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The Boy With A Bamboo Heart
The Boy With A Bamboo Heart is the inspiring story of Dr Amporn Wathanavongs. Orphaned at 5 years of age in a remote village in rural Thailand, Lek was thrust into a life-long struggle to find his place in the world. Alone and impoverished, he survived by begging for food in the markets of Surin until he was recruited to fight as a boy soldier in jungles of Cambodia.
Despair and poverty lead him to attempt suicide until a stranger intervened with an offer of help. Thus begins Lek’s journey to become Dr Amporn, a man best known as a foster father to the sick, poor and destitute children of Thailand. The Boy With A Bamboo Heart is no ordinary book, it is the inspiring story of one man’s journey to find his true calling in the face of unspeakable adversity.
Despair and poverty lead him to attempt suicide until a stranger intervened with an offer of help. Thus begins Lek’s journey to become Dr Amporn, a man best known as a foster father to the sick, poor and destitute children of Thailand. The Boy With A Bamboo Heart is no ordinary book, it is the inspiring story of one man’s journey to find his true calling in the face of unspeakable adversity.
286 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 12, 2015
The most remarkable thing about the book is the steady flow of insightful word choice revealing a depth of sensitivity, skill and dedication that Chantal Jauvin adopted in writing the book. “I had to acquire the skin of an orphan who begged for his food, carried and used a rifle as a boy, took the vows of a monk, and dedicated himself to social work,” Jauvin said. From the very first lines about Lek’s mother’s funeral, the details of the scene, the physical separation distress of an orphaned boy when accompanying its mother's corpse to the pyre, the inner feelings of the five-year-old Lek depicted vividly can bring readers to tears. This skillful narrative remains consistent throughout the book, from the harrowing experiences of fighting in the jungles to the struggles with the depths of poverty. Readers will find themselves immersed in the illuminating descriptions of Thai exotic landscape, of the Buddhist ways and practices and will be surprised by how deep Chantal delved into the life and culture of this Asian land.
Somewhere in the book, readers can find a spiritual pathway of a young man who keeps trying his best to navigate his inner-self in seeking of enlightenment, either when being a monk and later a baptized Christian. All we can see is his courageousness, determination to fight against the evils inside himself, to overcome moments of self-loathing in search for love and great deeds. The author also shows her masterful skills in using conversations to deftly answer some spiritual questions we all struggle with.
The story is, by all means, no short of a hero’s journey, the type that Joseph Campell has generalized in The hero’s journey. The beauty of this unique journey lies in the fact that it is a true story of an ordinary person becoming a hero not by superpower but by making difficult choices in many heart-wrenching situations. “The world has much need for everyday heroes, the people who inspire us to reach a little further, a littler higher, or a little longer. The people who set our imagination on fire and make us believe that if we try hard enough, we can make a difference.” Chantal Jauvin, in writing Dr. Amporn's story has given inspiration to not only Thais but to anyone who thinks their obstacles in life are insurmountable.
Chantal has incorporated her sharp mind of an acclaimed international barrister and her quest for exploring other cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life into writing The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, which makes the book a riveting memoir of a no ordinary life.
Somewhere in the book, readers can find a spiritual pathway of a young man who keeps trying his best to navigate his inner-self in seeking of enlightenment, either when being a monk and later a baptized Christian. All we can see is his courageousness, determination to fight against the evils inside himself, to overcome moments of self-loathing in search for love and great deeds. The author also shows her masterful skills in using conversations to deftly answer some spiritual questions we all struggle with.
The story is, by all means, no short of a hero’s journey, the type that Joseph Campell has generalized in The hero’s journey. The beauty of this unique journey lies in the fact that it is a true story of an ordinary person becoming a hero not by superpower but by making difficult choices in many heart-wrenching situations. “The world has much need for everyday heroes, the people who inspire us to reach a little further, a littler higher, or a little longer. The people who set our imagination on fire and make us believe that if we try hard enough, we can make a difference.” Chantal Jauvin, in writing Dr. Amporn's story has given inspiration to not only Thais but to anyone who thinks their obstacles in life are insurmountable.
Chantal has incorporated her sharp mind of an acclaimed international barrister and her quest for exploring other cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life into writing The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, which makes the book a riveting memoir of a no ordinary life.
