Soles of a Survivor: A Memoir

by Nhi Aronheim

The Unbelievable True Story of a Vietnamese Refugee Who Not Only Made the United States Her Home, But Learned the True Value of Hope, Love, and Religion Along the Way

The soles of Nhi Aronheim's feet still bear the scars of her escape from Vietnam—trudging through the jungles of Cambodia as a twelve-year-old with a group of strangers seeking the land of America. Her quest for survival through the Cambodian jungle eventually led her to a boat that took her to Thailand and an orphanage where Nhi lived for two years until she qualified for refugee status in the United States. Years later, she returned to Vietnam with a film producer to reunite with the family she never thought she’d see again. A second trip to Vietnam brought her two mothers, birth and adopted, face to face.

Yet Soles of a Survivor isn’t just another inspirational survival story. It’s about the lessons Nhi learned about humanity, diversity, and unconditional love since arriving in the United States. She now has a deeper appreciation for the parallels between the Jewish and Vietnamese cultures, and others. After she met her Jewish beau, they got married. She eventually converted to Judaism, though the process was challenging for an Asian woman adopted into a Christian household. Her story shows it matters less what religion we’re part of, as long as we radiate goodness to those we meet.

Now she relishes being a Vietnamese Jew.

Having come full circle from prosperity to poverty and back, Nhi hopes to encourage others to believe that in spite of overwhelming odds, all things are possible if one has an intense desire, focused energy, and the audacity to grasp presented opportunities.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Judaism, Biography Memoir

344 pages, Hardcover

Published May 25, 2021

About the author

Nhi Aronheim stands at only four feet, nine inches tall, but her story is immense.

Several anthologies including KENTUCKY WOMEN: TWO CENTURIES OF INDOMITABLE SPIRIT AND VISION, and a documentary that aired on PBS, VIETNAM 101, have profiled her harrowing journey as a child refugee who escaped war-torn Vietnam in search of the American Dream.

Speaking very little English when Nhi arrived in Kentucky, thanks to the support from her teacher (who became her adoptive mother), Nhi excelled in school and became valedictorian her senior year. She later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Centre College in Danville, and a Master of Science degree in Telecommunications Engineering at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Nhi worked for four years as a telecommunications consultant during which time she met and married a Jewish man, and converted to Judaism in 2004. Nhi has two beautiful children who she has raised to embrace Vietnamese and Jewish cultures.

After transitioning to sales and marketing in the mortgage industry—where Nhi worked for over sixteen years—she retired from the mortgage industry as a marketing specialist at the age of forty-one to to begin her next life adventure. Since then, she has been a mediator and interpreter. She also volunteers her time as a mediator for courts and the Better Business Bureau as well as being an active member of Toastmasters.

In 2013, Nhi earned a Black Belt in Taekwondo, fulfilling a promise she made to her birth mom—who wanted Nhi to learn karate before she left Vietnam—in the event she came under attack during her escape, she could protect herself.

Having come full circle from prosperity to poverty and back, Nhi hopes to encourage others to believe that in spite of overwhelming odds, all things are possible if one has an intense desire, focused energy, and the audacity to grasp presented opportunities.

Reviews

[Lora · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Soles of a Survivor by Nhi Aronheim brilliantly details the harrowing journey of a tenacious young women. The prose travels through the reader taking them on a ride that is suspenseful, heart aching, and joyful. Nhi courageously bares her soul revealing an intimate portrait of the life of an innocent child being persecuted and forced to do what is necessary to survive, to a wholly fulfilled woman, thriving with love and abundance to share. This journey is often solemn and is also heavy with optimism and wit. It is a journey about unconditional love.

[Lynn Geller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring book

Nhi Aronheim has written a wonderful book. She shares her huge challenges as she left Vietnam, traveling alone with strangers through jungles to a refugee camp in Thailand. I’ve known Nhi for a long time but had no idea this was her backstory. She has written a very readable, enjoyable and heartwarming autobiography.

[Malin Bird Bear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and fascinating life story! Inspiring and hopeful.

[J Morse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up down the street from a Vietnamese family who were refugees & went to school with one of their daughters. I had no idea what a refugee was & quite honestly never gave it much thought as an adult. I've heard the term a lot in my life and never really knew what that meant.

Reading Nhi's story really opened my eyes to what it is like to flee a country with a bag & the clothes on your back. This isn't moving, this is leaving your home, as a child, with no way of knowing if you will ever return or even survive. There were a few times in the book when I had to stop & realize this is a true story & not fiction. It was easy to get immersed & even though Nhi is alive & well, wonder if she'll make it out of the precarious situations that were presented to her. Her determination kept her going.

