Beansprout & Firehead – In the Infinite Madness (Illustrated Novel)

The “BeanSprout & Firehead” graphic novel series has been continuously published since 2005 (currently up to volume 10, still ongoing) and has become a beloved book for many readers. It is often regarded as a ‘book for people who don’t read books,’ due to its narrative style that blends illustrations as an essential part of storytelling. The experience of reading it is distinct from a traditional novel, focusing more on visuals, with the narrative style leaning towards literary work rather than a comic book. The series raises questions about society and humanity, using the perspectives of various characters and situations. The author frequently uses illustrations to describe events instead of relying solely on text, keeping the narrative concise and simple, while focusing on the story rather than playing with elaborate language.

The author has often stated that he uses books as a medium to tell stories from another world, and he frequently emphasizes that BeanSprout and Firehead, as well as other characters, exist in real life. The stories presented in the book are simply his attempt to share what these characters from the other world have narrated to him.

The storyline of “BeanSprout & Firehead” unfolds in a surreal world (similar to ours), told through the journeys of the main characters: BeanSprout and Firehead. They are two homeless children with contrasting personalities. Firehead wants to conquer the world and trusts only his dog, Bubib, who follows him. Meanwhile, BeanSprout desires to meet his real parents.

The story alternates between the perspectives of the two main characters and other significant characters. For example, the tale of a woman dressed in black, who lives in the shadows and has persisted through generations, holding many secrets. The graphic novel series has an eerie, chilling atmosphere at times, while also highlighting the warmth and deep connections between characters in a harsh and unpredictable world. Readers often find that their favorite character changes with each reading, as the characters are dynamic and multifaceted.

The first volume of this graphic novel series was first published in October 2005 as part of a new author program by a book publisher, and it was primarily aimed at teenagers. The first edition of BeanSprout & Firehead – In the Infinite Madness was published in only 1,000 copies with 96 pages. It was available for order via mail or at the National Book Fair. The first printing sold out quickly, prompting the publisher to print more with longer content. The 7,000 additional copies sold out within a few days when made available at the National Book Fair. Following its success, the series continued to be republished in bookstores across the country. Over the next 17 years, BeanSprout & Firehead has sold a total of 230,000 copies, with a dedicated fanbase growing from teenagers to working adults and new parents.

Although Songsin Tiewsomboon never initially aspired to be a writer, he became a writer-artist from that moment forward. He immersed himself in creating characters and stories in the way he wanted to see them unfold. He has published more than 20 works, and his psychological thriller Twilight Staind made it to the final round of the 2021 SEA Write Award. His works have been translated into Chinese, Vietnamese, Taiwanese, and Japanese.

Songsin views books as a medium for storytelling and the beginning of many other creative projects. After establishing his own publishing brand, Songsinthings, he expanded his creative work into new territories such as oil painting exhibitions and original BeanSprout & Firehead artwork collaborations with Trendy Gallery. He also translated his works into different languages and produced related products like toys, clothing, and fragrances. Furthermore, he created an original soundtrack for BeanSprout & Firehead in vinyl format, which he composed and recorded himself. His short animation adaptation of his graphic novel Nine Lives with The Monk Studios won 11 international awards and was selected for screening at 22 film festivals worldwide.

Website: Songsinthings

www.songsinthings.com