Students speak with author after reading her autobiography

The Times-Reporter
·2 min read
Claymont High School English students had the chance to speak with author Trang Moreland, on screen, after reading her autobiography, "Just Smile and Say Hello."
Claymont High School English students had the chance to speak with author Trang Moreland, on screen, after reading her autobiography, "Just Smile and Say Hello."

UHRICHSVILLE ‒ Claymont High School students in English classes taught by Jessica Klingler and Nicole Sankey had the opportunity to meet Trang Moreland after reading her autobiography, "Just Smile and Say Hello."

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The book traces her life from perilous circumstances in war-torn Vietnam to the happy life she has today as a real estate investor, wife, mother and author. She formerly owned a beauty salon and a restaurant.

The title of the book, "Just Smile and Say Hello," comes from the advice her widowed mother gave her when she left for America on a fiance visa, not knowing any English.

A Dennison-area resident, Moreland spoke to the students via Zoom on Monday. She answered questions they had prepared.

Moreland spoke of her home and family in Vietnam, the transition to America, and her current endeavors as she lives in America.

Students asked her about her writing experience. Moreland replied that the entire process took her nearly five years.

“I really enjoyed hearing her story from what she had to go through. It was really nice meeting her. It was a very fun experience,” said freshman Audrey Parrish.

“Mrs. Moreland has been so kind to meet with our students each year we study her novel," Klingler said. "The students love this part of the curriculum because it’s rare to get to meet the author they study in school. She is such an inspiration to our students and they have looked forward to this meeting with her since we started reading her novel.”

Claymont High School English classes had the chance to speak with author Trang Moreland after reading her autobiography, "Just Smile and Say Hello."
Claymont High School English classes had the chance to speak with author Trang Moreland after reading her autobiography, "Just Smile and Say Hello."

“Having an opportunity to read Mrs. Moreland’s novel and learning more about Vietnamese culture has been a welcomed addition to our curriculum," Sankey said. "The students really seem to connect to the book and be inspired by Trang, her experiences, and her work ethic. It was wonderful to meet her, and I hope everyone gets the opportunity to read her inspirational story.”

Moreland’s book tells the story of her life: growing up in South Vietnam, moving to the U.S. at age of 21, and her successful businesses in America. Her book is available for purchase at Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market and on Amazon. Moreland will sell and sign her books from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 27 at Canal Town Book Fest on the corner of Wooster Avenue and Third Street in Dover.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Students speak with author after reading her autobiography