Books from Singapore Publishers

If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.

"Children Of Las Vegas" offers an eye-opening perspective that's as gripping as it is sobering. Imagine the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, then peel back the veneer to reveal the stark realities of those who call this dazzling city "home." O'Grady gives a voice to the unheard stories of struggle and resilience that exist in the shadows of Sin City's neon lights. It's a poignant read for anyone fascinated by the contrast between the city's surface allure and the deeper, more complex lives of its residents.

If you're someone intrigued by how daily life intertwines with environmental concerns, "Eating Chilli Crab in the Anthropocene" is a gem waiting for you. This book offers a unique perspective that blends culture with ecology, proving how everything from cuisine to urban development impacts and is affected by climate change. It's a contemporary, thought-provoking read that's sure to redefine how you view sustainability in the context of modern Singaporean life.

If Singapore's ever-evolving urban landscape intrigues you, "Return to a Sexy Island" invites you on a humorous expedition with Neil Humphreys. His return after years abroad offers a fresh, witty perspective on the city's metamorphosis into a sexier locale. Humphreys' engaging storytelling will transport you through newly minted or revamped locations with anecdotes that reveal the island's changing heartbeat. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the quirky blend of travelogue and social commentary, delivered with a good dose of humor.

If you’re delving into Here and Beyond: 12 Stories, this companion is a must-have to truly appreciate each narrative's depth. Ian Tan cleverly unravels intricate themes and characters, helping you form a connection to each story. Whether you’re a student looking to ace your literature class or a curious reader, this guide enriches your reading experience with thought-provoking questions that invite you to explore beyond the page.

"Bite Harder" offers a raw and reflective journey beyond mere autobiography. The crux of this book lies in the blend of personal tales and literary analysis, which isn't common. Your curiosity will be piqued as Koh navigates both the intellectual landscapes of New York and the emotional terrain of leaving one’s comfort zone. If you're intrigued by a voice that’s both an engaged citizen and a critical poet, this collection of essays might just redefine your understanding of cultural and self-discovery.

"This Is What Inequality Looks Like" is an eye-opener that unveils the nuanced reality of poverty in Singapore—a city often seen as a bastion of wealth and success. Teo You Yenn's engaging ethnographic essays urge you to reconsider societal structures from the perspective of those who are often invisible in mainstream discourse. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in social justice and the complexities of inequality that challenge common perceptions, offering not just a narrative but a catalyst for reflection and change.

If you're curious about Singapore's blend of modernity and tradition, George Szirtes offers a compelling outsider's perspective. His poetic musings and journal entries are as intricately woven as the city's own fabric. Travel through the eyes of a poet and explore a nation wrestling with identity and progress. It's an intimate journey you'll find both thought-provoking and evocatively rich.

This book is a powerful collection of ecofeminist essays that brings together the voices of diverse Singaporean women. Through personal stories, the writers delve into themes of caregiving, interconnections with the natural world, and indigenous wisdom. By blurring the boundaries between personal and political, Making Kin invites readers to rethink their relationship with nature and confront pressing environmental issues. It's a must-read for anyone interested in intersectional environmentalism and seeking new perspectives on gender, climate change, and reciprocity.

The Other Side of History is a must-read book for history enthusiasts who want to delve deep into the stories we thought we knew a lot about, and uncover the unexplored details behind them. The unique blend of fact and fiction gives the reader an immersive experience, and Simon Maier's witty and sharp narration makes for an enjoyable read. The author takes the reader behind the scenes and infuses the biggest events with insight, precision, and warmth, allowing us to see them from a fresh perspective. Overall, this book is highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the unseen stories of historical events.

If you're keen on understanding the deeper social and political fabric of Singapore, "Living With Myths in Singapore" could be an enlightening read for you. It digs into the mainstream narratives that shape Singapore's national identity and puts them under a critical microscope. This book will be particularly appealing if you appreciate thought-provoking essays that stimulate discussions on nation-building and cultural myths. It's an invitation to explore the less-told stories of Singapore’s past and present.

If you're intrigued by the tapestry of human experiences and reflections, you'll appreciate "The Birthday Book 2017". Each writer delves into a facet of Singapore's identity, challenging readers to consider what is fundamentally important to remember as a society grows. Their combined narratives form a compelling mosaic, revealing the resilient and aspirational spirit of a nation through personal and professional lenses.

This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.

If you want to truly understand the realities of inequality in Singapore, "This is What Inequality Looks Like" is a must-read. Through a series of thought-provoking essays, Teo You Yenn offers a deep dive into the experiences of low-income individuals and reveals the intersection between personal struggles and systemic inequality. This book will challenge your perspective, broaden your empathy, and inspire you to take action towards a more equitable society.