December 10, 2015
Amazing life story of Dr. Amporn Wathanavongs made me think of what can I do to help impoverished and “marginalized” people. True value of everything we do in our lives at the end is how much we helped to those who needed our help. This is even multiplied when you rise above situations as Dr. Wathanavongs did and dedicate your life to helping others to find their own path to education and out of misery.
The author really touches the heart of readers and tells the story in such emotional way that no one can remain apathetic. We live through what Dr. Wathanavongs lived through; we are hungery as the orphan on the streets; we fear and cry with him through moments of his soldier-boy childhood; we sympathize with him on his journey to find his inner self from monk to humanitarian.
The author really touches the heart of readers and tells the story in such emotional way that no one can remain apathetic. We live through what Dr. Wathanavongs lived through; we are hungery as the orphan on the streets; we fear and cry with him through moments of his soldier-boy childhood; we sympathize with him on his journey to find his inner self from monk to humanitarian.
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November 12, 2015The most remarkable thing about the book is the steady flow of insightful word choice revealing a depth of sensitivity, skill and dedication that Chantal Jauvin adopted in writing the book. “I had to acquire the skin of an orphan who begged for his food, carried and used a rifle as a boy, took the vows of a monk, and dedicated himself to social work,” Jauvin said. From the very first lines about Lek’s mother’s funeral, the details of the scene, the physical separation distress of an orphaned boy when accompanying its mother's corpse to the pyre, the inner feelings of the five-year-old Lek depicted vividly can bring readers to tears. This skillful narrative remains consistent throughout the book, from the harrowing experiences of fighting in the jungles to the struggles with the depths of poverty. Readers will find themselves immersed in the illuminating descriptions of Thai exotic landscape, of the Buddhist ways and practices and will be surprised by how deep Chantal delved into the life and culture of this Asian land.
Somewhere in the book, readers can find a spiritual pathway of a young man who keeps trying his best to navigate his inner-self in seeking of enlightenment, either when being a monk and later a baptized Christian. All we can see is his courageousness, determination to fight against the evils inside himself, to overcome moments of self-loathing in search for love and great deeds. The author also shows her masterful skills in using conversations to deftly answer some spiritual questions we all struggle with.
The story is, by all means, no short of a hero’s journey, the type that Joseph Campell has generalized in The hero’s journey. The beauty of this unique journey lies in the fact that it is a true story of an ordinary person becoming a hero not by superpower but by making difficult choices in many heart-wrenching situations. “The world has much need for everyday heroes, the people who inspire us to reach a little further, a littler higher, or a little longer. The people who set our imagination on fire and make us believe that if we try hard enough, we can make a difference.” Chantal Jauvin, in writing Dr. Amporn's story has given inspiration to not only Thais but to anyone who thinks their obstacles in life are insurmountable.
Chantal has incorporated her sharp mind of an acclaimed international barrister and her quest for exploring other cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life into writing The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, which makes the book a riveting memoir of a no ordinary life.
Somewhere in the book, readers can find a spiritual pathway of a young man who keeps trying his best to navigate his inner-self in seeking of enlightenment, either when being a monk and later a baptized Christian. All we can see is his courageousness, determination to fight against the evils inside himself, to overcome moments of self-loathing in search for love and great deeds. The author also shows her masterful skills in using conversations to deftly answer some spiritual questions we all struggle with.
The story is, by all means, no short of a hero’s journey, the type that Joseph Campell has generalized in The hero’s journey. The beauty of this unique journey lies in the fact that it is a true story of an ordinary person becoming a hero not by superpower but by making difficult choices in many heart-wrenching situations. “The world has much need for everyday heroes, the people who inspire us to reach a little further, a littler higher, or a little longer. The people who set our imagination on fire and make us believe that if we try hard enough, we can make a difference.” Chantal Jauvin, in writing Dr. Amporn's story has given inspiration to not only Thais but to anyone who thinks their obstacles in life are insurmountable.
Chantal has incorporated her sharp mind of an acclaimed international barrister and her quest for exploring other cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life into writing The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, which makes the book a riveting memoir of a no ordinary life.
February 11, 2016
A remarkable story that certainly makes you wonder "how can I help?" It's just amazing the struggle he faced and certainly makes me rethink my views of the kids in the street. Often I assume it is a set up or a scam when kids are begging which often it is. Not their choice but forced by the family however how do you know if the hunger and desperation is for real? They say you shouldn't encourage begging but I would have wanted to help this little boy. Beautifully written, well researched and I hope an honest account of Dr Amporn Wathanavong's amazing life. Now I want to support his foundation!
