In a country where leisure reading is far from the most popular pastime, a novel that sells over five million copies must be truly exceptional. I have been curious about Laskar Pelangi for years, the hit song ringing in my ears, but the prospect of tackling a whole novel in Bahasa Indonesia proved just a touch too daunting.
Now "Laskar Pelangi" has been translated into English, as "The Rainbow Troops"! You can imagine my excitement as I read the recent (positive) review in one of my favorite publications, The Economist.
I just downloaded a copy of the English translation to my Kindle.
This uplifting story is a semi-autobiographical first novel by Andrea Hirata about challenges and triumphs of kids growing up on a small island in Indonesia. While acquainting Western readers in English with everyday life on the other side, the story also touches universal themes and characters - inspiring teachers, adolescent friendships and first loves.
Big Congratulations to my friend and fellow Fulbrighter Angie Kilbane, who translated the book into English! You can read more in this interview with Angie.
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