Red Moons and Silent Truths

"Lydia Goldman masterfully sheds light on a pivotal yet sometimes overlooked chapter in history. Red Moons and Silent Truths is not just a recounting of events; it's a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression."

-Chris Riches, Daily Express

"A powerful and timely reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of fighting for what you believe in. Lydia Goldman's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the human cost of political oppression."

-Richard Moriarty, The Sun

"Red Moons and Silent Truths is a fascinating account of a young British teacher who arrived in Myanmar during the COVID-19 lockdowns. It was never going to be an easy assignment, but it turned out to be one of the hardest imaginable.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning about what life was like for expatriates in Myanmar during the dreadful 'Double C' of the coup and COVID-19. Everyday life was very difficult and fraught with fear, such as the rumours that swirled about people poisoning the water. Lydia and her friends looked for moments of happiness amongst the difficulties, and I admired that.

Lydia encountered prolonged lockdowns and took to buying just a couple of items of food each day to spend time outside her apartment. She carried a shopping bag in the hope that it would provide sufficient justification if questioned by authorities. I could feel her anxiety pulsing through the pages.

She was also forced to teach her young students remotely, many of whom did not speak English, while relying on highly unreliable internet connections. Yet even when she was sick with typhoid, Lydia showed courage and resilience, as well as an endearing fondness for her adopted home.

Knowing the import and even superstitions around birthdates in Myanmar, I was delighted to discover that Lydia was born on 11 January, which is the day after mine on 10 January. I see Lydia's book as continuing the story depicted in my book, Our Home in Myanmar. We experienced such different periods of this country's recent history. I can only hope there is a third book that comes along one day with an entirely different ending that sees peace and democracy for the people of Myanmar."

-Jessica Mudditt, Author of Our Home in Myanmar and founder of Hembury Books