"An honest and heartfelt recount that feels like a harrowing distant tale and yet strangely familiar to all who had been refugees. One can only write this beautifully by one of two ways:
through real lived experiences or spiritually channeled from the higher sources - the ancestors - and in this case, it's both."
-Nguyen Thien An, writer "Under the Squash Vines"
"A beautifully constructed memoir of an epic life journey. Vi Tu's story is nothing short of an odyssey with an underlying message of the power of good deeds, small moments of
kindness, mentorship and perseverance."
-Dr. Carlye Jensen, President Uxbridge Health Center
"12 Elephants and a Dragon by Dr. Vi Tu Banh is a deeply moving and inspiring story of resilience, hope, and community. Through the lens of a young boy's journey from war-torn
Vietnam to a new life in Canada, Dr. Banh beautifully captures the strength of the human spirit and the kindness of strangers. This powerful memoir not only recounts the harrowing
escape from Vietnam but also highlights the generosity of the Uxbridge families who helped them rebuild their lives. A must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt tale of courage,
survival, and the transformative power of compassion."
-Mayor Dave Barton, Uxbridge
"The story in this book is a saga told through the eyes of a boy who, through circumstance, had to grow up far too quickly and shoulder responsibilities far too grave for a child to bear. It is a compelling story of fear and generosity, failure and success, and the spirit of a young boy who grew into a pillar of the community which embraced his family. That boy/man is the author, Vi Tu Banh. Vi Tu leads by example, always mindful of 'paying forward' and paying back the generosity extended by the community that welcomed his family in their time of greatest need. Vi Tu is a Canadian who makes me proud of being born here. It is a story that you must read."
-Michael McLuhan, Composer, Executor, Estate of Marshall McLuhan
"In an epic journey across oceans and cultures, Vi Tu transports you into his immigrant family's story with vivid details. From embracing adult responsibilities while still a young boy, to realizing his vision of becoming a doctor, the thread of his Buddhist wisdom-gratitude, love, and compassion-is woven throughout, guiding him as he pays it forward to positively affect one billion people. An uplifting page turner!"
-Heidi Hackler, author, Food, Mood, Gratitude
"Dr. Vi Tu Banh's profound personal journey resonated deeply with me, both emotionally and spiritually. Dr. Banh's narrative, detailing his experiences and the incredible individuals who stood by him, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of love and service. I honor all those who dedicate themselves to uplifting humanity. This is a story that deserves to be shared-a message that should inspire countless others. Spread the word! Tell a dozen people."
-Reverend Bill McDonald, Vietnam vet, author, poet, speaker
A must read to help us better understand the trials and tribulations of The Boat People who came to Canada."
-Gerri Lynn O'Connor, former Uxbridge mayor
