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5 Best Bookstores in Singapore: For All Book Kinds

1. Kinokuniya Bookstore

2. popular bookstore, 3. times bookstores, 4. booksactually bookstore, 5. basheer graphic books.

It is said that “Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light.”. The aforesaid may match Singaporean’s belief since Singaporeans read a lot and thus bookstores are grown everywhere throughout the country. They can be spacious stores of large bookstore chains or beautiful independent bookstores offering good selections of books.

Herein are the  5 best bookstores in Singapore which are highly voted.

See also: 7 Best Children’s Bookstores in Singapore Your Kids Will Love

• Best for Japanese books
• Phone +65 6276 5558
• Website www.kinokuniya.com.sg
• Email [email protected]

Renowned as the best bookstore chain in Singapore, Kinokuniya offers such a huge range of books and magazines that you can find almost any title there, from English and Chinese books to French novels, and Japanese comics and Taiwanese magazines. Quality stationery imported directly from Japan is also on sale in this place.

Highlights:

• The mega-bookstore Kinokuniya at Ngee Ann City   is the biggest bookstore in Singapore and one of the largest bookstores in Southeast Asia, providing the widest selection of valuable books and magazines uneasy to find elsewhere. This store usually stocks 400,000 books and attracts more than 200,000 visitors every month.
• The best place to buy Japanese books,  mangas , magazines, and stationery.
• It’s convenient to check Kinokuniya’s catalogue using its BookWeb website https://singapore.kinokuniya.com/. You can also order books online and then pay and pick them up at the store.

KINOKUNIYA PRIVILEGE CARD: Kinokuniya members enjoy benefits like buying books at 10% off retail prices and selected products at special discounted prices, attending member sales events organized periodically by Kinokuniya and its partners. Membership cost is S$21.40 for 1-year, S$38.50 for 2-years, and S$55.60 for 3-years.

SERVICE : Kinokuniya staff is efficient and friendly.

STORE LOCATIONS: @ Ngee Ann City Address: 391 Orchard Road, #04-20/20B/20C Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya Shopping Centre Phone: (65) 6737 5021 Opening hours: Sun to Fri 10:00 to 21:30; Sat 10:00 to 22:00

@ Liang Court Address: 177 River Valley Road, #03-50 Liang Court, S179036 Phone: (65) 6337 1300 Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 to 20.30; Fri, Sat, Sun & Public Holiday 10.30 to 21.30

@ Bugis Junction Address: 200 Victoria Street, #03-09 Bugis Junction S188021 Phone: (65) 6339 1790 Opening hours: Daily 10:30 to 22:00

@ JEM Address: 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #04-23 JEM (Jurong East) S608549 Phone: (65) 6430 0868 Opening hours: Sun to Fri 10:00 to 21:30; Sat 10:00 to 22:00

• Best for Chinese books
• Address Block 231 Bain Street #04-23/33 Bras Basah Complex, Singapore 180231
• Phone +65 6339 0772
• Opening hours Mon to Thu 10:00 - 19:00 Fri to Sun & PH 10:00 - 21:00
• Website www.popular.com.sg
• Email [email protected]

POPULAR is a leading Singapore bookstore chain with a long history and a part of many Singaporeans' childhood. Its bookstores are "popular" places for pupils, students, and local readers to spend their leisure time.

• POPULAR is the largest and oldest bookstore chain based in Singapore with an extensive selection of books of all genres, from novels, science fiction books to non-fiction books like business books, biography books, travel guides, language guidebooks, to parenting books and cookbooks. Newspapers, magazines, music CDs, stationery, and computer accessories are also available at their stores.
• A bookstore of choice for buying Chinese books: Among well-known bookstores, POPULAR offers the greatest range of different genres and titles of Chinese books.
• POPULAR bookstores are conveniently located across Singapore: With more than 27 retail stores available all over the city, it is easy for you to visit a POPULAR bookstore near your place.
• The best place to buy school textbooks, assessments books, papers, and school materials. Besides retail stores, POPULAR also operates educational-focused bookshops in many schools and colleges.

POPULAR MEMBER CARD: There are many privileges for POPULAR members like enjoying 10% off at all of its bookstores, 15% off Chinese books, 5% off school/tertiary textbooks, and 5% off at CD-RAMA stores.

Its adult member card is available at S$12.00 for 1 year and S$30.00 for 3 years while the student member card is at S$8.00 for 1 year and S$20.00 for 3 years.

STORE LOCATIONS: @ Tiong Bahru Plaza Address: 302 Tiong Bahru Road #03-20/30 Tiong Bahru Plaza, S168732 Phone: (65) 6375 3910 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Bishan Junction 8 Address: 9 Bishan Place #04-02 Junction 8 Shopping Centre, S579837 Phone: (65) 6478 2500 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Daily 10:30 – 22:00

@ Causeway Point Address: 1 Woodlands Square #03-29/30 Causeway Point, S738099 Phone: (65) 6767 1250 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 22:00

@ Compass Point Address: 1 Seng Kang Square #03-13 Compass Point, S545078 Phone: (65) 6315 6700 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 – 21:30; Fri, Sat & PH:10:30 – 22:00; Sun 10:30 – 21:30

@ Heartland Mall Address: Block 205 Hougang Street 21 Heartland Mall-Kovan #03-00, S530205 Phone: (65) 6287 1664 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 10:30 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:00 – 21.30

@ Hougang Mall Address: 90 Hougang Avenue 10 #03-15 Hougang Mall, Singapore 538766 Phone: (65) 6287 0830 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat 10:30 – 22:00; Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Jubilee Square Address: 61 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8 #02-07/12 Jubilee Square, Singapore 569814 Phone: (65) 6592 5712 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ NEX  Address: 23 Serangoon Central #04-59/60 NEX Mall, S556083 Phone: (65) 6514 6718 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Sun & PH: 10:30 – 22:00

@ Northpoint Address: 930 Yishun Avenue 2 #02-16/17/18 Northpoint Shopping Mall, S769098 Phone: (65) 6852 2100 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 22:00

@ Sembawang Shopping Centre Address: 604 Sembawang Road #02-14/15 Sembawang Shopping Centre, S758459 Phone: (65) 6465 1486 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Thomson NTUC Address: 301 Upper Thomson Road #01-01 Thomson Plaza, S574408 Phone: (65) 6459 6167 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri & Sun 10:30 – 21:30; Sat & PH 10:00 – 21:30

@ Toa Payoh HDB Hub Address: 530 Toa Payoh Lor 6 #02-01, S310530 Phone: (65) 6358 1709 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 10:30 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:00 – 21:30

@ United Square Address: 101 Thomson Road #02-22/25 United Square, S307591 Phone: (65) 6478 2318 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Bedok Mall Address: 311 New Upper Changi Road #B2-02/35/36 Bedok Mall, S467360 Phone: (65) 6702 5011 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Daily 10:30 – 22:00

@ Marine Parade Central Address: Block 86 Marine Parade Central #02-101/102, S440086 Phone: (65) 6344 9884 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:00 – 21:30

@ One KM Address: 11 Tanjong Katong Road #03-30 One KM, S437157 Phone: (65) 6702 2518 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri & Sun 11:00 – 21:00; Sat & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Singapore Post Centre ( Closed ) Address: 10 Eunos Road 8 #B2-07 Singapore Post Centre, S 408600 Phone: (65) 6846 3690 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Tampines Mall Address: 4 Tampines Central 5 #03-17 Tampines Mall, S529510 Phone: (65) 6788 7091 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 – 21:30; Fri, Sat & PH 10:30 – 22: 00; Sun 10:30 – 21:30

@ Bukit Panjang Plaza Address: 1 Jelebu Road Bukit Panjang Plaza #03-01, S677743 Phone: (65) 6765 9040 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Bukit Timah Plaza Address: 1 Jalan Anak Bukit #01-16 Bukit Timah Plaza, S588996 Phone: (65) 6468 2663 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ Clementi Mall Address: 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West #05-01 to 05 The Clementi Mall, S129588 Phone: (65) 6514 6710 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

@ IMM Building Address: 2 Jurong East Street 21 #02-37 IMM Building, S609601 Phone: (65) 6514 6744 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon – Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 22:00

@ Jurong Point Address: 1 Jurong West Central 2 #B1-41 Jurong Point Shopping Centre, S648886 Phone: (65) 6793 5280 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

@ Lot One Address: 21 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 4 #03-13/14 Lot One, S689812 Phone: (65) 6765 9160 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 22:00

@ Westgate Address: 3 Gateway Drive #04-26/27, S608532 Phone: (65) 6375 4836 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 – 21:30; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

@ West Coast Plaza Address: 154 West Coast Road #01-68 West Coast Plaza, S127371 Phone: (65) 6514 6626 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11: 00 – 21:00; Sat, Sun & PH 10:30 – 21:30

• Best for Travel books
• Address 438 Ang Mo Kio Industrial Park 1, #02-01, Singapore 569619
• Phone +65 6459 1355
• Website www.timesbookstores.com.sg
• Email [email protected]

With 10 outlets across Singapore, Times Bookstore is another major book retail chain in prime locations like Orchard Paragon, Plaza Singapura, Holland Village, and Changi Airport.

• Specialized in travel books: Times bookstores, especially Times Travel bookshops at Changi Airport terminals, are popular places to buy traveller-books, travel guidebooks, maps, and travel-related items.
• Interesting events are organized regularly like healthy lifestyle sharing sessions, meet author sessions and exciting children activities such as 3D paper crafting and stained glass kite making lessons.
• Good return policy: Times Bookstores return policy allows customers to return or exchange the purchased books within 7 days of receipt date with no questions asked.
• Free gift wrapping service provided at all Times Bookstores. House wrapping paper is also complimentary.

