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Never Say Die
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In this stunning and compulsively readable memoir, the Oscar-winning star of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and Everything Everywhere All at Once, Ke Huy Quan, tells the story of his journey from Vietnamese refugee to 80s child star to the most inspiring comeback in Hollywood history.
Ke Huy Quan’s Hollywood adventure began when he was twelve years old, a mere five years after his family escaped Communist Northern Vietnam and settled down to a relatively peaceful life in L.A.’s Chinatown. After attending an open call audition on a whim, he was unexpectedly swept up in the wild world of filmmaking: learning to swim from Harrison Ford on the set of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, receiving trucks full of toys from Steven Spielberg and George Lucas for his birthday, meeting Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, and making lifelong friends on the set of The Goonies.
A star of two of the most beloved movies of the ‘80s, there appeared to be no limit to Ke’s rise. But just a few years later, the roles had dried up and it seemed like Hollywood no longer had a place for him. He eventually left acting to work odd jobs behind the scenes for directors like Wong Kar Wai. His confidence was badly shaken, but his love of performing never abated. It wasn’t until decades later, when he was 49 years old, that he stepped back in front of the camera to star in a strange little indie film called Everything Everywhere All at Once, which surprised everyone with its incredible box-office and awards season success. To call Ke’s Oscar-winning performance a triumphant return would be an understatement.
In this moving, inspirational memoir, Ke paints a vivid self-portrait, telling both heart-wrenching and funny stories of his early rise, slow fall from the spotlight, the resilience that kept him going through his darkest times, and his eventual resurrection on one of the biggest stages in Hollywood. Never Say Die is the story of Ke’s extraordinary life, a love letter to the movies and people that shaped him, and a powerful testament to never giving up on your dreams.
Ke Huy Quan’s Hollywood adventure began when he was twelve years old, a mere five years after his family escaped Communist Northern Vietnam and settled down to a relatively peaceful life in L.A.’s Chinatown. After attending an open call audition on a whim, he was unexpectedly swept up in the wild world of filmmaking: learning to swim from Harrison Ford on the set of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, receiving trucks full of toys from Steven Spielberg and George Lucas for his birthday, meeting Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, and making lifelong friends on the set of The Goonies.
A star of two of the most beloved movies of the ‘80s, there appeared to be no limit to Ke’s rise. But just a few years later, the roles had dried up and it seemed like Hollywood no longer had a place for him. He eventually left acting to work odd jobs behind the scenes for directors like Wong Kar Wai. His confidence was badly shaken, but his love of performing never abated. It wasn’t until decades later, when he was 49 years old, that he stepped back in front of the camera to star in a strange little indie film called Everything Everywhere All at Once, which surprised everyone with its incredible box-office and awards season success. To call Ke’s Oscar-winning performance a triumphant return would be an understatement.
In this moving, inspirational memoir, Ke paints a vivid self-portrait, telling both heart-wrenching and funny stories of his early rise, slow fall from the spotlight, the resilience that kept him going through his darkest times, and his eventual resurrection on one of the biggest stages in Hollywood. Never Say Die is the story of Ke’s extraordinary life, a love letter to the movies and people that shaped him, and a powerful testament to never giving up on your dreams.
256 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication September 15, 2026
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2026
May 20, 2026ANHPI TBR
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📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing
Memoir March TBR
Non-fiction November TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing
May 31, 2026
Finished with tears in my eyes.
Immediately after finishing, I rewatched Ke Huy Quan’s Golden Globe and Oscar speeches.
“I remember saying, “For so many years, I was afraid I had nothing more to offer.”
What a storied life of someone who was once forgotten in the industry , but never from our hearts, playing pivotal roles in Indiana Jones and The Goonies.
While I wished there were more descriptions - Quan watched a private showing at Michael Jackson’s house (what really happened in that house?), what famous actor (and how dare he) try to minimize him at SAG awards? Regardless, I enjoyed this quick memoir of a fabled Chinese actor who escaped on a refugee boat during the fall of Saigon.
Being a refugee is by far the most important part of this story, as he mentions in the first line of his memoir:
“you have to understand that no one puts those children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land”
Quan proves, we all have a history, and there are a certain type of people that refuse to believe in basic humanity.
“For years I wondered how things would be if I had a different beginning. One without that label—refugee. The shame it carried. At times, I wished I could erase it entirely. But I understood what that would mean. To erase that part of my story would be to erase my parents’ sacrifices—the very things that gave me a chance at life.”
I would have loved some pictures of his life at the end, but I think Quan still wants to preserve what life he has lived in many ways. Regardless, I’m happy I read this memoir.
Thank you Grand Central for the advanced copy!
Immediately after finishing, I rewatched Ke Huy Quan’s Golden Globe and Oscar speeches.
“I remember saying, “For so many years, I was afraid I had nothing more to offer.”
What a storied life of someone who was once forgotten in the industry , but never from our hearts, playing pivotal roles in Indiana Jones and The Goonies.
While I wished there were more descriptions - Quan watched a private showing at Michael Jackson’s house (what really happened in that house?), what famous actor (and how dare he) try to minimize him at SAG awards? Regardless, I enjoyed this quick memoir of a fabled Chinese actor who escaped on a refugee boat during the fall of Saigon.
Being a refugee is by far the most important part of this story, as he mentions in the first line of his memoir:
“you have to understand that no one puts those children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land”
Quan proves, we all have a history, and there are a certain type of people that refuse to believe in basic humanity.
“For years I wondered how things would be if I had a different beginning. One without that label—refugee. The shame it carried. At times, I wished I could erase it entirely. But I understood what that would mean. To erase that part of my story would be to erase my parents’ sacrifices—the very things that gave me a chance at life.”
I would have loved some pictures of his life at the end, but I think Quan still wants to preserve what life he has lived in many ways. Regardless, I’m happy I read this memoir.
Thank you Grand Central for the advanced copy!
July 10, 2026
Thank you Net Galley and Grand Central Publishing for this ARC.
I wanted to read this book partly because of nostalgia, since I remember watching him in two of the greatest movies of my childhood. What I didn’t expect was to read such an honest, open story about struggle and self doubt and resilience.
It read like a roller coaster, ups and downs, grief and happiness. I felt drawn in, I wanted to read how it ended even though I knew. I wanted to experience it through his side of the story and that’s what I got. I got to understand that Oscar win from a different angle and with more meaning after learning about his life.
“Keep your dreams alive”, I’m happy he did.
I wanted to read this book partly because of nostalgia, since I remember watching him in two of the greatest movies of my childhood. What I didn’t expect was to read such an honest, open story about struggle and self doubt and resilience.
