Point of View

"Bamboo People" is recounted in the first-person narrative. The book is separated into two parts. Part One is told by Chiko and is from his perspective. The reader learns of the young boy's hopes and fears. He loves to read and wants to become a teacher but he lives in fear that his father, who was arrested by the police, might not still be alive.

Part Two is recounted by Tu Reh. He is filled with resentment and rage. The image of his burning house, torched by Burmese soldiers, is seared in his mind and compels him to seek revenge.

Although the story is centered on unrest, war, and political oppression, the ability of the human spirit to prevail despite these difficult circumstances also shines through the book. The ordeal of young boys forced to fight and kill, is lightened by the sweetness and innocence that...