Thani Talk 2016 March

N ONTHABURI N EIGHBORHOOD R EACH

M ARCH 2016

Thani Talk Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994

Now online at: www.issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

Libraries of Bangkok Pages 8 - 16

World Literature Pages 18 - 19

Kokret Island Tour Pages 43 - 45

Kokret Island

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

About NNR & Thani Talk

NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.

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DISCLAIMER: The placement of advertisements and articles in this newsletter does not constitute or imply endorsement by the NNR of any product or service. The NNR accepts no responsibility for any claims made in any advertisement and the opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily the views of the NNR committee.

NNR BOARD 2015-2016 Chairperson

Mare Harvey

billandmare@mac.com

Vice Chairperson

Henrietta Bullinger

Hbullinger@gmail.com

Treasurer

Livonia Winkles

livoniawinkles@cox.net

Activity/Tour Coordinators

Susanne Rodrigues Elizabeth Bredin

092-458-3505

suratoru@yahoo.co.uk esbredin@gmail.com

NNR Socials

Denise Warta

090-013-8490

cdwarta@yahoo.com

Charity and Volunteer Jennifer Skobel Coordinators Wanda Grove

jcskobel@gmail.com wandagrove14@gmail.com

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Laura Sadowski

089-924-5306

nnradverts@yahoo.com

Thani Talk News Team

Liz Lu (Editor) Annette Long (Proofreader)

nnrnews@gmail.com (new)

Distribution Coordinator

Shana DeHaven

sdehaventhai@hotmail.com

Bazaar Committee: Barb Lewis (Coordinator), Mare Harvey (Sponsors), Tipwan Smagpong (Vendors), Natalie Lollback (Volunteers), Tara Faseler and Patricia Smith (Raffles)

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Contents & Calendar of Events

Happy Easter!

March 27

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! March 17 Inside This Issue

NNR & Community Events

NNR Social

4

NNR Tour:

5

March 5

St. David's Society Ball, at Amari Watergate Hotel

Til Mar. 6

Dracula at KBank Siam Pic-Ganesha Theatre

Cover Story: Libraries of Bangkok

8-16

People

17

March 8

NNR Tour: Nonthaburi Treasures

Feature: World Literature

18

March 13

Grand Opening, Bumble Bee Free Library at Soi Prasert Issaram

Fitness, Tutors

20

Grapevine Tips

24

Charity

30

Community News

38

Highlights: NNR Feb. Social

42

Highlights: NNR Feb. Tour

43

Travel: Photo Collage Kokret Island

44

Restaurant Review: Les Poussins

49

March 17 St. Patrick’s Day March 17

NNR Social, St. Patrick’s Day at Centara Grand

March 19

“Bringing Up Baby” program at Bumrungrad Hospital

March 27 Easter Sunday

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

NNR Social

March NNR Social: March 17 - St. Patrick’s Day! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day With Belvedere Band Martini Night Thursday, March 17 6:00pm-????

Blue Sky Bar Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao 1965 Phaholyothin Rd., Chatuchak 02-541-1234

Mr. Derek Sanders, brand ambassador for Moet & Chandon and Belvedere will be there.

-Free roundtrip transportation from Nichada and back, for the first 20 people to sign up.

-Pickup at 18:00 -15% off Food and Beverage at Blue Sky -James Bond is the theme for the night, so get inspired by the movies and dress accordingly.

-If you have any questions, or to get your name on the list for the bus, please contact cdwarta@yahoo.com.

Denise Warta, NNR Social Chair

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NNR Tour

NNR March 8 Tour: Tour of Hidden Treasures in Nonthaburi Question: What do spiritual tattoos, orchids, and fruit-scented soaps have in common?

Answer: You can experience them all on NNR’s March excursion.

Join us for a day trip to a famous wat (temple) where people congregate to receive spiritual tattoos from revered monks. Tattooing yantras on the skin has been part of Khmer or Thai cultures for perhaps longer than 2,000 years. The wat is a centre for mystical tattoos, and it is also a working, historic Buddhist temple.

We will stop at an OTOP (One Tambon, One Product) factory and showroom which specializes in lovely scented soaps, lotions and essential oils made from natural coconut. Our last stop will be an orchid farm, where you can see an amazing variety of gorgeous flowers (and even take a few home!!). There will also be time to enjoy a light lunch and coffee together.

Date: March 8th Time : 7:45am - 2:00pm Where: Meet in front of Chevron Theatre, ISB Dress Code: Long pants or long skirt, tops covering shoulders (entering religious site) Cost: Lunch to be paid by participants, Transportation fee will be shared.

To sign up: Please email Elizabeth at: ESBredin@gmail.com Space is limited to 12 participants.

Susanne Rodrigues and Elizabeth Bredin, NNR Tour Coordinators

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Cover Story: Libraries

An Overview of Libraries in Bangkok Na5onal Library of Thailand

The National Library of Thailand collects, catalogs, and researches national intellectual property. It was founded when King Rama V combined three royal libraries in 1905. Its vast collections include Thai manuscripts, stone inscriptions, sacred palm-leaf writings, traditional books and printed publications as well as audiovisual, and electronic and digital materials.

Formerly under the auspices of the Department of Fine Arts, the national library is now run by the Ministry of Culture. Of note are the library’s collection of astrological books, star charts, and ancient maps.

The library moved to its Samsen Road address in 1969 and after adding new buildings to

the complex, total space is 10,000 square meters.

In addition to the Bangkok branch, the National Library has 11 other branches throughout Thailand.

Foreign and local visitors total more than 100,000 per year, and website visits total more than 300,000.

Year Established: 1905 Size of Collection: 3,242,000 volumes Address: Samsen Rd, Wachira Phayaban, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand Hours: Most collections are available Mon.Fri., 9:00am-4:30pm.