It read like a roller coaster, ups and downs, grief and happiness. I felt drawn in, I wanted to read how it ended even though I knew. I wanted to experience it through his side of the story and that’s what I got. I got to understand that Oscar win from a different angle and with more meaning after learning about his life.
“Keep your dreams alive”, I’m happy he did.
July 15, 2026
Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for an e-arc of this book. I don't have enough good things to say about Ke's memoir. I ran out of things to say while finishing the epilogue. In the past, I've read memoirs from social media influencers, celebrities, disability activists, writers, and other creatives—none of those books top Ke's.
What makes "Never Say Die" so unique is the fact that it's written like a biopic. He begins with his childhood and youth years; every chapter is dated and has a location. It feels like you are reading a script of his biopic. You can imagine every scene, emotion, and feeling he had in your head. He wrote each of the chapters in a way that makes them less like sob stories and more like chapters or arcs of his story. Like the hero's journey.
As an asian american reader who has followed his work for a long time, I loved how he touched on family, traditions, culture, and food. Part of an Asian's story is always strict, hardworking, and always at their best. Ke writes about those aspects in ways that young adults won't understand til they are much older. He made every chapter a lesson to learn from or a bridge to cross.
I also enjoyed how he discussed the ups and downs (aka the rejection in the industry. As a fellow creative, I know how hard it is, especially as an Asian creative, to get anywhere. He made his story one worth living for. Yeah, it was tough and really sad, but many good things came out of those tragedies, and I loved that he touched on those moments without feeling too influential or social media influencery.
To conclude this review, I think the book was the perfect length. Most memoirs are under 300 pages. Concise and to the point.
What makes "Never Say Die" so unique is the fact that it's written like a biopic. He begins with his childhood and youth years; every chapter is dated and has a location. It feels like you are reading a script of his biopic. You can imagine every scene, emotion, and feeling he had in your head. He wrote each of the chapters in a way that makes them less like sob stories and more like chapters or arcs of his story. Like the hero's journey.
As an asian american reader who has followed his work for a long time, I loved how he touched on family, traditions, culture, and food. Part of an Asian's story is always strict, hardworking, and always at their best. Ke writes about those aspects in ways that young adults won't understand til they are much older. He made every chapter a lesson to learn from or a bridge to cross.
I also enjoyed how he discussed the ups and downs (aka the rejection in the industry. As a fellow creative, I know how hard it is, especially as an Asian creative, to get anywhere. He made his story one worth living for. Yeah, it was tough and really sad, but many good things came out of those tragedies, and I loved that he touched on those moments without feeling too influential or social media influencery.
To conclude this review, I think the book was the perfect length. Most memoirs are under 300 pages. Concise and to the point.
June 15, 2026
When I heard that Ke Huy Quan was releasing a memoir, it instantly became one of my most anticipated releases for 2026. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is one of my all time favorite movies, and that is due in large part to Ke Huy Quan's role as Short Round in the movie.
I love the relationship between Short Round and Indy. Like this:
Anyway, all that to say that I couldn't wait to read a book about his career. I was most interested in the segments where he talked about Indiana Jones, but his career as a whole was very interesting to read about.
The Indiana Jones sections were great. I loved learning that one of my favorite scenes of the entire movie was ad-libbed AND was also the scene that Spielberg used to test the chemistry between Quan and Harrison Ford. Quan's description of the poker scene was hilarious and I loved it. It made me want to watch the movie again.
I've never seen The Goonies or Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close but it was still interesting to read about his role in those movies as well. I really admired Quan's persistence, including his fairly long break from acting, and then to come back onto the scene and win an Academy Award! Very inspiring. I also like learning more about his family and culture as well. I didn't know much about him at all to begin with, so I found learning about his past and everything he overcame to come to America. Some celebrity memoirs come off as braggy or have a superior sounding tone, but I found Quan's to read very humbly. I got the impression he is truly grateful for each and every opportunity he received.
My only complaint (and it’s a minor one) is that I wish the memoir had included some pictures at the end. I would have loved to see those! The memoir was still fantastic without them but it still would have been fun to get some photos as well.
I found the memoir to be well-written, charming and insightful. I really enjoyed it!
Thank you Grand Central Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I love the relationship between Short Round and Indy. Like this:
Anyway, all that to say that I couldn't wait to read a book about his career. I was most interested in the segments where he talked about Indiana Jones, but his career as a whole was very interesting to read about.
The Indiana Jones sections were great. I loved learning that one of my favorite scenes of the entire movie was ad-libbed AND was also the scene that Spielberg used to test the chemistry between Quan and Harrison Ford. Quan's description of the poker scene was hilarious and I loved it. It made me want to watch the movie again.
I've never seen The Goonies or Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close but it was still interesting to read about his role in those movies as well. I really admired Quan's persistence, including his fairly long break from acting, and then to come back onto the scene and win an Academy Award! Very inspiring. I also like learning more about his family and culture as well. I didn't know much about him at all to begin with, so I found learning about his past and everything he overcame to come to America. Some celebrity memoirs come off as braggy or have a superior sounding tone, but I found Quan's to read very humbly. I got the impression he is truly grateful for each and every opportunity he received.
My only complaint (and it’s a minor one) is that I wish the memoir had included some pictures at the end. I would have loved to see those! The memoir was still fantastic without them but it still would have been fun to get some photos as well.
I found the memoir to be well-written, charming and insightful. I really enjoyed it!
Thank you Grand Central Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 3, 2026
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for the advanced reader copy!
It is such a rare balance to hold the intense sorrows of life and also its magic, heartbreak and nostalgia, disappointments and breakthroughs, fears both small and immense, and hold it all with such gentleness. There is so much to love about Never Say Die, but I think my favorite thing is its kindness. Ke Huy Quan looks at his life with such deep tenderness, both his present day self and the boy who went through more than any child should go through, and every phase in between. I just loved this memoir so much, and can't recommend it enough.
It is such a rare balance to hold the intense sorrows of life and also its magic, heartbreak and nostalgia, disappointments and breakthroughs, fears both small and immense, and hold it all with such gentleness. There is so much to love about Never Say Die, but I think my favorite thing is its kindness. Ke Huy Quan looks at his life with such deep tenderness, both his present day self and the boy who went through more than any child should go through, and every phase in between. I just loved this memoir so much, and can't recommend it enough.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
These days I'm not really a celebrity memoir kind of a person. With everything going on I find more often than not if a celebrity comes out with an autobiography I just don't...care. But I absolutely ADORE Ke Huy Quan and would read a 5,000 page hate letter about everything he disliked about me personally if he published it. And rate it 5 stars. So just know when I say I don't care about celebrities, I NEVER mean Ke Huy Quan!!!
