Summary

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A freelance journalist becomes fascinated with the story of an American anthropologist who has been sentenced to life in prison in northern Thailand. Her crime? Killing a Christian missionary. As the journalist delves into the lives of both the perpetrator and victim, he discovers the plight of the native Dyalo tribe as they have become the battleground of an idealistic struggle between anthropology and religion: one side concerned with unearthing the authentic (spirit-worshiping) identity of the tribe, and the other striving for the salvation of its souls. A 2007 National Book Award Finalist, this novel brings the culture and customs of Thailand into vivid focus while its flowing style and compelling story make it easy for the reader to be carried along by its current.