“A visual storybook that makes my mind spin cool short films with Ismail Basbeth’s signature suspense and plot twists. A book worth reading while missing your family.” 

-Dyna Herlina, film researcher-

“Reading this book, I couldn’t sleep.”

– Zaskia Adya Mecca Mother of 5 children, Entrepreneur, Actress –

“Get to know Isbeth better through this book, including her collection of stories set in Central Java and the great significance of home for Isbeth.”

-Ladya Cheryl, Actress-

“Sometimes longing does not always lead to happiness, but rather to sorrow. Stories about choosing to make peace with definitive answers to problems that often arise in life. Appreciation to Ismail Basbeth for the realization of his fifth major decision, namely the first book from Ruang Basbeth. I can’t wait for his next work!”

-Morgan Oey, Actor-

“Reading Ismail Basbeth’s collection of manuscripts in the midst of a pandemic and emergency PPKM restrictions provides energy and insight, encouraging us to always think positively and creatively as we navigate the dynamics of life. The diversity of stories, with their different approaches and styles of delivery, demonstrate Basbeth’s intelligence and creativity, rich in imagination. I can envision which stories would be suitable for films, animations, and even monologues. Basbeth has reminded us that no matter how difficult the situation we face, creativity must never die. God willing, there will always be a way out of every problem as long as we believe that God will always be there for His servants.”

-Christine Hakim, Actress & Film Producer-

What would Indonesians be without the clash between culture, spiritualism, mysticism, and economic circumstances? People and their daily lives, dreams, pain, disappointment, struggles, but also hope, are the main themes in the stories written by Ismail Basbeth. We are reminded to relearn the terms common people, humanity, interaction, and survival. Life is painful, but there is always joy to be found. Most special of all, we can read the author’s memoir as an introduction to understanding how the imagination of the author, Basbeth, was formed. Congratulations on your book, Basbeth.”

-Olin Monteiro, women’s activist, writer, and documentary producer-