Of course I was one of the people who rediscovered this actor with the explosive popularity of Everything Everywhere All at Once, his Be Kind monologue is one of my absolute favorite scenes. Honestly every scene in that movie is my favorite scene. BUT ANYWAYS. I was familiar with his work as a child actor, even if those movies aren't really my personal favorites. This is where everybody drags me in the comments for not liking The Temple of Doom or The Goonies, HOW could I not like The Goonies?! Idk, they're fine movies, they're just not what I'm personally reaching for if I decide to watch a movie ok I'm SORRY. Encino Man however... 👀 (Yes, I know I'm a sentient garbage can that's been cursed with life.) Anyways, a short story long for this paragraph is I'm honestly so happy for Ke Huy Quan and that he's acting again like he always wanted to. You deserve the world, Ke! Also don't be shy, DM me the name of the actor who dissed you at the SAG Awards, I will fist fight them myself.
I'd say about the first idk, 30% of this book I cried through every chapter. I had absolutely no knowledge of Ke's life as a child and the hardships he endured. Being jailed for trying to flee Vietnam, TWICE. Finally leaving and being trapped on the ship for a month because Hong Kong didn't want to take in more refugees. The way his own auntie treated him, it actually broke my heart. And the stuff about Ke's dad was so sad as well. I know I'm giving a lot away right now but there's a massive difference between me relaying what I read and the way Ke describes these events, trust me.
This was such a good read, Ke is a total sweetie pie and you can feel the joy and enthusiasm he felt while filming certain projects. I found myself hootin & hollerin during the good times, and filled with despair during the bad times. Even if I found the writing to be a bit simplistic in certain areas, I can't deny the emotion was always, ALWAYS there. (No shade btw, have y'all read my reviews before, the award for most basic ass review writer goes to ME.) My only question is Ke is very open and honest about his life & experiences and then just casually drops that Michael Jackson invited him over for a sleepover & private screening of The Temple of Doom at the end of a chapter and then never talks about it again? Maybe there were additional details that were edited out but I just found the lack of details in just that one story kind of odd.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance DRC and provide a review, all opinions are my own.
Of course I was one of the people who rediscovered this actor with the explosive popularity of Everything Everywhere All at Once, his Be Kind monologue is one of my absolute favorite scenes. Honestly every scene in that movie is my favorite scene. BUT ANYWAYS. I was familiar with his work as a child actor, even if those movies aren't really my personal favorites. This is where everybody drags me in the comments for not liking The Temple of Doom or The Goonies, HOW could I not like The Goonies?! Idk, they're fine movies, they're just not what I'm personally reaching for if I decide to watch a movie ok I'm SORRY. Encino Man however... 👀 (Yes, I know I'm a sentient garbage can that's been cursed with life.) Anyways, a short story long for this paragraph is I'm honestly so happy for Ke Huy Quan and that he's acting again like he always wanted to. You deserve the world, Ke! Also don't be shy, DM me the name of the actor who dissed you at the SAG Awards, I will fist fight them myself.
I'd say about the first idk, 30% of this book I cried through every chapter. I had absolutely no knowledge of Ke's life as a child and the hardships he endured. Being jailed for trying to flee Vietnam, TWICE. Finally leaving and being trapped on the ship for a month because Hong Kong didn't want to take in more refugees. The way his own auntie treated him, it actually broke my heart. And the stuff about Ke's dad was so sad as well. I know I'm giving a lot away right now but there's a massive difference between me relaying what I read and the way Ke describes these events, trust me.
This was such a good read, Ke is a total sweetie pie and you can feel the joy and enthusiasm he felt while filming certain projects. I found myself hootin & hollerin during the good times, and filled with despair during the bad times. Even if I found the writing to be a bit simplistic in certain areas, I can't deny the emotion was always, ALWAYS there. (No shade btw, have y'all read my reviews before, the award for most basic ass review writer goes to ME.) My only question is Ke is very open and honest about his life & experiences and then just casually drops that Michael Jackson invited him over for a sleepover & private screening of The Temple of Doom at the end of a chapter and then never talks about it again? Maybe there were additional details that were edited out but I just found the lack of details in just that one story kind of odd.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance DRC and provide a review, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley & Grand Central Publishing for the ARC!
Ke Huy Quan’s Never Say Die is a joyful memoir about how it actually feels to live a feel-good story.
When Everything Everywhere All At Once threw Ke Huy Quan back into the public eye after decades away, his childlike enthusiasm felt transformative. With unassuming earnestness, he reframed the awards circuit as a site for grace instead of platitudes. Each time he won, it felt like everybody did, but there’s no denying that the restrictive shape of acceptance speeches painted a Hollywood veneer over a deeper narrative.
As such, I was eager to see what Never Say Die might add to Quan’s public-facing persona. After finishing this brisk little memoir, I can say that there’s very little new information, but thankfully, that seems to be the point. This is the story of a refugee who wanted to find a home as much as it’s a celebration of all the people who helped him build one. The book is notable in its thematic simplicity, and Quan’s gratitude sweeps complexity away as contrivance.
Lest that sound like a critique, it’s more that Quan is just too honest for convoluted interiority. He writes extensively about loneliness, and it resonates precisely because he never overworks it—he refuses to make it dramatically fulfilling, instead allowing readers to sit with the understanding that it just really hurt. It was painful to watch his peers have successful careers while his atrophied. It was humiliating to go back to high school when he couldn’t find work. For the author, however, pain is not the point. He’s happy to be where he is, and he would rather honor his family than wallow in the past or coast on nostalgia. That alone makes Never Say Die feel really special. For example, when he spends pages championing Echo, his wife, it’s with the understanding that any difficulty they’ve faced pales in comparison to the privilege of spending a life together.
For the film buffs who just want to know more behind-the-scenes info about Temple of Doom, The Goonies, or EEAAO, it’s hard to say if this book has what you’re looking for. Quan shares memories for the impression they left on him—what they mean is more important than what happened—so we get snapshots of compassion from Steven Spielberg, Harrison Ford, and The Daniels, but the day-to-day details seem almost irrelevant. The feelings are everything.
And by the end of Never Say Die, I think most readers will be convinced that feelings are everything. Ke Huy Quan articulates the importance of feeling community in a way that few authors do—by defining his life through the contrast between loneliness and homecoming. It is good to be alive and loved, and Ke Huy Quan wants readers to recognize the profundity of such a simple truth.
Ke Huy Quan’s Never Say Die is a joyful memoir about how it actually feels to live a feel-good story.
When Everything Everywhere All At Once threw Ke Huy Quan back into the public eye after decades away, his childlike enthusiasm felt transformative. With unassuming earnestness, he reframed the awards circuit as a site for grace instead of platitudes. Each time he won, it felt like everybody did, but there’s no denying that the restrictive shape of acceptance speeches painted a Hollywood veneer over a deeper narrative.
