A Fight for a Cup of Chai by Sanman Thapa is a touching and powerful true story about the author’s life—from working in factories in Kathmandu to becoming a school counselor in New York City. Thapa shares what it was like to work long, hard hours in unsafe conditions while trying to stay strong and hopeful. In the middle of all this, something as small as sharing a cup of chai with coworkers became a symbol of support, friendship, and courage.

Thapa’s writing is honest and easy to connect with. He takes us into his world and shows how workers stood together during tough times in Nepal. The book talks about more than just problems—it shows moments of kindness, strength, and unity. Even when life was very hard, Thapa and his friends found ways to stay hopeful and help each other.

This memoir is not only about Thapa’s personal journey, but also about bigger ideas like justice, belonging, and the power of community. It connects his past in Nepal to his present life in the U.S., making the story meaningful to people everywhere. A Fight for a Cup of Chai is an inspiring read that shows how small acts of care—like sharing tea—can bring people together and create lasting change.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

A Fight for a Cup of Chai is a deeply moving and eye-opening memoir about resilience, determination, and the fight for dignity. Sanman Thapa’s journey from the factory floors of Kathmandu to a new life in New York is both heartbreaking and inspiring, offering a rare glimpse into Nepal’s labor movement and the struggles of those who dared to demand more. I was completely absorbed in his story—his perseverance, the friendships he forged, and the sacrifices he made all felt incredibly real and personal. This is the kind of book that sticks with you long after you turn the last page.

Ever think a simple cup of chai could represent a whole revolution? Well, buckle up, because A Fight for a Cup of Chai is about more than just tea—it’s about guts, grit, and the fight for basic human rights. Sanman Thapa’s story hits hard, showing the sweat, struggle, and sacrifice behind labor movements most of us never think about. It’s raw, it’s real, and it makes you appreciate every sip of tea you’ve ever had. If you love underdog stories that make you want to stand up and cheer, this one’s for you. ☕✊📖

In a 1990s factory in Nepal in Kathmandu Sanman fights for his rights along with other workers in a time of hardship both political and basic human rights.

It was a really interesting tale of the 1990s in Nepal.
It was a short read but it said so much in so little time.

The highlight of the workers day was talking over a cup of chai which they had to fight to get that luxury of a tea break we take for granted today.

This is a very important read I think every one interested in reading should read .