I feel privileged to have been able to read her story & share it with others. Thank you, Nhi for opening up your past so we can learn, love & trust. You are truly a gift to the world. Continue to take care of yourself.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful and moving memoir!

Thank you, Nhi, for sharing your amazing life story in this powerful memoir (my favorite genre to read)! You checked all the boxes of great memoirs- overcoming adversity with courage and the will to survive against the odds, finding love, the complexity of family relationships, finding mentors along the way, and finding meaning in our lives. I laughed, I cried, and I hope to see more writing from you in the future!

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a chilling/inspiring memoir of living an idyllic life (apart from the American bombings) in Viet Nam to running barefoot for her life through Pol Pot's Cambodia, to abusive conditions in a refugee camp and finally . . . (read it to learn the whole uplifting story). This review is biased as I know Nhi (and her husband) personally and know just how impactful her life story is. If you listen to CPR you might hear her interview there.

[Vicki P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi's mother scraped together enough money to help one more of her children escape the poverty and hellish life in war-torn Vietnam in the late 1980s. At the tender age of twelve, Nhi trusted her instincts and accepted the opportunity even though her older brother made the same choice years before never to be heard from again. The youngest of her siblings, Nhi took the leap of faith and left everything she knew and loved in search of a better life. Her instincts saved her time and time again. She knew when to say "yes." She knew when to say "no" and run for her life. She survived that treacherous journey through the jungles of Cambodia, through a raging storm in the Gulf of Thailand and through the depths of despair from hunger and vulnerability. This little girl was born with a will to live, not just survive, but thrive. That light deep within her helped her see the opportune moments and attracted those good souls and mentors who made a profound difference once she reached the shores of America as a refugee. Nhi's story is one of courage and vulnerability. You need to read Soles of a Survivor to experience this unlikely tale, a tale from the slums of Saigon to building a life and Jewish family in the suburbs of Denver. This is a tale that will stay with you and inspire you to say "yes" when those critical moments arise.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi's story is inspirational because she doesn't hide the truth. She earned her piece of the American dream through some luck, a lot of wit, hard work and perseverance. This is an autobiography that reads like an adventure and you won't be able to put it down.

[Tracey Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi shares brutal and honest memories of her experiences growing up in a changing Vietnam. Her fierce determination shines through her challenging journey in search of better options. Vivid, disturbing details channel the reader through the trials she experiences in the Cambodian jungle and a Thai orphanage. Nhi's view of the US as a refugee is refreshing and alarming as she navigates different cultures. She introduces us to to the highs and low of her support systems, as she creates opportunities to become her best.

[Roberta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't believe I know the author in this fabulous story

[Julie Milli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi's harrowing journey is told in vivid detail and her amazing resilience and life force shines through on every page. I was mind-blown by the fact that Nhi's experience was going on all the while I was growing up at the same time as her. Seems like her terrible experience making her way to America shouldn't have been so recent, yet sadly it is. Her book is an inspiration to never give up and I'm so glad she has shared her story.

[Lindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspiring and captivating memoir! I literally could not put it down. Nhi Aronheim has truly given a gift to the world by sharing her remarkable journey that spans multiple geographies, nationalities, cultures and religions - reminding us of the common threads of humanity we all share and that we can prevail over the most challenging of circumstances.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soles of a Survivor is a beautiful memoir that will capture your attention from the start. Nhi Aronheim’s extreme courage and strength are emotionally moving and incredibly inspirational. She overcame unthinkable adversity, at a very young age, and mostly with no one to count on but herself. She demonstrated determination and optimism that can help anyone feel motivated to overcome their own challenges. Nhi’s story also sheds light on the incredibly timely and critical point of view of the immigration experience. I couldn’t put it down and would highly recommend!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fascinating account of Nhi's journey from Vietnam to America. I was completely engrossed in her story, and as I continued to read on - inspired by her perseverence and determination. Highly recommend!

[Robyn Teplitzky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. I could not put it down. was so intrigued by Nhi’s personal story. I hope more people take the time to read this memoir.

