"The Fingerprints of the Street" is a new book by Nguyen Truong Quy, published by Nha Nam Culture and Communication Joint Stock Company in collaboration with Hanoi Publishing House. The book was introduced to readers at the "Dreaming of the Light of the Capital" program held on the morning of October 3rd, within the framework of the 11th Hanoi Book Fair - 2026.
Author Nguyen Truong Quy states that, throughout its urban development history, Hanoi's expansions or redrawings of administrative boundaries have always been linked to the shaping of administrative units based on similarities and balances in residents' lives. However, beyond these administrative boundaries, Hanoi remains defined by distinct cultural areas, routes, and waterways – places where the richness of life and the memories of the community are accumulated over generations.
Inspired by the uniqueness of human fingerprints, "Fingerprints of the Streets" affirms that each geographical and cultural area of Hanoi possesses its own distinct appearance and identity, creating a diverse yet cohesive urban landscape over the past century. For example, mentioning Hang Dao Street, Cho Mo Market, or the Nam Dong Military Zone evokes immediate imagery for Hanoians. Some places are associated with a particular trade, a specific dish, a particular style of house, or a particular class of residents; others live on in memory thanks to literary and artistic stories. These things create the "fingerprint" of each neighborhood.
The book "Fingerprints of the Streets," over 370 pages long, is divided into two parts. The section "Street Colors and Literary Paths" helps readers learn about Hanoi through color guides and cultural routes. The author also recounts lesser-known stories such as Hanoi's "Hang Bao" street, a literary district...
The section "Chalk and Dust of the Imperial City" takes readers on a journey through the city's culinary and entertainment activities. Food includes both dry and wet dishes, from fine dining establishments to street food. Entertainment involves lively gatherings, listening to music, and watching movies…
Regarding the book "Fingerprints of the Street" and other previous books by author Nguyen Truong Quy, literary scholar Dr. Tran Ngoc Hieu observes that Hanoi in Nguyen Truong Quy's writings is not just a "space," but gradually becomes a "place." Space can be identified by physical elements, while place is connected to lived experiences, memories, stories, and impressions deeply ingrained in people's minds.
That's also why a familiar street can still surprise people. Hanoians may pass by an address every day, but only when they read about its history do they realize how many stories lie behind the street's facade. According to Dr. Tran Ngoc Hieu, Nguyen Truong Quy recounts Hanoi from the smallest details to reveal the larger movements of the city.
This also explains why Nguyen Truong Quy has been able to write about Hanoi for many years, and the story still seems endless. With "The Fingerprints of the Streets," author Nguyen Truong Quy doesn't try to preserve Hanoi in an unchanging image. He explores the city through what remains, what has been lost, and what continues to be created.
In particular, like her previous books, "Fingerprints of the Street" features sketches by the author herself accompanying each story, and includes archival photographs of Hanoi from decades ago, evoking a sense of nostalgia in the reader.
Author Nguyen Truong Quy was born and raised in Hanoi. Currently, he writes, paints, teaches, and conducts cultural research.
He is the author of many books about Hanoi, such as: "As Natural as a Hanoian," "It's Hard to Find Pho Delicious," "Hanoi is Hanoi," "Motorcycles in a Humorous Way," "Who Else Sings About Hanoi?", "Pouring a Pot of Tea Under the Lamppost," "Every Street Corner Has a Person Living There," "A Time When Hanoi Singed - Even the Heart Couldn't Believe It Created Lyrics," "Hanoi Says That's Normal," "Millions of Footprints Through the City Gates," "The Youthful Era of Patriotic New Music," etc.
Author Nguyen Truong Quy has previously received the Bui Xuan Phai Award - For the Love of Hanoi in 2019 and the 7th National Book Award in 2024.
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/kham-pha-ha-noi-theo-dau-van-tay-cua-pho-1759376.html
