big fan of memoir and narrative non-fiction and Boat Baby is one of my all time favorites.

4.0 out of 5 stars Book good, shipping not good

M. · May 7, 2025

I just started reading this book and find it very interesting. I was disappointed with the packaging, however. I’m glad I didn’t buy this for a gift because the paper jacket cover was ripped down the front. The book was shipped in a sealed plastic bag and enclosed in a sturdy box, so I assume the jacket cover was ripped before it was placed in the “protective” plastic bag. The ripped cover should’ve been noticed and not sent. The book is not cheap and I think I should’ve received a book in pristine condition. I won’t send it back for this, but it is a disappointment.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Television Performers”