Discover Ocean Vuong’s bighearted and vibrant story of unexpected friendship, chosen family, and embracing second chances in The Emperor of Gladness. This critically acclaimed novel explores life-altering bonds and the journey toward self-acceptance.

The story begins one late summer evening when nineteen-year-old Hai, standing on the edge of a bridge in East Gladness, is interrupted by the voice of Grazina, an elderly widow across the river. This moment marks the start of Hai’s second chance, leading to an unexpected bond that transforms his relationships with his community, his family, and ultimately, himself.

• A story of unexpected friendship and chosen family.
• Praised by Guardian as 'HEARTBREAKING' and by Oprah Winfrey as 'BEAUTIFUL'.
• Described as an 'ode to the little acts of kindness that help us heal' by Harper’s Bazaar.
• Considered by ArtReview as 'The first millennial Great American Novel'.

• Author: Ocean Vuong
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Print Length: 416 pages
• ISBN-10: 1529945852
• ISBN-13: 978-1529945850
• Dimensions: 129 x 28 x 197mm
• Weight: 292g
• Publication Date: 28 May 2026

Experience this masterwork of compassion and complexity from celebrated author Ocean Vuong.