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A review by khairun_atika
The Keepers of Stories by Suffian Hakim
3.0
"We live in a world where a man is expected to meet a set of ideals imposed on him by society, more so than a man is expected to be the best he can be." - The Keepers of Stories by Suffian Hakim
Filled with warmth, intrigue and the power of kinship, this is a compelling story. What's interesting is the foundation and importance of stories that drives this tale forward, making it a truly unique storytelling experience in Singapore literature.
Sujakon and his two children, Hakeem and Zulaika were driven out of their own home after Sujakon's past came to hunt them. Desperate to stay alive, Sujakon sought refuge in the elusive and mysterious Anak Bumi community, the discreet inhabitants of Changi Beach.
Living far from the luxuries of the city, they thrive on island survival while also guarding the patronage of Wayang Singa. They keep their legacies alive by keeping the stories of those who came before them. While fearing that Sujakon's past would beckon again, Hakeem and Zulaika learnt to live in the community, while also trying to guard themselves from the forces that threaten the survival of the community.
The Keeper of Stories pay homage to the folk tales and myths of Asia, while also alluding to the different aspects of Singapore's history. Intriguing yet compelling, it is a story of two siblings who are trying to make sense of their own past while worrying about their future. I enjoyed reading about the many references to Singapore, the Malay community and even the lessons about Islam.
There is also an ounce of familiarity in the way the locations and cultural references are weaved into the story. In all, it is truly a delightful experience to enjoy a story that truly pays homage to our local culture and history.
Filled with warmth, intrigue and the power of kinship, this is a compelling story. What's interesting is the foundation and importance of stories that drives this tale forward, making it a truly unique storytelling experience in Singapore literature.
Sujakon and his two children, Hakeem and Zulaika were driven out of their own home after Sujakon's past came to hunt them. Desperate to stay alive, Sujakon sought refuge in the elusive and mysterious Anak Bumi community, the discreet inhabitants of Changi Beach.
Living far from the luxuries of the city, they thrive on island survival while also guarding the patronage of Wayang Singa. They keep their legacies alive by keeping the stories of those who came before them. While fearing that Sujakon's past would beckon again, Hakeem and Zulaika learnt to live in the community, while also trying to guard themselves from the forces that threaten the survival of the community.
The Keeper of Stories pay homage to the folk tales and myths of Asia, while also alluding to the different aspects of Singapore's history. Intriguing yet compelling, it is a story of two siblings who are trying to make sense of their own past while worrying about their future. I enjoyed reading about the many references to Singapore, the Malay community and even the lessons about Islam.
There is also an ounce of familiarity in the way the locations and cultural references are weaved into the story. In all, it is truly a delightful experience to enjoy a story that truly pays homage to our local culture and history.