[Amy Dreyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congratulations on an amazing book! I purchased one copy of your memoir for our home library, and a second one to share with family & friends. You do a beautiful job at telling your story with maturity and a perspective that inspires. You did not simply endure the hardships you faced, you took from them life lessons that made you into a wonderful person, full of acceptance and grace. You have come so far, and nothing can stop you now!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an extremely interesting memoir which covered the author's childhood in Vietnam during the war, her survival in Saigon, escape to Thailand, life in a refugee camp, and education and ultimate adoption in the US. I think everyone would like this book. Her perseverance and survivor abilities are extraordinary and inspirational. There is also the role of luck, fate, or God in the events of her life.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Using candid and courageous language, Nhi Aronheim weaves a tale of perseverance and fortitude against the backdrop of a country torn apart by war and a mother’s desire to seek the best for her children. Part coming of age, part personal and family saga, Soles of a Survivor tells the story of a resilient, exceptional girl growing up, growing away, and becoming the woman she was destined to be.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Inspiring, uplifting yet at times, difficult...and painful.

[Karen Novick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi's journey through countless obstacles created by a tortuous war was riveting to read about. She recounts her childhood and paradise lost due to the Vietnam War's impact on her family and her community. Heartbreaking in so many ways, but beautifully retold by a smart and strong woman who overcame so much adversity, both in her native Vietnam and also as a new immigrant to the US.
Her story reads well and is easy to follow as we see her triumph. But, not without some serious family fractures. Soles of a Survivor is highly recommended!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story! "Soles of a Survivor" is a poignant and inspiring memoir. Nhi Aronheim has grit, drive, intelligence, a loving heart and the survival skills that she needed to overcome great obstacles. The author definitely reached her goals. Although the story dug deep into Ms Aronheim's soul, and was quite disconcerting at times, there is joy, laughter and love within the heart-rending pages. It is an important book to read, and in addition this memoir would make a terrific movie. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

An uplifting book about a young gal who left Vietnam as
a 10 year old child and survives the walk thru jungles small
boat, desert island And refugee camp. Her Mother said
that America was a wonderful place. Eventually she was
adopted by a wonderful family, she worked hard in school
and became successful. She meets a Jewish man on a
delayed flight and finds herself thinking about him more
and more. This is a true story that is inspirational and should
encourage anyone who reads it to do more.

[Kim Christianian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, a must read! A harrowing true story of grit and survival in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Nhi exemplifies the American Dream and shows why immigrants should be valued as incredible human beings! Hoping a film will be made someday!

[Lara Mowszowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting and insightful book.

[Andrea Sheiffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!!!

[Gronk · Rating 2 out of 5]

Aronheim's escape from Vietnam and eventual journey to the U.S. is excellent but is only a third of the book. The horrors she experienced are sickening. The "coyotes" hired to guide her (and her group) out of communist Vietnam of course do not do their job. At one point she must swim to a boat to continue her journey but she does not know how to swim.

"my feet struggled to touch bottom. I couldn't turn back though. I kept going, hoping for a miracle. When I was so deep the water started to splash into my mouth, I instinctively grabbed the closest thing I could - a man who happened to be trying to struggle past me - and hung on for dear life. He used all his might to kick me away, but I held on like a dog with a bone - if I let go, I would drown. The man had no choice but to pull me to safety or risk drowning himself, so he struggled onward, trying to shrug me off every chance he got. But I refused to let go. My life depended on this stranger who was doing everything he could to get rid of me."

They made it of course or there wouldn't be a book to read. Interestingly though, Aronheim can't seem to understand the man's point of view and how both may have perished by her actions. He doesn't seem to have been much of a swimmer himself.

She has many more horrible experiences as her journey continues, some even at the hands of family members when they are in a refugee camp. But her tenacity and determination helped her withstand things where others may have simply given up.

Eventually she is adopted into a loving family in Kentucky, where she thrives through high school, college, lands a job as a telecommunications engineer with Lucent, gets married, changes jobs, converts to Judaism, has kids, etc. Two thirds of the book cover these times.

Unfortunately the book is less and less interesting. as it proceeds Aronheim includes details that should have been edited out like this account of what they did on a trip to Israel:
"After a few days in Tel Aviv, we began our journey to Jerusalem. We stopped at the Tower of David, an ancient citadel near the Jaffa Gate, which was the main entrance to the Old City. We stood on the observation deck and had a stunning view of the Old City. We also spent some time exploring the Museum of the History of Jerusalem, which was located within the Citadel."

or this account of what they wore:
"Though people traditionally dressed up quite fancy for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, we dressed down for the day, since we would be at the top of Masada, and would explore the rugged area afterward. Still, we were dressed nicely; white button-down shirts paired with slacks for Max and Jeff; Sarah wore a white blouse and a black skirt. For my own outfit, I had chosen black pants and strappy sandals, and off-white shirt over which I wore a purple and blue shawl. Jeff wore a fringed Jewish prayer shawl called a tallit, accented with the same shades of purple and blue. Jeff's parents had given Max and Sarah their own tallitot as a gift to celebrate their B'nai Mitzvah."

