Books from Singapore Publishers

A Nation Awakes is an eye-opening account of Singapore's journey from a one-party dominant system to a diverse and competitive political landscape. The book features first-hand narratives from Singaporeans of all walks of life who participated in the country's 2011 General Election and Presidential Election. These intimate stories reveal the courage and conviction of ordinary citizens who fought for change. If you want to understand the political dynamics of contemporary Singapore, this is the book for you.

If you've ever been drawn to tales where camaraderie and adventure blend seamlessly, "Sengkang Snoopers: The Riddle of the Coral Isle" could be a delightful pick. It takes you on a journey with a spirited group of youngsters set against the vivid backdrop of Singapore's Sisters' Islands. The kids' determination to protect endangered turtles is as heartwarming as it is suspenseful. A modern eco-adventure that can spark an appreciation for wildlife and nature's mysteries in its readers.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the hidden talents of Singapore's first foreign minister, S. Rajaratnam. Through his fourteen stimulating literary works, including short stories and radio plays, Rajaratnam showcases his rich literary prowess and provides a unique perspective on the nation's history and development. From his time in London to his contributions to political commentary and satire, this anthology not only highlights Rajaratnam's extraordinary talent but also offers a captivating glimpse into the making of a nation.

This long overdue collection gathers together sixteen of Gregory Nalpon’s short stories, eleven of his essays, and a selection of his sketches of life in coffee shops, hawker stalls and samshu shops. Through his writing, Nalpon poignantly records a lost, rich world: the colourful, exciting and sometimes perilous Singapore of half a century ago.With this collection, a vital Singaporean voice is finally recovered. Nalpon’s inspired blend of close observation, legend, local superstition and peculiarly eclectic reading results in some of the most imaginative and exciting writing produced in Singapore during the 1960s and 1970s, including authentic descriptions of indigenous culture and working-class men and women rarely found in Singaporean writing of the period.Praise:“I am glad that Gregory Nalpon’s work at last has a chance of being recognised. His stories are excellent.”—Edwin Thumboo, award-winning Singaporean poet and academic“[Nalpon's] stories often produce a resolution at the level of narrative but keep cultural elements in suspense, a series of intersecting gazes that never quite align…Angus Whitehead is to be congratulated both for making Nalpon’s works available to a new and wider audience, and also in the process enabling new perspectives on literary history in Singapore.”—Philip Holden, Asiatic IIUM Journal of English Language and Literature“Gregory Nalpon’s stories and evocative commentaries might seem nostalgic for a pre-development Singapore, but make no mistake—there is little sentimentality here, as marginalised characters get fleshed out with brutality, as well as compassion. His poetic, fable-esque narratives possess a sense of magic that is almost spiritual, full of moral lessons about the abjection of human desires, death, and a knowing presence at the heart of the natural world.”—Cyril Wong, author of Ten Things My Father Never Taught Me and Other Stories and The Last Lesson of Mrs de Souza“[Nalpon's] collected works in The Wayang at Eight Milestone seem to work as a veritable time machine, winding us readers back to the gritty world of old Singapore and immersing us in its saudade, its beautiful spirit of melancholy…[He is] a pioneer Singaporean storyteller like no other.”—Ng Yi-Sheng, Quarterly Literary Review Singapore“Gregory Nalpon wrote from the margins about a Singapore in the throes of great change, and I am convinced that he is our first true proponent of magical realism.”—Robert Yeo, playwright and author of The Adventures of Holden Heng“Enigmatic and evocative, Gregory Nalpon’s stories unsettle the reader, sometimes with unexpected tenderness, other times, startling violence. They usher us into a Singaporean world smudged and erased from public memory but throbbingly alive in a fictive universe uniquely shaped by Nalpon’s creative imagination and his spare but suggestively symbolic style. For this wonderful experience we have to thank Angus Whitehead, who with dedicated, perceptive, and historically sensitive scholarship, excavated these stories and brought them into the light of day.”