First They Killed My Father

Before the Khmer Rouge invade Phnom Penh, Loung Ung, her parents, and her siblings lead a charmed life in the capital city. They have a housekeeper and two vehicles. Although they did not have a refrigerator, the Ungs always have enough to eat as Loung’s mother buys fresh food each day at the open market. Loung spends her days at the market, playing with her friends and learning languages at school. As a five-year-old in Cambodia, her greatest joys come from cuddling with her father, wearing colorful clothes that her mother makes for her, and eating sweet cakes. It is clear that Loung feels safe in her city.

Loung describes her family’s dynamics. She provides her parents’ history, including some of their early challenges, as well as her father’s work history. She writes about each of her siblings, from the oldest brothers to her baby sister. Every family member is respected for his or her individual personalities and love for each other. Loung also points out some of the dangers her father faces because of his high-up position as a government employee.