Meet Elka

Elka is the author of one novel, Hanoi Jane. She also wrote and illustrated two picture books – Vietnam A to Z and 1, 2, 3 Vietnam! – to introduce Vietnam’s fascinating culture to young children.

Hanoi Jane Looking for a book that combines travel, romance and adventure? With its fast pace, exotic locale and compelling characters Hanoi Jane is the perfect holiday read — whether or not you’re on holiday. Vietnam A to Z Vietnam A to Z uses fun illustrations and bilingual English and Vietnamese text to introduce Vietnam’s colorful culture to young children. 1, 2, 3 Vietnam Funny illustrations and bilingual English and Vietnamese text bring Vietnam alive for very young children.

Elka started traveling as a baby. Born in England, she moved to Uganda when she was three months old.

When Elka was four, her family moved to Canada. She spent parts of her childhood living in geological survey camps so remote they could only be reached by float plane.

After studying Asian Studies and Journalism, Elka moved to Vietnam in 1996. She works as a freelance writer and editor.

Elka is married to an architect named Thien, who was born in Vietnam but grew up in Australia.

They have two children.

And three cats that don’t appreciate just how lucky they are. They recently got a potbellied pig, which eats everything.

They live in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, surrounded by banana trees, noisy frogs and coconut palms.

Elka blogs about the ups and downs of writing and living in Vietnam.

One Response

1. Luong Thanh Thien August 3, 2014 at 5:13 PM

   love each other used to be and forever.
   the happy family like the Angels in the sky
   and the past remembrances are absolutelry rememberable

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