Preloved Affordable Biographies & Memoirs Books Online | Based in Singapore – Page 2

Hilary Spurling

Burying the Bones: Pearl Buck in China

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If the intricate weave of history, personal struggle, and rich cultural tapestry intrigues you, "Burying the Bones" will resonate deeply. Hilary Spurling delves into the complex life of Pearl Buck, unveiling the trials that shaped her into a bestselling author and bridged the chasm between East and West. It's a read that's as enlightening as it is moving, revealing the humanity behind a woman who bore witness to a pivotal time in cross-cultural history.

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Ross Terrill

Mao - A Biography

Regular price ~~RM21.57 MYR~~ from RM14.26 MYR Save up to 51%

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This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex life and impact of Mao Zedong. Terrill skillfully dives into the layers of Mao's persona, shedding light on his rise to power, his political ideology, and the key moments that shaped his reign. The book not only explores the historical events but also delves into the psyche of Mao, providing a fascinating exploration of his legacy. Prepare to be immersed in a captivating journey through the life of one of history's most influential figures.

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Amy Stanley

Stranger in the Shogun's City : A Woman's Life in Nineteenth-Century Japan

from RM32.14 MYR

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A vivid, deeply researched work of history that explores the life of an unconventional woman in Edo – now known as Tokyo – and a portrait of a great city on the brink of momentous changeThe daughter of a Buddhist priest, Tsuneno was born in 1804 in a rural Japanese village and was expected to live a life much like her mother’s. But after three divorces – and with a temperament much too strong-willed for her family’s approval – she ran away to make a life for herself in one of the largest cities in the world: Edo, a bustling metropolis at its peak.With Tsuneno as our guide, we experience the drama and excitement of Edo just before the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry's fleet, which would open Japan up to trade and diplomacy with the West for the first time. During this pivotal moment in Japanese history, Tsuneno bounces from tenement to tenement, marries a masterless samurai and eventually ends up in the service of a famous city magistrate. An extraordinary woman at an extraordinary time, Tsuneno’s life provides a window into nineteenth-century Japanese culture – and a rare view of a woman who sacrificed her family and her reputation to make a new life for herself, despite social conventions.Immersive and gripping, Stranger in the Shogun’s City is a revelatory work of history, layered with rich detail and delivered in beautiful prose, about the life of a woman, a city and a culture.

from RM32.14 MYR

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Aung San Suu Kyi, Desmond M. Tutu, Václav Havel

Freedom from Fear : And Other Writings

from RM29.22 MYR

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Freedom from Fear - collected writings from the Nobel Peace prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi Aung San Suu Kyi's collected writings - edited by her late husband, whom the ruling military junta prevented from visiting Burma as he was dying of cancer - reflects her greatest hopes and fears for her fellow Burmese people, and her concern about the need for international co-operation in the continuing fight for Burma's freedom. Bringing together her most powerful speeches, letters and interviews, this remarkable collection gives a voice to Burma's 'woman of destiny', whose fate remains in the hands of her enemies. Recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and leader of Burma's National League for Democracy, Aung San Suu Kyi is one of the world's greatest living defenders of freedom and democracy, and an inspiration to millions worldwide. This book sits alongside Nelson Mandela's memoir Long Walk to Freedom. 'This book is bound to become a classic for a new generation of Asians who value democracy even more highly than Westerners do, simply because they are deprived of the basic freedoms that Westerners take for granted'The New York Times 'Aung San Suu Kyi's extraordinary achievement has been to confront the regime peacefully, reasonably and persuasively... [in] one of the most laudable continuing acts of political courage' Financial Times 'Such is the depth of passion and learning that she brings to her writings about national identity and its links with culture and language that she has attracted the admiration of intellectuals around the world' Sunday Times Aung San Suu Kyi is the leader of Burma's National League for Democracy. She was placed under house arrest in Rangoon in 1989, where she remained for almost 15 of the 21 years until her release in 2010, becoming one of the world's most prominent political prisoners. She is also the author of Letters from Burma.

from RM29.22 MYR

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Li Cunxin

Mao's Last Dancer

from RM25.06 MYR

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Raised in a desperately poor village during the height of China's Cultural Revolution, Li Cunxin's childhood revolved around the commune, his family and Chairman Mao's Little Red Book. Until, that is, Madame Mao's cultural delegates came in search of young peasants to study ballet at the academy in Beijing and he was thrust into a completely unfamiliar world. When a trip to Texas as part of a rare cultural exchange opened his eyes to life and love beyond China's borders, he defected to the United States in an extraordinary and dramatic tale of Cold War intrigue. Told in his own distinctive voice, this is Li's inspirational story of how he came to be Mao's last dancer, and one of the world's greatest ballet dancers.

