Josephine Chia

The most significant aspect of living in a kampong was its kampong spirit—or gotong royong. Though deprived of modern comforts like electricity or running water, multi-racial neighbours lived harmoniously with each other in their attap villages, had a wonderful zest for life and a strong sense of community. 

This refreshed new edition of Kampong Spirit brings to life the colourful characters of the villagers with whom Peranakan author Josephine Chia grew up at a kampong in Potong Pasir. The period 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. 

This 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, a time of reminiscing about those nostalgic years.

Winner of the Singapore Literature Prize for English non-fiction—an essential and vibrant read on what kampong living in Singapore was like.

Ethos Books

Kampong Spirit—Gotong Royong: Life in Potong Pasir, 1955 to 1965

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