Summer Reading List: Our Favourite Books to Inspire a South East Asia Adventure
If you’re embarking on an adventure to Southeast Asia, then what better way to prepare for your journey than by diving into some captivating reads that explore the region’s rich history and diverse cultures? We’ve curated a list of our favourite fiction and non-fiction books to inspire and enrich your Southeast Asia adventure…
Sightseeing by Rattawut Lapcharoensap
Sightseeing is a collection of short stories set in Thailand providing a vibrant look at modern Thai life, exploring themes of family, love, tradition vs modernity and significant social issues, such as economic disparity and the effects of tourism. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches, every story delves into the lives of ordinary people, young and old, local and expatriates, who are facing extraordinary circumstances. It’s hard to believe that Lapcharoensap was only 25 years old when he wrote this award-winning debut novel.
Bangkok 8 by John Burdett
A gripping crime novel set in Bangkok, featuring a unique detective and offering a fascinating glimpse into Thai culture and the city’s vibrant and chaotic streets. Bangkok 8 follows the story of Sonchai Jitpleecheep, a devout Buddhist and detective with the Royal Thai Police, as he investigates the murder of an American marine sergeant. The investigation quickly becomes personal when Sonchai’s partner is killed in the line of duty. As he delves deeper into the case, Sonchai uncovers a web of corruption, drug trafficking, prostitution and priceless art that takes him through the sinister underbelly of Bangkok.
The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh
A sweeping historical narrative that spans Burma, India and Malaysia, offering rich insights into the colonial history and cultural landscapes of Southeast Asia. “The Glass Palace” begins in Burma during the British invasion of 1885 and tells the story of an Indian orphan called Rajkumar and his journey to find a young woman called Dolly, who he met in Burma when the Royal family was forced out of the Glass Palace and into exile. He never forgets her and years later, as a wealthy teak merchant, journeys across India to find her.
Fieldwork by Mischa Berlinski
A gripping mystery novel that takes readers into the remote hills of northern Thailand, blending anthropology, family secrets, and a journalist's quest for the truth. Fieldwork follows the story of journalist Mischa Berlinski, who becomes intrigued by the mysterious death of an American anthropologist named Martiya van der Leun who was found dead - by suicide - in a Thai prison, where she was serving a 15 year sentence for the murder of a Christian missionary. As Mischa delves into Martiya's life, he uncovers a fascinating tale that involves the lives of American missionaries, anthropologists, and the fictitious Dyalo hill tribe.
The Food of Vietnam by Luke Nguyen
A comprehensive cookbook that provides an in-depth look at Vietnamese cuisine, featuring authentic recipes and cultural insights from Luke’s home country. Tying in with his immensely popular TV show “Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam”, this book follows Nguyen’s journey from southern Vietnam up to the north, through the local markets and kitchens of strangers and family alike. From classic street food, such as rice cakes and char-grilled squid, to pho and banh mi, these flavourful recipes are beautifully paired with stunning photography and personal stories of the people he meets along the way.
First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung
A personal memoir from a childhood survivor of the Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime, this riveting novel offers a powerful insight into one of the darkest periods of Cambodia's history. One of seven children of a high-ranking government official, Loung Ung lived a privileged life in Phnom Penh until the age of five. Then, in April 1975, Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge army stormed into the city, forcing Ung's family to flee and, eventually, to disperse. Loung was trained as a child soldier in a work camp for orphans, her siblings were sent to labor camps, and those who survived were only finally reunited after the Khmer Rouge was destroyed.
Tropical Asian Style by William Warren and Luca Invernizzi Tettoni
Tropical Asian Style provides a stunning visual exploration of architecture, interior design and landscaping across Southeast Asia. It offers inspiration and practical ideas for incorporating Southeast Asian elements into home decor, from materials and colour palette to furniture, textiles and decorative arts. The book contains over 400 breathtaking photos taken by world-renowned photographer Luca Invernizzi Tettoni alongside Warren’s insights into how local traditions, religious beliefs and environmental factors influence the aesthetics. Well-known architects, designers and authorities on Asia's cultural heritage provide insightful views on the houses and their design elements.
The Beach by Alex Garland
A contemporary cult novel set in Thailand that explores the search for paradise and the darker side of travel and tourism. Guided by a mysterious map, young British traveller Richard (played by Leonardo DiCaprio in the 2000 film) and his two new friends set out to find “The Beach” - a hidden island untouched by tourists, and the subject of a legend among young travellers in Asia. On arrival, The Beach resembles paradise on earth, but as Richard becomes integrated into this small secluded community, the utopian dream begins to unravel revealing darker undertones of human nature.
Pok Pok: Food and Stories from the Streets, Homes, and Roadside Restaurants of Thailand by Andy Ricker
Named after his US-based restaurants, Pok Pok is an authentic Thai cookbook with engaging stories and stunning photography from Ricker's extensive travels throughout Thailand. From Pad Thai and Green Papaya Salad to Andy’s famous Vietnamese Fish Sauce Wings, Pok Pok makes authentic Thai food accessible for anyone to cook at home through meticulously detailed recipes that stay true to traditional Thai cooking methods and flavours.
The Quiet American by Graham Greene
Set in Vietnam during the end of the French colonial period, this classic novel provides a gripping story of love, intrigue and political tension. Narrated in the first person by journalist Thomas Fowler, this book depicts the early American involvement in the Vietnam War, alongside a love triangle between Fowler, an American CIA agent and a young Vietnamese woman. Since publication in 1956, The Quiet American has twice been adapted as films in 1958 and 2002.