from RM25.06 MYR

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Jung Chang

Wild Swans

from RM26.16 MYR

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An alternative cover for this ISBN can be found hereIn Wild Swans Jung Chang recounts the evocative, unsettling, and insistently gripping story of how three generations of women in her family fared in the political maelstrom of China during the 20th century. Chang's grandmother was a warlord's concubine. Her gently raised mother struggled with hardships in the early days of Mao's revolution and rose, like her husband, to a prominent position in the Communist Party before being denounced during the Cultural Revolution. Chang herself marched, worked, and breathed for Mao until doubt crept in over the excesses of his policies and purges. Born just a few decades apart, their lives overlap with the end of the warlords' regime and overthrow of the Japanese occupation, violent struggles between the Kuomintang and the Communists to carve up China, and, most poignant for the author, the vicious cycle of purges orchestrated by Chairman Mao that discredited and crushed millions of people, including her parents.Includes black and white photographsFamily treeChronologyMap

from RM26.16 MYR

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William Dalrymple

The Last Mughal : The Fall of a Dynasty: Delhi, 1857

from RM24.70 MYR

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This book is recommended for history enthusiasts who are intrigued to understand the fall of the Mughal Dynasty and the beginning of British Raj as an important moment in history. William Dalrymple's use of previously undiscovered sources, and his ability to craft a provocative and revelatory account of the events makes this book a must-read for history enthusiasts.

from RM24.70 MYR

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Sonny Liew

The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye

from RM42.18 MYR

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The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye is a biography showcasing the life and work of Chan Hock Chye, a pioneering but largely forgotten comics artist in Singapore. With a career spanning more than five decades, from pre-independent Singapore through its three Prime Ministers, Chan’s work reflects the changing political and economic environment in Singapore.Containing Chan’s original illustrations, paintings and sketches, this is a groundbreaking work and labour of love aimed at recapturing the portrait of an artist, whose deep passion for comics and country is given a fitting tribute by award-winning comics artist Sonny Liew.New York Times bestsellerWinner of the 2016 Singapore Literature Prize for FictionWinner of the 2016 Singapore Book Awards for Book of the Year and Best Book Cover DesignWinner of the 2017 Eisner Awards for: Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia Best Writer/Artist Best Publication Design Shortlisted for the 2017 Eisner Awards for: Best Graphic Album—New Best Coloring Best Lettering Economist Book of the Year (2016)NPR Graphic Novel Pick for 2016Washington Post Best Graphic Novel of 2016New York Post Best Books of 2016Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2016South China Morning Post Top 10 Asian books of 2016A.V. Club Best Comics of 2016Comic Books Resources Top 100 Comics of 2016Mental Floss Most Interesting Graphic Novel of 2016

from RM42.18 MYR

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Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

from RM27.19 MYR

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This book is a powerful and poignant memoir of a young girl's survival of the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is horrific and devastating, yet it is also a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Readers will be moved by the bravery and resilience demonstrated by Loung and her family, and gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities committed under Pol Pot's regime. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social justice, and the triumph of hope over despair.

from RM27.19 MYR

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Pankaj Mishra

From the Ruins of Empire : The Revolt Against the West and the Remaking of Asia

from RM46.90 MYR

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Viewed in the West as a time of self-confident progress, the Victorian period was experienced by Asians as a catastrophe. As the British gunned down the last heirs to the Mughal Empire or burned down the Summer Palace in Beijing, it was clear that for Asia to recover a new way of thinking was needed. Pankaj Mishra re-tells the history of the past two centuries, showing how a remarkable, disparate group of thinkers, journalists, radicals and charismatics emerged from the ruins of empire to create an unstoppable Asian renaissance, one whose ideas lie behind everything from the Chinese Communist Party to the Muslim Brotherhood, and have made our world what it is today.

from RM46.90 MYR

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Sunil Khilnani

Incarnations : India in 50 Lives

from RM52.95 MYR

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This book is recommended for anyone interested in knowing about India's rich past and continuous evolution. Incarnations takes the reader on a journey through time and space, exploring the lives of 50 individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping India's society, culture, and politics. Khilnani's detailed and insightful portraits, coupled with stunning illustrations, provide a unique perspective on India's history, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this complex and fascinating country.

from RM52.95 MYR

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Adeline Yen Mah

Chinese Cinderella : The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter

from RM14.19 MYR

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Jung-ling's family considers her bad luck because her mother died giving birth to her. They discriminate against her and make her feel unwanted yet she yearns and continuously strives for her parents' love. Her stepmother is vindictive and cruel and her father dismissive. Jung-ling grows up to be an academic child, with a natural ability for writing. Only her aunt and grandfather offer her any love and kindness. The story is of survival in the light of the mental and physical cruelty of her stepmother and the disloyalty of her siblings. Jung-ling blossoms in spite of everything and the story ends as her father agrees to let her study in England.