Tel: 02-281-5212 Website: nlt.go.th

Neilson Hays Library Originally founded as Bangkok Ladies’ Library Association by a group of British and American women to share books, the Neilson Hays Library boasts a rich history. Today the library offers reading room, speakers, children’s activities, book sales and other programs. Its Rotunda Gallery hosts exhibitions by local and visiting artists. For more info, see the Dec. 2013 edition of Thani Talk at issuu.com/nnrthanitalk.

Year founded: 1869 Size of collection: 20,000 books Fees: B2,500/ year. Family fee: B3,300/year.

Address: 195 Thanon Surawong, Bangkok Hours: Tues-Sun., 9:30am-5pm. Closed Mon. Tel:02-233-1731Website: neilsonhayslibrary.com 8

Cover Story: Libraries

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Danielwebdesign.weebly.com

Na5onal Museum Bangkok Library

The library of National Museum Bangkok is located at the back of the National Museum complex next to Sanam Luang. It has two sections: one for the Thai collection for the museum’s Thai language library, and one for the library of the docent group, National Museum Volunteers (NMV). The latter is called National Museum Volunteers Library The collection of the NMV Library consists mainly of books on religion, history, arts and culture, with a strong focus on research type information. There are no fiction books, nor travel guides. The collection consists of approximately 4,000 books; some are in French, English, German and Japanese. We also have a small number of books in Thai.

The library, staffed by a team of 6 volunteer NMV members, has a small collection of older

issues of some periodicals such as Arts of Asia and Orientations.

The library is free for all members of the National Museum Volunteers who have paid their yearly membership fee. Non-members are welcome to come and use our books at the library, but they are not allowed to borrow any books. Our collection is not "on line".

The NMV Library does not host any activities or have any programs that are open to the public. However, the extremely active NMV, which trains expatriates to be museum guides, has a wide range of activities including guide training programs in English, French, German and Japanese, At-home speaker program, lecture series, and excursions throughout Thailand.

National Museum Volunteers Library is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10am3pm (with the exception of Thai holidays).

For more information, please contact nmvlibrary@gmail.com.

Barbara MacNeill, NMV Library Volunteer Team Leader

Library volunteers Barbara MacNeill (left) and Chiraphan Yongvanich.

Year Museum Established: 1926 Size of Collection: 4,000 books Museum membership fee: B1,200 Address: 4 Na Phra That, Bangkok, Phra Nakhon 10200, Thailand Hours: Wed.-Sun., 9:00am-3:30pm Tel: 02-224-1333 Website: museumvolunteersbkk.net 9

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Cover Story: Libraries

Lumphini Park Library Lumphini Park Library, more than 60 years old, sits in serene surroundings inside Bangkok’s Lumphini Park, where joggers and walkers stroll by daily.

About 25 years ago, it was in dilapidated condition, with peeling paint, no air conditioning, and hardly any books. It looked neglected and almost abandoned.

But the government has breathed new life into the one-story building, and it is now a comfortable oasis for reading and relaxing.

The children’s room, though spacious, is mainly used by kids for loud play and games, rather than for quiet reading.

Year opened: 1955 Size of collection: 30,000 books and materials.

Address: Inside Lumphini Park, near Rama IV and Silom Rd. entrance. (BTS Sala Daeng station) Hours: Tues.- Sat., 8:30am-8pm, Sun. 9am-5pm.

Closed on Mondays and holidays.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre Library This art library, located in the basement of the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) near the BTS National Stadium station, is funded by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the governing body of Thailand’s capital.

The library and the BACC building opened in 2008. It offers readers books on artists from Monet to Jackson Pollock to Grandma Moses. It also has a children’s reading room: Kids’ Corner.

The city administration is currently reviewing membership policies, said library manager Kamonrat Sookmark. Until final fees are approved, the library is not accepting new membership applications, she said. All visitors are welcome to read in the library, but borrowing privileges are temporarily limited.

Year opened: 2008 Size of collection: 8,000 books and other materials.

Membership fee: Under review Address: Basement of Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Bangkok Hours: Tues.-Sun., 10am-7:30pm. Closed Mondays.

Tel: 02-214-6630 10

Cover Story: Libraries

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Thailand Knowledge Park, at Central World Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park), is a nationwide library system funded by the Office of the Prime Minister. According to the cabinet resolution creating the TK Park concept 11 years ago, the goal was “to build a learning space that is more than just a library.”

The concept is that TK Park is a “Living Library,” said library representative Kreangsak Atcharik, a member of the 60-strong staff at Bangkok’s TK Park.

TK Park has 24 branches in the kingdom, and its flagship branch is a massive 4,350 square meter facility located on the 8th floor of Central World in the heart of Bangkok.

The facility sports the latest interior design, including a honeycomb in the children’s area where kids can enjoy a book in one of the honeycomb sitting compartments. The children’s area, complete with bean bag chairs and thick mats, is a shoes-off section.

On a recent afternoon, TK Park was packed with adults reading and students from downtown schools doing homework or doing research. Wi-Fi access costs 20 baht per hour. There are also sections for enjoying audio books, viewing videos, or holding small group discussions.

This state-of-the-art facility may not be easy for those outside downtown Bangkok to reach, but in terms of resources and funding, it is definitely on the cutting edge.

Year opened: 2006 Size of collection: 120,000 books and multi-media materials.

Annual Membership Fees: Under age 25 and seniors 60 and over: 100 baht; Adults 25 to 59: 200 baht; Non-Thai nationals (need to show passport): 400 baht; Buddhist monks and disabled persons: Exempt from paying annual fee.

