A pensive portrait of rural anomie. Kurniawan, the first Indonesian writer to be longlisted for the International Booker Prize, is a deeply learned student of his nation’s troubled recent past, when the army, declaring martial law, executed as many as a million Communists. This morality tale is … [Read more...]
The more Indonesian her stories are, the further they travel
March 27, 2026 by
Intan Paramaditha's novels raise questions that transcend nationalities, despite writing unapologetically Indonesian stories. Intan Paramaditha's novel Gentayangan (The Wandering) is currently in its second printing in Poland. The book is full of kuntilanak (the angry spirit of a woman who died … [Read more...]
Book Review: Jakarta, a History – SUSAN ABEYASEKERE
March 24, 2026 by
For 320 years ultimate power to administer affairs in the region of west Java now known as Jakarta lay in the hands of representatives of a European nation. Like many cities in Europe and the Mediterranean, which coalesced around forts or castles, the casteel Batavia, combining political, military, … [Read more...]
In Felix Nesi’s debut novel, residents of West Timor grapple with violence, religious and political power, and inner turmoil
March 17, 2026 by
Indonesia. Unless you are Indonesian by birth or marriage, the name might conjure images of peaceful havens in Bali, stunning batik textiles, or the aroma of premium coffee. Felix Nesi is determined to change this. Nesi is a rising Indonesian novelist and short-story writer who draws on his West … [Read more...]
“Bumi Manusia Extended” Premieres as Immersive 6-Part Series
March 7, 2026 by
To honor the centenary of literary giant Pramoedya Ananta Toer, Falcon Pictures has officially released a deeper, more expansive cut of the cinematic masterpiece Bumi Manusia, Indonesian historical drama series. Titled "Bumi Manusia Extended," this new version reimagines the story of Minke, … [Read more...]
