When I first took a weaving class circa 1975, I heard about Jim Thompson
who took the handwoven silk textile industry in Thailand to the
world...then disappeared leaving no trace (reportedly).

Just read The Ideal Man by Joshua Kurlantzick, a book that goes into Jim
Thompson' life, South East Asia at that time (pre-1967), spying and the
hand woven silk industry in Thailand.

This is a book about the impact of one man in the revitalization of hand
silk weaving, the weavers and their families. Jim Thompson made hand
weaving a prestigious and financially viable business.

Fascinating and (I am sure) controversial.

Louise in NorCal

Wow! Thanks for sharing this tidbit, Louise!

Thanks, Louise, this sounds interesting.  My library has the book online, I started it!
XO Gail

Louise,

I bought the book and was anxious to read it.  I'm a bit mystified.  I bought a paperback version.  About every seventh word has a space in the middle of it.  It is very difficult to read.  Did your book have this issue?  If not where did you purchase your book?

Melodie Usher

Hi Melodie
Bought the hardback edition of the book used from an amazon vendor.

Your book 'sounds' like an illegal copy.

Find the Jim Thompson/Thai Silk industry fascinating and have bought
another book (also used, hardback, amazon vendor) by William Warren who
was a friend of Jim Thompson titled Jim Thompson, The Unsolved Mystery.

Louise in NorCal

I visited his house in Bangkok, simply beautiful in his simplicity! Amazing
gardens...very peaceful... The experience was very spiritual.
Now I need to read his book!

Maryse