Daily visitor’s fee: 70 baht, which includes 50 baht deposit that is returned when you give back the entrance card.

Hours: Tues.-Sun., 10am-8pm.

Address: “Dazzle Zone”, 8th Floor, Central World, Ratchadmri Road, Bangkok.

Tel: 02-257-4300 Website: tkpark.or.th 11

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Cover Story: Libraries

AUA (American University Alumni ) Library American University Alumni (AUA) operates a language center teaching English and Thai, and training teachers of English. It also offers counseling and advisory services to people interested in studying in the U.S. In addition, it provides a library mainly featuring English titles but also some books in Thai. With 17 branches in Thailand, only the branch at the Chamchuri building on Rama 4 has a library.

Formerly located on Rajdamri Road, AUA is now at the Chamchuri complex during renovations of its former venue.

AUA Librarian Numkang Krueakhueanpetch.

Year founded: 1969 Size of Collection: 15,000 books and periodicals.

Annual Fees: Outside patron: B300; Outside student: B200.

Current AUA student: B100.

Address: 319 Phyathai Road, Bangkok Tel: 02-657-5411 Website: auathailand.org

Siam Society Library The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage promotes the understanding of Southeast Asian history, archeology, art, language and culture.

The Society established a library at its Soi Asoke headquarters in 1904. With more than 20,000 books and other reference materials, the Siam Society Library is the oldest public lending library in Thailand.

Its 2-floor venue houses rare books about the Thailand region, palm-leaf manuscripts, periodicals, antique maps, historical pictures, books and research sponsored by the James H.W. Thompson Foundation, and a wide selection of microfilms, video tapes and CD-ROMs. Librarian Ekkarin Latthasaksiri and 3 staff members maintain a collection that includes books in more than half a dozen languages.

The reading room is cozy, with traditional wood furniture and decor reflecting Thailand’s rich cultural past.

Year opened: 1904 Address: 131 Sukhumvit 21 (BTS Asoke station, exit 3.

MRT Sukhumvit station, exit 1) Fees to use library: Membership fee (B3,500) of Siam Society. If non member, daily fee is B50. Computer use is B100. Free entrance to students in uniform.

Tel: 02-661-6470 Website: www.siam-society.org 12

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Cover Story: Libraries

William Warren Library The William Warren Library is operated by the James H.W. Thompson Foundation. It’s located next to Bangkok’s Jim Thompson House, former home of the famous silk trader. The collection of 2,000 volumes underscores Thompson’s passion for Asian arts and culture.

The library serves as an archive for publications and events sponsored by the James H.W Thompson Foundation. The modern 4th floor library also has a collection of books on textile crafts.

Address: Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road Annual Fee: B500 Hours: Tues-Sat. 9am5pm. Closed Sun., Mon. Tel: 02-612-6741 Duangkamol Kedphasa, Librarian of the William Warren Library.

Thailand Crea5ve and Design Center Library

BK.asia-city.com

The library of Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) is located on the 6th floor of the Emporium shopping complex on Sukhumvit Road.

It is a center for housing an impressive collection of design publications and other multimedia resources related to the art of design.

Next to a spacious, open reading room lined with reference books, visitors can also enjoy food and drinks at a small café. The center also hosts scores of art and design exhibits, as well as many seminars and workshops on design.

Memberships are offered to many categories of visitors, including foreigners with or without work permit. Annual fees can be as low as B600 for students and as high as B14,400 for Platinum members who enjoy extra privileges. Tourist passes are available for B200 per day.

Year opened: 2005 Size of collection: More than 34,000 volumes Hours: Tues.-Sun. 10:30am-9pm. Closed Mon. Address: Emporium Shopping Complex 622 Sukhumvit Road Tel: 02-664-8448 13

Cover Story: Libraries

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

ISB Library: Elementary School The elementary school library, also know as the HUB, caters to the educational and recreational needs of ISB parents and their children in grade Pre-K to Grade 5 (ages 4-11).

The library welcomes the ISB community with parent resources, children's books (emergent readers and middle grade readers), CDs, DVDs, Kindles, IPads, iPods, computers and other educational materials. A new terrace planned in the near future will further accommodate parents and students.

Use of the library is limited to families with students at ISB. Contact info: eshub@isb.ac.th

Elementary School librarian Nat Whitman (left) and his staff.

Nat Whitman, Librarian

ISB Library:

High School/Middle School librarians, Chris Bell (left) and Traci Marlowe.

Welcome to the ISB Library! International School Bangkok has two libraries. The first is the ES (Elementary School) HUB. This library serves Pre Kindergarten to Grade 5 Students. We also have the Main Library which serves Grade 6 to Grade 12 students. The Main Library is open from 6:45-4:30pm Monday through Thursday.

The Main Library was redesigned two years ago to create a space that would provide students and teachers various opportunities for learning.

That being said, we have loads of crossover and try to fill every request. While providing access to various materials for checkout we also provide instruction and instructional spaces. We are very proud of these spaces. We have group study 14

Middle and High Schools rooms, two large classrooms, private study carrels and open space for everyone to sit and enjoy. On any given day you will see art displays, student videos or student presentations and debates going on in the library. Added to these wonderful spaces we also house the whole school’s Learning Design Center which is the professional development department at ISB. The library also has a video editing lab as well as a video production studio with its own green screen.

Finally, we have a wonderfully friendly staff, who are knowledgeable and keen to help any and all patrons.

There are two fully certified librarians in the Main Library. Ms. Traci Marlowe is new this year and comes from the great state of Texas. Her primary focus is on collection and development.

This year for example, we are adding well over 1,000 new titles to the library.

