literary works
Authentically and Unapologetically Indo. Life Lessons from the Indo People Inspiring Short Stories & Essays on Culture, History, and Heart.
Celebrate Indo heritage through essays and short stories that capture the humor, warmth, and wisdom of the Indo (Dutch-Eurasian) people, with roots in the former Dutch East Indies—often overlooked in the English-speaking world. Told with honesty, pride, and joy, these pieces explore identity, culture, and the everyday beauty of life as the child of Indo immigrants.
This collection highlights unique Indo nuances, such as the adoooeeeees, kasssssiaaaans, and botol cebok, which define the authenticity of the Indo people and reflect their distinctive spirit.
Work of Literary Fiction Inspired by True Events
An Indo – Canadian Immigrant Story
The Indo Under the Maple Tree is a poignant literary fiction narrated by David, a fictional character whose life reflects the experience of an Indo (Indische Nederlander) immigrant family. Set in Canada during the 1970s–90s, David’s story is shaped by the intergenerational trauma inherited from his parents, who survived the horrors of World War II, the Bersiap Period, and displacement from the former Dutch East Indies.
In the multicultural landscape of Canada, David embraces his Indo heritage with pride, celebrating traditions like Pasar Malams, Sinterklaas, and backyard satay, while navigating the complexities of life in a new land. His visits to the Netherlands deepen his connection to his roots, unveiling both the pride and struggles of his family’s history.
A rare English-language exploration of the Indo immigrant experience, The Indo Under the Maple Tree is a heartfelt tale of cultural preservation, intergenerational healing, and the enduring power of culture.