TIMES PRIVILEGE CARD: Times members enjoy 10% off all full-priced books and stationery products, 5% off magazines, and 20% off birthday voucher. Membership costs S$15 for 2-years.

SERVICE : Times Bookstores staff is professional and helpful.

TIMES BOOKSTORE LOCATIONS: @ Centrepoint Address: 176 Orchard Road, #04-08/09/10/11, S238843 Phone: (65) 6734 9022 Opening hours: Daily 10:30 – 21:30

@ JCube ( Closed ) Address: 2 Jurong East Central 1 , #03-04, S609731 Phone: (65) 6684 4150 Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

@ Jelita Address: 293 Holland Road, #02-16/17 Cold Storage Jelita, S278628 Phone: (65) 6466 5702 Opening hours: Daily 09:30 – 21:00

@ Paragon Address: 290 Orchard Road, Paragon #04-41, S238859 Phone: (65) 6836 6182 Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 21:30

@ Plaza Singapura Address: 68 Orchard Road, #04-05, S238839 Phone: (65) 63368861 Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

@ Tampines 1 Address: 10 Tampines Central 1, #03-06 Singapore 529536 Phone: (65) 6782 7017 Opening hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

TIMES TRAVEL LOCATIONS @ Terminal 1, Changi Airport Address: Departure Transit Lounge, after immigration Phone: (65) 6546 3720 Opening hours: 24/7

@ Terminal 2, Changi Airport Address: Departure Transit Lounge (level 2), after immigration Opening hours: Daily 06:00 to 01:00

@ Terminal 2, Changi Airport Address: Departure Check-in Hall, public area Phone: (65) 6542 2955 Opening hours: Daily 07:00 to 23:00

@ Terminal 3, Changi Airport Address: Departure Transit Lounge, after immigration Phone: (65) 6242 8211 Opening hours: 24/7

@ Terminal 3, Changi Airport Address: Departure Check-in Hall (North), public area Phone: (65) 6214 0098 Opening hours: Daily 07:00 to 23:00

• Best for English literature books
• Address 9 Yong Siak Street, Tiong Bahru, Singapore 168645
• Phone +65 6222 9195
• Opening hours Monday 11:00 - 18:00 Tuesday to Friday 11:00 - 21:00 Saturday 10:00 - 21:00 Sunday 10:00 - 18:00
• Website www.booksactually.com
• Email [email protected]

If you are looking for a lovely good bookstore in your leisure time or to buy a nice book, BooksActually is a good choice. This is a favorite place of avid readers and literature students.

• BooksActually stocks the largest collection of English literature books with rare and unique titles of Murakami, Salinger, Capote, Nabokov, and Sweeney. You can also find many local novels of Singaporean authors.
• A vintage quaint bookshop with a warm relaxing atmosphere provides visitors enjoyable and pleasurable book-browsing ambience. The back of the store is a small charming area with attractive vintage and retro items on sale.
• Located at the nostalgic and hip Tiong Bahru estate: You can spend your whole weekend morning or afternoon enjoying all the best things Tiong Bahru neighbourhood has to offer such as art cafes, beautiful classic bakeries, fashion boutiques, cosy restaurants, and lively wet market.

SERVICE : BooksActually staff are book lovers themselves, they are always willing to recommend good books that suit your taste.

NOTE : The bookstore is quite small so it’s difficult to move around when crowded.

GETTING THERE:

• Buses : 120, 147, 167, 196, 197, 961, and 961# (Walk 6 mins from bus stop B10069)
• Nearest MRT Station : Tiong Bahru MRT (EW17) (Walk 8 mins from Exit A)

• Best for Graphic books
• Address 231 Bain Street, #04-19 Bras Basah Complex Singapore 180231
• Phone +65 6336 0810
• Opening hours Mon - Sat 10:00 to 20:30 Sun & PH 11:00 - 18:30
• Website www.basheergraphic.com
• Email [email protected]

Located at Bras Basah Complex, Basheer Graphic Books is an independent bookstore, offering excellent and unique art-related books. All designers, photographers, copywriters, artists, art students, and professionals working in the creative industry must pay a visit to Basheer Graphic Books bookstore.

• The one-stop shop for all art, graphic, and creativity books and magazines: Basheer Graphic Books offers the best specialized titles of graphics, cartooning, animation, illustration, architecture, interior design, landscape design, fashion design, product design, graphic design, typography, photography, art & craft, picture books, drawing books, sketching books, copywriting books, and inspirational books.
• Besides visiting the bookstore, you can patronize interesting fairs held at Bras Basah Complex weekly like second-hand book fairs, stationery fairs, and antique fairs.

SERVICE : Basheer Graphic Books owner and the staff are welcoming, friendly, and helpful.

• The bookstore has a clearance section at the back of the shop offering old stocks at cheap prices.
• If you are a student of NAFA or Lasalle, you may be entitled to good discounts.
• Buses : 7, 32, 51, 61, 63, 80, 145, 175, 197 and 851 (Walk 1 min from bus stop B01029)
• Nearest MRT Station : Bras Basah (CC2) (Walk 4 mins from MRT Exit A)

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The best bookstores in Singapore

From classics to graphics, these are the stores every bookworm should visit

Photograph: Grassroots Book Room/Facebook

Nothing beats getting your nose stuck in a paperback. These bookstores line their walls and displays with a wide range of print publications including secondhand gems  and specialty books and magazines to niche readers. Besides endless shelves of hard copies, these are also the best spots to check out the works of local authors and the literary scene in Singapore. Time to refresh that reading list and get lost in the pages of your new favourite book!

RECOMMENDED: The best independent and alternative cinemas in Singapore  and The best hidden cafés in Singapore for a quiet brunch sesh

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best bookstores in Singapore

1.  hook on books.

You can’t miss the whimsical, colourful Chinese-language bookstore on Neil Road. Adorned with dried flowers, handmade decorations, and bundles of cotton suspended from the ceiling like clouds, Hook on Books is a children’s bookstore like no other. Though the bookstore sells mostly toys, books, and stationery for children, there’s also a cafe and a small reading corner for adults, so parents can get a coffee and relax while kids browse the shelves. Hook on Books also offers walk-in workshops – kids can make their own cards, notebooks, or dried floral arrangements using a wide range of materials.

2.  City Book Room

• Marine Parade

For those concerned about hard copy books going out of print, there lies an inconspicuous brick-and-mortar bookstore that’s in the heart of Joo Chiat. N ot only is it a welcoming, cosy space with natural light streaming through, but it also has a hidden stash of out-of-print books and rare titles. While this bookstore has a clear preference for Chinese literature, there is also a selection of international titles that are sure to spark your curiosity. A deep dive into the history of Malaysian railways, local Singlit poetry, or even Bengali fiction – this indie bookstore has quite the range. 

3.  Epigram Coffee Bookshop

• Harbourfront

Huggs-Epigram Coffee Bookshop at Urban Redevelopment Authority Centre in Maxwell Road reopened on January 6 after a five-month hiatus, but has sadly closed its doors again. The good news is that since March, Epigram has reopened again in Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark. Pick up books by your favourite Singaporean and Southeast Asian writers while sipping on coffees by coffee partner Balestier Market Collective. A nice bonus? You can conveniently pop into the SAM art galleries as you like to check out the latest contemporary art exhibitions too. 

4.  ZALL Bookstore

There's a new bookstore in the heart of town, and it's a haven for lovers of Chinese culture, literature and art. Taking over the space in Wheelock Place where the Borders flagship used to be is the ZALL Bookstore. It stocks more than 30,000 Chinese literary works for adults and children across two storeys, and has a café and art gallery to boot.

5.  Grassroots Book Room

Chinese book lovers will have lots to browse at Grassroots Book Room. Started in 1995, this quaint bookstore stocks an impressive range of Chinese language books, spanning modern literature, history, politics, art and more. English speakers, no need to feel alienated – there are also local and international titles in English for your reading pleasure. For something different, check out the selection of beautifully illustrated picture books too. And once a new café moves in to replace the now-closed Katasumi Koohii, you'll have the perfect cosy spot for a lazy afternoon with books, dessert and coffee. 

6.  Basheer Graphic Books

Basheer Graphic Books is no stranger amongst the art types in Bras Basah. A regular haunt for graphic designers and illustrators, the bookstore stocks the best and latest in disciplines that range from graphics and architecture to fashion and animation. There are also regular discounts offered on specialised magazines and publications. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Leave your name, number and the desired title(s), and you’ll be notified once it arrives.

7.  Littered with Books

• Tanjong Pagar

Browsing books promises to be a fun affair in this charming two-storey shophouse-turned-bookshop. The indie bookstore carries titles across all genres that range from specially selected literary, non-fiction, travel narratives and award-winning children's books. Additionally, the books on sale – ranging from bestsellers and literary classics to children's titles – are actually quite affordable or at least cheaper than you'd expect compared to other bookstores.  

8.  Woods in the Books

• Tiong Bahru

If pages full of words bore you, check out this shop that specialises in picture books. Woods in the Books offers a feast of pictorial treasures, including works by award-winning French cartoonist Jean-Jacques Sempé – known simply as Sempé – plus quirky graphic novels, the popular 1980s Malaysian series Lat , pop-up versions of The Little Prince and of course, classic children’s books like Goodnight Moon and Where the Wild Things Are .

9.  Books Ahoy!

Books Ahoy! at Forum the Shopping Mall is the brainchild of Shannon Ong and Mark Foo – the same folks behind Tiong Bahru’s Woods in the Books, an independent bookstore that specialises in picture books. Just like its sister outlet, Books Ahoy! has its eyes trained on reading materials for children, with a thoughtfully curated collection of classics, new releases, graphic novels, as well as niche titles that are hard to come by in Singapore. Aside from the usual classics by Roald Dahl and Hergé, the store also carries books with a local flavour – think Samsui Girl , Wayang Girl , Gasing Boy and Coolie Boys from local publisher, The History Workroom. With books lovingly displayed like artworks on shelves and walls, Books Ahoy! mirrors a mini-museum of children’s literature more than anything else. 

