Kampong Spirit Gotong Royong

Written by Josephine Chia
paperback

Gotong Royong is a heartwarming recollection of life in the little village of Potong Pasir in Singapore during the years 1955 to 1965. In this book, Peranakan author, Josephine Chia, brings us into the world of her childhood in her kampong. Though deprived of modern comforts like electricity or running water, her multi-racial neighbours lived harmoniously with each other in their attap houses and had a wonderful zest for life and a strong sense of community. This vibrant kampong spirit was a significant aspect of living in a kampong.

This period of 1955 to 1965 was also a dramatic era for Singapore. As the country struggled towards nationhood, the social and political events of this time and their effects are seen through the eyes of the common folk. The collection of delightful, real life short stories will take you through Singapore's history and heritage at a human level. For some, it will be a journey of discovery and for others it will be a time of reminiscing for those nostalgic years.

Kampong Spirit is the winner of the Singapore Literature Prize for Non-Fiction in 2014.