Tales in Colour is a collection of short stories by Kunzang Choden, a Bhutanese woman writer. While not literary masterpieces they were solid, readable and enjoyable. The majority focussed on women characters, often from rural areas and show how the increased influence from urban areas has altered their lives. But the importance of traditional ways remains and is seen in one story about healers and another about a master dyer. The strength of women as single mothers was a theme in several of the stories. I also noticed the emphasis on community- the villagers who wouldn’t report a thief because he was one of them, the communal pride in a village boy who found educational and then career success in the big city. Most of the stories were realistic but one - a dispute between a woman and a mouse - was more whimsical in nature and had the air of a folk tale. The introduction should not be skipped. It’s got fascinating insights on naming conventions in Bhutan and how they reflect women’s traditional role in society as individuals, not as adjuncts to men.

While one book can’t be expected to cover everything, this slim volume provided more than a quick peek into Bhutanese society. I’m certainly glad I read it.

This is a collection of short stories about everyday life for women in rural Bhutan, touching on alcoholism, illness, infidelity, the lure of the city, age… universal themes, really, and simple stories, but very well told and with a strong sense of place.