from RM14.19 MYR

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Li Cunxin

Mao's Last Dancer

from RM24.40 MYR

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If you're in for an inspiring true story with layers of cultural richness and personal growth, "Mao's Last Dancer" could be a heartwarming addition to your shelf. Li Cunxin’s transformation from a poor peasant boy to an international ballet sensation is not only a gripping adventure through adversity but a testament to the human spirit. This story, with its vivid backdrop and emotional depth, promises to touch readers who appreciate tales of perseverance and the arts.

from RM24.40 MYR

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S. Hussain Zaidi

Black Friday : The True Story Of The Bombay Bomb Blasts

from RM54.15 MYR

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Black Friday presents a detailed, gripping and emotional account of the unprecedented terrorist attack on Bombay. Given the scale of the tragedy, the author has done an admirable job of presenting the story in a balanced and unbiased way. The book offers a deep insight into the conspiracy that lasted several years and the massive investigative operation that followed. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the criminal mind and the significance of Mumbai in the underworld.

from RM54.15 MYR

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Taran N. Khan

Shadow City - A Woman Walks Kabul

from RM14.19 MYR

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Shadow City would be an excellent read for those interested in non-fiction, travelogues, and the Middle East. It offers a tender portrayal of a city engulfed in darkness and delves into the complexities of living in Afghanistan as a woman. Taran Khan's writing is poetic and introspective, giving readers not just a view of the streets of Kabul but also a glimpse into the struggle it takes to survive in a city that is forever on the brink of war.

from RM14.19 MYR

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Jang Jin-sung

Dear Leader : North Korea's senior propagandist exposes shocking truths behind the regime

from RM31.94 MYR

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SUNDAY TIMES TOP 10 BESTSELLERDear Leader contains astonishing new insights about North Korea which could only be revealed by someone working high up in the regime. It is also the gripping story of how a member of the inner circle of this enigmatic country became its most courageous, outspoken critic.Jang Jin-sung held one of the most senior ranks in North Korea's propaganda machine, helping tighten the regime's grip over its people. Among his tasks were developing the founding myth of North Korea, posing undercover as a South Korean intellectual and writing epic poems in support of the dictator, Kim Jong-il.Young and ambitious, his patriotic work secured him a bizarre audience with Kim Jong-il himself, thus granting him special status as one of the 'Admitted'. This meant special food provisions, a travel pass and immunity from prosecution and harm. He was privy to state secrets, including military and diplomatic policies, how the devastating 'Scrutiny' was effected, and the real position of one of the country's most powerful, elusive men, Im Tong-ok. Because he was praised by the Dear Leader himself, he had every reason to feel satisfied with his lot and safe.Yet he could not ignore his conscience, or the disparity between his life and that of those he saw starving on the street. After breaking security rules, Jang Jin-sung, together with a close friend, was forced to flee for his life: away from lies and deceit, towards truth and freedom.

from RM31.94 MYR

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Lee Kuan Yew

One Man's View of the World

from RM25.23 MYR

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This book could be a good read for someone seeking the insights of a highly respected and experienced leader on global affairs. Lee Kuan Yew's unique perspective, gained through his interactions with key world leaders, offers a fresh and candid take on the future of major powers like China, America, and Europe. Through thought-provoking analysis, he explores society, beliefs, and the prospects of nations in the upcoming balance of power. The Q&A sections with journalists provide an additional layer of depth to this gripping read, making it a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the global landscape.

from RM25.23 MYR

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Maria Ressa

How To Stand Up To A Dictator

from RM14.19 MYR

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Recommendation: - This gripping memoir, written by Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize winner, takes you on a journey through the harrowing reality of fighting against a dictator's regime. Ressa's unwavering pursuit of truth and justice, even in the face of multiple arrest warrants, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up to power. Through her experiences, she exposes the insidious web of disinformation and its impact on democracy. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration to challenge oppressive regimes.

from RM14.19 MYR

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Adeline Yen Mah

Chinese Cinderella : The True Story of an Unwanted Daughter

from RM24.00 MYR

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An alternative cover edition for this ISBN can be found here.A riveting memoir of a girl's painful coming-of-age in a wealthy Chinese family during the 1940s.A Chinese proverb says, "Falling leaves return to their roots." In Chinese Cinderella, Adeline Yen Mah returns to her roots to tell the story of her painful childhood and her ultimate triumph and courage in the face of despair. Adeline's affluent, powerful family considers her bad luck after her mother dies giving birth to her. Life does not get any easier when her father remarries. She and her siblings are subjected to the disdain of her stepmother, while her stepbrother and stepsister are spoiled. Although Adeline wins prizes at school, they are not enough to compensate for what she really yearns for -- the love and understanding of her family.Following the success of the critically acclaimed adult bestseller Falling Leaves, this memoir is a moving telling of the classic Cinderella story, with Adeline Yen Mah providing her own courageous voice. Includes 6-page photo insert.From the Paperback edition.