10.  Kinokuniya

With so many titles across so many genres and languages, this Japanese book giant’s computerised book search stations are a blessing. Located in a massive space, Kinokuniya's extensive collection of graphic novels, magazines, guides, fiction and non-fiction titles will have you browsing for hours. It also offers stationery and other knick-knacks to go along with your purchase. 

11.  Times

Stock up your shelves with newly released paperbacks, the New York Times bestsellers, and the latest issue of your favourite magazine. Titles include fiction, non-fiction, lifestyle and children's books, but don't expect to find many specialist ones here. However, do keep your eyes peeled for exciting activities such as author appearances, book signings and workshops. Times at Paragon is permanently closed, but there are still multiple stores around Singapore where you can get your shopping done.

For online book shopping

1.  booksactually.

The physical store may be closed but BooksActually lives on – online. For those who digest the likes of Murakami, Sweeney, Capote, Salinger, and Nabokov, bring your appetites and dollars when you visit BooksActually. Aside from the classic titles, the bookstore also carries narrative and theoretical books in the disciplines of philosophy, political science, history, biography, science, travel, food, art and more. BooksActually is also a great place to check out Singapore's literary scene and get your dose of Singlit.

Shop online

2.  Ethos Books

Championing e merging and exciting writers from diverse backgrounds, Ethos Books  is an independent local publisher of literary fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Catch up on your local literature with the catalogue here – and get it delivered to your home. You can even purchase digital books (for selected titles) if you're a Kindle user.

3.  GOHD Books

You won't quite find the next hot Young Adult bestseller here because GOHD Books is a bookstore of rare and collectable books. Think leather-bound biographies, fairy tale tomes, books on natural history and folklore, and translated classics like Don Quixote and Ramayana that remain in almost perfect condition. Equally notable are works on observations of the world, whether an 1886 study on the gypsies of India or a written documentation of Borneo natives from 1927. 

4.  Thryft

Thryft   was started by students from the National University of Singapore and is a second-hand online bookstore where you can trade in old books for credits to purchase other books on its marketplace. There is a wide range of books in the store and you can find textbooks, local literature, Murakami and also graphic novels. Prices are cheaper because the books are used so don't expect them to be in pristine condition.

5.  Allscript

Books not really your thing but you love poring over magazines for hours? Order your favourite magazines like Monocle, The New Yorker, Vogue, National Geographic and Kinfolk from   Allscript. There is free shipping for all magazines so load up that (online) shopping basket.

6.  OpenTrolley

OpenTrolley is a Singapore-based online bookstore with over 15 million titles stocked. Shop all kinds of books from bestselling thrillers to hardcover design books. The store even has tarot cards if you're keen on picking up something new these days.

More specialty stores

The best novelty and hobby shops in singapore.

The best multi-label shops in Singapore

The best local pin and patch makers in Singapore

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• The 10 Best Bookshops In...

The 10 Best Bookshops in Singapore

Singapore is the place to be for bookworms; with dozens of book stores in this modern city-state, there’s everything you’ll need. From large shops you can get lost in, to small independents with a resident cat, Singapore has it all. Check them out…

Times bookstore.

Now with several locations dotted around the inner-city areas of Singapore, from the bustling strips of Orchard Road to the iconic side walks of Raffles Boulevard (not to mention more recent expansions into neighboring Malaysia), Times Bookstore is now unquestionably one of the most recognisable literary brands in all of Singapore. Times actually started life as a humble terminal book shop in the city’s Changi Airport , but now offers several unique spaces around town, where customers can browse collections of best-sellers and academic books alike whilst lounging on cosy furniture in a chilled-out setting.

290 Orchard Rd, 04-41 Paragon, Singapore , +65 6836 6182

1. Kinokuniya

2. select books.

Books Actually

Books Actually is one of Singapore’s best independent book stores, specializing in classic, home-grown Singaporean literature alongside other rare and obscure editions. They also sell vintage, hand-made stationery like post cards, notebooks and pencils. This shop is a bit off-the-beaten-track, but oozes a certain boho-hipster charm, boasts a cool, stripped-down style and hosts countless literary events – totally worth the visit!

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Books Actually, 9 Yong Siak St, Singapore , +65 6222 9195

3. Woods in the Books

Basheer graphic books.

Located in downtown Singapore is Basheer Graphic Books , a one-stop shop for all titles relating to graphic design. Whether it’s architecture, fashion, typography or other related disciplines, this is the place to go to scratch that creative itch. What’s more, with a layout that places row upon row of tome and journal before every customer, this makeshift stall-style emporium of graphic knowledge is a real pleasure to browse through.

Basheer Graphic Books, 231 Bain Street, Bras Basah Complex, Singapore , +65 6336 1917

Earshot Café

Holding regular events such as writers’ talks and book launches, this bright little bookstore and café supports Singaporean arts and culture at a grass-roots level. Located inside the Singapore Arts House , this is a local favorite that’s great for hitting to simply browse through the cutting-edge side of the country’s literary talent, enjoy a coffee and chat with locals of a similar mindset.

Earshot, 1 Old Parliament Lane, The Arts House, Singapore , +65 6338 8220

4. Littered with Books

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Lonely Planet Singapore: Lonely Planet's most comprehensive guide to the city (Travel Guide) Paperback – Folded Map, 1 Dec. 2021

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Lonely Planet’s Singapore is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Sample the legendary hawker food, explore the breathtaking National Gallery Singapore, and stand under trees with orang-utans over your head in the open-air enclosures at Singapore Zoo; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Singapore and begin your journey now!

Inside Lonely Planet’s Singapore Travel Guide:

Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak

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Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests

Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, websites, transit tips, prices

Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

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Covers Colonial District, Marina Bay, the Quays, Chinatown, Tanjong Pagar, the CBD, Little India, Kampong Glam, Orchard Road, Holland Village, Dempsey Hill, the Botanic Gardens and Sentosa Island

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet’s Singapore , our most comprehensive guide to Singapore, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled.

Looking for just the highlights? Check out Pocket Singapore , a handy-sized guide focused on the can't-miss sights for a quick trip.

About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, videos, 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day.

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• Print length 224 pages
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet; 12th edition (1 Dec. 2021)
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Description Praise About the Playwright Look inside the book An omnibus of groundbreaking Singaporean playscripts. Goh Poh Seng played an activ...

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14 local independent bookstores to check out in Singapore

• By SG Magazine
• Jul 30, 2022

It’s stifling hot outside, the crowds are everywhere, and you just can’t seem to hear your own thoughts. If you feel like you’ve got a pocket of free time while out and about, and are seeking a slice of quiet, let it be one with a good book in hand; overpriced coffee and hipster glasses optional. Here’re 16 local bookstores to get your dose of literary enjoyment.

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Ana Bookstore  

Widely known as the humble secondhand bookstore nestled on level five of Far East Plaza shopping mall, Ana Bookstore boasts nearly 80 years of history in Singapore following one relocation from Bras Basah Road and operates as a family-owned business. A true sanctuary for literary enthusiasts thanks to its old world charm, this spot proudly carries titles you might not find elsewhere, besides giving used books a new lease of life. Owner Noorul Islam is even fondly known to his loyal patrons as Mr Bean, and can be consulted on his treasure trove of good reads anytime.  #05-01 Far East Plaza

Basheer Graphic Books

Books Ahoy!

Cat Socrates

It’s in the name itself; if you’re a quirky catlady (we all are at heart) with a taste for literary and philosophical thought, you’ll feel right at home here. We mean that literally, once you step into its cosy interiors and enter into a world filled with sweet little trinkets sure to evoke nostalgia and memories from times long gone. Slip your pens into these Wheniwasfour Multi-Purpose Pouches and pledge your love to chilli crab, set your necessary mug of hot tea down on a beautiful Tile Coaster , and pick up the Fashionary Fashionpedia for a classy coffee-table centerpiece. You won’t be able to resist the allure of the pretty book covers shelved here, nor the assortment of locally-designed knick-knacks, so let your hands and mind roam free. If you’d much rather shop from the comfort of your bed, their store is online too; though you’d want to personally say hi to their adorable feline furries, Zoo-zoo and Chestnut. Two outlets, #02-25 Bras Basah Complex, 231 Bain St. or 448 Joo Chiat Rd.

City Book Room

Comics World

Evernew Bookstore

Sprawling with vintage finds such as autobiographies and even earlier editions of classics, Evernew Book Store is also a hit in the Bras Basah Complex. Having been around since 1988, the shop started off as a Chinese book vendor before introducing English titles into its collection. These days, they mostly deal secondhand books in both languages to offer affordable literature to all. The purveyor of reads has also launched an e-store, where you can find books spanning genres from self-help to popular fiction.  #01-07 Bain St.

Fancy yourself a highbrow intellectual? Gohd Books is your place to be; its shelves are stocked with antiquarian and rare books, leather-bound and pages well-aged. Gently page through books like Da Vinci’s Codex Madrid (a super rare book of his inventions), trace your finger along the ornate gold gilt on the spines of George Eliot’s Romola , and train your eye on rare Japanese reproduction prints. Surrounded by masterpieces probably older than your grandparents. Currently only operating online, simply peruse their offerings here .  #01-37 Burlington Square, 175 Bencoolen St.

Grassroots Book Room

Open since 1995, the Grassroots Book Room has provided cosy respite for local book nerds for close to 25 years now. The previous occupants of the site at North Bridge Center have since shifted to the first floor of a shophouse, furnished with old-timey leather chairs and eclectic knick knacks to further amp up the nostalgia factor. OG fans of the bookstore would be pleased to know it still religiously stocks books on Chinese and foreign history, Chinese modern literature and Chinese philosophy, but they’ve also added picture books and food-writing books into their rotation. They’ve even got Western and Japanese translation literature, and unapologetically local titles if you’re ready for some genuine cross-cultural immersion. Though its tall book shelves and quaint interiors are conducive for nerding alone, watch out for their themed exhibitions every one to two months, that will pique your intellectual curiosity and makes for a lovely afternoon activity. 25 Bukit Pasoh Rd.

