Even the self-hatred in this narrative is self-indulgent. The narrator (/author?) loathes white gay men who find him attractive and enters into the very hackneyed attempt to have a meaningful, loving relationship with a prostitute. The narrator/author recognizes that to some extent he is a privileged American, but does not notice that in Malaysia (and, to a lesser extent, in Thailand) he is part of a quasi-colonial privileged Chinese elite.

One thing that Chua does exceedingly well is stylizing. Nevermind the story (if it were a bit more connected, I'd give him 5 stars). He is brassy, he is vulnerable. He is vulgar, he is tender. This is the sort of book that requires much of its readers. Those who take it at face value will hate it (as some of the reviewers above have). The narrator may not be likeable, but then again there is a reason why the author made him that way. Those who prefer to be spoonfed should turn to Stephen King or Higgins or Danielle Steel.

I like this book because it has guts. It'll make you wince and gag and chew your lips to shred. Chua has the power of a very keen poet. Highly recommended to writers or those with a deep appreciation for prose.

An extraordinary and compelling novel, especially in its bold and simple language, its force; GOLD BY THE INCH is one of the two best books I've read this year, along with Colm Toibin's THE STORY OF THE NIGHT!