Within the Realm of Happiness

by Kinley Dorji

This collection of 13 short stories, memoirs, and essays represents a mix of childhood memories, travel tales, and contemporary reflections on a rapidly changing populace. As Bhutan joins the modern world Kinley Dorji provides sensitive insights into the dilemmas that the people, and society, confront everyday.

He uses a number of creative non-fiction writing styles to undertake a small journey into Bhutanese society. The stories go far beyond the pages of this book.

209 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Phu Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually don't read books by Bhutanese author. But this one by an ace journalist is a must read book. I don't usually complete any book within two days. This one is a page turner. I enjoyed every words.

The collection of 13 short stories. memoirs and essays through his creative non-fiction writing style depicts the journey into small Bhutanese society and where the country is headed.

Mixed with humor, dark sarcasm and satire, this book is a complete package.

#mustread

[Katie Bimson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully selected series of short stories that highlight some of the most important aspects of Bhutan: Buddhism, history, and the strong connections amongst people and nature. Well worth a read for anyone who wants insight into Bhutan and Bhutanese values.

[Anjolau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have recently visited Bhutan and bought this book from the Art Cafe in Thimphu. This is a very interesting book and I highly recommend it to those who is interested in Bhutan. It is written from a Bhutanese perspective with stories of old Bhutan and the Bhutan that is currently under modernisation. It also provides insights of the local mentality and lifestyle, part of which I did not get to experience myself when I was there. Reading this book was like travelling the villages in Bhutan once again. I only wish the author Kinley Dorji, who is the Chief Editor and Managing Director of the local newspaper Kuensel, will release more books.

[Snigdha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently back from a short trip to Bhutan, 'within the realm of happiness' made every bit of me yearn for this happy little land again.
Bhutan affects you. Just as someone says in the book- I'm not a spiritual person but, when i reached taktshang, i cried", I did. And my eyes welled up again reading this book.

Dorji beautifully relates the story of Bhutan, a land of uncomplicated people, stuck in complicated times.
Read it if you haven't been to Bhutan and wish to know more, and definitely read it if you have, and miss it like I do!

[Xia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed the 13 tales in the book. Not only does Dorji provide profound insights to culture, and traditions in Bhutan, he also depicts the current environment and dilemmas of the country in its socio-economic development. While Bhutan is the main focus through the pages, there have been inclusions of travels to other countries of the East and West which provide a more holistic perspective to Bhutan's bearings from an outsider's view. I am truly thankful to the author for a book as enjoyable, insightful and classic as this one.

[Alex Malozemoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a unique book about a unique country Bhutan, the country that evaluates its progress in terms of Gross National Happiness. Indeed, it is a Shangri-la, one of those rare untouched unspoiled gems which still remain in the world. And the book reveals its struggle to modernize while attempting to preserve its unique Himalayan Buddhist culture.

[Lucinda Fleeson]

I'm becoming interested in Bhutan. .

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like Bhutan, this book is pure, simple and easy to read. It consists of 13 beautiful short stories and it is a book which I will not mind reading all over again.