The title "Stories of Then" stems from the concept of life as a three-act play. "Stories of Then" represents the third act, following childhood and middle age. "When people start frequently reminiscing about 'then,' they are old," he writes.
Instead of a traditional memoir, the book is a series of conversations. The author guides readers from his childhood memories in his hometown of La Gi, Lam Dong (formerly Binh Thuan) through his journey of medical studies and practice, and then to his path of researching and applying Buddhist philosophy to life.
 |
The cover of "Stories of Then". Photo: Do Hong Ngoc. |
The cover of "Stories of Then". Photo: Do Hong Ngoc.
With over 30 years of studying and practicing Buddhism, Dr. Do Hong Ngoc says this path has helped him maintain peace in the face of old age, illness, and life's changes.
These insights come not only from books and meditation but also from personal experiences. He has faced life-threatening illnesses multiple times, including brain surgery in his later years. By maintaining optimism during critical moments, he overcame illness and recounts his experience as "a doctor who also gets sick" with humor. "What's the point of complaining? What's the use? Even illness can sometimes be beneficial," he writes.
 |
Author Do Hong Ngoc at the book launch and discussion for "Stories of Then". Photo: Phanbook |
Author Do Hong Ngoc at the book launch and discussion for "Stories of Then". Photo: Phanbook
From a perspective that blends medicine and Buddhism, Dr. Do Hong Ngoc offers practical health advice in his book. He emphasizes the benefits of meditation, highlighting the importance of treating both physical ailments and "mental illnesses"—a common issue often overlooked in treatment.
During a discussion on 10/8 at the Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, Do Hong Ngoc said the book's central message is a reminder for everyone to return to themselves. He said, "When returning to oneself, people will find peace." According to the author, this process isn't about turning away from the outside world, but learning to listen to one's inner voice amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.
 |
Author Do Hong Ngoc (center) at the book launch and discussion for "Stories of Then". Photo: Phanbook |
Author Do Hong Ngoc (center) at the book launch and discussion for "Stories of Then". Photo: Phanbook
At the book launch, reader Hoang Kim Oanh commented, "Stories of Then allows us moments to reconnect with our inner child." Venerable Thich Thien Dao, another reader, believes the new book inherits the "peaceful and consistent perspective" present in Do Hong Ngoc's previous works.
Doctor and author Do Hong Ngoc, born in 1940 in Phan Thiet (Lam Dong), currently lives in Ho Chi Minh City. He was a pediatrician at Children's Hospital 1 in Ho Chi Minh City and later served as director of the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Health Communication and Education.
He has published over 60 books and is considered a pioneer in writing about public health and life skills. Among them, many essay collections such as "The Autumn Wind Has Returned," "When People Grow Up," and "Letters to First-Time Mothers" are beloved by readers.
Thu Giang