from RM24.00 MYR

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Margaret MacMillan

Women Of The Raj

from RM18.55 MYR

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This book is a poignant reminder of the challenges and struggles faced by British women during the time of the Raj. It delves into the nuanced experiences of these women, from mundane tasks to extraordinary events, and how these have helped shaped the modern India we know today. If you are interested in history, colonialism, or just looking to broaden your knowledge, this book is definitely worth a read.

from RM18.55 MYR

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Kathryn Bonella

Snowing in Bali : The Incredible Inside Account of Bali's Hidden Drug World

from RM14.69 MYR

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From the bestselling author of 'Hotel Kerobokan' and co-author of Schapelle Corby's 'My Story' comes an incredible account of Bali's hidden drug world. With unprecedented access to some of Bali's biggest international smugglers and local dealers, Kathryn Bonella has written a book even more explosive and revelatory than 'Hotel Kerobokan'.

from RM14.69 MYR

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Jung Chang

Wild Swans : Three Daughters of China

from RM42.88 MYR

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"Wild Swans could be a great read for history enthusiasts who want to learn about China's transformative 20th century. Jung Chang uses the stories of three women in her family to weave together a gripping tale of war, revolution, and survival. The intricate descriptions of the Chinese society and culture make this an unforgettable masterpiece that's both engrossing and informative."

from RM42.88 MYR

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Sonny Liew

The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye [Special Edition]

from RM30.21 MYR

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This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of comics and wants to explore the history of a talented and influential artist. Through beautiful illustrations and paintings, it provides a detailed insight into the life and work of Chan Hock Chye, capturing the changing political and economic environment of Singapore. Sonny Liew's dedication to honoring the artist shines through, making this biography a captivating and heartfelt tribute.

from RM30.21 MYR

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Li Cunxin

Mao's Last Dancer

from RM20.51 MYR

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Raised in a desperately poor village during the height of China's Cultural Revolution, Li Cunxin's childhood revolved around the commune, his family and Chairman Mao's Little Red Book. Until, that is, Madame Mao's cultural delegates came in search of young peasants to study ballet at the academy in Beijing and he was thrust into a completely unfamiliar world. When a trip to Texas as part of a rare cultural exchange opened his eyes to life and love beyond China's borders, he defected to the United States in an extraordinary and dramatic tale of Cold War intrigue. Told in his own distinctive voice, this is Li's inspirational story of how he came to be Mao's last dancer, and one of the world's greatest ballet dancers.

from RM20.51 MYR

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Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

from RM35.87 MYR

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From a childhood survivor of Cambodia's brutal Pol Pot regime comes anunforgettable narrative of war crimes and desperate actions, the unnervingstrength of a small girl and her family, and their triumph of spirit. Until the age of five, Lounge Ung lived in Phnom Penh, one of seven childrenof a high-ranking government official. She was a precocious child who lovedthe open city markets, fried crickets, chicken fights, and sassing herparents. While her beautiful mother worried that Loung was atroublemaker--that she stomped around like a thirsty cow--her beloved fatherknew Lounge was a clever girl. When Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge army stormed into Phnom Penh in April 1975, Ung's family fled their home and moved from village to village to hide theiridentity, their education, their former life of privilege. Eventually, thefamily dispersed in order to survive. Because Lounge was resilient and determined, she was trained as a childsoldier in a work camp for orphans, while other siblings were sent to laborcamps. As the Vietnamese penetrated Cambodia, destroying the Khmer Rouge,Loung and her surviving siblings were slowly reunited.Bolstered by the shocking bravery of one brother, the vision of theothers--and sustained be her sister's gentle kindness amid brutality--Loungforged on to create for herself a courageous new life.

from RM35.87 MYR

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Blaine Harden

Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West

from RM27.75 MYR

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"Escape from Camp 14" is a vivid account of the life inside North Korea's political prison. The book portrays the story of Shin Dong-hyuk, the only person born inside one of these camps to have escaped. It highlights the inhumane conditions of the political prison camps and the brutalities people had to deal with on a daily basis. It is a must-read for those interested in human rights and political issues.

from RM27.75 MYR

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Sébastien Falletti, David Tian, Eunsun Kim

A Thousand Miles to Freedom : My Escape From North Korea

from RM14.19 MYR

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This book is a gripping memoir that takes you on a harrowing journey of escape from one of the most oppressive countries in the world. Through Eunsun Kim's raw and powerful storytelling, you'll witness the courage and resilience of the human spirit as she navigates through unimaginable hardships. A Thousand Miles to Freedom is not just a memoir, but a testament to the indomitable will to survive and find freedom, making it a must-read for those seeking true stories of strength and hope.