Added to this she lead a massive change to ‘genre-fy’ the collection. Now when you come to the Main Library you will find nonfiction titles still shelved by the Dewey Decimal system while the fiction collection has been broken into genres. For example, when you go looking for Andy Weir’s new book ‘The Martian’ you will find it in the Sci Fi section. Or maybe you are a fan of Mysteries and Historical Fiction. Either way we have something for you and a cool place to sit and read.

Cover Story: Libraries

I’m the other librarian and my name is Christopher Bell. This is my 4th year at ISB. In the past I was a Learning and Technology Coordinator. This year the librarian position was added to my duties. My main focus is on the research instruction and collection. We recently met with all Grade 9 and 10 students to produce high level research projects around controversial topics. Students learned a complete research process that will serve them as they move towards their college careers.

We recently met with the editor of Thani Talk, Ms. Liz Lu, and discussed opportunities for connections with the newly developed Bumble Bee Free Library project. We at the Main Library are exploring ways we can connect with this new entity and the larger community.

One of our first ideas for exploration will be to make our online catalog available so that we can create a library loan system. This will increase the number of materials available to community patrons. We will also continue to support this effort in any way possible and look forward to this new partnership and possible new community events hosted by the Main Library.

In the future we hope to make it possible for community members to check out items on their own. At this time the security of the school does not allow non-school personnel on the campus. Ms. Marlowe and I are always happy to answer questions. We can be reached via email at tracim@isb.ac.th or christob@isb.ac.th Chris Bell, Librarian

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Fiction books now grouped by genre.

On the library’s 2nd floor, the newly named “Nichada” collection offers books for adults.

The library hosts student art exhibits.

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Highlights:

Bumble Bee Free Library

The Bumble Bee Free Library (BBFL) on Soi Prasert Issaram near Mansions in the Park and Que Pasa had humble beginnings. It started out as a box of donated books in big plastic boxes that had to be hauled out from storage every Sunday for the local Thai children. Later it found a temporary home at the house belonging to the aunt of volunteer Khun Aranya. Finally, last October, the library found a permanent home in a shophouse next to Mansions in the Park.

BBFL founder Liz Lu saw that although there are downtown libraries with collections on special topics, and a few government facilities boasting state-of-the art venues, those locations are not easy for everyone to reach, especially kids in our local Pakkred neighborhood. To foster a love of reading and to make it as easy as possible for the local children to get to an accessible library, Liz launched the Bumble Bee Free Library as a

sister project to her Bumble Bee Free English Class for local Thai neighbors.

With the help of scores of generous donors and hard-working volunteers who share the same vision, the BBFL has opened its doors to both Thais and expatriates. On March 13, the library will officially hold its grand opening.

Year founded: As mobile library (2013). As stand-alone shophouse library (Oct. 2015) Size of collection: 1,200 books in both Thai and English, as well as some donated Spanish books.

Fees: None. Service is free to all.

Hours: Thurs.-Sun. afternoons. During Thai summer holiday March-May, will add hours.

Address: Shop house near 26/9 Soi Prasert Issaram, Pakkred, Nonthaburi Contact email: lizsiam@gmail.com

Sources for cover story: Guest writers with bylines. Other sections written by Liz Lu using annual reports and websites of featured libraries, other internet sources such as Wikipedia, Lonelyplanet.com, etc., plus in-person visits and interviews.

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Feature: PEOPLE

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

PEOPLE: Founder of a Neighborhood Library

It took heart and persistence, but Liz Lu did not give up on the idea of a free community library for the families of the Prasert Issaram neighborhood (outside the front gates of Nichada).

The new Bumble Bee Free Library derived its name from an anecdote that describes a bumble bee as a creature that doesn’t give in to its limits.

A common story is that aerodynamically, the chubby bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly; but the bumble bee didn’t know that, and so... it flew!

Liz takes the essence of that story and applies it to the local Thai children that she encounters daily. The children’s opportunities and resources may be limited, but if the neighborhood children don’t know the odds stacked against them, and with access to new opportunities and resources, their potential could be limitless!

Liz and her husband Doug were transferred to Bangkok in 1990 with an investment company.

The expectation was to be here for 2 to 3 years, but Liz’s husband later started his own business, a decision that has kept them here ever since. They have raised three children in Thailand - Shea, Amber and Spencer - all of whom graduated from ISB. Even after their children moved to the U.S. for higher education, Liz and her husband stayed.

She says this is where she raised her family, and it feels like home here.

Liz has a long history of involvement in the community. With a background in journalism, she was one of the early editors of NNR Newsletter (current Thani Talk) in the early 1990s. She was

also editor of Touchstone magazine for ISB’s PTA for several years when her children were at ISB. Liz served on the PTA board and was often team mom for her children’s many sports activities. In 2012, she joined the NNR again as editor of Thani Talk. She is the longest serving NNR board member and has been a volunteer at the Nonthaburi Reception Home for the Destitute for many years.

Three years ago, Liz started English classes for the children on Soi Prasert Issaram. Starting with 3 to 4 neighborhood kids in the first class, Liz witnessed the growth to current numbers of 60 to 70 children. The classes are only possible with the help of volunteer teachers, she said.

Many in the community, both adults and teens, have pitched in weekly to help teach. Last fall, in response to requests from the students’ mothers, she added an English class for adults. In addition, two years ago, with the help of the high school Interact Club, Liz began taking Soi Prasert children to ISB for weekend Sports Day. Growing up in Taipei, Liz never had free public library access. It wasn’t until she was 8 and her family moved to the United States that Liz was introduced to her first library. Her love for books and the public library system was born.

So when Liz moved back to Asia, the desire took root many years ago to make books accessible to everyone here for free.

She spent the last year and a half knocking on doors and looking for rental space for a new library. This past October a space became available and through the efforts and donations of many in the community, the library opened its doors last fall, on October 29. Next month, on March 13, an official grand opening will take place.