July 24, 2016
The first chapter is not for the faint of heart, but this true story will break you and make you have faith in humanity in a time when it is hard to do so. I feel privileged to read this book. The Boy With A Bamboo Heart made me cry, made me laugh, and made me exultant that this man perservered and was able to overcome great suffering to open his heart to others and create a wonderful legacy. Must read.
December 4, 2015
The Boy with a Bamboo Heart is a deeply moving story of loss, despair and transcendence. Dr. Amporn is fearless in revealing his life's story. His journey is a tribute to the human spirit, to forgiveness and to faith. Chantal Jauvin has brought Dr. Amporn vividly alive for readers at every stage of his transformation. The years she spent gaining his trust and finding his voice were worth it.
May 11, 2016
This autobiography is the life story of Dr. Ampon Wathanavongs, a man who ultimately defeats poverty and succeeds in becoming one of Thailand's most respected and treasured philanthropists. He is the founder of The Foundation for Rehabilitation and Development of Children and Family (FORDEC) and he is lovingly described as the "the foster father of 50,000 kids."
Life starts out very bleak for little Lek, the name given to him by his Thai parents. He is orphaned at five years old, and as the book begins you find him laying on his shared bed, clinging to his dead mother, who has died during the night. He is pried away from his beloved mother and witnesses her cremation. Afterwards, the villagers who are caught up in their own poverty and struggles, just walk away from the little guy leaving him to fend for himself and to try to survive if he can. What is an abandoned five year old to do? Where does he go? Heartbroken, he determines to leave the village behind and move forward....to where he knows not!
He spends 12 long years as a street kid, stealing and begging just to keep alive. He is totally illiterate and is forced to live by his wits and intuition with his tummy always empty and wondering where he can tuck himself safely away for a night to be able to sleep.
He seizes upon an opportunity to become a child soldier in Cambodia where he receives, torturous training, meagre food and experience battling vicious enemies deep in the lush Cambodian jungle. Unable to cope any longer he reaches rock bottom and tries to commit suicide... twice. He ties a rope around his neck the first time, which fails, and then he tries again by drinking insecticide. He just wants the hopelessness and pain to go away. In his darkest moment of despair a stranger intervenes and offers him help and but most of all hope.
He reassesses his life goals and then accepts the kind offer and in doing so his life changes forever. He is determined from that moment forward to make something of himself and to find out what he is created to do in this world. In his own words:
"Even though I started with nothing, I've always thought that whatever life brings, you must help others, " says Dr. Ampor. "When you die, you cannot bring anything with you. So knowing that you have helped others because you have received help from others, well, that's enough."
Chantal Jauvin, an international barrister, met Dr. Amporn while visiting one of the children her fiancé had been sponsoring at the charity he founded. (FORDEC). After being with him, and being so inspired by his story, she asked Dr. Amporn if she could tell his story. In her words:
"The world has much need for everyday heroes," says Jaurvin, "Dr. Amporn did not set out to be a hero, but he became one by the choices he made in dire situations, and because he cared for something greater than himself. That is within reach for everybody. Let his story serve as inspiration."
The well-written and riveting pages of The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, will have readers discover:
* the harrowing experiences of children caught in warfare and forced to become soldiers out of necessity
* how the human spirit is resilient and can overcome diversity
*how education is so important in escaping poverty
*why everyone should be empowered to take charge of their lives and find causes to be involved in that are bigger than they are
*how Dr. Amporn has been able to offer hope and courage to the less fortunates of the world, so they have a voice and a life and can find happiness
"Visions become dreams - which so often, no matter how ridiculed, no matter how seemingly impossible from so many angles - have ways of coming true," says Dr. Amporn. "And dreams are the purview of the poor; they do not cost anything, yet they keep you alive."
Personally, I couldn't put the book down. The story is one that takes you from despair to joy and invites you to step outside yourself, engage, and offer those who have been defeated help. It inspires you to give back and make a difference, so not only will those lives you touch have a better quality of life but the whole world becomes a happier and better place in which to live. Dr. Amporn is a stellar model of a man with deep faith, unwavering commitment, very unselfish with a brute determination to put himself aside so he can offer hope to the thousands that are rendered hopeless. I highly, highly recommend this book.
