The first edition of i ate tiong bahru sold out largely due to word of mouth. Published independently the collection of essays first struck a chord with the residents of Tiong Bahru then with the nation of Singapore as a whole. The books unusual combination of historical documentation detailed observations of daily life and lyrical writing became an instant classic. This second edition features a new story and layout.The new story is about Ronnie and the Burns Singapores first rock and roll band