As such, I was eager to see what Never Say Die might add to Quan’s public-facing persona. After finishing this brisk little memoir, I can say that there’s very little new information, but thankfully, that seems to be the point. This is the story of a refugee who wanted to find a home as much as it’s a celebration of all the people who helped him build one. The book is notable in its thematic simplicity, and Quan’s gratitude sweeps complexity away as contrivance.
Lest that sound like a critique, it’s more that Quan is just too honest for convoluted interiority. He writes extensively about loneliness, and it resonates precisely because he never overworks it—he refuses to make it dramatically fulfilling, instead allowing readers to sit with the understanding that it just really hurt. It was painful to watch his peers have successful careers while his atrophied. It was humiliating to go back to high school when he couldn’t find work. For the author, however, pain is not the point. He’s happy to be where he is, and he would rather honor his family than wallow in the past or coast on nostalgia. That alone makes Never Say Die feel really special. For example, when he spends pages championing Echo, his wife, it’s with the understanding that any difficulty they’ve faced pales in comparison to the privilege of spending a life together.
For the film buffs who just want to know more behind-the-scenes info about Temple of Doom, The Goonies, or EEAAO, it’s hard to say if this book has what you’re looking for. Quan shares memories for the impression they left on him—what they mean is more important than what happened—so we get snapshots of compassion from Steven Spielberg, Harrison Ford, and The Daniels, but the day-to-day details seem almost irrelevant. The feelings are everything.
And by the end of Never Say Die, I think most readers will be convinced that feelings are everything. Ke Huy Quan articulates the importance of feeling community in a way that few authors do—by defining his life through the contrast between loneliness and homecoming. It is good to be alive and loved, and Ke Huy Quan wants readers to recognize the profundity of such a simple truth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced copy.
This an enjoyable and interesting story. I’ve always been a fan of Ke Huy Quan, so I was excited to pick this one up.
It was a very quick read, though I found myself wishing it had gone into more detail. There were several parts of his life that felt glossed over, and I would have loved a deeper look into those experiences. That being said, he talked about some really interesting situations that I was excited and really interested to learn.
I didn't know much about what happened in Vietnam after the war, and I found that part of this memoir especially eye-opening. I had no idea people were not allowed to leave, and reading about everything the refugees endured was heartbreaking. It's hard to believe someone so young experienced such unimaginable hardships.
One theme that really stood out was the shame he carried from being labeled a "refugee." It added another layer to his story.
I especially enjoyed reading about his time filming Indiana Jones and The Goonies. As a young immigrant, he had no idea who Harrison Ford or Steven Spielberg were, so he simply treated them like any other adults. Hearing him describe them as kind, patient, and welcoming made me smile.
After his success as a child actor, he struggled to find work and openly discusses the loneliness and uncertainty that came with a fading career. Because he had started acting so young and was surrounded by incredible role models, he always expected acting to be his lifelong career. When that didn't happen, he wasn't sure what direction his life should take.
Even after winning an Oscar two decades later, he admits he worried that he had reached the highest point of his career and that it could all disappear (again).
I loved that one day he simply felt the desire to act again, and that led him to the perfect role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. His comeback was as much about timing as it was talent and maturity.
Throughout the memoir, he comes across as incredibly humble while still taking pride in everything he has accomplished. Even in his writing, you can sense that he is holding back some emotions, especially during periods when he was clearly struggling with depression.
Overall, this was a fantastic story and like most memoirs, I just wanted more.
My favorite quote:
[Talking to Jamie Lee Curtis at the Oscars]
"Where are we?" she asked
I glanced around. "We're at the Oscars."
She laughed. "No, Ke. Where are we sitting?"
"Front row."
She nodded, satisfied. "Damn right we are."
This an enjoyable and interesting story. I’ve always been a fan of Ke Huy Quan, so I was excited to pick this one up.
It was a very quick read, though I found myself wishing it had gone into more detail. There were several parts of his life that felt glossed over, and I would have loved a deeper look into those experiences. That being said, he talked about some really interesting situations that I was excited and really interested to learn.
I didn't know much about what happened in Vietnam after the war, and I found that part of this memoir especially eye-opening. I had no idea people were not allowed to leave, and reading about everything the refugees endured was heartbreaking. It's hard to believe someone so young experienced such unimaginable hardships.
One theme that really stood out was the shame he carried from being labeled a "refugee." It added another layer to his story.
I especially enjoyed reading about his time filming Indiana Jones and The Goonies. As a young immigrant, he had no idea who Harrison Ford or Steven Spielberg were, so he simply treated them like any other adults. Hearing him describe them as kind, patient, and welcoming made me smile.
After his success as a child actor, he struggled to find work and openly discusses the loneliness and uncertainty that came with a fading career. Because he had started acting so young and was surrounded by incredible role models, he always expected acting to be his lifelong career. When that didn't happen, he wasn't sure what direction his life should take.
Even after winning an Oscar two decades later, he admits he worried that he had reached the highest point of his career and that it could all disappear (again).
I loved that one day he simply felt the desire to act again, and that led him to the perfect role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. His comeback was as much about timing as it was talent and maturity.
Throughout the memoir, he comes across as incredibly humble while still taking pride in everything he has accomplished. Even in his writing, you can sense that he is holding back some emotions, especially during periods when he was clearly struggling with depression.
Overall, this was a fantastic story and like most memoirs, I just wanted more.
My favorite quote:
[Talking to Jamie Lee Curtis at the Oscars]
"Where are we?" she asked
I glanced around. "We're at the Oscars."
She laughed. "No, Ke. Where are we sitting?"
"Front row."
She nodded, satisfied. "Damn right we are."
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Firstly, I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC!
Ke Huy Quan is one of those names that everyone is heard of. Even if you haven't seen his movies or shows, I'm sure you have heard the "booty traps" line from 'The Goonies' or his "Hey, Dr. Jones, no time for love" from 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.' Needless to say he is an icon that has changed the lives of many Asians growing up with very limited representation.
The structure of this memoir, while not necessarily unique, guides you through his life from his childhood in Vietnam, his experience as a refugee in Hong Kong, his life as a child star, to present day. Each chapter is broken down into moments of his life that can be boiled down to two themes, the need to belong and family. Ke Huy Quan's emphasis on these two very human needs demonstrates an understanding of his own humanity and the instinct to survive. The amount that he undergone from such a young age is something most people will never understand or be able to relate to; however, his desire to belong at school or in the industry makes him feel human (not just an actor talking about his experiences). Each vignette from his life pulls your further into memories of his life but also your own. You can remember moments where you felt like no one truly understands you or a moment where it feels like everyone is looking at you or a moment where you just simply don't belong for one reason or another. These are experiences that tie humanity together and Ke Huy Quan explains this extraordinarily throughout his life story.