Life starts out very bleak for little Lek, the name given to him by his Thai parents. He is orphaned at five years old, and as the book begins you find him laying on his shared bed, clinging to his dead mother, who has died during the night. He is pried away from his beloved mother and witnesses her cremation. Afterwards, the villagers who are caught up in their own poverty and struggles, just walk away from the little guy leaving him to fend for himself and to try to survive if he can. What is an abandoned five year old to do? Where does he go? Heartbroken, he determines to leave the village behind and move forward....to where he knows not!
He spends 12 long years as a street kid, stealing and begging just to keep alive. He is totally illiterate and is forced to live by his wits and intuition with his tummy always empty and wondering where he can tuck himself safely away for a night to be able to sleep.
He seizes upon an opportunity to become a child soldier in Cambodia where he receives, torturous training, meagre food and experience battling vicious enemies deep in the lush Cambodian jungle. Unable to cope any longer he reaches rock bottom and tries to commit suicide... twice. He ties a rope around his neck the first time, which fails, and then he tries again by drinking insecticide. He just wants the hopelessness and pain to go away. In his darkest moment of despair a stranger intervenes and offers him help and but most of all hope.
He reassesses his life goals and then accepts the kind offer and in doing so his life changes forever. He is determined from that moment forward to make something of himself and to find out what he is created to do in this world. In his own words:
"Even though I started with nothing, I've always thought that whatever life brings, you must help others, " says Dr. Ampor. "When you die, you cannot bring anything with you. So knowing that you have helped others because you have received help from others, well, that's enough."
Chantal Jauvin, an international barrister, met Dr. Amporn while visiting one of the children her fiancé had been sponsoring at the charity he founded. (FORDEC). After being with him, and being so inspired by his story, she asked Dr. Amporn if she could tell his story. In her words:
"The world has much need for everyday heroes," says Jaurvin, "Dr. Amporn did not set out to be a hero, but he became one by the choices he made in dire situations, and because he cared for something greater than himself. That is within reach for everybody. Let his story serve as inspiration."
The well-written and riveting pages of The Boy with a Bamboo Heart, will have readers discover:
* the harrowing experiences of children caught in warfare and forced to become soldiers out of necessity
* how the human spirit is resilient and can overcome diversity
*how education is so important in escaping poverty
*why everyone should be empowered to take charge of their lives and find causes to be involved in that are bigger than they are
*how Dr. Amporn has been able to offer hope and courage to the less fortunates of the world, so they have a voice and a life and can find happiness
"Visions become dreams - which so often, no matter how ridiculed, no matter how seemingly impossible from so many angles - have ways of coming true," says Dr. Amporn. "And dreams are the purview of the poor; they do not cost anything, yet they keep you alive."
Personally, I couldn't put the book down. The story is one that takes you from despair to joy and invites you to step outside yourself, engage, and offer those who have been defeated help. It inspires you to give back and make a difference, so not only will those lives you touch have a better quality of life but the whole world becomes a happier and better place in which to live. Dr. Amporn is a stellar model of a man with deep faith, unwavering commitment, very unselfish with a brute determination to put himself aside so he can offer hope to the thousands that are rendered hopeless. I highly, highly recommend this book.
July 11, 2016
A review from the Orleans Ladies Book Club
The author has captured the essence of Dr.Amporn so well. As you read this book you become Dr.Amporn , you feel his pain, his anguish. You read about what is unimaginable in our society & yet it is not so far removed. Tying in a Canadian connection of Dr. Amporn reading about the founder of the first Caisse Populaire in Quebec , which inspired him to open the first one in Thailand, just reminded me of how small the world is, how we are truly interconnected. And we are all bound by human spirit to reach out. To use the authors words, reading this book was "an exploration of my own perspective and view". It is difficult to intellectuallize a book which touches you on spiritual and emotional level. A must read, highly recommend. Joanne
Chantal Jauvin is a lawyer, both by inclination and by training, and her precise and spare language is well suited to convey the thoughts of a man shaped by Buddhist philosophy and culture. Through her, ‘Lek’ tells his story in vignettes as he grows from 5 year old homeless orphan, to Cambodian boy soldier, to child welfare worker, to Dr. Amporn Wathanavogs, founder of a charity organization that brings hope to destitute children in Thailand. Each vignette provides a chance for readers to glimpse and perhaps begin to understand a way of thinking that is, at its core, quite different from Western philosophy. That, and it’s quite a story. Margaret
This book is the inspirational true story of Dr. Ampon Warhanavongs, who is the founder of The Foundation for Rehabilitation and Development of Children and Family (FORDEC).
