A Year in Saigon: How I Gave Up My Glitzy Job in Television to Have the Time of My Life Teaching Amerasian Kids in Vietnam

This is a heart-tugger from former TV journalist Kelly, who presents a richly drawn portrait of postwar Vietnam and a harrowing picture of the lot of Amerasian children. But the core of the book is a sprightly account of Kelly's 1990 stint teaching in Saigon orphanages and at such improvised sites as restaurants and outings. One only wishes she had revealed what in her own history drew her so powerfully to these children. We not only watch Kelly tutoring but see her efforts to feed the kids and get their teeth fixed (a local dentist is overwhelmed at the state of American dentistry evidenced in Kelly's mouth). For her part, Kelly gags at a fried sparrow feast, faints at a childbirth and shed tears for the children. Her story is an inspiration and a graphic reminder of the ravages of war. Photos not seen by PW. Reader's Digest Condensed Book Club selection. (July)