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The Happiest Refugee

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The Happiest Refugee

By: Anh Do
Narrated by: Anh Do
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About this listen

The laugh-out-loud, reach-for-your-hanky story of one of Australia's best-loved comedians.

Anh Do nearly didn't make it to Australia. His entire family came close to losing their lives on the sea as they escaped from war-torn Vietnam in an overcrowded boat. But nothing - not murderous pirates nor the imminent threat of death by hunger, disease or dehydration as they drifted for days - could quench their desire to make a better life in a country where freedom existed.

Life in Australia was hard, an endless succession of backbreaking work, crowded rooms, ruthless landlords and make-do everything. But there was a loving extended family and always friends and play and something to laugh about for Anh, his brother, Khoa, and their sister, Tram. Things got harder when their father left home when Anh was 13 - they felt his loss very deeply, and their mother struggled to support the family on her own.

His mother's sacrifice was an inspiration to Anh, and he worked hard during his teenage years to help her make ends meet, also managing to graduate high school and then university. Another inspiration was the comedian Anh met when he was about to sign on for a 60-hour-a-week corporate job. Anh asked how many hours he worked. 'Four', the answer came back, and that was it. He was going to be a comedian!

The Happiest Refugee tells the incredible, uplifting and inspiring life story of one of our favourite personalities. Tragedy, humour, heartache and unswerving determination - a big life with big dreams. Anh's story will move and amuse all who hear it.

©2010 Anh Do (P)2017 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd
Asian & Pacific Islander Creators Cultural & Regional Entertainment & Celebrities Heartfelt Funny Inspiring Feel-Good Comedy Pirate

Editorial reviews

You may know him from his television series, his stint on Dancing with the Stars, or his long career as a comedian and author. In The Happiest Refugee, Ahn Do gives a rendition as you'd expect, narrating his own life story and bringing it to life with his recognisable voice and familiar sense of humour. Exploring the perils he faced while immigrating, the struggle to make a life for himself in Australia and the glimmer of eventual stardom, this listen blends joy, tragedy and honest insight in a way that underscores the nature of true perseverance.

Winning numerous awards, including the 2011 Australian Book of the Year, The Happiest Refugee will bring you closer to the Do you know as a successful comedian, author and star. Be prepared to laugh, cry and laugh until you cry.

All stars
Most relevant  

What did you like most about The Happiest Refugee?

Anh's positivity throughout his life experience

What other book might you compare The Happiest Refugee to, and why?

none that I have read

What about Anh Do’s performance did you like?

everything! he tells the story so well

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

the whole story was very moving and emotional

Any additional comments?

This is by far one of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to. Ahn does a great job narrating the story of his life. He truly is an inspiration

Amazing

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Thank you Anh Do for sharing. A wonderful journey of your life. It was truly uplifting and inspirational. I will be a better person from this.

Brilliant

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This was a great yarn. Honest and brutal recount of Anh's journey from poverty in post war Vietnam to his successes in Australia. Thoroughly recommend this book.

Great Book Great Story

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What an awesome story! Had me gripped from the beginning and in tears by the end. Life changing. Thanks Anh

Wow!

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I have laughed, cried and learned so much after listening to this book. Big thanks to the happiest refugee!

Best book!

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Couldn't put it down, or press pause. What a journey. So many awesome life lessons.

Fantastic

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This was an amazing story and I loved it so so much this was great

This was an amazing story and I loved it so so much this was great

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Moving funny suspenseful and informative story about Anh and his family’s escape from the cruel communist held Vietnam to Australia and their experiences and hard earned achievements in their new homeland.

Great story!

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A book has never brought me so much happiness, such an uplifting, funny and entertaining book.

Favourite Audiobook

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Thoroughly enjoyable story! Excellently told. Happy cried throughout. Recommend to all! A beautiful story teller

An entertaining and heartwarming story

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