Duanwad Pimwana

"Explores the quality of human resilience through the adventures of Kampol Changsamran, a young boy left behind by his parents after their break-up"--

Bright

'Bright' was my stepping stone into translated Thai literature when I read it in 2021, and it sure was a warm introduction. It's a slim novel that assembles multiple characters' lives around a young abandoned boy that they step in to care for, as he gains street smarts and a footing in life. 'Bright' is a photograph of community and humanity, and offers a warm snapshot of the lives of the Thai working class that lingers long after one finishes reading.

safiyah

Sandaru Ravihari

Bright is a series of urban vignettes surrounding 5 years old Kampong, a boy born to a working class family in a small community in Thailand. Due to his parents' separation, he gets partially abandoned by the parents. Even though both the mother and the father pays him visits and still are in his life, he learns to live among the families in the community. His neighbor's and friends all takes turns in providing him a roof and food. He quickly adapts to the new life among the community. The small vignettes includes of small stories in the neighborhood surrounding him. 
I became really sad at times when he yearns for the parents because no matter how much he enjoyed his life among his friends and the other adults in the neighborhood, he is still a 5 year old boy wanting to have his parents. However overall, this has being a happy read and it was full of funny stories of how kids play and how they think.

Bright

Reviews