—Dr Angelia Poon, Nanyang Technological University“Angus Whitehead’s timely recovery of Gregory Nalpon’s hitherto largely unknown but fascinatingly unique voice makes not only for gratifying reading but also helpfully challenges and enlarges our notions of postcolonial Singapore and its literature.”—Mohammad A. Quayum, International Islamic University“Gregory Nalpon’s stories are perfectly poised between gritty realism and mythic wonder. He observes and embraces the rich local diversity of Singapore with the eye of an enchanted poet and the heart of an honest friend. He fathoms the human soul through, and beyond, cultural identity. Editor Angus Whitehead’s love for Nalpon glows in this informative and accessible edition, which will be a treasure for Singaporeans, and a gratifying find for the rest of us who are eager for great reads from around the globe, or take interest in the development of postcolonial writing. Nalpon deserves to claim a place among the most unique and significant voices of the formative and vibrant 1970s.”—Tristanne Connolly, University of Waterloo“The modernity of Singapore tends to be regarded as functional and technocratic, pragmatically future-directed. The stories of Gregory Nalpon, light, deft and deceptively understated, restore an alternative past to the city, drawing on its richly diverse collective memory, its multiple cultural identities, and the shaping omnipresence of its coastal terrain. Editor Angus Whitehead has uncovered a distinctive and enchanting new post-colonial voice, wry, lyrical and humane, whose evocation of the local and particular is deserving of a wide international audience.”—Stephen Clark, University of Tokyo“Gregory Nalpon’s short stories and essays bring to life vibrant, colourful, and rich depictions of everyday cosmopolitanism of old Singapore. Vivid descriptions of fishermen working on islands southwest of Singapore complement stories in a diverse range of settings from a kampung in Bedok to a bee hoon factory in Upper Thomson, a one bedroom flat in Bukit Ho Swee, and a wayang by a graveyard. This collection is an absolute treasure; it provides an important literary archive of Singapore’s forgotten history and should be made essential reading in the Singapore literature classroom.”—Dr Suzanne Choo, National Institute of Education and author of Mining for Meaning and Reading the world, the globe, and the cosmos“If you cannot imagine local fiction without the urban ennui and stirrings against conformity and control, if you long for it to be some other creature altogether–then Gregory Nalpon's revelatory short stories are for you. Written in the 1960s and 1970s, they lucidly and lovingly capture the rhythms and textures of a more rustic Singapore steeped in mysticism, danger and a primaeval sense of wonder. People by an oddball, multi-ethnic cast of characters–loafers, bar girls, gangsters, cynics, dreamers, holy men, freaks and ghosts, The Wayang at Eight Milestone continues Epigram Books' project of publishing buried treasures of early Singapore literature.”—Clarissa Oon, The Sunday Times“A wonderful collection edited by Angus Whitehead.”—Lydia Kwa, fiction writer, in “My Book of the Year”, Singapore PoetryAbout the Author:Gregory Nalpon was born in 1938 in Singapore. After attending St Joseph’s Institution, he energetically embarked on a variety of peripatetic careers: disc jockey, journalist, trade unionist and ‘gentleman of leisure’. These assorted vocations took him from Singapore to Sarawak, Northern Malaysia, Thailand and Australia. During the 1960s and 1970s, Nalpon composed numerous stories, essays, plays and novels. His short story, “The Rose and the Silver Key” was studied by thousands of Singaporean secondary school students. With Nalpon’s sudden death in 1978 at the age of 40, the majority of his writings remained unpublished for over thirty years.

"Conversations With Lee Kuan Yew" is a must-read for those interested in learning about Singapore's development as a modern nation. Through candid interviews with Lee Kuan Yew, readers gain insight into his uncorrupted, modern, and almost scientific approach to leadership. The book includes previously unreleased interviews and offers a unique perspective on one of the most unforgettable political figures of modern times. Overall, a great read for those interested in politics, leadership, and nation-building.

Turtle Trouble could be a good read for someone who cares about saving the environment and its creatures. The book offers a heartwarming story of a girl's determination to save turtles. It is not only educational but also inspiring, as it shows that even one person's actions can have a positive impact on the world.