from RM14.19 MYR

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Kathryn Bonella

Snowing in Bali : The Incredible Inside Account of Bali's Hidden Drug World

from RM24.07 MYR

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It's snowing in Bali. Among Bali's drug dealers it's the code for a huge cocaine shipment having just landed. For the men who run the country's drug empires, it's time to get rich and party hard.Snowing in Bali is the story of the drug trafficking and dealing scene that's made Bali one of the world's most important destinations in the global distribution of narcotics. With its central location to the Asia Pacific market, its thriving tourist industry to act as cover for importation, and a culture of corruption that can easily help law enforcement turn a blind eye, Bali has long been a paradise for traffickers as well as for holiday-makers.Kathryn Bonella, bestselling author of Hotel Kerobokan, has been given extraordinary access into the lives of some of the biggest players in Bali's drug world, both past and present. She charts their rise to incredible wealth and power, and their drug-fuelled lifestyles, filled with orgies, outrageous extravagance and surfing. But running international drug empires in Bali can also be a highly risky business, with terrible consequences for those caught and convicted.From the highs of multi-million dollar deals to the desperate lows of death row in an Indonesian high security jail, Snowing in Bali is a unique, uncensored insight into a hidden world.

from RM24.07 MYR

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Elizabeth Pisani

Indonesia, Etc. : Exploring the Improbable Nation

Regular price ~~RM46.47 MYR~~ from RM32.54 MYR Save up to 30%

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Recommended for those seeking to learn about Indonesia's culture and history. Pisani's humorous yet informative account of her travels around the nation reveals Indonesia's diverse ethnic groups and traditions, as well as its challenges and progress, offering unique insight into this complex nation.

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Blaine Harden

Escape from Camp 14 : One man's remarkable odyssey from North Korea to freedom in the West

from RM33.01 MYR

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Recommendation: - If you're in search of a memoir that will leave you captivated from beginning to end, "Escape from Camp 14" is the perfect choice. With vivid descriptions and a harrowing narrative, this book takes you on an extraordinary journey from the depths of a North Korean labor camp to the taste of freedom in the West. Prepare to be moved and enlightened by Shin Dong-hyuk's incredible story of survival and resilience.

from RM33.01 MYR

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Gyalo Thondup, Anne F. Thurston

The Noodle Maker of Kalimpong : My Untold Story of the Struggle for Tibet

Regular price ~~RM20.31 MYR~~ from RM12.17 MYR Save up to 40%

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For over half a century, noodlemaker Gyalo Thondup has been a familiar figure in the Himalayan hill town of Kalimpong. But it was not until 2010 that the townsfolk discovered his true identity: Gyalo Thondup is none other than the older brother of the Dalai Lama and his special envoy, a trusted interlocutor between Tibet and foreign leaders from Chiang Kai-shek to Jawaharlal Nehru, Zhou Enlai to Deng Xiaoping. Indeed, only the Dalai Lama himself has played a more important role in the political history of modern, tragedy-ridden Tibet.Now, for the first time, Gyalo Thondup is prepared to tell his story. His remarkable account offers an intimate, personal look at the Dalai Lama and his immediate family, as well as an insider's view of the vicious and sometimes deadly struggles within the Potala Palace - the seat of power in Tibet. His is a story of the 'real' Tibet - a country that is secular as well as sacred, where the source of conflict is not just with China but between Tibetans themselves. Candid and insightful, this long-awaited account reveals Gyalo Thondup to have been a key figure in the great game played out by China, India, Russia and the United States over the strategically important Tibetan plateau.

Regular price ~~RM20.31 MYR~~ from RM12.17 MYR Save up to 40%

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Peter Hessler

Country Driving : A Chinese Road Trip

from RM35.30 MYR

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After living in China for five years, and learning the language, Peter Hessler decided to undertake an even more complicated endeavor: he acquired his Chinese driving licence. An eye-opening, often hilarious, at times maddening challenge, it enabled him to embark on an epic journey driving across this most enigmatic of countries. Over seven years, he travels to places rarely explored by those outside China, into the factories exporting their goods to the world and into the homes of their workers.Full of extraordinary encounters and details of life beyond Beijing, it is an unforgettable, unique portrait of the country that will likely shape all our lives in the century to come.

