Publisher's Synopsis
Title: Lights in the DarknessGenre: Non- fictionCountry of origin: Bhutan A heart - wrenching non-fiction story of a young boy from a land of Gross National Happiness - Bhutan.The kid`s Spiritual maturity and seriousness in his dealing with life is so impressive ( Astee's memoir,2/09/2016). Norbu Jamtsho's difficult journey has taken him from his peaceful childhood village, where he spent his days in harmony together with his family, to the hopeless role of acting father to his three younger siblings. Through it all he has, and continues to, tirelessly pursue his education with hopes of a better future.Norbu is the fourth of the seven children to his parents born on 2nd of September 1996. Life was easier with parental warmth where togetherness was the culture, herding the cows in the rain and leeches were the only worries then. His educational journey began at the late age of eight with immense self-motivation and interest for learning. Everything went well until his father had to say goodbye to this world and his mother had to play the dual role of a parent. Life was not easy for Norbu.Life for Norbu worsened when his mother remarried and with no option left him and his three younger siblings back at home. Things were becoming tough to toughest. Norbu and his three younger siblings become like a wingless chicks. Now Norbu had a responsibility of a father and mother to shoulder- taking care of his siblings and continuing his education. No matter what odds life brings to Norbu he did not give up his education. He consistently scored near the top of the class. Raising three kids when he is still a child is a big appreciation. He did it both. Norbu's shortened childhood is a becoming of a man. The boldness he exhibits in becoming the man of the house is an inspiration to all. The audacity of the "manly child" undertakes to feed the younger ones and the circumstance he overcomes against the departure are sheer joy to admire (Astee's memoir, 2/09/2016). Reflecting on his life, Norbu finds that he has more than his fair share of memories- some cherished and many more that bring him to tears.From his tales comes not only an understanding of Norbu and Bhutanese life, but also an understanding of humanity. We are made to see the full impact of our actions on one another. He gives his memories without criticisms or embellishments of an adult mind; they are given with clarity and simple honestly that hi found only in youth. Death, religion, family, development and cultural norms are all presented in his simple, innocent way.