The Bumble Bee Library exists due to the amazing support of the community, said Liz. She currently covers all costs for rent and utilities.

Donations are welcome, as well as volunteers to staff the library. When asked what her vision is for the library, Liz replied, “that the local children get to experience and see the world through the books in this library”.

Kelley Weg 17

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Feature: World Literature

World Reads for Teens We expats like to think we’re cosmopolitan, but are our bookshelves? Are our children’s bookshelves? If our kids read in English, probably not: Only about 3 percent of children’s/teen books published in the US and UK (the largest Englishlanguage markets) are translations-works written by authors living outside the US/UK, in languages other than English. Yet the world brims with amazing authors writing great stories. Here are a few your teen might enjoy.

Heartsinger by Karlijn Stoffels, translated from Dutch by Laura Watkinson. This novel is an extended folktale centered on the life of Mee, a singer of sorrows. Mee’s journey takes him deep into the lives of several characters: a seaman’s wife, a flute-playing lieutenant, a merrymaker, a princess, a farrier. With each look into someone’s soul, the tale grows more heartbreaking, or heartopening.

Though not a habitual reader of folktales, I find I care about the characters and messages in Heartsinger every time I open it. Mature themes make it a teen-and-up read.

Please Look After Mom by Kyung-sook Shin, translated from Korean by Chi-young Kim, markets as adult fiction but offers much to older teens. It follows members of a South Korean family as they search for the mother, who disappeared from a subway platform in Seoul. The family’s stories illuminate changes in South Korea from preWorld War II to the present, including urbanization and economic growth. The parents’ suffering during and after the war, the mother’s sacrifices, and the children’s journeys from the country to city careers-which do not bring the ease one might expect-stun and serve as food for thought.

Masterfully voiced.

A Time of Miracles by Anne-Laure Bondoux, translated from French by Y. Maudet, follows a refugee boy and his mother from the Caucasus (between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea) to France over a period of several years. Their journey is fraught with peril, due to conflict that follows the collapse of the Soviet Union. The stories they tell one another to keep hope alive are sometimes all that stand between them and the bombs, Kalashnikovs, hunger, cold, illness, and 18

exploitation that fill their world. The steps the boy must take alone on the way give terrifying life to the label “unaccompanied minor.” This book imparts a thirst for peace.

Finally, Dragon Sword and Wind Child by Noriko Ogiwara, translated from Japanese by Cathy Hirano, is a story with a backstory: It was published in the US in the 1990s and fell out of print, but it drew such a following that copies were stolen from libraries, and a fan retyped the entire novel online for others to read. A new publisher proposed a revised re-issue, and the result is a handsome volume illustrated by Miho Satake.

The novel follows 15-year-old Saya as she battles warring forces and her own destiny in Toyoashihara, a mythical ancient Japan.

Happy reading!

The above titles are available in the ISB Main Library.

Avery Udagawa

Feature: World Literature

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Community Fitness and Activities

The Community Fitness and Activities page lists local classes/groups that meet regularly.

Some have fees associated with them, while others are free. Please contact each group leader for more information.

If you would like to list your group here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each month to nnradverts@yahoo.com.

Yoga & Meditation KUNDALINI YOGA-Give Strength, Flexibility and Awareness to Body and Mind Beginners to advanced welcome!

Tuesdays 9am-10:30am, Thursdays 10:30am-Noon Fridays 8am-9:30am Danicha Condo 39/289. Private classes available.

Contact Kers,n Wild kers,n.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750 FB: yogaofawareness Visit www.Yoga-of-Awareness.com.

IYENGAR YOGA Iyengar yoga classes at the Regent, from Beginners to Advanced Asanas. Every weekday (Monday to Friday) from 08:00 am. to 09:30 am.

Contact: 0812853050, Juan Bodan, Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga Cer,fied. For more informa,on about Juan please visit h@p://kripa-yoga.com/

YOGA WITH NAPISA Monday, 8:45-10:15 am: All levels, Energize and Restora ve Yoga. Wednesday 7:30-9am: Level 2, Wednesday 5:30-6:45 pm: Level 1-2, Friday 7:308:45 am: Level 1- 2 @ Nichada Fitness Studio above Starbucks.

Contact Napisa C. Pant, 086-975-7187, napisapant.yoga@gmail.com, FB: YogaWithNapisa

PanZen YOGA All levels. A great way to improve your flexibility, core strength and get balance in your life.

Private 1000 baht- up to two people/private at your house 1200 baht. Private- three people and up is 400baht/person Public Classes: A 10 pack of one hour drop-in classes is 2,000 baht.

Tuesday 3:45-4:45 & 5:15-6:15 pm (intermediate) Wednesday 3:45-4:45 pm (Advance) Thursday 3:45-4:45 & 5:15-6:15 pm (intermediate) Saturday 9:30-10:30 am (beginners) Contact Pan 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com

MEDITATION COURSES -Individual or Group Learn TM (Transcendental Medita on). Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athle c, and professional performance. Anyone can learn. Expert instruc on by a 35-year teacher of medita on.

Contact Ellie Edelhoff eedelhoff@hotmail.com www.TM.org or www.DavidLynchFounda,on.org

Tutorials PIANO LESSONS FOR ALL AGES and ALL LEVELS By experienced professional with a Masters from University of Ariz. in Piano Performance and experience teaching at Westover School in Connec cut. Place: 39/891 Regent Price: 1000 baht per 30 minutes Contact Info: capricio310@gmail.com Tel: 091-878-6283

WORLD ENGLISH Enjoy refining skills in oral English and composi on with American, DEBORAH DUNTHORN, BA, MFA, TESL Cert. 30 years interna onal experience coaching academic, professional, and other clients of all ages and levels of proficiency. To discuss private or group tui,on contact 083-055-9785 or debhata@yahoo.com.