from RM35.30 MYR

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Mineko Iwasaki, Rande Brown

Geisha of Gion

from RM22.07 MYR

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GEISHA, A LIFE ""No woman in the three-hundred-year history of the karyukai has ever come forward in public to tell her story. We have been constrained by unwritten rules not to do so, by the robes of tradition and by the sanctity of our exclusive calling...But I feel it is time to speak out.""Celebrated as the most successful geisha of her generation, Mineko Iwasaki was only five years old when she left her parents' home for the world of the geisha. For the next twenty-five years, she would live a life filled with extraordinary professional demands and rich rewards. She would learn the formal customs and language of the geisha, and study the ancient arts of Japanese dance and music. She would enchant kings and princes, captains of industry, and titans of the entertainment world, some of whom would become her dearest friends. Through great pride and determination, she would be hailed as one of the most prized geishas in Japan's history, and one of the last great practitioners of this now fading art form.In "Geisha, a Life," Mineko Iwasaki tells her story, from her warm early childhood, to her intense yet privileged upbringing in the Iwasaki okiya (household), to her years as a renowned geisha, and finally, to her decision at the age of twenty-nine to retire and marry, a move that would mirror the demise of geisha culture. Mineko brings to life the beauty and wonder of Gion Kobu, a place that "existed in a world apart, a special realm whose mission and identity depended on preserving the time-honored traditions of the past." She illustrates how it coexisted within post-World War II Japan at a time when the country was undergoing its radical transformation from apost-feudal society to a modern one."There is much mystery and misunderstanding about what it means to be a geisha. I hope this story will help explain what it is really like and also serve as a record of this unique component of Japan's cultural history," writes Mineko Iwasaki. "Geisha, a Life" is the first of its kind, as it delicately unfolds the fabric of a geisha's development. Told with great wisdom and sensitivity, it is a true story of beauty and heroism, and of a time and culture rarely revealed to the Western world.

from RM22.07 MYR

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Robert S. Boynton

The Invitation-Only Zone : The Extraordinary Story of North Korea's Abduction Project

from RM29.65 MYR

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Throughout the late 1970s and early '80s, dozens of Japanese citizens were abducted from coastal Japanese towns by North Korean commandos. In what proved to be part of a global project, North Korea attempted to reeducate the abductees and train them to spy on the state's behalf. When the project faltered, the abductees were hidden in a series of guarded communities known as "Invitation-Only Zones"--the fiction being that these were exclusive enclaves, not prisons.In 2002, Kim Jong Il admitted to kidnapping thirteen Japanese citizens and returned five of them (the other eight, he said, had died). From the moment that Robert S. Boynton first saw a photograph of these men and women, he became obsessed with the window their story provided into the vexed politics of Northeast Asia. In The Invitation-Only Zone, he untangles the logic behind the kidnappings and shows why some Japanese citizens described them as "their 9/11." He tells the story of how dozens were abducted and reeducated; how they married and had children; and how they lived anonymously as North Korean citizens. He speaks with nationalists, diplomats, abductees, and even crab fishermen, unearthing the bizarre North Korean propaganda tactics and the peculiar cultural interests of both counties.A deeply reported, thoroughly researched treatise on the power struggle of one of the most important areas in the global economy, Boynton's keen investigation is riveting and revelatory.

from RM29.65 MYR

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Chen Guangcheng

The Barefoot Lawyer : A Blind Man's Fight for Justice and Freedom in China

from RM32.61 MYR

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“[Chen’s] story is a reminder that the desire for basic human rights . . . arises from the deep well of the human spirit.”― The New York Times Book ReviewIt was like a scene out of a One night in April 2012, China’s most famous political activist―a blind, self-taught lawyer―climbed over the wall of his heavily guarded home and escaped. After he turned up at the American embassy in Beijing, high-level negotiations finally led to his release and a new life in the United States.Chen Guangcheng is a unique figure on the world stage, but his story is even more remarkable than we knew. The son of a poor farmer in rural China, he was determined to educate himself and fight for the rights of his country’s poor, despite his disability. Repeatedly harassed, beaten, and imprisoned by Chinese authorities, in the end Chen made the most dangerous choice of freedom.Both a riveting memoir and a revealing portrait of modern China, The Barefoot Lawyer tells the story of a man who has never accepted limits and always believed in the power of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle.

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Pico Iyer

A Beginner's Guide to Japan : Observations and Provocations

Regular price ~~RM38.76 MYR~~ from RM38.06 MYR Save up to 2%

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From one of the most engaging and discerning travel writers of his generation, a playful and profound guide to the enigma of contemporary Japan After thirty-two years in Japan, Pico Iyer can use everything from anime to Oscar Wilde to show how his adopted home is both hauntingly familiar - and the strangest place on earth. He draws on readings, reflections and conversations with Japanese friends to illuminate an unknown place for newcomers, and to give longtime residents a look at their home through fresh eyes. A Beginner's Guide to Japan is a playful and profound guidebook full of surprising, brief and incisive glimpses into Japanese culture. Iyer's adventures and observations as he travels from a meditation-hall to a love-hotel, from West Point to Kyoto Station make for a constantly surprising series of provocations guaranteed to pique the interest and curiosity of those who don't know Japan, and to remind those who do of the wide range of fascinations the country and culture contain.