This is a book that I will be thinking about for awhile. I remember watching his best-actor oscar win and sobbing along with everyone else. Between his and Michelle Yeoh's wins that year for 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' I had never felt prouder to be Asian. Representation matters on the screen and it matters within books.
Now that I'm done yapping about this amazing book, I will go and rewatch 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' thanks.
Ke Huy Quan is one of those names that everyone is heard of. Even if you haven't seen his movies or shows, I'm sure you have heard the "booty traps" line from 'The Goonies' or his "Hey, Dr. Jones, no time for love" from 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.' Needless to say he is an icon that has changed the lives of many Asians growing up with very limited representation.
The structure of this memoir, while not necessarily unique, guides you through his life from his childhood in Vietnam, his experience as a refugee in Hong Kong, his life as a child star, to present day. Each chapter is broken down into moments of his life that can be boiled down to two themes, the need to belong and family. Ke Huy Quan's emphasis on these two very human needs demonstrates an understanding of his own humanity and the instinct to survive. The amount that he undergone from such a young age is something most people will never understand or be able to relate to; however, his desire to belong at school or in the industry makes him feel human (not just an actor talking about his experiences). Each vignette from his life pulls your further into memories of his life but also your own. You can remember moments where you felt like no one truly understands you or a moment where it feels like everyone is looking at you or a moment where you just simply don't belong for one reason or another. These are experiences that tie humanity together and Ke Huy Quan explains this extraordinarily throughout his life story.
This is a book that I will be thinking about for awhile. I remember watching his best-actor oscar win and sobbing along with everyone else. Between his and Michelle Yeoh's wins that year for 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' I had never felt prouder to be Asian. Representation matters on the screen and it matters within books.
Now that I'm done yapping about this amazing book, I will go and rewatch 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' thanks.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
[NetGalley eARC] “Never Say Die” feels like a story that belongs in the cinema, but instead it’s the incredible, utterly remarkable story of Ke Huy Quan— and his story isn’t even finished yet.
Ke Huy Quan was born only a child when he and his family spent time in prison in Vietnam. Quan’s story (from a refugee child landing in the US, to the pain of assimilating to a new country and language, to accidentally landing an enormous role in the Temple of Doom, to finding his path forwards afterwards) is one of perseverance, staying true to one’s passions and instincts. Of family reverence and respect and of handling circumstances outside of our control with grace.
Quan seemingly had a childhood of dreams, working alongside Steven Spielberg and Harrisford Ford, and being an iconic Goonie, but this is his first time truly revealing the anxieties behind the scenes and beyond as a young adult.
There’s something truly healing in Quan’s words. His path was absolutely unconventional, but he lets you in on his sufferings as well as his momentous celebrations. Quan spelled out his story so neatly and with such care. It was simply written, but I could hear it in Quan’s voice exactly. I wish he wrote more in depth into his difficulties; there is a sense of palatability and distance in his words and story. But I also understand why he may not have made that choice, as an act of self-preservation and care as his story will reach a global audience.
There were full-circle moments in Quan’s story that makes the heart feel so full and grateful. His story brings hope: hope that there is such a thing as goodness in the world, and that good things can happen despite tragic and uncertain circumstances. Sometimes life is painful and random; sometimes it’s delightful and a gift. I’m glad we have Quan’s words and selfies in our world, and that we can continue to see his energy and goodness on the screen.
Ke Huy Quan was born only a child when he and his family spent time in prison in Vietnam. Quan’s story (from a refugee child landing in the US, to the pain of assimilating to a new country and language, to accidentally landing an enormous role in the Temple of Doom, to finding his path forwards afterwards) is one of perseverance, staying true to one’s passions and instincts. Of family reverence and respect and of handling circumstances outside of our control with grace.
Quan seemingly had a childhood of dreams, working alongside Steven Spielberg and Harrisford Ford, and being an iconic Goonie, but this is his first time truly revealing the anxieties behind the scenes and beyond as a young adult.
There’s something truly healing in Quan’s words. His path was absolutely unconventional, but he lets you in on his sufferings as well as his momentous celebrations. Quan spelled out his story so neatly and with such care. It was simply written, but I could hear it in Quan’s voice exactly. I wish he wrote more in depth into his difficulties; there is a sense of palatability and distance in his words and story. But I also understand why he may not have made that choice, as an act of self-preservation and care as his story will reach a global audience.
There were full-circle moments in Quan’s story that makes the heart feel so full and grateful. His story brings hope: hope that there is such a thing as goodness in the world, and that good things can happen despite tragic and uncertain circumstances. Sometimes life is painful and random; sometimes it’s delightful and a gift. I’m glad we have Quan’s words and selfies in our world, and that we can continue to see his energy and goodness on the screen.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been eager to read this memoir ever since it was announced. I've been a Goonies fan ever since my dad introduced me to the film on laser disc (am I old?), and I've loosely followed Ke's career ever since. When I heard he was going to star in Everything, Everywhere All At Once, I was thrilled. He put in a career best performance, and an acceptance speech for the ages. All of those things culminated in making myself (and the rest of the world) very excited to hear his story in his own words. A big thank you to Netgalley and Grand Central publishing for access to this e-ARC!
This read in a way, like a screenplay. Each chapter started with a centering of time and place. I like linear narratives, so this was grounding for me. It also tied nicely into his love of, and career in, movies. I flew through his story, and it left me wanting to know where life is taking Ke next! The title, as well, was a nice touch. It evoked the nostalgia of his earlier career, and his conviction to keep pushing forward and never give up!
If there was one thing I was missing, it was some emotional depth. Ke talked a lot about how he kept pain inside and it was hard for him to open up. I felt that in his words - there was a lot of telling, and not a lot of showing or feeling, in how he recounted his life. Those feelings came out more in the last few chapters, when he was discussing his historic awards-season run for Everything, Everywhere All at Once. I just wish there had been more of that connection with his audience, and with his inner vulnerability throughout.
I'm grateful that Key Huy Quan decided to write a memoir. His life, his story, his vulnerabilities, his triumphs, and his journey, are all things worth documenting and celebrating. I'll be grabbing a copy when it publishes in September to add to my personal collection.
This read in a way, like a screenplay. Each chapter started with a centering of time and place. I like linear narratives, so this was grounding for me. It also tied nicely into his love of, and career in, movies. I flew through his story, and it left me wanting to know where life is taking Ke next! The title, as well, was a nice touch. It evoked the nostalgia of his earlier career, and his conviction to keep pushing forward and never give up!