Step into the quirky, tender, luminous world of Wena Poon.In California, a dot com executive falls in love with an Asian barista in a coffee joint. In Malaysia, a Chinese woman boards a plane to London for sex tourism. In New York, an English couple abandons their baby at the door of a Japanese restaurant. In New Hampshire, a depressed transvestite snowboards into an avalanche in emulation of his favorite opera heroine.Poon’s first book, Lions In Winter, was listed for both the 2008 Irish Frank O’Connor Award and the Singapore Literature Prize. In her second book, Poon writes of chance encounters and impossible romances in the digital age. Her characters are beautiful, damaged, funny, serious, and always relentlessly cool. Wry, observant and assured, this is contemporary storytelling at its exhilarating best.

Troublemaker is a collection of Bertha Henson’s columns from her blog, Bertha Harian, as well as the now defunct Breakfast Network. They represent her take on the news of the day, spanning political and social happenings in Singapore from the middle of 2012. Sometimes serious, sometimes hilarious, Bertha brings her own inimitable style to news commentary, raising questions and zooming in on issues that concern the citizenry.

Written by a select panel of specialists, this book covers a wide range of topics close to every Asian parent’s heart, including planning for a family, antenatal and postnatal healthcare, breastfeeding, bonding with baby, the father’s role, managing grandparents and domestic help, food and nutrition, and helping baby maximise his potential. With practical tips for every step of the parenting journey, this comprehensive and easy-to-read book will be the guide that Asian parents will turn to for years to come.

If you have an interest in Southeast Asia, or you're drawn to histories told through deeply personal narratives, "Routes: A Singaporean Memoir 1940-75" beckons. Robert Yeo doesn't just recount historical events; he weaves his life story with the evolution of Singapore, providing an evocative illustration of the nation's rapid development. It's a tale that feels both grand in its historical scope and intimate with its personal touch, enhanced by photographs that bring the era to life.

Recommended for children who love animals and mystery. This book stands out for its engaging plot filled with clues and opportunities for readers to try and solve the mystery. The lovable protagonist, Ellie Belly, is relatable to children and her love for animals is infectious. The book is also beautifully illustrated, making the story come to life.

Little Things offers an intimate experience through poetry—like a lens it magnifies the often overlooked, yet profoundly beautiful moments of daily life. It's a quiet companion that speaks to the soul, encouraging readers to pause and appreciate the mundane, which as these poems reveal, is where magic truly lies.

"Marbles, Mayhem and My Typewriter" is a highly inspiring memoir that shares the incredible journey of an ordinary man, Mano Sabnani, who achieved extraordinary success by following ethical principles. This book is ideal for readers looking for a motivational and insightful read that delves into a variety of topics, including leadership, friendship, and the role of man in nature. Mano's unique stories and profound insights are sure to leave a lasting impact on readers and inspire them to strive for success in their own lives.

"Larger Than Life" is a heart-warming collection of stories about people who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Belinda Lee introduces readers to these amazing individuals who have chosen to follow the road less trodden and work for unusual social causes such as building schools, rescuing street children, and helping war-affected people. This book celebrates the human spirit and restores faith in the goodness of humanity. If you are looking for inspiring stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, this book is for you.

This book tells of the inspirational story of Hua Mulan, the legendary Chinese female warrior who pledges to fight for her family and country in the most unusual way: by disguising herself as a man - a filial “son” who takes the place of her aged and sick father at the battlefront.
Quick-witted and well-skilled in martial arts, Hua MuIan fights valiantly and scores many victories throughout her many years in the army, never once having her real identity revealed. It is only until after the war, however, that our heroine reveals the truth. Stunned by the revelation and greatly moved by her story, Mulan's comrades express their utmost respect and admiration for her great courage and skills, not least her loyalty and devotion to family and country.
The story of Hua Mulan has inspired countless generations through the centuries. With stirring and unforgettable scenes brought vividly to life by creators Xu Deyuan and Jiang Wei, this comic book captures the legendary Chinese heroine at her most brilliant, ensuring that the legend of Mulan, that most enduring symbol of loyalty and filial piety, continues to live on.

