Ysaan Books has announced the publication of Poems from Sakon Nakhon. This bilingual book of Thai poetry in English, the first of its kind, is available now in both paperback and hardcover internationally at Amazon.com.
Visit the Amazon listing at Poems from Sakon Nakhon. A Thailand collector’s edition with a handmade indigo cloth slip cover is available at Ysaan’s Books online stores:
Shopee: Ysaan Books
Lazada: Thai Poetry Books
If you are looking for a book about Thailand that immerses you in a rich cultural tapestry, inspires reflection, and even teaches you something new, Poems from Sakon Nakhon is the perfect choice.
Written by Ajarn David, a long-term expatriate in Thailand, the 190 page book brings together English and Thai poetry to offer a heartfelt exploration of life, nature, and spirituality in Isaan, Thailand’s northeastern region. The book of 91 poems is beautifully designed and typeset, making it a perfect book for gift giving, as well as to own as a treasured literary keepsake.
Side-by-Side English and Thai Texts
Each poem is presented in both English and Thai, making it accessible for readers of either language and invaluable for those learning Thai. The bilingual format lets you appreciate the nuances of both languages while deepening your cultural understanding.
For Language Learners
Use this book of poetry to improve your Thai or English skills. With clear translations and English transliterations, it’s an engaging way to learn vocabulary, sentence structure, and cultural context simultaneously.
A Rare Perspective
Ajarn David is the first long-term expatriate to publish a bilingual Thai poetry collection in Thailand. His outsider-insider perspective gives the book a distinct voice — one that celebrates Thai culture while offering fresh insights for an international audience.
The Beauty of Everyday Life
Poems from Sakon Nakhon captures the charm of rural Thailand, in particular Isaan. From the changing seasons to the bustling energy of a noodle seller at night, the poems elevate ordinary moments into something extraordinary.
Example:
Fish appear in flooded fields,
as if dropped like mana from the sky.
This vivid imagery invites you to see the world through a Thai lens, where nature and humanity are intertwined.
Spiritual Depth
Rooted in Buddhist philosophy, the poems touch on universal truths about impermanence, suffering, and compassion. But don’t expect dry sermons — these reflections are woven into relatable and poetic narratives that inspire mindfulness and introspection. For example, a Thai poem about the controversial practice of prostration reveals a nuanced perspective that’s been lost over the years.
Exploration of Thai Culture
From the concept of greng-jai (thoughtful deference) to the gentle humor in a poem about durian fruit, the collection serves as a guide to understanding Thai values and social norms.
Travelers and Cultural Explorers
If you’ve visited Thailand or dream of going, Poems from Sakon Nakhon offers a deeper connection to the country. It takes you beyond the beaches and cityscapes into the heart of rural life and spiritual traditions.
Language Learners
The bilingual format makes this a unique resource for Thai and English learners alike. It’s an enjoyable way to practice reading, pronunciation, and cultural understanding.
Poetry Enthusiasts
For those who appreciate lyrical writing, the poems offer a balance of simplicity and depth, making them accessible to readers of all levels.
Spiritual Seekers
If you’re drawn to mindfulness, meditation, or Buddhist teachings, you’ll find the book’s themes resonate on a personal level.
Transported
The vivid descriptions of Sakon Nakhon’s landscapes — rolling hills, flooded rice fields, and serene temples — immerse you in a world that feels far away but immediately relatable.
Inspired
The poems encourage introspection, gratitude, and a greater appreciation for life’s small moments.
Connected
You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Isaan and Thai culture and its emphasis on kindness, humility, and harmony.
“A perfect blend of cultural insight and lyrical beauty. It’s both thought provoking and entertaining.”
“The bilingual format is genius. As someone learning Thai, it’s given me greater appreciation of the Thai language.”
“This book isn’t just poetry — it’s a heartfelt journey into the soul of Thailand.”
Whether you’re seeking cultural insight into Thailand, a language-learning resource, or simply a beautifully written book, this collection of Thai poetry delivers on every front. Order your copy Poems from Sakon Nakhon today.