An acclaimed, captivating storyteller, Andrea Hirata launched his literary career with The Rainbow Troops, an autobiographical novel that sold a record-breaking five million copies in his native Indonesia. Now in translation in twenty-three countries and counting, the book is captivating readers worldwide. It is the story of an extraordinary group of students at Muhammadiyah Elementary, on the Indonesian island of Belitong, where graduating from sixth grade is considered a pinnacle achievement. As the narrator, Ikal, reflects on his boyhood, he brings to life a band of heroic children—nicknamed the Rainbow Troops—who defy all odds.

In their one-room schoolhouse, the holes in the roof are so big that students can see planes flying overhead. Chalk is carefully rationed. Goats sometimes have to be ushered out. There are no multiplication tables or calendars hanging on the walls. Corrupt government officials and greedy tin mine operators pose constant threats. Yet Ikal and his classmates love learning and will stop at nothing to keep their little school afloat. Along the way, they will have you rooting for Lintang, the class’s barefoot genius, as he defeats the students of the mining company’s school in an academic challenge. You’ll swoon with Ikal as he meets his first love. And you’ll escape to the lush imaginary worlds that sustain the members of the Rainbow Troops in the face of uncertain futures.