of love for life. The book tells the story of Nyan and his transition from child to man by the traditional initiation rites practised by his people. Through the account of his everyday life, he brings us into contact with Burmese culture and conventions. However, his family life is dramatically disrupted by an unforseen event, only portended by his grandmother Rejna. "It was about midnight when he was awoken by the clattering of the metal sheets on the roof. The wind hadn't stopped. On the contrary, it had increased in intensity. The rain was lashing the walls of their solid house. Wind and water were raging against their safety". Text in english and italian.