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Community Fitness and Activities

Dance Classes

SPIRIT DANCE Join the party in a dance fitness/wellness class.

Swing and sway in a carefree and fun filled environment, to great music from virtually every genre. Spirit Dance incorporates various dance arts as well as movement from mar al and healing arts, and it embodies a holis c approach: Strength, mobility and flexibility for your body, with bliss, delight and ela on for your mind. Let your hair down. Let your SPIRIT soar. Let your life DANCE. Classes are at a drop-in basis. Fridays, 9.30-10.30am, at Dance Studio above Starbucks For further info, contact Irit: 0860044840 iritmike@gmail.com

LATIN RHYTHYMS DANCE Improve your dance skills in different rhythms: cumbia, salsa, merengue, bachata, rock & roll, pop.

Mondays: 8:30-9:30 advanced Tuesdays: 8:30-9:30 beginners Wednesdays: 8:30-9:30 advanced One more day will be opened for beginners.

All classes held in Nichada Raintree 39/776 Contact: Blanca De la Vega Tel 0863483287

BOLLYWOOD DANCE Bollywood dance is an exci ng and upbeat fusion of Western and Eastern dances with tradi onal classical Indian dance styles.

It’s funky, it’s sexy, it’s fun... and it’s a great workout! If you love to dance – this is for you!

Wednesdays or Thursdays or Fridays 9:30-10:30am All classes held in Nichada Studio above Starbucks.

For further informa,on, contact Irit: 0860044840 iritmike@gmail.com

Sports BIKING Weekend bike rides, leaving from back gate at 7am, 50+km on mtn bikes.

Contact Chris: caoglesby@hotmail.com Weekday rides leave the back gate at 7:30 a.m.

Distance and terrain varies with groups for both road bikes and mountain/hybrid bikes.

Contact Meg: megfarrellsine@gmail.com or 084-908-9388

MASTERS SWIMMING Nichada Pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30-8:30.

Every swimmer is welcome. Contact Kevin: ksypolt@gmail.com or Kers,n: kers,n.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750

RANGER BOOTCAMP: Come have fun and get fit at Ranger Bootcamp!

All fitness levels are welcome!

Class Times: 7:30am, Monday - Friday + addi onal day/night classes per demand Loca on: Varies depending on class and me Fees: varies Contact: Jack at rangerbootcamp@hotmail.com or 087-552-6007

TENNIS WITH SAGI Certified tennis coach, teaching the Play & Stay method on Nichada tennis court, for all ages and levels. Private lessons and groups of up to four.

7 days a week, flexible hours.

Tennis is EASY, FUN and HEALTHY, see you on the court!

Contact Sagi Luft at 092-271-2110 Email: sagiluft@hotmail.com

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Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Heard It Through the GRAPEVINE This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips that are helpful to others. If you have tips to share, please send them to Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com.

Local Coffee Shop Offers Service with a Smile There is a new coffee place out on Si Chai Thong, Alley 6, called Moka Pot. It’s a nice, trendy alternative to Starbucks, especially if expats are out there in the morning, buying fresh fruits and vegetables.

Khun Bee, the owner (holding the Moka pot in the attached photo), speaks fluent English since she studied in the U.S. Her staff are very friendly. There is limited, cozy seating, complete with air/con!

Tim Robertson

Van Rentals for Exploring Thailand

When I go visit refugee camps in northern Thailand, I always rent a van with enough room for donations and volunteers. Then we all sit back and leave the driving on winding mountain roads to a professional driver whose service is included with the van rental. The cost of van and driver is a reasonable B2,000 per day. Cost of tolls and fuel is paid by the passenger client. The 24

driver takes care of his own food and lodging during the trip.

My go-to van service is with Khun Tawat (081-846-1186). His drivers are always ontime and reliable, and they drive safely.

However, they don’t speak English, so knowledge of basic Thai would be helpful.

Some of my friends have used Khun Tawat’s vans for in-city day rentals to tour Bangkok with out-of-town visitors.

Another option is Khun Warin, who does speak a little bit of English. He also charges B2,000 per day, fuel and tolls not included. His mobile number is 089-532-6664.

Another alternative is the Montri bus company, which transports students for many schools in Bangkok. Montri can be reached at 0-2906-0160.

Liz Lu

Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

BCD Club Provides Design Resources

Bcd.bonthavorn.com

To dovetail with this month’s cover story about library resources in Greater Bangkok, I’d like to share an insider’s tip about an excellent resource for books and other reference materials on interior design and construction. It’s the BCD Club Lounge at Boonthavorn, a nationwide chain store for construction supplies.

BCD Club lounges are at all Boonthavorn branches. The one on Ratchadaphisek Road is spacious, modern and comfortable. It’s just like a fancy library and has the atmosphere of an airline VIP lounge. There are plenty of tables for designers and contractors to plan projects, plus sofa seating for customers who would like to consult the generous collection of design books.

Beverages and snacks are also provided.

Boonthavorn also hosts seminars for BCD Club members. Simply apply for a card at any branch.

Business card and photo ID required.

Liz Lu

Embroidery Shop Adds a Personal Touch On the second floor of the Tesco Lotus building next to HomePro on Chaengwattana Road, there’s a machine embroidery shop that can personalize all sorts of fabric-based items, from t-shirts to backpacks to caps and hats.

Whereas I paid US$15 per name to have my nieces’ names embroidered on bags in the U.S., the same job at the shop costs a mere B60, less than US$2.

