85 pages • 2 hours read
The Rent Collector
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Phnom Penh, Cambodia • Contemporary
2012
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright tells the story of Sang Ly, a 29-year-old Cambodian woman living with her husband and ill 16-month-old son in the Stung Meanchey dump. Amidst challenges like illness, poverty, and gang violence, Sang seeks a better life through literacy, forming an unexpected friendship with Sopeap Sin, the formidable rent collector. The novel explores themes of the power of story, education, and resilience. This story addresses themes including the traumatic impacts of genocide, terminal illness, and issues of extreme poverty.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Melancholic
Hopeful
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
65,696 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright resonates for its emotional depth and compelling narrative, winning praise for its ability to shed light on the resilience and hope within dire circumstances. However, some critique the novel for its predictable plot and idealized characters, feeling it lacks nuance. Overall, it’s a moving, albeit somewhat simplistic, tale.
Who Should Read The Rent Collector?
Readers who might enjoy The Rent Collector by Camron Wright are those who appreciate moving, character-driven stories of resilience and hope. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and Markus Zusak's The Book Thief will find themselves equally drawn to this poignant tale set in the slums of Cambodia.
65,696 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Soriyan/Sopeap Sin
Soriyan/Sopeap Sin
Known by multiple names, including the Rent Collector, she evolves from an antagonist to Sang’s mentor, embodying complexity and unexpected wisdom.
Ki Lim
Ki Lim
Sang’s devoted husband who works as a picker at the dump, showcasing love and support in their partnership, and demonstrating bravery in protecting his family.
Lucky Fat
Lucky Fat
A cheerful adolescent from Stung Meanchey known for finding loose money and possessing a unique blend of humor and wisdom.
Lena
Lena
Sang’s mother who joins them at the dump and views their situation as an adventure, providing a positive outlook and support for her family.
Bunna Heng
Bunna Heng
The healer from Sang’s home province who, despite guilt from past events, plays a crucial role in Nisay’s health treatments.
Nisay
Nisay
Sang’s 16-month-old son, whose illness represents a central concern for Sang, driving her to seek various remedies for his improvement.
The Real Sopeap Sin
The Real Sopeap Sin
A young girl who worked for Soriyan before the revolution and ultimately sacrificed her life, leaving a lasting impact on Soriyan.
Maly
Maly
A 12-year-old girl at the dump, whose circumstances make her vulnerable, and who receives protection from the community.
288
Novel • Fiction
Phnom Penh, Cambodia • Contemporary
2012
Adult
18+ years
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