Epigram Coffee Bookshop

A riveting read coupled with an aromatic cuppa is one of life’s simplest, yet greatest, pleasures. And at the Huggs-Epigram Coffee Bookshop, a collob opening by the cafe chain and the local book publisher, you’ll find exactly that. Only Singapore books are found here, with over 400 titles stocked at any one time. Plus, you won’t only get Epigram titles here, but also those from other local publishing houses, which is generous of them to say the least. For brews, local kopi is available, in addition to the more regular cafe fare. You can even have a proper lunch here if you wish. You might even find a local author or artist occupying one of the seats during opening hours. Feel free to just walk up and have a chat. 45 Maxwell Rd.

Littered with Books

Select Books

Woods in the books.

Just down the street from BooksActually, Woods In the Books nestles a whimsical escape from reality for both kids and the young at heart. Step right through the turquoise door, and enter on into a world of saturated colours and vivid dreamscapes, sure to pique your little one’s imagination. Prepare to be enchanted by the curated selection of picture books, or pick up hard-to-find reads like Mao and Me , a hard-hitting tome about political upheaval during the cultural revolution, and an illustrated interpretation of Persian classic The Conference of the Birds . An afternoon here is a visual treat for all, but adventures are for those who let their imagination run wild in the literary wilderness.  3 Yong Siak St.

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8 best Singapore guide books

Explore the vibrant cityscape with the help of one of these editions, article bookmarked.

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Think Singapore and skyscrapers, theme parks, its infamous litter fines and jaywalking rules come to mind. But this flashy side only came to life in the late Nineties, and as great as it is, there is much more to the city than a first-glimpse might suggest. It’s a culturally diverse city that modernised into a tech hub from its origins as a fishing village and an all-important colonial East-West trading post.

So instead of thinking of the cosmopolitan city-state as only a stopover location, we've rounded up the best guidebooks to really get under the skin of Singapore and make the most of your time. We compared the guides by looking at the breadth and depth of the information, how easy the guide was to navigate and whether it was size-appropriate.

1. The Rough Guide to Singapore: from £8.99, Rough Guides

Endeavouring to show off the city’s art and its proximity to nature, this guide (written by native Richard Lim) is slick, concise and covers all bases from transport to tipping etiquette. The colour-coded guide section is followed by separate listing of accommodation and eating. Suggested itineraries – which are loose ideas where parts can be skipped – range from the famous Botanical Gardens to the architecture of the colonial district. The colour photography is beautiful and the maps throughout are detailed and there are also close up versions at the back. This one is also available as an e-book.

2. Luxe Singapore City Guide: £14.99, Luxe Limited

There’s no losing your page with the twelfth “fabulous” edition (as it calls itself) as it’s essentially a piece of folded card. Describing Singapore’s “twin religions” as shopping and dining, it’s aimed at those who want the finest from the city. You can find out where to get Italian suits cut or which bar will serve up the best martini, alongside recommendations on the best tables in town. The whole of the back is dedicated to shopping, while there are also short sections on clubs and activities. There’s no map, but you can download the free app (you get a six-month subscription with each guide), which has regularly updated information, offline maps, directions and itineraries. This is one for the high flyers rather than those on a backpackers’ budget.

3. AA Citypack Guide to Singapore: £7.99, AA Publishing

The slim guide easily fits into your pocket and is split into four sections with an introduction to the city, a colour coded guide, hotel listings and how to navigate public transport. If you’re short on time, the top 25 sights and experiences section at the front of the book pretty much covers the essentials for first time visitors, including the Night Safari – the world’s first nocturnal zoo – to the Asian Civilisations Museum, one of the city’s oldest buildings. There’s a tube map at the front and you can use the pull out waterproof map to follow the self-guided tour section.

4. Singapore City Guide: £10.99, Insight Guides

With plenty of information on the history, politics and culture of the city, this fourteenth edition of Insight’s Singapore guide is extremely thorough and informative. The editor’s choice section breaks down what to see into bite-size pieces from the best festivals and parks to daily markets, and it also has a useful section on money-saving tips. The main section splits Singapore into eight sections including the surrounding areas and details the attractions of each part from Chinatown’s colourful Wak Hai Cheng Temple to one of the historic esplanade park in the Civic District. And you won’t get lost with the inclusion of nine detailed maps with the sights included, although there’s no main pull out map. Also available as an e-book.

5. Singapore Pocket Guide: £5.99, Berlitz Travel

Fitting into the palm of your hand, this pocket guide book begins with 10 attractions that include classic experiences such as sipping on a Singapore Sling cocktail at Raffles Hotel and venturing out of the city to Sentosa Island’s best beaches. There is a detailed guide to a perfect day in the city, starting with breakfast at the 1919 Killiney Kopitiam coffee shop to the best city vistas from the Singapore Flyer observation wheel. The main part colour codes the sections and splits the city into seven areas, with additional sections covering the zoos, parks and gardens as well as island excursions.

6. Lonely Planet Singapore: £12.59, Lonely Planet

From one of the most reliable names in the guidebook world, Lonely Planet’s tenth Singapore edition has special features on local cuisine, tips for shopping along with a small section on the little – but important – first time essentials from what to wear and general etiquette like not leaving your chopsticks upright in a bowl. The main bulk consists of detailed information organised by neighbourhood and there’s also an introduction to Shingler – the mish-mash of Singaporean English that you’ll quickly get used to, plus there’s a pull out large map at the back. Lonely Planet’s guides are also available as e-books and there is extra destination on its website.

7. Wallpaper* City Guide Singapore: £6.95, Amazon

Small enough to slip into a back pocket and part of the Pantone coloured series of more than 100 destinations, this one offers all the design-conscious traveller needs - and there’s plenty of it to see in Singapore. The 24 hours section suggests a timed itinerary of the city’s best, including visiting the tropical Gardens by the Bay and Ku De Ta restaurant and bar, which offers one of the best skyline views. While the guided tour (named ARCHITORU) pinpoints the impressive architecture that’s synonymous with the city. The rest of the book covers places for day trips as well as sports - for those who want to “work out, chill out or just watch”.

8. The Monocle Travel Guide Series – Singapore: £12.99, Die Gestalten Verlag

From retreating into the forests to sampling authentic street food, the Monocle team makes sure you won’t be spending your time pootling around the touristy shops of Orchard Road. Instead it offers authentic experiences from quirky independent cinemas to the old-school charm of the Jalan Besar district. It uses a letter coding system with H for hotels and F for food and drink throughout and includes an essay section covering politics, hospitality and architecture from people who know what they’re talking about.

The Verdict

To really experience the city state, the Rough Guide’s edition helps you do just that with its focus on art, culture and food. It has useful and interesting itineraries, an easy to follow lay out, detailed maps and doesn’t ignore the box-ticking activities that Singapore draws people in with.

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Travel Books on Singapore

Lonely planet singapore 12 (travel guide), by ria de jong (author), dk eyewitness top 10 singapore (pocket travel guide), by dk eyewitness (author), dk eyewitness malaysia and singapore (travel guide), out & about in singapore, by melanie lee (author), william sim (illustrator), singapore: a biography, by mark ravinder frost, yu-mei balasingamchow (authors), the rough guide to malaysia, singapore & brunei (travel guide with free ebook) (rough guides), by rough guides (author), singapore hawker food: what’s in the dish, by christopher leong (author).

The Awkward Traveller

The Best 9 Singaporean Books to Read Before (and after!) Going to Singapore

I am a participant in affiliate programs, so basically I earn a small commission if you use any of the affiliate links on this post - at no extra cost to you! Dope right?

Hello fellow readers! Are you looking for some Singaporean books to read before you set off on your fantastic journey to the tiny country? Or maybe you’re just looking for a change in literary scenery! Then I’ve compiled the PERFECT list for you. And to top it off, all of these books are written by SINGAPOREAN authors.

Why is it important to prioritize reading books by local authors? Well, for one, who else knows their country better than they do? I also think, as a reader, it is beneficial to read novels from authors of different nationalities, ethnicities, genders, and sexualities to better understand other perspectives. So I was PUMPED to tackle my list of Singaporean books that I had stocked up on in preparation for my trip. I will admit though, it was hard finding some in English, even though it is one of the country’s national languages haha.

Anyways, enough chit chat. Let’s dive into these Singaporean books!

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

I will start with the one EVERYONE and their auntie are talking about – Crazy Rich Asians. Arguably the most famous of all Singaporean books, and may be even up there with Memoirs of a Geisha for globally popular Asian literature. The basic story line is that Rachael and her boyfriend Nick live in New York City, USA. Nick gets invited to his best friend’s wedding in his home country of Singapore and invites Rachael to accompany him.

The only thing – Nick doesn’t tell her that his family is rich. Crazy rich, in fact. So, as an “unworthy” Asian-American, Rachael spends the novel learning to survive with Nick’s insanely dramatic, patronizing, and scheming family members. It’s the biggest novel from an Asian author to sweep across the Western world since…well…hm.

ANYWAYS – it’s a super fun book. It’s light, entertaining, and a quick read if you want something that isn’t too heavy. Plus, it has the whole HOLLYWOOD MOTION PICTURE aspect to it. If you haven’t heard, the book was made into a movie that featured the first Asian majority cast on the big screen since the Joy Luck Club in 1993! It is the first novel in a trilogy, so if you get hooked on the family drama, you have two more books to keep you going!

