First They Killed My Father

On April 17, 1975, a group of soldiers dressed in black with red sashes and scarves ride into town on large cargo trucks. Along with their unusual outfits, Loung immediately notices their long greasy hair, commenting, “It is believed that men who wear their hair long must have something to hide” (17). As a cheering crowd forms around the men, but Loung’s father knows that something is not right. Loung and her father return to their home to find her mother packing what she can. Loung is confused by the behavior of her parents and older siblings. At this time, her biggest concern is what car they will take, the Mazda or the truck. Once they pack up and leave their home, the Ungs find chaos in the streets as the soldiers shout to everyone in Phnom Penh to leave the city immediately.

With the Ung children piled in the cab of the truck, the dust and dirt from the hot, dry season blows into their faces. When night falls, the family stops and sleeps under the stars. As they relax, Loung asks questions about what is happening to them. She asks about the cats they left behind and about the reasons behind the Khmer Rouge’s actions.