At the tender age of 5, orphaned and left all alone to fend for himself, he goes through impossible trials. The violence of the market, the horrors of poverty, the brutally of war in the jungle makes this a difficult read. However, the message of hope and triumph make this a must read.Dr. Ampon is an inspirational man who not only survived incredible circumstances but lived to inspire and help others .Chantal Jauvin the author tells us his story in a forthright and honest manner. There are no embellishments, there is no need the message is clear. His story needed to be told and Chantal by doing so, helps inspire us to live a better life. Dianne
The author has captured the essence of Dr.Amporn so well. As you read this book you become Dr.Amporn , you feel his pain, his anguish. You read about what is unimaginable in our society & yet it is not so far removed. Tying in a Canadian connection of Dr. Amporn reading about the founder of the first Caisse Populaire in Quebec , which inspired him to open the first one in Thailand, just reminded me of how small the world is, how we are truly interconnected. And we are all bound by human spirit to reach out. To use the authors words, reading this book was "an exploration of my own perspective and view". It is difficult to intellectuallize a book which touches you on spiritual and emotional level. A must read, highly recommend. Joanne
Chantal Jauvin is a lawyer, both by inclination and by training, and her precise and spare language is well suited to convey the thoughts of a man shaped by Buddhist philosophy and culture. Through her, ‘Lek’ tells his story in vignettes as he grows from 5 year old homeless orphan, to Cambodian boy soldier, to child welfare worker, to Dr. Amporn Wathanavogs, founder of a charity organization that brings hope to destitute children in Thailand. Each vignette provides a chance for readers to glimpse and perhaps begin to understand a way of thinking that is, at its core, quite different from Western philosophy. That, and it’s quite a story. Margaret
This book is the inspirational true story of Dr. Ampon Warhanavongs, who is the founder of The Foundation for Rehabilitation and Development of Children and Family (FORDEC).
At the tender age of 5, orphaned and left all alone to fend for himself, he goes through impossible trials. The violence of the market, the horrors of poverty, the brutally of war in the jungle makes this a difficult read. However, the message of hope and triumph make this a must read.Dr. Ampon is an inspirational man who not only survived incredible circumstances but lived to inspire and help others .Chantal Jauvin the author tells us his story in a forthright and honest manner. There are no embellishments, there is no need the message is clear. His story needed to be told and Chantal by doing so, helps inspire us to live a better life. Dianne
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March 24, 2016This amazing story has two thematic threads--one explicit in the voice of Dr. Amporn and the other theme is under the words and is evidenced by the creative skill and care of Ms. Chantal Jauvin. By entering into the mind and heart of Dr. Amporn, she sees and delivers his world, his heart and his mind in his terns. As Ms. Jauvin says in the introduction: "I had to acquire the skin of an orphan who begged for his food, carried and used a rifle as a boy, took the vows of a monk and dedicated himself to social work. If travel provides the launch pad for discovery, writing another person's life is nothing less than an exploration of one's perspective and views." Her evocation of this always seeking-the-right path humanitarian takes the reader on the same exploration.
Ms. Jauvin submerges us into the thoughts and day to day experience of a young boy whose journey to full adulthood is unlike that of few people on earth: orphan, thief, boy soldier, Buddhist who converts to Catholicism with care and aid of a Jesuit priest, student of social leadership, husband and father, and founder of an NGO for the care of orphans, the destitute, and the disabled--The Foundation for Rehabilitation & Development of Children and Family.
A pivotal line in this story is said by the Jesuit priest who guided Amporn to increasing responsibility in organizing a month-long conference on the social economic in Asia to be held in Bangkok. Dr. Amporn, self-questioning by nature--a trait that propels him forward in life--worries he is not up to the task. The priest assures him by saying, "You have studied at the university of life." He had. Ms. Jauvin has through Dr. Amporn’s story. And so do we as her readers.
Ms. Jauvin submerges us into the thoughts and day to day experience of a young boy whose journey to full adulthood is unlike that of few people on earth: orphan, thief, boy soldier, Buddhist who converts to Catholicism with care and aid of a Jesuit priest, student of social leadership, husband and father, and founder of an NGO for the care of orphans, the destitute, and the disabled--The Foundation for Rehabilitation & Development of Children and Family.