If there was one thing I was missing, it was some emotional depth. Ke talked a lot about how he kept pain inside and it was hard for him to open up. I felt that in his words - there was a lot of telling, and not a lot of showing or feeling, in how he recounted his life. Those feelings came out more in the last few chapters, when he was discussing his historic awards-season run for Everything, Everywhere All at Once. I just wish there had been more of that connection with his audience, and with his inner vulnerability throughout.
I'm grateful that Key Huy Quan decided to write a memoir. His life, his story, his vulnerabilities, his triumphs, and his journey, are all things worth documenting and celebrating. I'll be grabbing a copy when it publishes in September to add to my personal collection.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When I saw the cover of this memoir, I was so excited! As a Gen Xer, two of my most beloved movies were Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies. I had always wondered why I hadn’t seen Ke Huy Quan in anything since a small cameo in Encino Man — up until another brief cameo in Finding O’hana a few years ago and then, of course, the amazing Everything Everywhere All At Once. My little brother and I would run around the house yelling lines from Temple of Doom, and especially the lines from Short Round, who was our tiny but mighty hero in that film.
Ke has an incredible story, and this memoir delves into his early life, as well as later career struggles as an actor. As a child, he was one of the Vietnamese refugees seeking asylum in the United States. I knew of that fact already, but not the entire story behind it — be prepared to cry. He tells his story of how his family, including either other siblings, mother, and father escaped Vietnam and came to the US in 1979. The family had gotten split up, and Ke and his father and some of his sisters ended up for a year in a Hong Kong refugee camp before finally immigrating to the US.
The book discusses his immigration to the United States, how he was discovered by a casting team that just happened to be at his Saturday ESL (English as Second Language) class, his relationship with Steven Spielberg as well as Harrison Ford, and his later challenges in his career, especially when Asian American actors were not chosen for many roles. I both laughed and cried reading this book, and would excitedly relate anecdotes to my husband about behind the scenes stories during filming, and his life’s accomplishments.
Thank you to Ke Huy Quan and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy.
Ke has an incredible story, and this memoir delves into his early life, as well as later career struggles as an actor. As a child, he was one of the Vietnamese refugees seeking asylum in the United States. I knew of that fact already, but not the entire story behind it — be prepared to cry. He tells his story of how his family, including either other siblings, mother, and father escaped Vietnam and came to the US in 1979. The family had gotten split up, and Ke and his father and some of his sisters ended up for a year in a Hong Kong refugee camp before finally immigrating to the US.
The book discusses his immigration to the United States, how he was discovered by a casting team that just happened to be at his Saturday ESL (English as Second Language) class, his relationship with Steven Spielberg as well as Harrison Ford, and his later challenges in his career, especially when Asian American actors were not chosen for many roles. I both laughed and cried reading this book, and would excitedly relate anecdotes to my husband about behind the scenes stories during filming, and his life’s accomplishments.
Thank you to Ke Huy Quan and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Net Galley, Ke Huy Quan, and Grand Central Publishing for the arc of Never Say Die, one of my highly anticipated books of 2026.
When I heard that Ke Huy Quan was writing a memoir, I was beyond excited and knew I had to read it. When it popped up on NetGalley, I don’t think I’ve ever requested a book so quickly. Then came the approval email, and I devoured the entire book in a single day.
The Goonies is one of my all-time favorite movies and such a huge part of my childhood. I’ve even had the joy of sharing it with my own children. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is another childhood favorite, and both films introduced audiences to the incredibly talented Ke Huy Quan. I absolutely loved reading the chapters where he vividly recounts his experiences playing Data and Short Round.
Learning about his life story and the challenges he faced at such a young age gave me an even greater appreciation for his resilience and determination. I’m not typically a memoir reader, but this book genuinely changed my perspective on the genre. There was something so inspiring about experiencing someone else’s journey—especially someone who played such an important role in some of my favorite childhood films.
Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of acting was fascinating, and hearing it from Ke’s perspective made it even more meaningful. His story is a powerful reminder to hold on to your dreams, persevere through setbacks, and never give up, no matter what life throws your way.
Do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR—you won’t be disappointed.
“Keep your dreams alive.” — Ke Huy Quan
When I heard that Ke Huy Quan was writing a memoir, I was beyond excited and knew I had to read it. When it popped up on NetGalley, I don’t think I’ve ever requested a book so quickly. Then came the approval email, and I devoured the entire book in a single day.
The Goonies is one of my all-time favorite movies and such a huge part of my childhood. I’ve even had the joy of sharing it with my own children. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is another childhood favorite, and both films introduced audiences to the incredibly talented Ke Huy Quan. I absolutely loved reading the chapters where he vividly recounts his experiences playing Data and Short Round.
Learning about his life story and the challenges he faced at such a young age gave me an even greater appreciation for his resilience and determination. I’m not typically a memoir reader, but this book genuinely changed my perspective on the genre. There was something so inspiring about experiencing someone else’s journey—especially someone who played such an important role in some of my favorite childhood films.
Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of acting was fascinating, and hearing it from Ke’s perspective made it even more meaningful. His story is a powerful reminder to hold on to your dreams, persevere through setbacks, and never give up, no matter what life throws your way.
Do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR—you won’t be disappointed.
“Keep your dreams alive.” — Ke Huy Quan
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I've been a fan of Ke Huy Quan for so long, so I was excited to read his memoir, but I wasn't prepared for how emotional and inspiring it would be. From the very first chapter, I felt completely invested in his story.
What struck me most is how humble and genuine Ke is. Even when he's talking about working with Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg, and George Lucas, there's a sense of wonder and gratitude that never feels forced. The behind-the-scenes stories from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies were a lot of fun, but it was the chapters about the years when acting opportunities disappeared that really stayed with me.
My heart broke for him at times. Knowing how talented he is and seeing how hard he has worked, it was frustrating to read about the barriers he faced in Hollywood. At the same time, his determination, resilience, and refusal to completely give up on his dream made his eventual comeback feel even sweeter.
This is one of those memoirs that reminds you that life doesn't always follow the timeline you expect. Sometimes the biggest victories come after years of setbacks and disappointment. Ke Huy Quan's story is inspiring, heartfelt, and deeply human. I finished the book with an even greater appreciation for him—not just as an actor, but as a person.
Many thanks to Edelweiss+ and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a digital ARC prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
What struck me most is how humble and genuine Ke is. Even when he's talking about working with Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg, and George Lucas, there's a sense of wonder and gratitude that never feels forced. The behind-the-scenes stories from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies were a lot of fun, but it was the chapters about the years when acting opportunities disappeared that really stayed with me.
