On our Christmas wish list: 'Chronicle of Thailand'

Just in time for Christmas, “Chronicle of Thailand: Headline News Since 1946” was added to Thai bookstore shelves this week.

Don't get me wrong. I find most history books just as yawn-worthy as the next gal. But this one is different. Published by Editions Didiers Millet and Post Publishing, it actually recaps major events in Thailand as they were reported through headline news, with its 444 pages set up chronologically in a really nice, easy-to-read format.

This is not the kind of book you’re going to slip into your laptop bag for the morning commute. It’s very heavy, filled with over 1,800 photographs, illustrations and cartoons as well as 2,300 headline stories, most of which were taken from the "Bangkok Post’s" archives.

All the big events are in there of course, starting with the 1946 accession to the throne of His Majesty the King before moving into the Vietnam War era, the October 1973 uprising, economic booms, economic crashes, sporting triumphs, national tragedies, entertainment highlights, style makers and more. There are also some amusing bits that hit headlines included as well, making it a truly entertaining read. You might even learn something.

Buyers outside the country can pre-order a copy on Amazon. The retail price is US$42 while at Asia Books and Kinokuniya it costs around 1,450 baht. It’s an awesome gift for anyone with an interest in Thailand, not just history buffs. I’ve already bought one for my dad for Christmas. (Hope he doesn’t read this.)