Required Reading in SE Asia
Laskar Pelangi (The Rainbow Troops)
What it’s about: Known in English as Rainbow Troops, this novel is based on a true story about ten students from a remote village in Indonesia who, with the help of a pair of inspiring teachers. learn to stand up for themselves and their community.
Why it’s taught: It teaches “sacrifice, dedication, hard work, passion, brotherhood, friendship, optimism and perseverance in the face of challenges,” says Mahrukh Bashir.More Information
Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not)
The Tale of Kiêu: A bilingual edition of Nguyen Du`s Truyên Kiêu