My heart broke for him at times. Knowing how talented he is and seeing how hard he has worked, it was frustrating to read about the barriers he faced in Hollywood. At the same time, his determination, resilience, and refusal to completely give up on his dream made his eventual comeback feel even sweeter.
This is one of those memoirs that reminds you that life doesn't always follow the timeline you expect. Sometimes the biggest victories come after years of setbacks and disappointment. Ke Huy Quan's story is inspiring, heartfelt, and deeply human. I finished the book with an even greater appreciation for him—not just as an actor, but as a person.
Many thanks to Edelweiss+ and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a digital ARC prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
i was delighted to get the chance to read the memoir of actor Ke Huy Quan. In his book "Never Say Die' he writes about being a refugee fleeing with his family from Viet Nam and the long journey it took to finally get to the USA. His family eventually reunited in Los Angeles. Soon after tagging along with an older brother for an acting job he lands a job from Stephen Speilberg working with Harrison Ford in the movie Temple of Doom as Short Round. Soon after he lands another acting job in Goonies another huge hit .Through the rest of his childhood he get a couple roles but not as many as he hoped. over the next few decades he writes of his career being next to nothing. He finds other ways to earn money. Then then chance for an independent film Everything everywhere all at once' he had to wait months before he got the role. after filming most to film only to have the world shut down due Covid he had to wait months before filming the last couple days. the movie a huge hit and won Ke Huy Quan many acting awards including an Oscar for his role in the movie. It was nice reading Ke Huy Quan's memoir. I was so happy for him to win that Oscar and watch his acting career take off. good for him!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ke Huy Quan was so young in Temple of Doom and The Goonies, and I searched for him for years, trying to find what other movies and shows he was in. There were other roles he was in, but I always thought he was underused. He just had so much personality and seemed so clever, so I couldn't figure out why he wasn't a bigger star.
And it turns out that he was being passed over because he didn't have the look, because he was Asian, and that broke my heart and made me think what a loss to the world. Especially after reading the rest of his story!
As an immigrant, Ke went through a lot, and his family's story is dramatic and sad. They lost most of their money and started over, and were even separated, but finally they lived together in the US. Ke truly never gave up, and continued trying to live his dreams. I really love the story of how his wife came to be with him, and the story of his dad is so sad.
I truly hope this is just the beginning of a time when he's never taken for granted again. I'm so glad I get to see him on the big and small screen. Thanks so much to NetGalley for letting me read this
And it turns out that he was being passed over because he didn't have the look, because he was Asian, and that broke my heart and made me think what a loss to the world. Especially after reading the rest of his story!
As an immigrant, Ke went through a lot, and his family's story is dramatic and sad. They lost most of their money and started over, and were even separated, but finally they lived together in the US. Ke truly never gave up, and continued trying to live his dreams. I really love the story of how his wife came to be with him, and the story of his dad is so sad.
I truly hope this is just the beginning of a time when he's never taken for granted again. I'm so glad I get to see him on the big and small screen. Thanks so much to NetGalley for letting me read this
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I expected the book to be nostalgic- Ke giving readers a behind the scenes look at the two movies that started his career with some of the difficulties that come along with being a child actor. What I did not expect was the emotional toll this book took on me. Reading about what he and his family went through as refugees was heart breaking. I really appreciate Ke sharing his experiences, both good and bad, with the reader and giving us all a better understanding of what life was like.
Ke Huy Quan is a gifted storyteller and his words put you in the moment with him. You experience his emotions with him and want nothing more than to see him succeed.
After reading this book, I wanted to watch Everything Everywhere All At Once and lucked out when I had just finished the book and the flight I was on had the movie as an option. I watched the movie with a sense of pride for Ke- now knowing about the different seasons of his life.
This book should be on everyone's TBR list.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Ke Huy Quan is a gifted storyteller and his words put you in the moment with him. You experience his emotions with him and want nothing more than to see him succeed.
After reading this book, I wanted to watch Everything Everywhere All At Once and lucked out when I had just finished the book and the flight I was on had the movie as an option. I watched the movie with a sense of pride for Ke- now knowing about the different seasons of his life.
This book should be on everyone's TBR list.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
July 30, 2026
I received a free ARC from NetGalley
Title: Never Say Die
Written By Ke Huy Quan
Star rating (out of 5): 5
Reading Format: ebook
Description: This memoir tells the story of Ke Huy Quan from childhood as a Vietnamese refugee to present day. It’s an incredible story of self discovery, perseverance, and hope. He never gave up on his dreams and his extraordinary life is inspiring!
Content review: I cried at multiple points in this memoir. Ke’s story of perseverance and hope is relatable to any reader.
I initially wanted to read it because he is one of my favorite actors in Hollywood. He has always appeared to be genuine and kind. This book just confirmed that. It surpassed my expectations. Ke is open and honest about his fears and thoughts, what areas he struggled in life, and vulnerably shares his life’s story.
Knowing more about him made his Oscar speech even more powerful. Honestly, a movie should be made about his life. He is inspiring.
Title: Never Say Die
Written By Ke Huy Quan
Star rating (out of 5): 5
Reading Format: ebook
Description: This memoir tells the story of Ke Huy Quan from childhood as a Vietnamese refugee to present day. It’s an incredible story of self discovery, perseverance, and hope. He never gave up on his dreams and his extraordinary life is inspiring!
Content review: I cried at multiple points in this memoir. Ke’s story of perseverance and hope is relatable to any reader.
I initially wanted to read it because he is one of my favorite actors in Hollywood. He has always appeared to be genuine and kind. This book just confirmed that. It surpassed my expectations. Ke is open and honest about his fears and thoughts, what areas he struggled in life, and vulnerably shares his life’s story.
Knowing more about him made his Oscar speech even more powerful. Honestly, a movie should be made about his life. He is inspiring.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Never Say Die is a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that chronicles Ke Huy Quan's remarkable journey through life, fame, adversity, and perseverance. His voice is genuine, warm, and engaging, making it easy to become invested in his story from the very first page.
What makes this memoir shine is its honesty. Quan shares both the triumphs and challenges that shaped his path, creating a narrative that feels deeply personal and relatable. His passion for storytelling and appreciation for the opportunities he's been given are evident throughout.
This is an uplifting read about resilience, hope, and the power of believing in yourself even when the odds seem stacked against you. Fans of memoirs and inspirational stories will find plenty to enjoy here.
Never Say Die is a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that chronicles Ke Huy Quan's remarkable journey through life, fame, adversity, and perseverance. His voice is genuine, warm, and engaging, making it easy to become invested in his story from the very first page.
