‘Read More Books’ is likely one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions that many people set for themselves as they welcome the new year. As the year comes to an end, many may find that they have failed miserably at this goal. However, since it’s not yet December 31st, we still have time to ‘read more books’—even just one would be a good start to ease our guilt. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of 5 books in 5 different styles for those who want to spend the long holiday at the end of the year with some enjoyable reads.

Outside the Cage
by Jidanant Leuangpiansemut
Published by Praew Publishing

      It would be remiss not to mention this book, the latest short story collection that won the Southeast Asian Writers Award from the ‘youngest female writer’ Jidanant Leuangpiansemut, who has become a writer to watch. The clarity in the dystopian themes of the nine short stories in Outside the Cage, told through a fantasy lens, prompts us to question the distortions of society in fiction, and of course, we readers can’t help but compare it to real-life society.

The Sun Sets
by Dazai Osamu
Translated by Prapirun Kitsamjet
Published by JLIT

      Over the past year, few authors have generated as much buzz as Dazai Osamu, particularly with his work ‘No Longer Human,’ which created an unexpected phenomenon in the classic Japanese novel scene in Thailand. His works are now under close scrutiny, and ‘The Sun Sets’ is described as a monumental novel in Dazai Osamu’s life, depicting the descent into the shadows of Japan after World War II through the diary of a noblewoman who sacrifices herself to be the mistress of a wayward writer. ‘The Sun Sets’ has also become a significant literary phenomenon in Japanese society.

The Miracle of Korea: From Ashes to Economic and Cultural Power
by Daniel Tudor
Translated by Thitipong Leuangarunlert
Published by Open Worlds

      If we rewind 15 years, few people knew about South Korea, and at that time, no one could have predicted that it would one day become a global economic and cultural powerhouse. ‘The Miracle of Korea’ chronicles the fascinating journey from a land repeatedly scarred by war to standing proudly and vibrantly on the world stage as a leader in contemporary economy, politics, and culture, such as K-Pop, through its historical, geographical, and traditional foundations that shape the character, mindset, and problem-solving methods of the Korean people.

Shenzhen Chronicles
by Sila Bua Phet
Published by Salmon Books

      At the end of the year, it’s a great time to ignite our love for travel by finding an interesting travel memoir. Picking popular destinations like Japan, Korea, or New York might seem boring. So when we saw the name ‘Shenzhen’ on the bookshelf, we didn’t hesitate to pick it up. ‘Shenzhen Chronicles’ is a semi-written, semi-illustrated account of life in ‘Shenzhen’ by Sila Bua Phet, an architect and cartoonist who lived there for 5 years in a city we never knew had more to offer than just counterfeit goods.

Let Me Eat Your Pancreas
by Yoru Sumino
Translated by Thirapa Thiraratnasathit
Published by Maxx Publishing

      To wrap up the year, let’s indulge in a romantic novel. ‘Let Me Eat Your Pancreas’ (Kimi no Suizo wo Tabetai) is a dramatic story that explores themes of relationships, secrets that must be kept, and concealed feelings, infused with the humor of its characters and reflecting the value of life. With over 2 million copies sold, it has recently been adapted into a touching film that achieved higher box office earnings than the famous tear-jerker ‘Tomorrow I Will Date with Yesterday’s You.’

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