A charming rendition of the Thai version of the Indian epic, the Ramayana, illustrated with the 152 bas-reliefs from Wat Phra Jetubon, Bangkok (better known to many as Wat Po). Even those very familiar with the Ramayana will enjoy this version, where the hero is Phra Ram and the heroine Nang [Lady] Seeda and the Demon King of Lanka, Totsagan. The Thai version is a much rowdier version than the Indian, perhaps reflecting the Thais more casual attitudes towards the weaknesses of humans (and gods) and their pleasure in life and its enjoyment (sanuk). In this version, Hanuman dallies with a number of lovely maidens, even fathering a son by one who eventually will play a small role in helping Hanuman in the 14-year epoch wars that re-unite Ram and Seeda.

Another story lies behind the Ramakien in this edition, and that is the mystery of the 152 bas-reliefs. Where did they come from? Were they salvaged from Ayutthaya after its fall and later brought to Bangkok? Were they made in Bangkok for War Phra Jetubon's walls? Both possibilities exist and the author, J. M. Caden, who once lived and worked in Bangkok, presents both sides of the arguments, and then withdraws to allow the reader to make his/her own conclusion.

Finally, the author's introduction to this text is charming in its capturing of some of the mystique of the Thai people. As a former resident (and still-frequent visitor), I had to smile at the opening sentence: "The Thai are one of the more elusive peoples of the Orient."

In short, a charming book I've had on my shelves for 24 years, but had never read before this week. Foolish me! Highly recommended to anyone interested in Thai history, culture, literature, psychology, mythology, or just in search of a good story. Perfect for young readers 12 given Hanuman's proclivities and a lot of battles, but all good-natured featuring a monkey who can make himself as big as a mountain or as small as a single hair. ( )