

We are an independent publisher of literary fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

Established in 1997, Ethos Books, an imprint of Pagesetters Services Pte Ltd, creates fresh, different and enduring books that reflect the ethos of our changing times.
Giving voice to emerging and exciting writers from diverse backgrounds, we help foster an environment in which literature and the arts not only survive, but thrive. In short, we nurture the growing literary community in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Featured
Kampong Spirit—Gotong Royong: Life in Potong Pasir, 1955 to 1965 (new edition)
Available in paperback and e-book format. Paperback + E-book bundle available below: Get the e-book at 50% off with each purchase of a paperback.
The most significant aspect of living in a kampong was its kampong spirit—or gotong royong. Though deprived of modern comforts like electricity or running water, multi-racial neighbours lived harmoniously with each other in their attap villages, had a wonderful zest for life and a strong sense of community.
This refreshed new edition of Kampong Spirit brings to life the colourful characters of the villagers with whom Peranakan author Josephine Chia grew up at a kampong in Potong Pasir. The period 1955 to 1965 was also a dramatic era for Singapore. As the country struggled towards nationhood, the social and political events of this time and their effects are seen through the eyes of the common folk.
This collection of delightful, real life short stories will take you through Singapore’s history and heritage at a human level. For some, it will be a journey of discovery and for others, a time of reminiscing about those nostalgic years.
Winner of the Singapore Literature Prize for English non-fiction—an essential and vibrant read on what kampong living in Singapore was like.
Also by Josephine Chia: Goodbye My Kampong! (sequel to Kampong Spirit—Gotong Royong); Growing Up in Kampong Potong Pasir (for young readers)
Past Conversations

Teh Tarik with Walid IRL - Independent Art Spaces with Fong Hoe Fang, Prashant Somosundram
Dec 28, 2023
Access the full transcript of Teh Tarik with Walid IRL - Independent Art Spaces with Fong Hoe Fan...
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"he can’t recognise the Singapore that I’m talking about, but I can" | Home, Community and Hope: Book launch of The Singapore I Recognise
Dec 4, 2023
Access the full transcript of Home, Community and Hope: Book launch of The Singapore I Recognise
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"Do we adjust our own moral compass, or do we rebel?" | The Rise and Fall of an Anti-Hero: Book Launch of catskull
Aug 29, 2023
Access the full transcript of The Rise and Fall of an Anti-Hero: Book Launch of catskull here.
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Attunement
Is life hustling you out of tune? As the week roars by, we invite you to a slice of attunement penned lovingly by us, our authors and friends. Freshly delivered with care. Intimacy guaranteed. Read selected letters below.

Coming Full Circle
Sep 17, 2025
When you have someone who can share your memories with you, your life is validated.
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Practising Listening
Aug 14, 2025
Our language grows, and with it, new connections to things and creatures around us.
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We Rise and Fall into Spring Blossoms
Jul 23, 2025
For years, pouring myself into this collection was an outlet to make peace with my past and also,...
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News
Coming Full Circle
Sep 17, 2025
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Practising Listening
Aug 14, 2025
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We Rise and Fall into Spring Blossoms
Jul 23, 2025
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"Learning and growing from my experiences—that’s what gives me a fulfilling life." | Delicious Hunger Book Launch
May 14, 2025
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Touch Some Grass
May 7, 2025
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Anguish and Optimism
Apr 23, 2025
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Cherished Spaces
Mar 18, 2025
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Constancy
Feb 24, 2025
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Kindred spirits after all
Feb 8, 2025
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Ethos Publishing Calendar 2025
Jan 20, 2025
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Stepping out, and into 2025
Jan 13, 2025
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Ethos' Favourite Picks of 2024
Jan 6, 2025
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Finding Our Feet
Dec 16, 2024
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Turning the page
Dec 9, 2024
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Reflections on a Bus Back to KL
Dec 9, 2024
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Trust the process of change
Dec 9, 2024
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Education
Whether you're a reader who is keen to dig deeper into our books, or a teacher looking to bring our authors into your classroom, Ethos Books believes in supporting and enabling knowledge-sharing, discussion and community building through literature. Check out our school programmes on this page, as well as recommended reading lists and our free book club starter packs to start your very own book club today!