Author: Xu Deyuan & Jiang Wei
Format: Soft cover
Number of Pages: 128
Publisher: Asiapac Books, Singapore
Publication Date: 2018

“An unsentimental yet moving narrative, a sobering alternative to Dead Poets Society and To Sir, With Love. With its deep probing look at the teaching profession, it unveils a rich array of themes—homosexual awakening, human actions and consequences, the individual in conflict with society, and most compellingly, the nature of perhaps the most noble and difficult of vocations.” —Boey Kim Cheng, author of Clear BrightnessOne last time and on her birthday, Rose de Souza is returning to school to give a final lesson to her classroom of secondary school boys before retiring from her long teaching career. What ensues is an unexpected confession in which she recounts the tragic and traumatic story of Amir, a student from her past who overturned the way she saw herself as a teacher, and changed her life forever.This stunning first novel from award-winning poet Cyril Wong is a tour de force, an exceptional examination of the power of choice and the unreliability of memory.

The book "Dragon's Egg" is a delightful, rhyming story that any child would love. It is about a girl who discovers a baby dragon in an egg and tries to help it when she realizes it's sad and lonely. The unique feature of this book is the way the story flows through its rhymes. This book is perfect for children who love magic, dragons, and rhymes, and for young readers who are just beginning to read on their own.

The Travel Diary of Amos Lee 4: Quokking in Australia! is a fun and educational read for children who love adventure and nature. It provides a unique insight into Australia's wildlife and the consequences of irresponsible behavior towards animals. With its lovable characters and engaging storyline, this book is sure to captivate young readers and leave them with a newfound appreciation for the environment.

English (translation)Original Chinese

This book would be a fantastic read for history enthusiasts who want to discover a lesser-known explorer who had a remarkable impact on the world. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, "The Great Explorer Cheng Ho" reveals the astonishing journeys of Cheng Ho, a Chinese navigator who sailed the western Pacific and Indian Oceans over 600 years ago. Prepare to be amazed by the forgotten adventures, cultural exchanges, and global influence of this extraordinary explorer.

Out of the mundane, a flash of lyrical. From the profane, a hint of sublime. And always, the inventive wordplay that cuts through the skin of language. Sucking up the marrow of his life, from crisis of faith to divorce, from fatherhood to being, yes, tattooed. Voices of killers and prostitutes. Poems at once intensely personal and universal about love, God and things that matter to the heart. Sudden in Youth: New and Selected Poems brings together the best of ten years of Felix Cheong’s poetry, as well as his recent writings.

If you or your youngster are keen on history and inspiring stories, "Harry Grows Up" can be a great choice. It illustrates resilience through the eyes of young Lee Kuan Yew during challenging times, combining educational content with engaging storytelling suitable for children. The book not only entertains but also introduces important historical events in a manner that is accessible for the young readers.

We Contain Multitudes could be a good read for poetry enthusiasts who appreciate a diverse range of voices. The anthology features both established and upcoming poets from Singapore and around the world, presenting a blend of literary concepts, styles and voices. The book features poems that touch on themes like diversity, culture, identity, and human experiences. The collection's unique and distinctive feature is its focus on presenting a mix of literary works that reflect the human experience across different cultures and environments.

The Singapore Classics Box Set is a must-read for those interested in understanding the cultural and historical roots of Singapore. This collection of stories and essays is written by prominent Singaporean authors Fernando Koh and Seng Kon Yeo who present their personal experiences of growing up in Singapore. The set is an insightful reflection of the transformation and growth of Singapore over the years. The narrative style of the authors while writing on different themes and topics provides readers with a poignant and evocative description of Singapore's past.

Originally a backwater swamp housing the Ying Fo Lut and Boh Beh Kang kampongs, Queenstown became Singapore’s first satellite town. It was named in commemoration of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. As this grand old dame of an estate celebrates her 60th anniversary in 2013, the artists from Urban Sketchers Singapore capture the enduring landmarks and scenes of everyday life in the neighbourhood.Take a trip down memory lane and imagine the late Queenstown cinema and bowling alley in its heyday. Visit Stirling Road to view Singapore’s first HDB blocks and enjoy the unique personality of each HDB terrace house. Admire the religious harmony and architectural diversity of Queenstown’s churches, temples and mosques. To escape the heat, slip into the cool oasis of Queenstown Community Library, which remains in the middle of winding Margaret Drive.