So, if you’ve picked up lots of gifts to take to friends and relatives in your home country, and if you’d like to make the gift extra special, take it to the Lotus shopping complex and personalize it.

Most shopping malls in Thailand have similar shops, so keep an eye out for them.

Liz Lu 25

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Charity

Generous Dona5ons to Neighborhood Library

(Above) Library volunteer Kelley Weg (left) receiving books from White Elephant representatives (Below) Library founder Liz Lu and Boy Scouts who donated their own books.

The Bumble Bee Free Library in our Pakkred neighborhood has magically turned from an empty shophouse into a welcoming oasis for reading and activities, thanks to the incredibly generous donations from scores of individuals and groups in our community, both local Thais as well as expatriates, and even a librarian from the U.S. who mailed us supplies.

Check out the photos at the bottom of this page for the before and after views of how donations of books, furniture and supplies have transformed an empty room into a community hub buzzing with activities and energy.

A BIG thank you goes to: White Elephant: A B20,000 book donation plus an air conditioner to be installed just in time for the coming hot season, and a keyboard and monitor.

Warta Family: An Apple laptop and big fan.

Vara Sumetanon: Outdoor sign for the library.

Libby Pool: Rocking chairs and large bookcase.

Charintip Tiyaphorn, manager of Mansions in the Park: Large round coffee table and side table.

Khun Soup, landlord of the library shophouse: Wooden bench and electric fan.

Helen Weir: Large donation of books.

NNR: Newspapers and magazines, and a printer.

Bob Nattee Kosolpisit: Graphic design of banner.

Liz Frame: Library cards and book pockets.

Mrs. Giles’ 2nd Grade Class: Books Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts: Books AND‌Scores of other folks who also donated books from their personal collections: Your name is listed as the donor in each book you gave.

If I inadvertently left out a name, please pardon me. Please know we appreciate all that you do to support the Bumble Bee Free Library.

Liz Lu

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Community News

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

New Businesses to Check Out: Café Kabul Café Kabul, formerly known as Sapna and Shawn Carpets, has joined together and moved slightly closer to Nichada’s main gate on Soi Prasert Issaram.

The decision to blend and move the two businesses was made because the lease was up on the former location, said Café Kabul owner Shawn Akbar. His former landlord plans to open his own business at the house located directly opposite Que Pasa restaurant.

Café Kabul officially opened on February 26. Its hours are from 11 am to 9 pm daily. The café specializes in Indian and Afghan halal food and will provide delivery service as well as full sit-down service in the restaurant.

The carpet display is to the right of the dining area, so one can browse and shop after a meal. Shawn Carpets sells hand woven carpets from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran. The shop offers washing, cleaning and repair services as well. Shawn also offers free carpet appraisals and free pick up and delivery for his carpet cleaning service.

Barb Lewis

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Community News

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Party Guys Simplifies Party Planning

A one-stop shop for party supplies opened in January just outside Nichada’s main gate.

Manager Anthony Stennes, 24, not only imports candles, glow sticks, confetti and classic American candies (Fireballs, Lemon Heads, Gobbstoppers, etc.), but he also sells foil balloons with helium. The helium service has not been available in the neighborhood for several years ever since Que Pasa restaurant stopped offering it.

With a nod to his Canadian roots, Anthony also offers Tim Horton coffee and Caesar Teazer seasoning and Bloody Mary mix.

“I decided to open the party store because

my little sister goes to ISB”, said Anthony. His dad, Wayne Stennes, is the owner of the shop.

Anthony said customers told him his prices are cheaper than those of competitors selling party supplies, and he said his imported products are of better quality than those from Chinatown.

“I’m getting mostly expats in Nichada, but I do get random Thai kids who just want to try it out,” said Anthony.

Party Guys is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm.

Liz Lu

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When Life Feels Overwhelming Reach Out for Help‌ For more than 30 years, Carl Janowitz has provided therapy for adults, couples, adolescents and families. Carl spent most of his life in the US where he earned his Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and completed his internship before working in both residential settings and private practice. In 2003, he was offered a full time position as the only Western Psychologist at Bumrungrad Hospital where he spent five years in clinic before going into private practice. Now with offices in both Bangkok and Pattaya, Carl specializes in clients dealing with life changes, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety and stress and also focuses on both adolescents and adults with self esteem issues.

For a confidential appointment please call 089 680 3503 or counselor_cj@bangkoktherapy.com www.bangkoktherapy.com

Carl Janowitz Marriage and Family Therapist Circle One Building 1674 Petchaburi Rd. (Near Bumrungrad) 41

Highlights: NNR February Coffee

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

A Morning at Cherry Sweet Kitchen Thank you to everyone that came to the NNR February coffee at Cherry Sweet Kitchen in the Nichada Plaza. It was nice to see a lot of new faces and also a lot of familiar faces.

Over 30 people attended, and Cherry was very happy about the turnout. It is nice to support a local business. We also took orders for the book Nichada, Life in a Bubble. Hope you were able to place your order, because the latest print run may sell out soon.

Thank you to Cherry and all on her staff for a great coffee morning.

Denise Warta

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Highlights: NNR February Tour

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

KoKret Bicycle Tour: Island in Our Midst

While living inside Nichada Thani can often feel like being on an island, discovering a real island just minutes away was a real treat for a dozen Nichada newbies lead by NNR Tour Coordinator Susanne Rodrigues.

On February 11, Susanne guided a bicycle tour around Kokret, a car and cart-free island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River near Pakkred, just a few minutes from Nichada by car, plus several ferry stops.

Kokret, which is home to one of Thailand’s oldest settlements of ethnic Mon people, is encircled by a path perfect for a leisurely bike ride on rented bicycles. You can also bring your own bike across on a ferry.