Amazon link

Ponti by Sharlene Teo

Ponti was a book chosen by my book club for Singaporean books, and it is a book that is STRONGLY character driven. If you’re not into character driven books, you probably won’t like it. So now with that disclaimer out of the way…

The story follows a young teenager, Szu, and her relationship with her single mother, Amisa, and her new best friend Circe. Szu and her mother live in a spooky run down house where her mother and her aunt pretend to be mediums and perform séances for the neighborhood. Szu is, for the most part, ignored both at school and at home, save for her mother’s occasional snide remarks.

Amisa, Szu’s mother, was once a renowned actress, feared and loved by everyone that glanced in her direction. And Szu’s new -and only- friend Circe is a snarky and privileged new kid on the block. Together, the story revolves around the three of their lives (past, present, and future) and how they deal with a great tragedy that befalls them.

Ministry of Moral Panic by Amanda Lee Koe

A collection of short stories that have won TONS of literary awards, and honestly, it’s because this book is brilliant. Each story is a roller coaster that kept me at the edge of my seat, then dropped me off a cliff with the final sentence. I wish each of the stories could be their own novel!

The writing is very raw and pure, but not in a way that tries to hard to be edgy. It’s just…real. In fact, it was one of my favorite books I read in 2018. Easily. The author subtly weaves both praise and critic of Singapore within the lines of the story, because every country has it’s light and dark.

A Leap of Love by Catherine Lim

Catherine Lim is internationally recognized as one of the leading faces of Asian fiction. I am not sure if all of her fiction works (she writes non fiction as well) are romance novels, but this particular one was. AND IT WAS SO CUTE.

Okay so get this. There is an old tradition that popularizes a woman proposing to a man, but only on February 29th. So when the main character Li-Ann, a true romantic who has been saving herself for THE ONE, spots the dreamy Jeremy on the day of the Leap Year, she knows now is the day she HAS to make her move, especially when she learns he is leaving the country at the end of the night.

This book is a dramatic whirlwind of twists and turns, but with such a light and wholesome love story that I can rarely find in romances these days. I gobbled up this story in one day it was so good.

Aunty Lee’s Delights by Ovidia Yu

Probably one of the most well known Singaporean mystery authors, and now I know why! I will admit that I have never really read mystery novels before, but I have definitely learned the error of my ways.

Aunty Lee, first of all, is a fantastic character. She is a culinary genius who owns a popular local cafe. This is just one of her mystery Singaporean books, and it starts off with a body washing up on Sentosa Island. As it turns out, it was the body of a young woman who was supposed to show up to Aunty Lee’s dinner party. Soon, everyone at the dinner party is a suspect. I’m not good at describing mystery novels without giving away too much of the plot twists, so I’ll leave it at that.

I loved that the novel gave a lot of Singaporean food references and also touched upon Singaporean culture, especially ideas and expectations around marriage and servants. If you love food and mystery, this book is right up your alley! Or should I say…spice rack!

Foreign Bodies by Hwee Hwee Tan

Wow, this one was powerful. The story follows three friends, Singaporean natives Mei and Eugene, and Eugene’s best friend Andy from England who is now dating Mei. Their friend triangle is shaken when Andy is arrested in Singapore for allegedly being an international gambling kingpin. That can be punishable by death in Singapore. Mei is a lawyer, and takes on Andy as a client, but the evidence is pilling up against him. Eugene is confident Andy was set up, due to the fact Andy is so dumb he gets lost every time he leaves the house, and goes on a mission to find the real culprit.

While the book may seem like a silly beach read, this story has some really deep messages about Millennial cynicism and our never-ending quest to find meaning and direction in our lives. There are also mentions to religion and how it shapes our reactions to life stressors. One of my favorite Singaporean books.

A Different Sky by Meira Chand

If you are a fan of classics, then this is the book for you. For example, if you like Pride & Prejudice, Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre, then you will gobble this right up. I, personally, am not a fan of classics, but I recognize that this is a VERY well written book. It was interesting to find see that there were Singaporean books written in this style, though I guess considering Singapore’s history, it shouldn’t have been that surprising haha.

The book takes place in 1927, and follows three main characters : Mei Lan from a famous Chinese dynasty, a young Eurasian boy, and a bright young man from India, all brand new to Singapore. The book moves through World War II and the Japanese occupation of Singapore, and the three characters are flung together through turmoil. I appreciated that the book featured many iconic sectors of Singapore and some necessary bits of history.

However, if you don’t like more information heavy writing, the last part of the book might lose you a bit as it focuses on Singapore’s politics.

Travails of a Trailing Spouse by Stephanie Suga Chen

Full disclaimer, this author isn’t Singaporean . Chen is a Taiwanese-American author who immigrated to Singapore. Although she isn’t a local born author, her book is hilarious and paints a humorous picture of what Singapore is like from an immigrant’s point of view.

The story follows a married American couple, one a lawyer and the other a neuro-scientist, as they relocated to Singapore for a new job opportunity. The couple, Sarah and Jason, slowly learn to adjust to their new environment. Along with their two kids, the family soon falls into the drama of their neighbors in their condo building. It’s a fun easy read, but my favorite part of this book are the characters. They are very well constructed and believable. Even if you have never lived in another country, you will connect with this book!

amazon link

Inheritance by Balli Kaur Jaswal

Absolutely love love loveddd this book! Unlike a lot of characters from Singaporean books on this list, the main character is not Chinese Singaporean. This story follows the lives of a Punjabi Sikh family. Singapore is a country that is rich in diversity, so I was excited to stumble upon this book!

Living in a country that is so obsessed with order, but also allows certain independent freedoms. The children, Amrit, Narain, and Gurdev (all of age), find themselves at odds trying to balance their family’s traditional views. Especially when their personal interests and lifestyles “bring shame” to their mother and father.

Tackling female sexual expression, alcoholism, bipolar disorder, homosexuality, marriage and gender roles, this novel examines how tradition and modernism come together in Singapore in the Punjabi community.

Conclusion on Singaporean Books

I thoroughly enjoyed ALL of these books! I feel as though my experience in Singapore was enriched, both during and after my trip, as I read these books. That said, I am not Singaporean, so I’m sure there might have been some inside jokes or references that went over my head. But overall, I wasn’t at any point totally lost or disconnected because of any cultural differences.

If you want to learn more about Singaporean culture from local Singaporeans, check out my Singaporean Myths and Misconceptions post ! Wow. How many times can I say Singaporean in one sentence?

Although you can find all of these Singaporean books on Amazon, A MUCH more cost efficient method would be to buy them in Singapore. I know, surprising, right? So if you’re in Singapore, you can head to Kinokuniya (a book store) on Orchard Road, or even at the airport market. They both have a little Singaporean books and authors section where you can find these and many others!

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I feel like I’m seriously missing out on the Crazy Rich Asians wagon. I should probably read ASAP!! I’m glad you included a little bit about each book, it helps to decide which should go on my list 🙂

Ashamed to say I’ve only read crazy rich Asians. Time to add those books you’ve recommended to my reading list!

Hi, K! I lived in Singapore for a decade and never read any of these books (shame on me) — will check out Aunty Lee’s Delight (I love a good mystery) and Ministry of Moral Panic, because of short stories. Kudos for reading all of these 🙂

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30 Books on Singapore That’ll Give You Serious Wanderlust

by Julie Jan 2, 2024 Books , Singapore

The first book I read about Singapore was Crazy Rich Asians .

Read the next two in the series, and I was not disappointed!

Singapore intrigued me . Was everyone else on the island just as crazy rich as the people in these books?

Then I picked up a few more books about Singapore–the Aunty Lee Mysteries and Moonlight Palace, and I became even more curious about the country.

Who are these Peranakans ?

Where can I try achar and sambal ?

I just had to travel to Singapore on my next vacation.

When I got to Singapore, I was so disappointed that I couldn’t stay longer . I saw so much diversity (Chinese, Malays, Indian, Peranakan, European), ate so much delicious food, and visited so many world-class museums and colorful neighborhoods. The Easter-egg painted shophouse architecture just blew me away. So safe, clean, and convenient. And the people were nothing like the crazy rich Asians in the books.

Since my trip, I’ve picked up a few more books: Singapore Grip , another mystery series by Ovidia Yu , and Ministry of Moral Panic .

Here are my 5 must-read books about Singapore:

• How We Disappeared
• Crazy Rich Asians books 1-3
• The Great Reclamation
• The Aunty Lee Mysteries

Trying to figure out how long to stay in Singapore? Looking for an itinerary guide with lots of history and culture? Check out my Five Days in Singapore Itinerary Guide for those who love to explore the history and culture of their destination.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website's  Disclosure for more info.

Mystery Novels Set In Singapore

There are 3 fun mystery series set in Singapore.

• Aunty Lee Mysteries – contemporary Singapore starring an older Peranakan woman who runs a catering business and makes scrumptious Peranakan food
• Su Lin mysteries (also called the Crown Colony mysteries) – Set in the 1930s and 1940s and starring a young Chinese woman named Chen Su Ling.
• Harriet Gordon mysteries – Set in 1910 and starring a young British widow named Harriet Gordon.

1-3. Aunty Lee Mystery Series

By ovidia yu (2013, 2014, 2016), my ratings:, aunty lee’s delights – 4 out of 5 stars, aunty lee’s deadly specials – 5 out of 5 stars, aunty lee’s chilled revenge – 5 out of 5 stars.

Think No 1 Ladies Home Detective Agency novels but set in Singapore, and you’ve got the Aunty Lee mysteries .

There are three books in this series: Aunty Lee’s Delights, Aunty Lee’s Deadly Special, and Aunty Lee’s Chilled Revenge. All three star Aunty Lee, a middle-aged Peranakan chef who runs a small Peranakan café-shop in Singapore. She’s also a nosy busybody who tends to get herself tangled up in more murders than is normally possible .