Recommendation: Every School a Good School is a captivating coming-of-age novel set in Singapore that explores the themes of education, friendship, and adventure. Follow the journey of Rowena and Janice, who are unexpectedly thrown into each other's lives as part of a radical exchange program. As they navigate the challenges of adapting to new schools and the pressures of academic expectations, they discover the importance of bridging differences and standing up for what they believe in. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming tale of personal growth and resilience.

The second book following The Advocate s Devil featuring Dennis Chiang, an up-and-coming lawyer, who finds himself thrown into the heady 1930s mix of Singapore society under the wings of one of the Straights Settlement s top lawyers, Mr D Almeida. Follow Dennis Chiang during a period of great uncertainty, as news of an impending Japanese invasion looms. Little does Chiang know that his life is about to become a lot more exciting and dangerous. Roped in by the British Special Branch as an undercover operative to weed out Japanese agents subverting and undermining the morale of an Indian Army garrison sent to defend Malaya, Chiang finds himself going from criminal lawyer in a courtroom to an adept and rugged spy in the jungles of Malaya

- This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich history of Singapore, detailing the various individuals and groups who have shaped the country into what it is today. - With in-depth research and personal accounts, readers will be able to discover the lesser-known but impactful events and figures that helped shape Singapore into the thriving city it is today. - This book truly captures the essence of Singapore's legacy and is a valuable addition to any history buff's collection.

Dive into the streets of Singapore through the eyes of David A. Fedo. "Singapore, Insights From The Inside" is a mesmerizing journey that unveils the untold tales of this vibrant city. From its bustling Chinatown to the tranquil Botanic Gardens, Fedo's storytelling paints a vivid picture of the real Singapore, far beyond the glossy tourist brochures. Prepare to be enchanted by the charm and secrets of this modern metropolis, as the author's keen insights bring the city to life before your eyes.

Best Food Literature, Singapore, Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2011Winner, Third Prize, Popular Readers’ Choice Awards 2011, English (Adult) CategoryWhy is char kway teow disappearing? What is the difference between bak chor mee and Teochew mee? Where is the chwee in chwee kueh? How do you make milky fish soup without milk? What are the signs of a good rojak stall? Where can you find pork belly satay? Which came first, white or black carrot cake? Who created bak kut teh, Singapore or Malaysia?All the answers, and more, plus where to find the best of Singapore’s classic hawker dishes, in this indispensable insider’s guide to hawker food by Asia Pacific’s number one food blogger Dr. Leslie Tay, of I Eat, I Shoot, I Post (www.ieatishootipost.com) fame. Try Leslie’s top picks before they disappear!

If you're fascinated by political figures who challenge the status quo with grace and determination, "Let the People Have Him" is a must-read. Loke Hoe Yeong offers an intimate glimpse into Chiam See Tong's life, emphasizing the impact he had on Singapore's political landscape. His respectful and enduring legacy comes to life in this biography, making it a poignant read for those interested in the cultivation of democracy and the role of dissent in shaping a nation's course.

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- This book is a must-read for anyone looking to dive into the witty and humorous side of ancient Chinese culture. The collection of more than 60 funny cartoons offers a delightful glimpse into life in ancient China. - The unique feature of this book lies in the expressive illustrations with crisp, clear-cut lines, created by cartoonist Tian Hengyu. His portrayal of nonentities and their antics will leave you in stitches. - Whether you're a fan of humor, interested in ancient Chinese culture, or simply looking for a good laugh, Best Chinese Jokes is the perfect read for you. It's a hilarious and enjoyable compilation that will have you coming back for more.

Kampong spirit is a heartwarming collection of stories that paints a vivid picture of life in Potong Pasir during the 1950s and 60s. Through the author's eyes, readers are transported to a time when neighbours lived as one community, full of life and colour. The book is a perfect read for history buffs and those looking to reconnect with Singapore's past. Chia's charming writing style makes it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the world of Potong Pasir, reminding us of the importance of community and connection.

