Pramoedya Ananta Toer

sebuah novel sejarah

Arus balik

Karim Nas

I don't even know where to begin the praise for this absolutely magnificent book by Pramoedya Ananta Toer. Finishing this nearly 800 pages book felt like finishing a long and adventurous journey. But what a journey it was.

This book has it all: political intrigue, family drama, naval warfare, espionage, betrayal, violence, and more. "Arus Balik" is beautifully written. It has multi-dimensional characters and a complex plot. And Pramoedya Anata Toer absolutely had an extensive knowledge of 16th century history. By far one of the best book I've ever read.

In this book we are taken to 16th century Java, just decades after the fall of the mighty Majapahit empire. A story about a village boy who rose to become his duchy's most feared warrior. We followed his trials and tribulations, from Java to Sumatra to the Malayan peninsula. From his days as a spy to his final days as the supreme general of his fallen land. We followed the life of his gorgeous wife whom endured a tragic fate. And how their warrior son must overcome the monster of his past.

Had I the authority, I would make this book an mandatory read for each and every Indonesian students. This book can burn a fiery passion for our nation's past glory days in your heart. And a heightened sense of pride for our nation's heritage in the mind. This book by one of our prominent writers, is definitely an Indonesian masterpiece. A national treasure.

Arus balik sebuah novel sejarah