A pivotal line in this story is said by the Jesuit priest who guided Amporn to increasing responsibility in organizing a month-long conference on the social economic in Asia to be held in Bangkok. Dr. Amporn, self-questioning by nature--a trait that propels him forward in life--worries he is not up to the task. The priest assures him by saying, "You have studied at the university of life." He had. Ms. Jauvin has through Dr. Amporn’s story. And so do we as her readers.
March 24, 2016
The Boy with a Bamboo Heart is a gripping, true-life, and important memoir of a great man. Born in poverty, Dr. Amporn Wathanavongs wasn't raised, so much as he grew up - largely on his own. As a story of an orphan's survival against the odds, The Boy with a Bamboo Heart is a chronicle of bravery, integrity, vision and hope. But the book is far more than a story of survival. It chronicles Dr. Amporn's struggles as an orphan child living on crumbs and sleeping outdoors, his brutal experiences as a boy soldier, his suicide attempts and ultimately his redemption. Dr. Amporn's transformation into a humanitarian, philanthropist, activist and leader is an inspiration.
From despair to joy, this story shows us the great potential of every human life. It begs us to engage, to offer help, to raise up those who have been defeated, to give something back and make the world a better place. Of all the memoirs I have read in recent years, none have revealed the depth of character, commitment, hope and determination that are Dr. Amporn's trademarks.
Co-author Chantal Jauvin's narrative is well wrought - tight, compelling and crafted into a strong, urgent tale.
I recommend this book for anyone interested in spiritual/religious/personal transformation. It's a beautiful story that reminds us of the value of each and every human life, of the potential of each and every human contact, and the great power of love and faith.
From despair to joy, this story shows us the great potential of every human life. It begs us to engage, to offer help, to raise up those who have been defeated, to give something back and make the world a better place. Of all the memoirs I have read in recent years, none have revealed the depth of character, commitment, hope and determination that are Dr. Amporn's trademarks.
Co-author Chantal Jauvin's narrative is well wrought - tight, compelling and crafted into a strong, urgent tale.
I recommend this book for anyone interested in spiritual/religious/personal transformation. It's a beautiful story that reminds us of the value of each and every human life, of the potential of each and every human contact, and the great power of love and faith.
November 6, 2015
I was worried about writing this review because I didn’t know if my words could do this book justice. Previous reviewers have covered the essentials of the story well enough that I don’t need to reiterate. Ms. Jauvin has written a profound story that will touch the reader’s heart while infuriating them at the horrors of poverty. Written in Dr. Amporn’s own words, this story resonates with emotion as he relives his life as a young orphan in a third world country. For those of us who are blessed to live in free, democratic countries, we have never understood how children can be trained as brutal soldiers, but after reading how poverty forces children into doing anything for food and shelter it is too real for words. Dr. Amporn’s incredible journey is a testament to his strength, persistence and intelligence. Turning the worst possible life into one dedicated to saving children is no less than a miracle. The value of this book is as relevant today as it was in Dr. Amporn’s early years. I highly recommend this book for readers of all ages and to be shared within families to open minds and hearts. Thank you Ms. Jauvin, for bringing this story to the world.
June 21, 2016
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
And I was not disappointed!
This quickly became one of the best books (and definitely the best nonfiction book) that I have read this year. It recounts the young life of a man who turned his life completely around, from being orphaned at five, through time as a street urchin and child soldier, a reluctant return home, finding stability and religion as a monk, and finally settling down in domestic life and earning a reputation within his nation. Amporn grew up in Thailand during a time of national upheaval and war, which he experienced first hand. Even readers who are unfamiliar with the country's culture or history will be drawn into the biography, as the authors grab you from the beginning and carry you quickly through Amporn's life. Despite the terrible events he lived through, Amporn avoids dwelling on the negative, describing what happened vividly and realistically, yet without slowing the narrative.
After reading this account, I feel that I have gained knowledge of a world I didn't know before, as well as a culture or lifestyle completely foreign to me. 10/10, would recommend.
And I was not disappointed!
This quickly became one of the best books (and definitely the best nonfiction book) that I have read this year. It recounts the young life of a man who turned his life completely around, from being orphaned at five, through time as a street urchin and child soldier, a reluctant return home, finding stability and religion as a monk, and finally settling down in domestic life and earning a reputation within his nation. Amporn grew up in Thailand during a time of national upheaval and war, which he experienced first hand. Even readers who are unfamiliar with the country's culture or history will be drawn into the biography, as the authors grab you from the beginning and carry you quickly through Amporn's life. Despite the terrible events he lived through, Amporn avoids dwelling on the negative, describing what happened vividly and realistically, yet without slowing the narrative.