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Amy Stanley

Stranger in the Shogun's City: A Japanese Woman and Her World

from RM23.17 MYR

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This book would be a good read for anyone seeking a captivating story of an extraordinary woman who challenges societal norms in 19th-century Japan. Through the life of Tsuneno, readers are transported to a vibrant and bustling Edo, on the cusp of a transformative encounter with the West. With meticulous detail and exquisite sympathy, the author paints a vivid picture of a woman who dares to forge her own path, sacrificing her family and reputation in the process. "Stranger in the Shogun's City" offers a rare insight into Japanese culture and a compelling exploration of individuality and resilience.

from RM23.17 MYR

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Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

from RM29.75 MYR

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This book would be a good read for those who appreciate powerful true stories of resilience and courage. Loung Ung's firsthand account of surviving the Khmer Rouge and the killing fields in Cambodia will leave you captivated and moved. Through the eyes of a young girl, you will witness the atrocities of war and the unbreakable spirit of the human soul. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of history.

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Adeline Yen Mah

Watching the Tree : To Catch a Hare - Reflections on Chinese Wisdom and Beliefs

from RM30.31 MYR

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This book is a captivating exploration of Chinese wisdom and beliefs, intertwined with the author's own experiences. Adeline Yen Mah takes readers on a personal journey through the richness of China, showcasing the strengths and weaknesses of its philosophy. Through Chinese proverbs and her own anecdotes, she offers Western readers a unique understanding of Chinese thought and how its wisdom can be applied to our own lives. A must-read for anyone interested in Eastern philosophy and culture.

from RM30.31 MYR

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Jung Chang

Wild Swans

from RM16.92 MYR

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The story of three generations in twentieth-century China that blends the intimacy of memoir, and the panoramic sweep of eyewitness history.An engrossing record of Mao’s impact on China, an unusual window on the female experience in the modern world, and an inspiring tale of courage and love. Jung Chang describes the extraordinary lives and experiences of her family members: her grandmother, a warlord’s concubine; her mother’s struggles as a young idealistic Communist; and her parents’ experience as members of the Communist elite and their ordeal during the Cultural Revolution.Jung was a Red Guard briefly at the age of fourteen, then worked as a peasant, a 'barefoot doctor', a steelworker, and an electrician. As the story of each generation unfolds, Chang captures in gripping, moving, and uplifting detail the cycles of violent drama visited on her own family, and millions of others caught in the whirlwind of history.

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Kerry Brown

CEO, China : The Rise of Xi Jinping

from RM28.62 MYR

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CEO China could be a captivating read for those interested in understanding the inner workings of China's political power and the man behind it all. Kerry Brown's investigative work provides an insightful look into the rise of Xi Jinping, his background, and his efforts to shape a new China. The book covers a wide range of topics, from regional power struggles and business dealings to the state of political corruption in China. Brown's writing style makes the book easy to read, even for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Chinese politics. Overall, CEO China is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the current state of power in China and its implications for the rest of the world.

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Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

from RM29.58 MYR

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This book is a gripping and harrowing memoir that takes you on a journey through the terrifying experiences of a young girl during the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and courage in the face of unimaginable brutality. If you are looking for a deeply moving and inspiring read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this book is for you.

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Kathryn Bonella

Hotel K : The Shocking Inside Story of Bali's Most Notorious Jail

from RM22.34 MYR

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Recommendation: Hotel K is a gripping true story that exposes the dark reality of Bali's infamous Kerobokan prison. From corrupt guards and wild sex nights to drug factories and staged suicides, the book pulls no punches in revealing the squalor and violence that pervades the jail. If you're interested in true crime and want to explore a world that's far removed from the Bali paradise you know, Hotel K is the book for you.

from RM22.34 MYR

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Xinran

Message from an Unknown Chinese Mother : Stories of Loss and Love

Regular price ~~RM24.93 MYR~~ from RM17.45 MYR Save up to 30%

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"Message from an Unknown Chinese Mother" is a poignant and heartwarming account of 10 women who had to give up their daughters for adoption. It sheds light on the dire consequences of China's one-child policy, age-old traditions, and economic struggles that have forced mothers to abandon their daughters. Xinran's storytelling style takes readers through a emotional journey, full of sorrow but also of hope and love. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the plight of Chinese women and the lost daughters, and for adopted Chinese girls who want to know the story of their mothers and the love they had for them.

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Mineko Iwasaki, Rande Brown

Geisha of Gion : The True Story of Japan's Foremost Geisha

from RM24.53 MYR

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This book is a captivating and poignant memoir that offers a rare glimpse into the exotic and mysterious world of geishas. Mineko Iwasaki, Japan's foremost geisha, recounts her journey from a young girl with black hair and black eyes to becoming the best geisha in Gion. The book explores the grueling demands and bitter rivalries she faced, ultimately leading to her decision to leave the profession. This is an eloquent and innovative memoir that sheds light on the centuries-old tradition of geishas, making it a must-read for anyone fascinated by their captivating and secretive world.

