New in the Short Histories of Asia series, edited by Milton Osborne, this is a readable, well-informed and comprehensive history of Indonesia and its peoples, from ancient origins to the present day.
A Short History of Asia Series
This series provides an engaging and accessible journey through the diverse and complex history of Asia. Each volume delves into pivotal eras, civilizations, and events that have shaped this vast and influential continent. It's essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the roots of contemporary Asian societies and their global significance.



A Short History of Japan. From Samurai to Sony.
- 268 pages
- 10 hours of reading
"Offering a compelling introduction to JapanÆs rich culture and fascinating history for travelers, businesspeople, and students, this guide discusses the influence of China; the impact of feudalism, modernization, and imperialism; Japanese history of war and peace; and todayÆs economy and uncertainty. Traced are the threads of history, environment, and culture that run through the centuries to explain much about the Japan of today."
A Short History of Laos
- 272 pages
- 10 hours of reading
This comprehensive and vivid history of Laos is an ideal introduction for tourists, business travelers, and students. Informative and portable, it chronicles the history of Laos from ancient times, when the dynastic states of the region waxed and waned, to the turmoil of the Vietnam War and independence from France. This guide investigates these key events under a new light and presents serious challenges to the conventional views about Laos’s intriguing history.