• Aunty Lee’s Delights:  A dead body is found on the beach in Sentosa and one of Aunty Lee’s dinner guests has gone missing. Buy the Book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Aunty Lee’s Deadly Special:  Two people die at a party catered by Aunty Lee. The Police suspect Aunty Lee’s food might be the culprit. Will Aunty Lee be able to find the real killer before she’s driven out of business? Buy the Book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Aunty Lee’s Chilled Revenge: An American woman turns up dead in her hotel room. Aunty Lee finds herself compelled to discover the killer when one of her employees becomes a suspect. Buy the Book: Amazon | Bookshop.org

Hanging out with Aunty Lee lets you immerse yourself in Singaporean and Peranakan food and culture , making it a great way to prepare for your trip to Singapore .

You’ll also learn about characteristics that are uniquely Singaporean like kiasu , Singaporeans’ fear of missing out, kaypoh , and em zai si .

Another thing I liked was that Yu doesn’t shy away from controversial issues like gay rights and the mistreatment of guest workers in Singapore.

These are not masterpieces of literature, but they are a lot of fun to read ! Aunty Lee is a hoot and the plot is fairly plausible. Ovidia Yu is a decent writer . An enjoyable series of books about Singapore!

4 – 11. Su Lin Mystery Series (Crown Colony Series)

By ovidia yu (2017 – 2024), my ratings: 5 out of 5 stars.

“Chen Tai (as everyone outside the family knew Ah Ma) had no great love for the British but, like Sun Tzu, she believed in knowing her enemies.”

The Su Lin mystery series stars detective Chen Su Lin. She’s a fabulous character — young, ambitious, intelligent, and fierce .  She’s got her quirks and her faults. That just makes her a well-rounded and likable character with a bit of an edge .

As a child, Su Lin’s parents die of typhoid. Then she gets polio . As a woman with one leg longer than the other, her prospects for marriage are dim. According to Chinese custom, she would only bring bad luck to her husband’s family. Most Chinese families would sell someone like Su Lin. Instead, her grandmother sends her to study English at the Mission School.

Now she’s 16 years old and she’s just graduated from the Mission School. Su Lin wants more than to just toil under her grandmother or a future mother-in-law. She dreams of a career as a teacher, secretary, or nurse.

However, when her family learns about her dreams, they quickly try to marry her off as the second wife. Her friends try to rescue her from the marriage by finding her a job as the assistant to the handsome and dashing Chief Inspector Thomas LeFroy .

Su Lin’s family is another element in the story. They seem to have their fingers in every pie of illegal activity in Singapore . At times, Su Lin calls on them for assistance in one of the many mysteries she finds herself involved in.

The Frangipani Tree Mystery (Book #1) The nanny to the daughter of the governor of Singapore dies under mysterious circumstances. Book 1 takes place in 1936. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Betel Nut Tree Mystery (Book #2) – Set in 1937, a judge turns up dead with symbols scrawled across his body and soaking in betel nut juice. His American fiancée claims it’s her fault. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Paper Bark Tree Mystery (Book #3) – Su Lin’s boss, Bald Bernie, fires her for not being white. Then he turns up dead and Su Lin’s best friend’s father is accused of the murder. Su Lin must prove his innocence. BOOK THE BOOK : Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Mimosa Tree Mystery (Book #4) – It’s 1942 and Singapore is under Japanese occupation. Mirza, a known collaborator and blackmailer, is murdered in his garden. The number of people who wanted him dead is countless. Su Lin must find out who did it. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Cannonball Tree Mystery (Book #5) – Su Lin’s blackmailer and detestable relative, Mimi, is found murdered. Book #5 is set during the Japanese occupation of Singapore. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Mushroom Tree Mystery (Book #6) – A young aide is found murdered in Hideki Tagawa’s garden and his secret plans for a massive bomb are missing. Book 6 takes place toward the end of the war. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Yellow Rambutan Tree Mystery (Book #7) – The Japanese have left Singapore and the British are back. But not all is rosy for Su Lin’s family but especially Su Lin when a man who comes to visit her uncle is found dead and Su Lin is the main suspect. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Angsana Tree Mystery (Book #8) – Su Lin discovers her best friend laughing and holding her dead lover.  Book 7 takes place in 1949. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon

12 – 15. Harriet Gordon Mysteries

By a.m. stuart (2019 – 2023), my rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

The Harriet Gordon Mysteries are another wonderful mystery series. This time they’re set in 1910’s Singapore . The star of the series is Harriet Gordon , a young British widow whose husband and son died a few years earlier in India.

After the death of her family, Harriet gets involved in the women’s suffragist movement back in England. But unfortunately, she gets into trouble at a protest and ends up in jail. To get away from the humiliation, Harriet moves to Singapore, where her brother has a job as the headmaster of a boy’s school.

Harriet is fearless, open-minded, kindhearted, and smart . She’s not frivolous or content with staying home like most British women in Singapore at that time. A very likable character with a complex backstory.

In the first book, she’s working as a secretary at her brother’s school and then earning money on the side typing the memoirs of a fellow Brit. In later books, she gets a job as assistant to Chief Inspector Robert Curran.

I’ve only read (audiobook) the first book, Singapore Sapphire , and the second one, Revenge in Rubies , is eagerly waiting for me on my bookshelf.

• Singapore Sapphire (Book #1) – Newly arrived in Singapore, Harriet picks up a side job typing the memoirs for Sir Oswald Newsome. One day Harriet goes to get her typewriter from Newsome’s home only to discover his dead body. He’s been stabbed to death and someone has taken the only copy of his memoirs.  BUY BOOK FROM: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Revenge in Rubies (Book #2) – Sylvie Nolon, the recently married and much younger wife of Colonel Lieutenant John Nolan has just been murdered. Harriet and Inspector Curran try to find out who did it but their investigation hits a wall when the close-knit military community in Singapore close ranks. BUY BOOK FROM: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Evil in Emerald (Book #3) – Harriet joins an amateur theatrical group. Soon she discovers the tension among the cast members. Then the leading man is found murdered. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Terror in Topaz (Book #4) – Harriet has just been dismissed from her job. Needing to get away from Singapore, Harriet travels to Kuala Lumpur with her brother, Julian. Their visit to a prestigious school in KL turns dark when a visitor to the school is murdered. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org

Novels Set in Singapore

Now let’s take a look at some of the best fiction books about Singapore. You’ll find a few good contemporary novels and some fabulous works of historical fiction.

16 – 18. Crazy Rich Asians Series

By kevin kwan (2016), crazy rich asians – 5 out of 5 stars, china rich girlfriend – 3 out of 5 stars, rich people problems – 5 out of 5 stars.

I consider myself a reader of serious literature, but ashamedly, I must admit that I loved all three books (book 2 less so) in the Crazy Rich Asians series. They were my guilty pleasures of 2016. They’re melodramatic, completely outrageous, and wickedly funny.

The Crazy Rich Asians series is the love story of Chinese American, Rachel Chu, and Nick Young from Singapore. She’s an average American, and he’s well, a not-so-average Singaporean. In fact, he’s from the richest family in Singapore .

• Crazy Rich Asians (Book #1) – Nick takes Rachel to Singapore for the first time for his best friend’s wedding. She meets his crazy rich family and friends for the first time. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• China Rich Girlfriend (Book #2) – Rachel meets her father for the first time. He’s also one of the richest men in China. There’s also a crazy, rich half-brother and his girlfriend. This is my least favorite. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Bookshop.org
• Rich People Problems (Book #3) – The matriarch of the Young family is on her deathbed. Since she disinherited her favorite grandson, all the relatives vie to inherit her money and land. This is the best of the three. It’s the funniest and most emotional. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon

Out of all the books on Singapore that I read, these three inspired me the most to visit . Singapore comes across as fun and exciting and the people as whacky and outrageous. There’s some history of the war years and when you visit Singapore, you’ll find many of the same locations mentioned in the books.

I learned about the Black and White houses from the first book and went on a tour of them when I was in Singapore. You can read about my tour here .

Yes, I would read them. They’re fun and they’ll make you want to visit Singapore .

You Might Be Interested in These Posts:

• Singapore Itinerary & Travel Guide
• Best Food Tour in Singapore
• Black and White Tour of Singapore

19. How We Disappeared

By jing-jing lee (2019), my rating: 5 out of 5 stars.

“All of it had begun with her waking to the world, the name she had been given. The fact of her upbringing. And then, after the horror during what was supposed to be her best years, how her mother’s words, the shame foisted on her by herself, her family, and everyone around her, had dictated the silence that shadowed her every move after the war.”

If you’re looking for a page-turner set in Singapore that will break your heart into a million pieces , read How We Disappeared —a book about the atrocities the Japanese committed against the comfort women during World War II. It’s not an easy book to read but it’s also not an easy book to put down.

There are three interwoven stories. The first is the hardest to read but also the most riveting story of the bunch. Wang Di (her name means Hope for a Brother ) is 17 years old when the Japanese conquered Singapore. One day the Japanese military visits her kampong and takes her away to work as a sex slave serving the Japanese army.

The second story jumps to the year 2000 . Wang Di is now an old woman, recently widowed. She earns money collecting garbage for recycling. She’s lonely and she can’t shake what happened to her during the war. She regrets not sharing all of it with her husband before he died and letting her husband share what happened to him before he died.

Also taking place in 2000, the third story is about twelve-year-old Kevin . He lives with his parents and grandmother in a small flat in Singapore. While sitting beside his grandmother as she’s passing away, Kevin hears her reveal a secret about his father . But Kevin doesn’t dare tell his father yet, so he goes out himself in search of the truth.

I like how the book breaks up the very heavy and heartbreaking story of Wand Di as a comfort woman with the more hopeful stories of her life and Kevin’s life in 2000. If there were only the comfort woman story, it would have taken me longer to finish as it would have been too painful to read in one or two sittings.

