How a dying book shop saved a screen-addicted kid

2 Oct 11:43 Key points summarised by AI

Thai children are increasingly addicted to screens, with research showing 85% play online games and many spend five hours daily, leading to potential issues like ADHD symptoms.
Traditional book rental shops, once popular for comic books, have largely vanished, but a few, like 'Uncle Yai's' in Bangkok, struggle to survive.
Nine-year-old Papasarat, previously hooked on her mobile phone, was introduced to Uncle Yai's shop by her father, who sought to curb her screen addiction.
By renting physical books, Papasarat transformed into a bookworm, escaping her screen habit and saving her family money, while her patronage helps keep the struggling bookshop open.

The Buddha comes home

20 Oct 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is an annual three-day festival in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, where the Shan people celebrate the Buddha's mythical return from Tavatimsa heaven, marking the end of Buddhist Lent.
Families construct intricate "Chong Para" miniature palaces, decorated with colorful paper and ornaments, as an act of faith and a means of preserving traditional Shan craftsmanship across generations.
The festival transforms the quiet mountain town with vibrant folk music, traditional Shan bird dances, martial arts performances, and lively processions, immersing visitors in local culture.
It offers a unique glimpse into the living Shan traditions of Mae Hong Son, distinct from other northern Thai regions, fostering community bonds and cultural transmission.