New books on Cambodia for 2026
As of early 2026, the publishing landscape for Cambodia has seen a strong start, particularly in the academic, political, and graphic novel sectors. Since we are only in the first quarter of the year, several of these titles are just hitting the shelves or are scheduled for later this spring.
Here are the most significant new books on Cambodia for 2026:
Non-Fiction & Academic
- How Cambodia Survived the Killing Fields: From International Pawn to a Contemporary Quest for Stability by Michael Haas (Bloomsbury Academic, January 2026).
This is one of the most comprehensive new histories of the country. Haas, who has been personally involved in Cambodian affairs for decades, provides an updated critique of major power interventions from 1953 to the present, including a deep dive into the 1993 UN intervention and modern quests for accountability.
- Microfinance in Cambodia: Development, Role, and Prospects edited by Sovannroeun Samreth and Daiju Aiba (Routledge, January 23, 2026).
An essential read for those interested in the Cambodian economy. It examines the rapid growth of the microfinance sector, its impact on rural development, and the challenges of debt sustainability in contemporary Khmer society.
- Rising China, Chinese Culture and Its Transformation in Southeast Asia edited by Leo Suryadinata (ISEAS Publishing, 2026).
While covering the broader region, this volume contains significant new research on the cultural and economic shifts in Cambodia as a result of increasing Chinese influence and the Belt and Road Initiative.
Memoir, Culture & Photography
- My Cambodia by Matthew Robinson (Book Launch: January 20, 2026).
Featured at events in Phnom Penh early this year, Robinson (the renowned filmmaker behind Kroasach Chet) shares a personal and professional memoir of his life and work in the Kingdom. It provides a unique “insider-outsider” perspective on the development of the Cambodian television and film industry.
- Small States, Big Roles: Cambodia, Laos and Singapore Steering ASEAN Through Change (ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, 2026).
This title explores the diplomatic strategies of Cambodia within the ASEAN framework, specifically analyzing its 2022 chairmanship and how the country balances major-power pressures.
Graphic Novels & Literature
- The Anarchist by Séra (Ing Phousera) (English Release/Event: January 2026).
The iconic French-Cambodian artist Séra held exhibitions in early 2026 (at Institut Français) showcasing “The Anarchist” and providing glimpses into his upcoming work. This graphic novel continues his exploration of the trauma and memory of the 1975 evacuation of Phnom Penh.
- A New Sun Rises Over the Old Land by Suon Sorin (translated by Roger Nelson).
While first translated in 2019, this “classic” of modern Khmer literature is seeing a major resurgence in 2026 with new pedagogical editions and widespread promotion as part of Southeast Asian literary “must-read” lists for the year.
Upcoming for Late 2026
Keep an eye out for Penguin Random House SEA and Monsoon Books, as they often announce fiction titles mid-year. There are rumors of a new anthology of contemporary Cambodian short stories in translation slated for late 2026 to coincide with the major literary festivals in the region.
