The Force of Karma

Book excerpt: THE FORCE OF KARMA The sequel to Pira Sudham's 1988 classic Monsoon Country A new edition of the 2002 The Force of Karma Pira added additional last chapter in 2022 bringing the historical saga up-to-date. When the Red Shirts demonstrated in support of Thaksin Shinawatra the one sure outcome was that it wouldn't be the politicians, army generals or university professors who would be killed. That job is always left to the peasant farmers. The story picks up from Monsoon Country in 1981 and takes us through Thailand's modern history to the latest military coups. If you enjoyed Monsoon Country then The Force of Karma is a must read. "With his rich command of the English language Pira Sudham possesses the unique gift of being able to convey the cultural evolution of Thailand through the eyes of a poor farmer’s son. Pira’s insightful observations make fascinating reading and the lad who once tended buffaloes has become a significant voice for the people of the Northeast." Roger Crutchley, Bangkok Post columnist and author of The Road to Nakhon Nowhere