Isan Father-in-Law

Book excerpt: Isan Father-in-Law is a biography of the author's father-in-law, Mr Rin. It draws on family and historical sources to uncover his career. Mr Rin is revealed as a teacher, farmer, community leader, rural development activist, conservationist, and father of eight girls.The book traces a family's journey from its Lao origins and traditions into modern Thailand; from the 19th century, through years of hunger (when frogs were a staple diet), the Japanese army's presence, communist insurgency and the Vietnam War, up to the beginning of the 21st century.The reader will find a lot more than just an honourable hard-working northeast Thailand native named Mr. Rin. This journey through the life of Mr. Rin takes the reader into Thai history, culture, law, and background information skilfully woven into the story.