Recs if you like The Sorrow of War...

Influential literature from across Southeast Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam.

Often overshadowed by East Asian lit, these works are rich and diverse in theme, style, philosophical and religious influence, folklore and indigenous wisdom.

I’ve tried to include at least one historical work (mid-20th century and earlier) and one modern classic from each country. Works listed by country in the comments!

Recs welcome as always :)

The Vietnam War was the high water mark of American power and prestige. Before Vietnam, Americans believed in the honesty and decency of their leaders, that American values could be easily exported, that our mission would succeed. That faith bled away in the jungles of Southeast Asia. This list covers the origins of the war to its closing consequences, from the Mekong Delta to the Central Highlands to the skies over Hanoi and conference rooms in Paris.

October book club theme