Many people in Laos are naturally quite shy, particularly in villages. This is often a hurdle for young people, particularly young women, who want to learn English: It takes time for them to build up the confidence to approach visitors for the practice that the need. But shyness isn't an issue for Pai. His friendly, outgoing nature is particularly important at book parties, where children quickly pick up on his enthusiasm and energy.

Pai, whose full name is Sisawath, was born in Sainyabuli Province. His family, which includes five sisters and older brother, came to Luang Prabang when he was four years old. He studied English in college for three years before feeling confident enough to start speaking to tourists.

When his father died he began to help out in his mother's shop and soon after started his own shop. He opens every evening to sell music CDs, books, and school bits-and-pieces. At Big Brother Mouse he's a jack-of-all-trades, lending his hand to whatever's needed, from helping with the cooking to selling books to visitors, to joining the book party team.

Few people in Laos have any significant writing experience. Pai, like many others on our staff, occasionally tried his hand at writing stories while working at Big Brother Mouse. We've already published his first book, a collection of original fairy tales titled The Orphan and the King, and he has several more in progress.