After reading this account, I feel that I have gained knowledge of a world I didn't know before, as well as a culture or lifestyle completely foreign to me. 10/10, would recommend.
July 8, 2016
I really didn't think I would like this book but it was selected for our book club and so I dived in. I am very glad I did. I read the book in a day and really couldn't put it down. The story is captivating and inspirational. Overall, my only criticism is that I would have liked to know MORE about what happened. I finished the book and proceeded to look on the internet for more information.
I am not going to review the overall plot. There were parts of the book that my more skeptical side wondered about (the child soldier parts of the book). My book club was able to Skype with the author and I was intrigued by her additional comments. Overall, I was won over. The author told us that Dr. A was very reluctant to include the information about the child soldier period of time and that there was practical concerns about how it might be seen by others. I never thought about that. It made a lot of sense.
I really hope many MANY people read this book and spread this story. It really is a must read book.
I am not going to review the overall plot. There were parts of the book that my more skeptical side wondered about (the child soldier parts of the book). My book club was able to Skype with the author and I was intrigued by her additional comments. Overall, I was won over. The author told us that Dr. A was very reluctant to include the information about the child soldier period of time and that there was practical concerns about how it might be seen by others. I never thought about that. It made a lot of sense.
I really hope many MANY people read this book and spread this story. It really is a must read book.
March 20, 2019
This is a remarkable life story. A poor little boy lives with his mother in a tiny hut with only the barest necessities at hand. One morning, at age five, he wakes up to find his mother dead and himself an orphan. In his despair he runs away from his village, hides in a faraway marketplace and for years to come survives on leftover and begged food. Hunger drives him to be recruited as a child soldier. But he miraculously escapes the horrors of war...
The book is so well written that you don’t want to put it down; you want to read on to learn how the boy can survive against all odds, how he can become the courageous, humble and generous man who decides to dedicate his life to help others. I highly recommend this book to everybody. In fact, everybody should read it - children as well - it is a lesson of true humanity.
The book is so well written that you don’t want to put it down; you want to read on to learn how the boy can survive against all odds, how he can become the courageous, humble and generous man who decides to dedicate his life to help others. I highly recommend this book to everybody. In fact, everybody should read it - children as well - it is a lesson of true humanity.
April 2, 2016
This is a wonderful book. It had all the elements I enjoy in a book. It was compelling, insightful and engaging. You feel like you are seeing Thailand and its surrounding through the eyes of young Lek. I became invested in his journey, and looked forward to reading each chapter of his life. It is a story of survival, physically and spiritually. I loved reading about the Buddhist traditions and its effect on an individual. Dr Amporn is an amazing individual!
December 13, 2017
An amazing story of courage and survival despite every possible disadvantage in life but even more than simply surviving Amporn went on to achieve a degree of success that would be beyond most people's wildest dreams.
Never forgetting where he came from his life was dedicated to improving the situation of other poor and uneducated people in his home country.
Incredibly uplifting.
Never forgetting where he came from his life was dedicated to improving the situation of other poor and uneducated people in his home country.
Incredibly uplifting.
June 8, 2018
A humbling and inspiring story. If only we all were as determined to press on when everything is working against us. If only we were all driven not to succeed, but to serve one another. If only we all let our hardships do nothing but increase the compassion in our hearts. May this story do such a work in the hearts of all who read it.
March 24, 2016
As a Rotarian and a traveler this book spoke to me in so many positive ways. An excellent story told by an adept storyteller. I highly recommend The Boy With the Bamboo Heart!
March 13, 2019
I am French and, thanks to Chantal Jauvin, I have read, in paper format, the story of the life of Dr. Amporn Wathanavongs. I very much regret that this book can not be found in French bookstores. It is even more distressing that the dark history of this young Thai orphan rocked the day he met a priest, a French Jesuit, a great uncle I knew well. The friends to whom I have told the story of Dr. Amporn are disappointed that they can not find it in France in paper format. French readers have a preference for the paper format. They like the smell and touch of paper and they stay very conservative in this area. I hope that one day, this book will be on display in French bookshops.