What I found more troubling was that as the book went on I found myself less and less sympathetic to Aronheim. She talks about fate or divine intervention but doesn't think then that that same divine intervention condemned one of her brothers who tried to escape Vietnam before her. She talks about one of her college friends who obviously has unrequited feelings for her and eventually breaks off the friendship because it's too painful for him, yet seems to have no empathy and only thinks of her loss. And finally she and her husband graciously sponsor another brother and his family to come to the U.S. and live with them. Three months later when her brother and sister-in-law announce they are moving to California to be closer to the SIL's father she is hurt, angry, and devastated. She feels used. The chapter ends when she learns things didn't go so well in CA, nor in Texas where they next went, and seems to feel vindicated.

It made me think back to the childhood episode where she understandably latched onto a stranger to save herself yet couldn't understand why the stranger was furious. Or how easily she blames her brother for "destroying" her big happy family when he decides to move to CA. Yet she doesn't blame herself for making the choices she made that hurt or may have hurt her families. (Marrying outside of her culture, which upset her mother. Leaving her adoptive family to be closer to her future husband. Etc.)


Aronheim has had a remarkable life. I admire her story. I don't recommend reading beyond the first third of this book.

[Marla Robichaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The main thing I get out of this book is to never stop trying to reach your goals and put all your effort into reaching that goal. A very tough topic of leaving an oppressed location and family behind in pursuit of a belief and a dream, enduring mental and physical abuse, yet overcoming. To reach that deep into the pit of yourself and move forward is a testament to the strength of the author. It was so straight forward, I read it in just a couple days. Your heart strings pull at the challenges an immigrant has in coming to America and how different people choose to live in the USA. My grandparents did not speak the English language coming to this country and it made me think of all the challenges they must have faced at the time. The parts where she found love were inspiring and incredible to find such a supportive spouse. Her family expanded through parents she adopted coming to this country and the kindness of people she met reminds us that there are more good people in this world then there are bad. This is a story of hope and determination, what it takes to overcome so many challenges and that you can become what you want if you put in the hard work.

[Bailey Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nhi Aronheim is incredibly visual in her storytelling, and recounts most of her experience escaping Vietnam quite well. Although this was before my time, I was able to create a visual of this world she lived in.

It’s quite difficult for me to judge someone’s memoir, as it feels like I’m judging their life. What I will say about this one: Nhi Aronheim made me cry multiple times, laugh, and stay engaged the entire read. I didn’t want to put her book down.

Secondly, I had the joy of listening to her TedTalk in Manitou Springs, CO., where she was able to effectively communicate her struggles of not fitting in- and how to persevere through uncomfortable spaces. I was compelled to buy and read her book after sitting in on this TedTalk; if anyone happens to have the opportunity to listen to her speak or read her book, you won’t regret one second of it.

Nhi writes about her journey of having a wonderful childhood, having that robbed from her, suffering, exploration and triumph, and everything in between. This memoir is a story of true love, grit, the loss of love, and the healing that the universe does to each one of us who is willing.

10/10.

[Diane · Rating 2 out of 5]

I heard Nhi interviewed on Colorado Public Radio and her story sounded compelling, prompting me to read her book. Her story is compelling; she is a survivor, she is also ambitious, hard working and bright. She also had, and continues to have, many people believe in and support her, enabling her to achieve a happy and successful life in America. The reason I gave Nhi's memoir two stars is that I wasn't engaged on an emotional level. In recounting her story, she presented the facts and talked about her feelings in an abstract manner. Perhaps Nhi's Asian upbringing contributed to this lack of connecting to the reader, or it may have been that English is her second language, but her memoir would have been an enjoyable read if she would have connected her feelings to the facts.

[S R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for book club and once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. Nhi’s memoir about her life in Vietnam is an eye-opener; it is about her perseverance and persistence to escape the poverty of her life post-war and succeed in America. Her escape, connected to the title, is inspiring. The only part that could have used some editing is when she meets her husband-to-be; there are many cliches and not the depth of the first half of the book. I also found it very interesting to see how she grabbed onto learning deeply about Judaism before choosing to convert. I would have loved to hear more about that. All in all, a wonderful easy book to read.