"The history of Vietnam is complicated and filled with conflict, and that history has impacted the nation's culture in major ways. Readers explore the relationship between Vietnam's history, geography, and culture in this thoroughly updated look at the Southeast Asian nation. With chapters highlighting economics, arts, religion, language, and the lifestyles of the Vietnamese people, readers are given a comprehensive overview of Vietnam that is enhanced by vibrant full-color photographs. Fact boxes and maps provide additional information, sidebars spotlight global citizens in Vietnam, and recipes allow readers to explore Vietnamese culture in a hands-on and creative way"-- Provided by publisher.