How We Disappeared is an excellent book to read to help you understand what Singaporeans went through under the Japanese occupation during World War II.

20. King Rat

By james clavell (1962).

“Guard yourself and your conscience no one else will and know that a bad decision at the right time can destroy you far more surely than any bullet!”

King Rat by master storyteller James Clavell is another riveting book that delves into Singapore’s World War II history . This one is set in Singapore’s notorious Changi POW prison and examines the various ways people cope with living under extreme conditions.

The book follows the lives of a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the harsh realities of captivity, Each prisoner represents various nationalities and backgrounds. At the center of this intricate web is Corporal King, an enigmatic and cunning American who orchestrates a thriving black market within the confines of the camp. His resourcefulness and charismatic nature earn him the nickname “King Rat,” and he becomes both a savior and a manipulator to those around him.

Clavell’s own experiences as a POW in Singapore lend a sense of authenticity to the narrative, enriching the story with firsthand knowledge of the emotional and psychological struggles endured by the characters. The meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy enhance the immersion, allowing you to gain a visceral understanding of the desperation, hunger, and brutality that define life in Changi.

However, the sheer number of characters can be overwhelming like in Clavell’s two Hong Kong novels , Tai Pan and Noble House . The book’s pacing occasionally falters.

Overall, King Rat is a compelling story of human resilience and adaptability. It’s a must-read for those who want to dig deeper into Singapore’s history .

If you’re planning on visiting Singapore, you can explore the history of this prison with a tour of Changi Chapel and Museum . Check out my Singapore itinerary for more details.

21. Moonlight Palace

By liz rosenberg (2014).

The Moonlight Palace is an enjoyable novel that takes the reader back to the 1920s and to the historical and colorful neighborhood of Kampong Glam minus the trendy bars and graffiti.

The narrator of the story is the precocious Agnes Hussein , the 17-year-old female descendant of the Sultan of Johor-Riao, the man responsible for selling Singapore to the British .

Agnes and her eccentric family live in the Sultan’s palace, Istana Kampong Glam . With their fortunes nearly depleted, the family fights to hang on to its crumbling palace, fending off greedy government officials, scheming con artists, and bungling terrorists.

Maybe. I’m not sure how much of what Rosenberg writes is even true . I haven’t been able to find out whether these multi-racial descendants of the Sultan of Johor-Riao existed or not. Was Agnes Hussein a real person?

Still, the story gave me some background of the neighborhood when I visited it. The palace still exists. Sitting right next to the Aladdin-like Sultan’s Mosque, it’s now called the Malay Heritage Centre. You can read how to explore Kampong Glam in this fabulous Singapore itinerary .

Moonlight Palace is an enjoyable book about an interesting part of  Singapore’s history. 

22. Singapore Grip

By j.g. farrell (1978).

I’d wanted to read Singapore Grip for the longest time. However, since it wasn’t at my local library and it was pricier than the other books about Singapore, I put off buying it for the longest time!

This is such a good book. Such great writing ! J.G. Farrell really knows how to write smooth and witty prose with characters that you can get emotionally attached to . I loved the writer’s subtle dark humor .

The book is loooooong. 578 pages. J.G. likes to write ten pages about one small mundane activity like a car ride from the airport.

A great deal of the book is spent analyzing the evils of colonialism and the greed of Western capitalism . Being a huge history and politics nerd, I loved this!

Singapore Grip is about Singapore in the last months before the Japanese invasion . The story centers on a wealthy British colonial family called the Blacketts. They’re such horribly racist, shallow, and greedy people , but also so typical of their time and place. However, you read on because you know the Japanese are going to invade soon, and you hope that this oblivious family gets its comeuppance.

Then there’s the idealistic, ahead-of-his-times nerd of all nerds , Matthew. He’s the estranged and wayward son of Walter’s deceased business partner and the antithesis of the Blacketts.

Surprisingly, it’s kind of suspenseful even though we know the Japanese are going to invade and it’s going to be horrible.

There are a few other well-developed supporting characters who are just as fascinating.

This is another great book to read about Singapore during World War II.  As a historical novel, it’s great for giving you an understanding of Singapore’s history and for enlightening you on the struggles of the Chinese refugees .

23. Soy Sauce for Beginners

By kirsten chen (2014).

Written by Kirsten Chen, Soy Sauce for Beginners is just OK. The story isn’t original enough and the main character, Gretchen, is dull as a doorknob .

After living in the U.S. for several years, Gretchen returns home to Singapore. Her husband has left her for another woman. She’s devastated. However, her problems don’t end there. Gretchen has to also deal with her mother’s drinking problem , Asian expectations of filial piety , the struggles of her father’s artisanal soy sauce business , and her scheming cousin .

Soy Sauce for Beginners didn’t inspire me to visit Singapore or educate me much about Singapore. There are some interesting facts about soy sauce that intrigued me. There’s also the typical story of the struggle between personal ambition and filial piety. Nothing new.

I’d say that there are other books about Singapore that you can read instead.

• Singapore Travel Hacks to Save You Money
• Best Places to Stay in Singapore
• Singapore Travel & Itinerary Guide

By Sharlene Teo, (2018)

  “It’s so much harder to detest your only friend in the world when (1) it is like deciding whether to pick the sole option on the menu or to go hungry; (2) her hatefulness comes and goes like a rash or a fever; (3) the memory of her kindness is so fresh that it encourages forgiving; (4) sometimes her slights are so slight I wonder if I imagined it and I’m the one being mean, undeserving.”

Szu is 16 years old. She’s an awkward, friendless, lonely, below-the-bell-curve student at an all-girls convent school in Singapore. Her family life isn’t ideal either. Her father walked out on her family many years earlier leaving Szu with a cold and distant mother who doesn’t love her and who on most days can barely get out of bed.

Szu’s mother is also stunningly beautiful—the kind that makes men and women stop and stare at her as she walks down the street. Before she had Szu her mother acted in a series of cult horror movies called Ponti ! Szu’s mother played the part of a Pontianak, a vengeful female ghost from Singaporean, Indonesian, and Malay folklore. The ghost seduces unsuspecting men and then sucks the soul and youth out of them.

But then things change for Szu when she meets sarcastic and equally awkward, Circe . The two develop an intense friendship that gives Szu hope and a chance to escape from her home life. However, good things don’t always last, and you can’t always count on your friends.

Seventeen years later, Circe is faced with feelings of guilt over what happened to Szu and their friendship.

The story really sucked me in . I so wanted Szu to be happy and to give her mother a big kick in the butt for being so awful and to tell Circe to stop being such a jerk. The writing is really good —I’m only sad that I haven’t been able to find any other books by Sharlene Teo.

One of my FAVORITE books on Singapore !

25. The Great Reclamation

By rachel heng, (2023), my rating: 5 out of 5 stars.

“Think how much stronger we’ll be if we can make land wherever we need.  A little island like our own. First, independence, then, who knows! Why should we not have everything the Ang Mohs do? Why not enjoy the same prosperity that the West does? And here we are, about to take the very first step. You can achieve anything with a hardworking people, a dedicated government—”

I’d been waiting for a book like this ever since I stepped foot in Singapore and fell in love with the place.

The Great Reclamation is a sweeping work of historical fiction that tells the story of how Singapore  went from a third-world country to a wealthy, safe, clean yet authoritarian, nanny state .

The story follows the life of Ah Boon , a poor boy born before WWII in a humble fishing village on the coast of Singapore.

The first time his father takes him fishing, Ah Boon discovers several magical islands that no one knew existed. The islands are pristine and beautiful, and the waters are teeming with fish. Thanks to his magical gift, the family prospers. They’re able to send Ah Boon to school where he meets Siok Mei , a smart and passionate girl whom he develops a deep bond with.

Then Japan invades and tragedy strikes the family. After the Japanese are defeated, the British return. But Singaporeans have had enough of the inequality, injustices, racism, neglect, and poverty of British rule. They demand independence.

As Singapore moves toward becoming independent, the colony begins to change and modernize . The government starts to take care of the people. There’s modern housing and higher-paying jobs. Life is more convenient and comfortable.

But there is a price to pay for this comfort, security, and prosperity . The old way of life is gone. The family, the village, the islands, the beaches, and the mangroves are gone. Freedom is gone. Democracy is sacrificed. (If you know anything about Singapore, I’m not giving away anything here.)

Ah Boon, his family, and Siok Mei perceive these changes in different ways. Some try to hold on to the past while others see the destruction of the old as necessary for prosperity in the future.

The Great Reclamation is one of the best books I’ve read in 2023 . It’s beautifully crafted, heartbreaking, and thought-provoking .

I’m never going to see Singapore the same way again .

It’s the PERFECT book to read before (or after) a trip to Singapore.

26. The Sun Sets in Singapore

By kehinde falipe (2023), my rating: not read yet.

One of the latest books in Singapore written in English is The Sun Sets in Singapore by British-Nigerian actress and writer Kehinde Falipe. It takes a unique perspective in that it’s written by a Nigerian writer about Nigerians living in the Lion City . Very refreshing in that it’s not another book about Asians or white people in Singapore.

The book is about 3 women—Dara, Amaka, and Lillian—living the ex-pat dream life in Singapore. All are of Nigerian ethnicity. Dara is an ambitious lawyer. Amaka, a Nigerian, is a sharp-tongued banker. Lillian from the U.S. is a former pianist turned “trailing spouse.” Everything is going swimmingly for the trio until a mysterious stranger enters the ex-pat mix .

I have not read the book yet. It’s on my holds list at my library. It’s so popular that I’m told it’ll be 26 weeks before I get a copy.

Reviews of the book have mixed. A fun read with great descriptions of food and realistically portrayed characters . However, there’s so much drama that the book comes across as soap-operish .