If you've ever been charmed by the unpredictability of love and chance encounters, 'The Proper Care Of Foxes' is for you. Wena Poon's writing stitches together globetrotting narratives that mirror the chaos and connections of our internet-era relationships. It's a literary mosaic that captures the serendipity and poignancy of modern love.

This book will enrich the appreciation of Kuala Lumpur through its distinctive urban landscape.

Even When She Forgot My Name serves to inspire and educate caregivers of all kinds, giving them strength and hope as they attend to aged relatives and friends. Together with a few scattered illustrations, certain pages of the book are imaginatively interspersed with a typeface that delineates the patient’s state of mind.

"The Bicycle is a heart-wrenching account of the unlikely friendship between a war-hardened private and a young street urchin who bond over their shared love for bicycles. As they navigate the treachery of the Japanese Occupation, readers will be moved by the strength of their bond and the courage they display in the face of adversity. This book is perfect for history buffs, as well as anyone who enjoys a good tear-jerker."

Admire beautiful sketches of well-loved places in Toa Payoh -- the grand old dame that is the Toa Payoh Swimming Complex; the lovely Toa Payoh Town Park; the famous Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery... Or reminisce over the smaller nooks and crannies, such as the old-timer Bugs Bunny barber shop and the bird singing pavilion at Lorong 4. By artists from Urban Sketchers Singapore, the drawings in this little time capsule of a book bring to you all that is quintessentially 'Toa Payoh'.

This book is perfect for foodies who are looking to explore the richness of Singapore's hawker food scene. Dr. Leslie Tay and his team of foodies have done an excellent job of capturing the mouth-watering experience of Singapore's best hawker food in stunning photography and reviews. With this guide, readers will be able to have an insider's look at the top hawker stalls, explore the different types of cuisine, and satisfy their taste buds like never before.

If you find tales of otherworldly encounters combined with the classic hurdles of adolescence engaging, "My BFF Is an Alien" is a delightful read. The interstellar elements give a fun twist to the relatable school drama, making it perfect for young readers who enjoy watching friendships blossom amidst secrets and superpowers. Plus, the setting in Singapore adds a fascinating cultural layer that's not too common in sci-fi adventures.

"Dancing was fun; it didn't seem like a job but a party every day.”“They practised dancing seriously; it was their life!”“It is an ugly profession; to prostitute oneself... is a commonly accepted practice.”Glitz, glamour, and sleaze is what people may remember of the cabaret girls of yesteryear. With curiosity and an open mind, Adeline Foo sets out to uncover the lives of these women and how, even with few dreams and hopes to strive for, these women lived with much heart and courage despite society's disapproving eye. The music of the dance hall may have faded away, but this book carries the echoes of their dance steps, connecting us with a forgotten past that was inspired by faith, hope and charity.

A publishing sensation in the 1970s and 1980s, Son of Singapore traces the extraordinary upbringing of an Everyman. As a Teochew farm boy coming of age during the Japanese Occupation, Tan Kok Seng enters the "university of the world" at only 15, becoming a coolie at the Orchard Road market. On his rounds to the homes of the "Red Hairs", he befriends a group of Chinese dialect-speaking Caucasians who inspire him to improve himself beyond his humble roots. Set against Singapore's push towards self-governance, Tan's engaging autobiography reflects the pioneering spirit of the times. Written in deceptively simple prose, notable for its English transliteration of Teochew adages, Son of Singapore sensitively captures fast-disappearing places, people and everyday ways of living.

If you’ve had a long day or just need a quick pick-me-up, "Funny Jokes" might just be your best companion. Lim Khoi Wah has a knack for light-hearted humor that could resonate with your need for a chuckle. It's a compact source of joy that you can turn to for a good laugh or to lighten the mood at gatherings.

"Larger Than Life" would be a great read for those who are feeling down and need inspiration. Belinda Lee's heartwarming collection of stories introduces readers to amazing people who have embraced the road less trodden by volunteering their time in unusual social causes. This book restores your faith in humanity and celebrates the human spirit, leaving readers feeling inspired and full of hope.