it's finally here!
OUT OF LAOS is the true story of a secret war in the mountains of Southeast Asia and its aftermath in America. A sweeping, half-century saga of cultures colliding and adapting, it stars the headstrong Hmong general and the eccentric CIA man who changed a people’s destiny.
With hundreds of photos and folk art scenes, this breakthrough history is so visual, so easy on the eyes, it's almost like watching a movie.
it's finally here
it's finally here
OUT OF LAOS is the true story of a secret war in the mountains of Southeast Asia and its aftermath in America. A sweeping, half-century saga of cultures colliding and adapting, it stars the headstrong Hmong general and the eccentric CIA man who changed a people’s destiny.
With hundreds of photos and folk art scenes, this breakthrough history is so visual, so easy on the eyes, it's almost like watching a movie.
Feedbacks & Reviews
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
The name of "Indochina Beat” author Roger Warner should not draw any puzzled looks from Southeast Asia hands, especially among Lao and Hmong. His books Shooting at the Moon: The Story of America's Clandestine War in Laos (originally published as Backfire: The CIA's Secret War in Laos and Its Link to the War in Vietnam); his original 1990s edition of Out of Laos, subtitled A Story of War and Exodus Told in Photographs; and Haing Ngor: A Cambodian Odyssey no doubt line the bookshelves of many people who are from the region, have visited it, soldiered or reported from there over 50 years ago. The second edition of his book Out of Laos, now subtitled The Surprising, Spectacular Origin Story of America’s Hmong People, is his most remarkable work to date.
Your work provided me with so much closure, answers, and understanding regarding my identity struggles as a Hmong American. The photos beautifully captured the timeline and history, and the insights you shared helped me connect with my parents and their stories in ways I never thought possible. Reading your book and visiting the accompanying exhibit brought me profound self-healing and peace.
- Paula Butler-Yang, California
My mom didn't have a childhood, but her determination and drive to live gave us a childhood. My parents' sacrifices gave us the chance to be successful human beings that give back to our communities and more. I love you mom! And I am so happy that I stumbled across this stranger that looked so familiar.
- Npaim Yang, (found a photo of her mom in book)
ORDERING & DISTRIBUTION
Current Availability & Individual Copies
Demand for Out of Laos has been higher than expected. For individuals looking to purchase a single copy right now:
- Amazon: Single copies are currently available for $25.00 each, plus shipping.
- Upcoming Stock: Five hundred copies will be available in St. Paul in mid-February for educators and nonprofits, though this is expected to deplete the current personal supply for a few months.
Wholesale & Bulk Orders (Coming Soon)
We are currently printing more books overseas to keep prices low. While shipping takes time, we expect the new shipment to arrive by May or June 2026. Once the new stock arrives:
- Carton Sales: The website will sell books in cartons containing 12 copies each at wholesale prices.
- Volume Discounts: The more cartons you order, the larger the discount. Specific discount rates will be posted here upon the arrival of the books.
Information for Schools & Educators
Working with colleges and school systems is a top priority. Young students are incredibly curious to learn about their families' origins.
- Current Partners: The Fresno United School District and the Milwaukee school system were the first customers , with more books heading to St. Paul schools soon.
- Curriculum: These resources help students connect with their heritage.
For Nonprofits & Community Advocacy
Nonprofits can utilize Out of Laos for fundraising, donor appreciation gifts, and advocacy.
- Advocacy: It is vital to educate mainstream politicians about the sacrifices the Hmong people made for American safety, especially regarding current political issues like immigration. The goal is to create a new narrative and improve public opinion.
- Community Impact: Pao Yang, CEO of The Fresno Center, purchased 300 books for the community.
- Supporting the Elderly: For many elderly Hmong, the book has served as a catalyst to discuss their wartime experiences for the first time in years. Seeing their saga recognized has been a source of cheer and validation.
For Merchants & Retailers
- In-Store Sales: Restaurant owners and merchants can place stacks of books near cash registers for impulse buys. It is recommended to leave one copy open for browsing while keeping the rest shrink-wrapped.
- Hmong New Year: There is huge potential for vendors with booths at New Year celebrations. Vendors are encouraged to stockpile books for the fall and winter festivities.
Events & Contact
I enjoy meeting people face-to-face and am available for personal signing events and lectures. I also plan to appear at select 2026 New Year festivities.
- Roger Warner
The Kingdom
During the 1950s, the King of Laos, "Land of the Million Elephants and the White Parasol," as it officially called itself, was both rich and poor.
The Alliance
Three countries made up the anticommunist alliance in Laos. Each sent overachievers who create their own roles in the field.
Out of Laos
Hope faded, until there were only two real options left: surrendering to the new regime or escaping across the river to Thailand.
We Are All Hmong
In the sense that everyone on earth is descended from migrants who left their homelands and had to adapt to new places and cultures.