Written by Damdy Chanthavilay Richards, Illustrated by Adrianna Minor
We’re thrilled to announce that “Somjit & Somjai’s Musical Journey,” a heartwarming children’s book by Damdy Chanthavilay Richard, is in its final stages and getting ready for print. This project has been a labor of love, overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and scheduling conflicts. Now, we’re happy to share that the wait is almost over!
The story follows two brothers, Somjit and Somjai, as they discover the magic of traditional Lao music. It’s a tale that celebrates family, cultural heritage, and the joy of unplugging technology to connect with something extraordinary.
Damdy Chanthavilay Richard, the author, brings a wealth of personal experience to this book. Born in Laos, Damdy came to the United States as a refugee in 1983. Now a practicing dentist in Virginia Beach, she’s passionate about sharing her Lao heritage with others. Her sons, Adam Somjit and Aaron Somjai, inspire the characters in the book.
The beautiful illustrations bringing this story to life are created by Adrianna Ni-Lynn Minor, a talented young artist studying at Roanoke College. Adrianna’s artwork captures the vibrancy of Lao culture and the excitement of musical discovery.
This book is a collaboration between Sahtu Press, a leading publisher of Lao diaspora literature, and the Lao Heritage Foundation. LHF is a non-profit organization, works tirelessly to preserve and promote Lao culture through the arts, offering music and dance lessons across the United States and Laos.
“Somjit & Somjai’s Musical Journey” is more than just a story — it’s a powerful bridge between generations and cultures. It allows young readers to see themselves represented in literature while learning about Lao musical traditions. For parents and grandparents, it’s an opportunity to share their heritage with the younger generation.
We’re putting the finishing touches on the book, and the excitement can be felt. While we don’t have a firm launch date yet, we’re getting close! Watch for updates on the official release date and how to get your copy.
This book is perfect for families looking to introduce their children to different cultures, music lovers of all ages, and anyone who enjoys a warm, engaging story about discovery and family bonds.
Stay tuned for more information about “Somjit & Somjai’s Musical Journey.” We’re excited to share this unique story with you soon and hope it will inspire a new generation to explore the beauty of Lao culture and music.