The diary of Bua Geow

by J.C. Shaw

The diary of Bua Geow

121 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Matthew Trearty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely little book that is obviously not well known at all. It is, as it says, the diary of a young woman called Bua Geow, translated into English from the original Thai.

Bua is from a small village near Chiang Mai and the diary divulges a horrific incident in her life, how she dealt with it and also day to day village life in rural Thailand back in (I assume) the 80s. Bua is a lovely character and her writing is interesting and observant.

This is a lovely story of a girl who, with support, showed a real strength of character, that is life affirming.

I also loved that on the front there is a hand-woven design, the point of which will become apparent in the story and I don't want to give a spoiler.

[Damian · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The diary of Bua Geow" is a heartfelt and enlightening read about the simple pleasures Bua, a northern Thailand country girl, finds in her home town and how they supersede all the desires of the bright lights of Bangkok. It serves as testament to the intelligence, wisdom, beauty and depth all people are capable of, regardless of their education or social status. For me personally, it is a reminder that language is not a barrier to intelligence, it is only a barrier to communication.

The story is beautiful. One of the most touching I have ever read. The diary deals with atrocities that befall Bua and how she acts with bravery beyond her means to save herself and others and finds hope and love in the process. Reading the diary and experiencing northen Thailand at the same time, I feel that Bua's life must be similar to many other Thai girls and I can't help but think that the wisdom that is behind the diary is also behind many of the beautiful smiles I see on the road.

Bua's brave actions are not without cost, as she is disabled from the waist down after her leap to freedom, which saves not only herself but a roomful of girls. In an amazing way, she casts aside any righteous anger and with the help of family and friends, she finds a purpose and starts on a path to hers and many others salvation. A salvation, which many knitters and sewers will appreciate, begins with a needle and thread and traditional hill-tribe costumes.

Full review is available from May 30th at:
http://damianfuller.com/2013/04/30/th...