What makes this memoir shine is its honesty. Quan shares both the triumphs and challenges that shaped his path, creating a narrative that feels deeply personal and relatable. His passion for storytelling and appreciation for the opportunities he's been given are evident throughout.
This is an uplifting read about resilience, hope, and the power of believing in yourself even when the odds seem stacked against you. Fans of memoirs and inspirational stories will find plenty to enjoy here.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the arc of this book. I usually don't read biographies or memoirs but I couldn't resist this one. Ke Huy Quan's story has been pulling me in since the first time I saw him back on a red carpet. I read this book in one sitting. I did not want to put it down. I knew some of his story from his speeches and social media over the years but reading it in his own words was emotional. This memoir tells Ke's whole story. It is very well written and the book flows well. I was moved to tears multiple times reading this book but that was not surprising to me at all since I was moved to tears during his award speeches and seeing him reunite with Harrison Ford on the red carpet. This book is a must read. I highly recommend reading it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had no idea that the author was a Chinese immigrant in Vietnam who then escaped and made it to America. Further, he then just happened upon an audition with his brother for Indiana Jones and took over the audition...landing the part.
I didn't know about the struggles after the Goonies, his father, buying a home, trying to get more parts.
But from age 29 to age 48, I had no idea what he did for work or what he was doing.
He just woke up at age 48 and said I AM STILL AN ACTOR. And got a part that lead to him being "rediscovered".
This book was an easy read, heartfelt, and a triumph of being in the right place at the right time.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
I didn't know about the struggles after the Goonies, his father, buying a home, trying to get more parts.
But from age 29 to age 48, I had no idea what he did for work or what he was doing.
He just woke up at age 48 and said I AM STILL AN ACTOR. And got a part that lead to him being "rediscovered".
This book was an easy read, heartfelt, and a triumph of being in the right place at the right time.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Never Say Die was an inspiring and insightful read.
It’s beautifully written and an inviting look at Ke Huy Quan’s journey from childhood to the present day. The memoir begins with an emotional recollection of his childhood as a refugee immigrating to the United States with his family. From there, he then shares how he started acting and fondly remembers his breakthrough roles in Temple of Doom and Goonies. He also explores his personal life, later acting roles, and historic Oscar win.
Overall, if you love memoirs or this actor, I highly recommend this inspirational read!
Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for the ARC(advanced reader copy) in return for an honest review.
It’s beautifully written and an inviting look at Ke Huy Quan’s journey from childhood to the present day. The memoir begins with an emotional recollection of his childhood as a refugee immigrating to the United States with his family. From there, he then shares how he started acting and fondly remembers his breakthrough roles in Temple of Doom and Goonies. He also explores his personal life, later acting roles, and historic Oscar win.
Overall, if you love memoirs or this actor, I highly recommend this inspirational read!
Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for the ARC(advanced reader copy) in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This was an easy five stars. Nostalgia drew me to this memoir, but boy was I surprised with Ke Huy Quan’s backstory. I knew him best from Goonies and his recent work, but just always assumed, he’d been quietly working all along. This is a true story of the American Dream and the traumatic realities of the life of a refugee, the beauty of perseverance and self love, the importance of feeling our feels and being present, and a perfect example that life happens in the journey not just the destination. I clung to every chapter of this fast read. I even got teary-eyed at the end. Quan really has a well written appreciation for his journey and all the players that contributed along the way. Loved. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is so special and one of my favorite memoirs I've ever read. It's joyful and resilient, and also heartbreaking and relatable. Could never have guessed how much it would make me cry but the writing and story had me emotional pretty much the entire time. I feel like just saying Ke is a special person whose had a special life downplays the traumatic experiences in his early life, as well as the immense pressure that supporting your family from a young age brings, plus the personal struggles of child fame on the rest of your life. But his understanding and acceptance of those things and how it's shaped him is special and it's a beautiful story that he shares in a very personal and inviting way.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I only ever meant to read a couple pages as someone who grew up on the Goonies – I’m not a memoir or even a nonfiction reader but all of that quickly changed as I then quickly found myself sat down and halfway through Ke Huy Quan’s memoir. I simply could not look away nor put it down. For someone who has suffered the slings and arrows of not just Hollywood but also being a refugee, Ke Huy Quan has such a cheerful levity on just being, speaking, and now writing. I loved this memoir and how uplifting I found it to be.
Thank you Edelweiss for my arc <3
Thank you Edelweiss for my arc <3
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a fan of the Goonies and Temple of Doom and remember Ke from those movies. I recall him leaving acting, the return to acting and the infamous photo with Harrison Ford. With that said, when his memoir came available, it is one I wanted to read. From reading I learned about his early life and being a refugee, how he got the part in the Indian Jones movie and so much more. I have to say this was a very touching, inspiring and emotional book. It made me cry and I highly recommend it. I read in two days because I couldn’t put it down!
July 11, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy Review
Won via Goodreads giveaway from Grand Central Publishing
This was a heart warning memoir that gave so many details about Ke Huy Quan’s life that I didn’t know before reading: His story of being a refugee, part of the boat people, his serendipitous walk into an audition that launched his career, and then silence for years from Hollywood.
It’s always nice to see someone who is a sincerely good person achieve their goals. And that’s what reading this book felt like, seeing good win in the end.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for this ARC!
Won via Goodreads giveaway from Grand Central Publishing
This was a heart warning memoir that gave so many details about Ke Huy Quan’s life that I didn’t know before reading: His story of being a refugee, part of the boat people, his serendipitous walk into an audition that launched his career, and then silence for years from Hollywood.
It’s always nice to see someone who is a sincerely good person achieve their goals. And that’s what reading this book felt like, seeing good win in the end.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC! This was a really beautiful story and the title is perfection. Quan never gave up on his dream and anyone could find his story inspiring. I didn’t know a lot about him and have so much respect for him and his journey!
I took one star off because a lot of details were left out. He went to Michael Jackson’s house and didn’t share a thing! I’m sure the details of the refugee camp were hard to revisit and I respect that, but you gotta tell us who said you couldn’t win a golden globe with that face.
I took one star off because a lot of details were left out. He went to Michael Jackson’s house and didn’t share a thing! I’m sure the details of the refugee camp were hard to revisit and I respect that, but you gotta tell us who said you couldn’t win a golden globe with that face.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ke tells his story of being a young kid and not quite understanding what was going on when his family was trying to flee Vietnam. It is pretty sad to read about the things that happened to Ke and his family while trying to make a better life for themselves. I actually didn't know that he wasn't interested in acting and that they had him audition because he was helping his brother with his audition. I also feel bad that Ke felt like it was all just luck and that he wasn't a good actor. His later accomplishments are proof that he was meant to do this. This was an all-around great read.
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