We will see! I’ll update this post when I finish reading The Sun Sets in Singapore . Until then, if you’ve read it, let me know what you think. Meh or yeah?

NONFICTION BOOKS ABOUT SINGAPORE

When I first started reading about Singapore, choices of nonfiction books on Singapore were slim. But now in 2024, you’ve got an array of books to choose from. I’ve included most of them here for your benefit. I have not read all of them yet. 

27. Crossroads: A Popular History of Malaysia and Singapore

By jim baker (2012).

I fell in love with Singapore, and so I wanted to understand its history more deeply than the back of a Lonely Planet guide could give me. So, I purchased Crossroads: A Popular History of Malaysia and Singapore . I was not disappointed.

Crossroads tells the history of these two countries from its first inhabitants 2,500 years ago to 2005 . You’ll learn about why the British bought Singapore from the Sultan of Johor-Riao, why the colony and later the nation prospered, why the Japanese were able to conquer Singapore so easily, why no one had any expectations for it to succeed after independence, why there’s so much public housing, and how Lee Kuan Yu was able to become so powerful and how he turned Singapore into a wealthy semi-democratic/dictatorship nanny state.

Crossroads helped me understand Singapore much better and appreciate the many obstacles the Chinese, Indian, and Malays had to overcome to succeed.

28. Lion City: Singapore and the Invention of Modern Asia

By jeevan vasagar, 2022, my rating: have not read yet.

One of the more current nonfiction books on Singapore is Lion City by Jeevan Vasagar.

The book looks at different aspects of Singapore including education, health, art, politics, and demographics. Vasagar explores both the positives and negatives of Lew Kwan Yew’s legacy . He explains how the country went from third world to first world under the leadership of Lee Kwan Yew. The book also discusses how Singapore became an authoritarian nanny state . It’s a city with clean and safe streets and one of the best public housing programs in the world. Yet there’s no room for criticism of the government or talk of human rights. The legal system is so draconian and backward that it imprisons teenage bloggers and outlaws sex between men.

I have only had a chance to read the introduction and first chapter. I will update this review once I finish reading it. But so far, the writing has been superb . Vasagar knows how to make a nonfiction book entertaining enough for you to not nod off.

Reviews of the Lion City have been mostly positive . Reviewers say that it’s a solid and broad introduction to Singapore for those who don’t know much about the place. It’s compelling and well-written with lots of interesting anecdotes from the author’s connection to the lion city. Vasagar can convey to the reader the roots of Singapore’s success and to give a well-balanced exploration of both the positive and negative aspects of the city.

The negative reviews claim that Vasagar gets many of his facts wrong and lacks an understanding of Singapore, blaming it on him not being from the city-state. There’s too much reliance on pro-government sources .

Have you read Lion City ? If you have, let me know what you think! Is it worth reading?

29. Seven Hundred Years: A History of Singapore

By kwa chong guang, derek heng, peter borschberg & tan tai yong, 2020, my rating: have not yet read.

Seven Hundred Years is exactly what the title claims it to be about: the history of Singapore over the last 700 years . It’s not the most compelling title. I have only read the introduction and it’s very academic and dry—feels more like a college textbook.

Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to reading it because I like the perspective the authors take . Most books on the history of Singapore frame it within the history of the British Empire. It is as if Singapore did not exist before Sir Raffles came. Instead, the authors of A Seven Year History are writing from a non-Western perspective of Singapore’s history. The history starts from the thirteenth century. Each chapter covers a different century.

There are a few other reasons why I’m interested in this book. It’s written by four of the foremost experts in Singaporean history . The book is based on the most current research on Singapore and uses a variety of sources from archaeological, cartographical, scientific, and archival. There’s also a plethora of photos, maps, and illustrations splattered throughout the book.

If you’re interested in understanding the island’s history, Seven Hundred Years is a must-read book on Singapore .

Once I’ve finished the book, I’ll update this review. If you’ve read it, let me know what you think!

30. Lonely Planet Singapore

By ria de jong (2022).

The Lonely Planet guidebook for Singapore is a mixture of good and bad. My favorite thing about it is that they mention places that I never would have gone to if I hadn’t had the travel guide I’ve never seen another blogger mention the Baba House or the Peranakan Museum.

The book has a plethora of maps of each neighborhood with super easy-to-read legends in the back of the book.

However, the Singapore guidebook has the same weaknesses that other LP guides have. They tend to substitute clarity for humor . I like witty writing, but in travel guides, I just want to know what the best way to get from point A to point B is and how much is it going to cost me in the simplest terms possible. No matter how many times I read it, I couldn’t decipher LP’s description of how to get from Singapore to Malaysia.

Some of their information is wrong or out-of-date . In getting to the zoo, they mention that taking public transportation would be too complicated. Take a taxi, they said. Not true at all. 

Still, it’s the BEST travel guide for Singapore you can buy.

More Books from Around the World

• 30 Books on Singapore
• 10 Books on Malaysia
• 13 Books on Myanmar
• 25 Nonfiction Books on China
• 35 Fiction Books on Japan
• 15 Books on Korea
• 25 Books on Thailand
• 28 Books on Vietnam
• 20 Books on Sri Lanka
• 15 Books on Indonesia
• 25 Books on Cambodia
• 15 Books on Guatemala
• 16 Books on the Ancient Maya'
• 13 Books on Russia and Vladimir Putin
• 35 Books on Ukraine
• 25 Books on Ecuador
• 25 Books on Panama

Final Thoughts

Have you read any of these books about Singapore?

What did you think of them?

Do you have any books set in Singapore that you suggest reading?

If you have any comments or questions, please leave them below in the comment box.

And if you found this post useful, please share it on social media.

Thank you! ♥

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Looking for more info on Malaysia and Singapore?

• How to travel from Singapore to Malaysia by Bus
• An Unforgettable 2-Day Melaka Itinerary
• Penang Itinerary: 3 Days of Street Art and Night Markets
• 15 Best Books about Malaysia: Read Before You Go!
• Singapore Itinerary: How to Spend 5 Days in Singapore
• How to Save Money in Singapore
• 30 Awesome Books About Singapore
• Hello Singapore Food Tour - Unbiased and Honest Review
• Review of Black and White Houses Tour

Have you tried Ponti by Slarlene Teo? Quirky but so well written. I loved it!

Crippled Immortals is worth a look, a memoir about a kung fu group in Singapore

Thanks for the tip! I’ll look into it!

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Welcome to The Bamboo Traveler, a travel & digital nomad blog, dedicated to helping women over 40 travel the world safely, cheaply, and comfortably. Whether you’re going for a one, two- or three-week vacation, exploring the world as a digital nomad, or staying home and discovering the world from the comfort and safety of your home, you’ll find loads of information to help inspire and inform you in your wanderings.

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Posts about singapore.

• Review of the Black and White Houses Tour
• Hello Singapore Food Tour – An Unbiased and Honest Review
• 10 Awesome Books About Singapore

Posts About Malaysia

• Malaysia Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Asia’s Best-Kept Secret
• How to Travel From Singapore to Malaysia by Bus
• Books Set in Malaysia

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Eyewitness Travel Guide to Singapore Paperback – January 1, 2000

Rich in history and tradition, the island of Singapore has become the gem of Southeast Asia and DK's Eyewitness Guide: Singapore will show you how to get around one of the world's best economic miracles. Visit the shops and cafes on Trengganu Street in Chinatown, the world famous Raffles Hotel, the sculpture park in Fort Canning Park, and the ethnic enclave of Kampong Glam. Four guided walks take you through Mount Faber Park, the back streets of old Geylang and Katong, the beaches of East Coast Park, and the colonial houses in Ridley Park. With over 750 photographs, street-by-street maps, and unique cutaway illustrations there is no need to purchase any other guide.

• Print length 208 pages
• Language English
• Publisher DK Travel
• Publication date January 1, 2000
• Dimensions 8.69 x 5.14 x 0.57 inches
• ISBN-10 0789455447
• ISBN-13 978-0789455444
• See all details

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Product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ DK Travel (January 1, 2000)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 208 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0789455447
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0789455444
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 14.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.69 x 5.14 x 0.57 inches
• #305 in Singapore Travel Guides
• #2,829 in General Asia Travel Books
• #6,648 in General Travel Reference

About the authors

Andrew forbes.

Andrew Forbes / Andrew D. W. Forbes graduated in Chinese Studies from the University of Leeds before completing an MA in Islamic Studies and a Ph.D. in Central Asian History. He lectured in East African History at the University of Khartoum (1977-78) and in Islamic Studies at the University of Aberdeen (1982-88). In 1983-4 he was Leverhulme Fellow at the British Institute in Southeast Asia, Thailand, and in 1988-89 he was a Senior Associate Member of St Antony's College, Oxford. He has traveled extensively in Asia and Africa, and is currently editor of Crescent Press Agency (www.cpamedia.com); Pictures From History, an online image library specialising in cultural and historical images of Asia (www.picturesfromhistory.com); and Cognoscenti Books, a publishing company specialising in eBooks on Asian Art, Culture, History & Travel (www.cognoscentibooks.com).

Ron Emmons has now launched the audiobook version (self-narrated, September 2023) of TEAK LORD, a historical novel about a teak boom in a remote Asian kingdom in the late 19th century, of which the print and digital versions were launched in late 2022. Audible customers should look out for the 'Whisperer for Voice' feature, which allows you to listen to the story (for example, while travelling) or read it (maybe on your sofa or in bed), as the mood suits you.

Ron is a British writer and photographer who is based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. He is the author of several guidebooks, as well as the photographic Portrait of Thailand (New Holland, 2008). His feature articles on travel, culture, Nature, Buddhism, and photography have appeared in many international publications such as Hemispheres (United Airlines) and the South China Morning Post. A collection of travelogues, "Searching for Shangri-La", is available as an ebook and paperback.

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