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    Kim Thúy

    Kim Thúy

    Awards & Honours

    3

    Awards Won

    4

    Honours

    2

    Rankings

    2

    Covers

    2

    Records

    Kim Thúy's literary achievements have left an indelible mark on Canadian culture. Her debut novel Ru stands as one of the most successful debuts in Canadian literary history, winning the Governor General's Award and securing the CBC's Canada Reads title. The book's unique structure and emotional depth captivated readers worldwide, transforming her from a lawyer into a literary icon. Her selection as an Alternative Nobel Prize finalist in 2018 further cemented her international reputation. She continues to be recognized for her contributions to literature and her advocacy for immigrant rights, receiving honors like the Women Impact Award in 2025.

    Kim Thúy receiving an award

    Awards

    Honours & Distinctions

    Governor General's Literary Award

    Government of Canada·2009

    Won for French-language fiction for Ru

    CBC Canada Reads Winner

    CBC·2010

    Book of the Year award for Ru

    Alternative Nobel Prize Finalist

    Right Livelihood Award Foundation·2018

    One of four finalists for contributions to literature and human rights

    Women Impact Award

    Government of Canada·2025

    Recognition for contributions to arts and culture

    Rankings & Lists

    #99

    Most Famous Person in Vietnam

    iFANN Global Fame Rankings·2026
    #72

    Most Famous Person from Vietnam

    iFANN Global Fame Rankings·2026

    Magazine Covers

    Le Devoir

    2010-05-15

    Interview: Kim Thúy on Ru

    The Globe and Mail

    2014-03-20

    Feature: The Refugee Experience

    Records & Feats

    Bestselling Debut Novel

    Career Milestone·2010

    Ru became one of the best-selling debut novels in Canadian history with over 850,000 copies sold globally.

    Governor General's Award Winner

    Awards·2009

    Won the prestigious Governor General's Literary Award for French-language fiction in 2009.