Those Who First Cried Freedom: An Essay-Poem Series

Name: Those Who First Cried Freedom: An Essay-Poem Series
Rating: 5 (25 reviews)

Denny JA

Jun 2026 · Cerah Budaya International, LLC

25 reviews

Ebook

195

Pages

88% price drop on Oct 22

About this ebook

Essay-poetry offers a distinctive way to enter history. It is not only poetry, because it carries facts; nor is it only fact, because it revives the feelings that accompanied each event through the added dimension of fiction.

It gives us the chance not merely to read history, but to feel it.

This book re-documents the stories of fifteen figures in Indonesia’s struggle for awakening and independence: the inner weather of their time, from the founding of Budi Oetomo and Sarekat Dagang Islam, to the dilemma of R.A. Kartini, the pioneer of women’s emancipation, who in the end consented to become the fourth wife of a regent.

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Ratings and reviews

25 reviews

Robin marinow

October 30, 2026

The poetic narrative within presents historical pioneers—such as Tan Malaka and Sukarno—from a more personal perspective, revealing the convictions, sacrifices, and emotions that lay behind their struggles. Rather than merely recounting historical achievements, the book captures the human spirit that served as the foundation for the realization of independence. A powerful and thought-provoking read; well worth purchasing.

mole fii

October 29, 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10/10 A powerful and thought-provoking book that brings history to life through essay-poetry. Denny JA beautifully captures the struggles, emotions, and sacrifices of fifteen figures in Indonesia’s journey toward awakening and independence. A unique blend of historical facts and poetic storytelling that invites readers not only to understand history, but to feel it. Truly a meaningful tribute to courage, freedom, and the human spirit.

Bale Thurr

October 29, 2026

A thoughtful and inspiring reading experience. The poetic approach brings the struggles of Indonesia’s independence pioneers closer to the reader, revealing not only their courage but also the emotions and sacrifices behind their pursuit of freedom. A great choice—a book this good deserves a place in your collection!

About the author

Denny Januar Ali widely known as Denny JA is an Indonesian author, poet, and cultural innovator whose work has reshaped the landscape of contemporary literature in Southeast Asia.

He is best recognized as the founder of the ground-breaking genre Essay-Poetry (Puisi Esai), a hybrid literary form that interweaves poetic imagination with narrative journalism, social commentary, and philosophical depth.

Janggi Studio is a creative studio inspired by Janggi, a beloved Bichon Frisé whose playful spirit, loyalty, and gentle presence became a source of emotional warmth and artistic imagination.

The studio explores visual storytelling, AI-assisted art, poetic design, and cultural narratives with a signature touch: clean, expressive, emotionally resonant, and full of life.

At its heart, Janggi Studio believes creativity should feel like companionship: sincere, joyful, and unforgettable.

Denny Januar Ali widely known as Denny JA is an Indonesian author, poet, and cultural innovator whose work has reshaped the landscape of contemporary literature in Southeast Asia. He is best recognized as the founder of the ground-breaking genre Essay-Poetry (Puisi Esai), a hybrid literary form ...

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