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Lee Kuan Yew

Lee Kuan Yew: One Man’s View Of The World

from RM35.10 MYR

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In this book, Lee draws on that wealth of experience and depth of insight to offer his views on today's world and what it might look like in 20 years. This is no dry geopolitical treatise. Nor is it a thematic account of the twists and turns in global affairs. Instead, in this broad-sweep narrative that takes in America, China, Asia and Europe, he parses their society, probes the psyche of the people and draws his conclusions about their chances for survival and just where they might land in the hierarchy of tomorrow's balance of power. What makes a society tick? What do its people really believe? Can it adapt? In spare, unflinching prose that eschews political correctness, he describes a China that remains obsessed with control from the centre on its way to an unstoppable rise; an America that will have to share its pre-eminence despite its never-say-die dynamism; and a Europe that struggles with the challenges of keeping its union intact. His candid and often startling views on why Japan is closed to foreigners, why the Arab Spring won't bring one man, one vote to the Middle East, and why preventing global warming is not going to be as fruitful as preparing for it; make this a fresh and gripping read. Lee completes the book by looking into the future of Singapore, his enduring concern and by offering the reader a glimpse into his personal life and his view of death. The book is interspersed with a Q&A section in each chapter, gleaned from conversations he had with journalists from The Straits Times.

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Martin Brown, Masaji Ishikawa, Risa Kobayashi

A River in Darkness : One Man's Escape from North Korea

from RM27.09 MYR

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The harrowing true story of one man’s life in—and subsequent escape from—North Korea, one of the world’s most brutal totalitarian regimes.Half-Korean, half-Japanese, Masaji Ishikawa has spent his whole life feeling like a man without a country. This feeling only deepened when his family moved from Japan to North Korea when Ishikawa was just thirteen years old, and unwittingly became members of the lowest social caste. His father, himself a Korean national, was lured to the new Communist country by promises of abundant work, education for his children, and a higher station in society. But the reality of their new life was far from utopian.In this memoir translated from the original Japanese, Ishikawa candidly recounts his tumultuous upbringing and the brutal thirty-six years he spent living under a crushing totalitarian regime, as well as the challenges he faced repatriating to Japan after barely escaping North Korea with his life. A River in Darkness is not only a shocking portrait of life inside the country but a testament to the dignity—and indomitable nature—of the human spirit.

from RM27.09 MYR

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Heinrich Harrer

Seven Years in Tibet : The Deluxe Edition

from RM29.15 MYR

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Seven Years in Tibet is a must-read for anyone interested in adventure and travel to exotic locations. Heinrich Harrer's remarkable story of his experiences in Tibet and his relationship with the Dalai Lama is a captivating read that will leave you both inspired and moved. The vivid depictions of life in Tibet before the Chinese Communist takeover and the descriptions of the country's stunning natural beauty make this book truly unforgettable. Highly recommended for anyone who loves tales of adventure and exploration.

from RM29.15 MYR

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Sonny Liew

The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye

from RM42.18 MYR

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This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich and vibrant history of comics in Singapore. Through stunning artwork and an engaging narrative, it showcases the life of pioneering artist Chan Hock Chye, providing a unique and intimate glimpse into the changing political and economic landscape of the country. Winner of multiple prestigious awards, this groundbreaking work is a testament to the deep passion and talent of both the subject and the author. Get ready to be captivated by this captivating biography.

from RM42.18 MYR

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Graham Allison, Ali Wyne, Robert D. Blackwill

Lee Kuan Yew - The Grand Master's Insights On China, The United States, And The World

from RM28.75 MYR

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Grand strategist and founder of modern Singapore offers key insights and controversial opinions on globalization, geopolitics, economic growth, and democracy.When Lee Kuan Yew speaks, presidents, prime ministers, diplomats, and CEOs listen. Lee, the founding father of modern Singapore and its prime minister from 1959 to 1990, has honed his wisdom during more than fifty years on the world stage. Almost single-handedly responsible for transforming Singapore into a Western-style economic success, he offers a unique perspective on the geopolitics of East and West. American presidents from Richard Nixon to Barack Obama have welcomed him to the White House; British prime ministers from Margaret Thatcher to Tony Blair have recognized his wisdom; and business leaders from Rupert Murdoch to Rex Tillerson, CEO of Exxon Mobil, have praised his accomplishments. This book gathers key insights from interviews, speeches, and Lee's voluminous published writings and presents them in an engaging question and answer format.Lee offers his assessment of China's future, asserting, among other things, that "China will want to share this century as co-equals with the U.S." He affirms the United States' position as the world's sole superpower but expresses dismay at the vagaries of its political system. He offers strategic advice for dealing with China and goes on to discuss India's future, Islamic terrorism, economic growth, geopolitics and globalization, and democracy. Lee does not pull his punches, offering his unvarnished opinions on multiculturalism, the welfare state, education, and the free market. This little book belongs on the reading list of every world leader--including the one who takes the oath of office on January 20, 2013.

from RM28.75 MYR

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