The story of Dr. Amporn is poignant, tragic and yet it opens on a magnificent destiny! It is also an admirable demonstration of the human ability, even for a child, to bounce back in the most dramatic situations. But the most remarkable remains the exceptional strength, the tremendous courage, and the relentlessness of this little boy, then of this young adult, to brave all the obstacles to protect the orphans from the cruel dangers of the street they may be confronted with. He will spend the rest of his life helping the poorest families in Thailand. It's a wonderful lesson of life !!!
To read absolutely! In addition go see the website of the association of Dr. Amporn Wathanavongs
The story of Dr. Amporn is poignant, tragic and yet it opens on a magnificent destiny! It is also an admirable demonstration of the human ability, even for a child, to bounce back in the most dramatic situations. But the most remarkable remains the exceptional strength, the tremendous courage, and the relentlessness of this little boy, then of this young adult, to brave all the obstacles to protect the orphans from the cruel dangers of the street they may be confronted with. He will spend the rest of his life helping the poorest families in Thailand. It's a wonderful lesson of life !!!
To read absolutely! In addition go see the website of the association of Dr. Amporn Wathanavongs
October 28, 2024
This is really hard to review because the life and work of Dr Amporn is amazing and deserves 5*. The story of pulling himself from poverty to respected charity leader is awe inspiring and shows that, even in a country like Thailand, where nepotism is rife, you can achieve a lot with effort and luck (and in his case religious faith)
However, whilst I loved the story and the inspirational life he led, the writing was very basic and lacked the nuance and flourishes that on would find in a top quality book. This is the same issue that I find in a lot of non-fiction where the story is the main thing, not the writing.
The writing is fine, it tells the story and I get that it is going to be told in (or attempt to be) his voice, so the author has limitations based on how Khun Amporn speaks in what is his second language.
Overall, I loved the story, it read quickly and kept me engrossed, I just would have liked a bit more imagery to add a bit of flourish.
However, whilst I loved the story and the inspirational life he led, the writing was very basic and lacked the nuance and flourishes that on would find in a top quality book. This is the same issue that I find in a lot of non-fiction where the story is the main thing, not the writing.
The writing is fine, it tells the story and I get that it is going to be told in (or attempt to be) his voice, so the author has limitations based on how Khun Amporn speaks in what is his second language.
Overall, I loved the story, it read quickly and kept me engrossed, I just would have liked a bit more imagery to add a bit of flourish.
July 1, 2024
A challenging life!
To follow the ups & downs of Leks life was difficult . However the inspiration he both exuded & demanded of himself carried me through. It was as if I hoped as Lek did through so many challenges & never resting on his laurels. A privilege to read his story!
To follow the ups & downs of Leks life was difficult . However the inspiration he both exuded & demanded of himself carried me through. It was as if I hoped as Lek did through so many challenges & never resting on his laurels. A privilege to read his story!
November 13, 2016
Great and insightful read.
I saw this at the airport in Thailand and it turned out to be a very candid and insightful read, and very impactful. I highly recommend it.
I saw this at the airport in Thailand and it turned out to be a very candid and insightful read, and very impactful. I highly recommend it.
March 14, 2019
This is a remarkable life story. A poor little boy lives with his mother in a tiny hut with only the barest necessities at hand. One morning, at age five, he wakes up to find his mother dead and himself an orphan. In his despair he runs away from his village, hides in a faraway marketplace and for years to come survives on leftover and begged food. Hunger drives him to be recruited as a child soldier. But he miraculously escapes the horrors of war...
The book is so well written that you don’t want to put it down; you want to read on to learn how the boy can survive against all odds, how he can become the courageous, humble and generous man who decides to dedicate his life to help others. I highly recommend this book to everybody. In fact, everybody should read it - children as well - it is a lesson of true humanity.
The book is so well written that you don’t want to put it down; you want to read on to learn how the boy can survive against all odds, how he can become the courageous, humble and generous man who decides to dedicate his life to help others. I highly recommend this book to everybody. In fact, everybody should read it - children as well - it is a lesson of true humanity.
November 25, 2016
Feeling poorly? Not enough cash to meet the bills? Whatever is getting you down, read this to get a bit of perspective. How some people manage to rise above adversity and have a productive life defies belief sometimes. This is the tale of one of those people.What a heart-wrenching start to life, no child should suffer like this in our world, hats off to him for the good he has done for some of them.
July 30, 2016
We’ve previously highlighted the importance of this title to the Goodreads community and are doing so again. If this memoir by Dr Amporn Wathanavongs doesn’t inspire you, nothing will.
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