NNR tour participants enjoyed learning about the island, the people and traditions while winding around the island’s perimeter and through neighborhoods, along waterways and several markets. We had a stunningly perfect and (relatively) cool day to take our time along the way, with several stops to hear about island life and to photograph the landscape and scenery. One unusal sight was a porcelain toilet bowl on its own island in a canal among trees and vegetation; it was definitely a landmark!

Kokret is also home to skilled potters. Our group visited one such village where the local clay was being collected and shaped at the potter’s

wheel. A large kiln was just steps away from a beautiful display of finished pieces for sale. The group also took a break a short time later to enjoy salads, rice and soups at a local restaurant before returning our bikes and heading back on the boat to do a bit of shopping near the Pakkred ferry stop.

Through the course of the morning, our expert guide shared her knowledge of the island and many Thai traditions. During our half-day adventure, Susanne also took over riding a member’s bike after it lost a pedal, and she later managed to track down a part of the group that cruised far ahead after missing the alley into the pottery village! Many thanks to Susanne, who made the tour of Ko Kret a delightful experience.

Colleen Fielkow

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Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Travel: KoKret

Glimpses of Kokret Island, Nonthaburi (Including a dog who didn’t read the sign)

Photos by NNR Tour participants 44

Travel: KoKret

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

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Restaurant Review

Thani TalkTalk-March 2016

Les Poussins Charming French Bistro Just Across the River

Craving French food but don’t want to go downtown? Or pay the exorbitant price? I have a nice French restaurant not far from Nichada to recommend to you; it’s “Les Poussins”, which means little chicks in French.

This restaurant is located at the Crystal PTT Chaiyapruek. If you take Chaengwattana road out of Nichada, head west towards Pakkret. Cross the Rama IV Bridge and the little bridge that comes right after. This mall will be on your left hand side.

The restaurant is inside the mall to the left.

Les Poussins is small with only around 10 to 15 tables at the most, but they are not usually busy.

We always get a table whenever we go on a Friday or Saturday night without booking. The décor is nice and cozy and welcoming for families.

To start off, we ordered some mixed cheese fondue served with French baguette for 360 baht.

The fondue was served with bacon bits and sweetened chopped up almonds on the side.

Everything compliments each other perfectly.

Since we frequent the venue on a regular basis, we have several dishes to recommend. For 490 baht, you get four giant prawns Thermidor with homemade hash brown. This creamy dish is excellent and is always our favorite. Their baked salmon in the pocket is another good dish to order at the price of 360 baht. For the little ones, the baked macaroni and cheese comes highly recommended by my 7-year-old picky little eater.

This one is priced at 250 baht. The dish I would not recommend would be the steak. The meat was

not tender and it was overcooked.

In terms of drinks, Les Poussins runs a promotion once in a while waiving the corkage fee. Since I am a regular, I do not usually have to pay the fee so I cannot tell you how much it is. But if you choose not to bring your own wine, Les Poussins has a nice selection of mostly French wines to choose from. There are also a few cocktails available too, but I’ve never tried them.

After your meal, if you feel like having dessert, Les Poussins has a few to offer. My family tried the all-time favorite chocolate lava and it gets a two thumbs-up from my children. I can’t tell you how good it is, because unfortunately it’s usually all gone before I can get my spoon into it.

In summary, Les Poussins is a French restaurant (almost) just across the river that’s worth a try. Hope you enjoy it like we do.

Vara Sumetanon

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Providing highquality quality custom custom tailoring forfor more Providing high tailoring more than 45 years, Raja’s Fashions has been featured in than 45 years, Men's Vogue Magazine, Interna onal Living, Worth Raja’s Fashions has been featured in Men's Vogue Magazine, Esquire, Fortune, Bangkok Guide, Lonely Magazine, Planet, Frommer’s Guide, Fodor’s Guide, The Interna onal Living, Worth Magazine, Washington Post, Vivre A Bangkok, CondeEsquire, Nast Fortune, Magazine and many other travel magazines.

Bangkok Guide, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s Guide,

DRESS SHARP. LOOK SHARP. FEEL SHARP.

Delivery Restaurant Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai Cuisine BBQ Sandwich King Bukhara (Afghan/Indian) Burger King/Pizza Company Cherry’s Cakes Food Loft Hot Spot Restaurant and Bar (Indian and Chinese Food) KFC and Pizza Hut Le Bouchon Food Delivery McDonald’s Mr. Enzo’s New York Diner Pinocchio's Que Pasa

Phone 02-952-0031 086-773-4140 082-443-1398 1112 02-831-5588 084-671-8318 1150 02-960-3011 1711 02-960-0412 081-624-2099 02-573-5646

02-960-3821

Sapna (Indian and Afghan food delivery)

02-960-3141

Scoozi Subway Sudhathai Slider Shack

02-715-8555 02-960-3232 02-583-2694 086-773-4140

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Local Business Bamboo Spa Bank Krungsri Blue Sky Café Bumrungrad Family Clinic Clark Hatch Fitness Center Crystal Holiday Travel Hair By Jib Happy Teeth Dental Clinic Great Massage ISB Le Studio Hair Nichada Customer Relations Pandit Carpets Panipa Pum’s Salon Rex Pharmaplus Rose Marie Academy Shawn Carpets Starbucks Twist Villa Market Wash-N-Dry 4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming

Phone 02-583-9871 02-582-2669 081-811-8455 02-960-4216 02-960-4326 / 27 085-042-6054

02-960-3783 02-960-3988 02-960-3691 02-963-5800 084-022-9928 02-960-4300 081-828-2562 02-960-3934 02-583-7117 081 834 1306 02-960-3663 090-564-8927 02-967-9686 02-911-6839 02 -584-5444 085-945-4132 02-960-4189

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