4 Books That Will Change How You See Thailand
To understand Thailand beyond its postcard-perfect landscapes, immerse yourself in 4 books that reveal its wounds, contrasts, and truths often left untold.
June 2, 2020
No, Thailand is far more than postcard-perfect landscapes. Though it's often called the Land of Smiles, Thailand harbors secrets and hidden facets waiting to be discovered. Through this carefully curated selection of books, we invite you to explore the country's many dimensions—from its most breathtaking to its darkest corners. One thing is certain: after reading, you'll never see Thailand quite the same way again…
1. Monsoon Country by Pira Sudham
We begin our selection with a work by a Thai author: Pira Sudham. "Monsoon Country" is both a semi-autobiographical novel and a coming-of-age story whose lessons often stand in stark contrast to the exotic image most people hold of Thailand. The narrative unfolds in Isan, a rural region in the country's northeast, and follows the journey of a young man named Prem from a peasant farming family who leaves to study in Europe, only to return to Thailand to become a Buddhist monk. From the rural world to corruption, injustice, and the clash between tradition and modernity… This book is an intimate adventure woven with poetry and grace, one that leaves no reader unmoved!
2. Three Other Thailands by Etienne Rosse
Widely regarded as a land of spirituality and nicknamed the "Land of Smiles," Thailand is not always what it seems… That's precisely what author Etienne Rosse wanted to reveal through his work. Having spent several years in Phuket where he started a family with a Thai woman, this British author and journalist for The Nation newspaper draws a series of portraits of Thailand's hidden faces. The book "Three Other Thailands" is composed of short stories inspired by true events involving both locals and farangs (foreigners)!
3. Shadow Theatre by Michèle Jullian
Here's a book that will help you see Thailand far from tourist clichés. "Shadow Theatre" is a novel of travel and adventure that takes us to the remote regions along the Burmese border. We follow Marie, a young French woman who discovers, after her father's death, that she has a half-brother in Thailand. Structured like a blog, the narrative is romanticized yet thoroughly documented and inspired by real events… Indeed, the author lives in Thailand and teaches French and English to the Karen people, an ethnic minority. A perfect opportunity to learn more about the diverse facets of Thailand and the peoples who call it home.
4. Bangkok 8 by John Burdett
A genuine bestseller, Bangkok 8 is the first novel in a series following the adventures of Sonchai Jitpleecheep, an incorruptible policeman. The term Bangkok 8 refers to the postal code of a red-light district in Thailand's capital. The son of a Thai prostitute and an American G.I., and a practicing Buddhist, the main character is nothing if not unconventional. Through this crime thriller, we follow his investigations that lead him to encounter corrupt ex-Khmer Rouge fighters, drug dealers, prostitutes, and many others… The suspense is delivered in full, and John Burdett's prose is a pure delight!
Florine Dergelet
A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by a passion to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. For her, travel is not about ticking countries off a map, but about forging bonds—often invisible yet always powerful—with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures in the animal kingdom. Her philosophy? Advise travelers with integrity, awaken their conscience about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble, sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories are often born far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, in the midst of a conversation, or in the quiet breath of a world we finally take time to truly hear…
