Set in the jungles, streets, and schools of Burma, The Burmese Spy Adventure Book shows the temptation of aiding and abetting the thought and mind police versus the ambitions for a better and different life. They Sein, a young man who hails from his mother's restaurant, spends his days spying on fellow villagers, recording his observations in a small notebook he keeps with him at all times.

After a chance to study English in the city, They Sein and a village girl, Saw Lei, relocate for the purpose of acquiring language skills to better their lives. But not all is rosy in the land of golden pagodas. In the city, They Sein continues his spy habits. After a misfortunate episode in the Burmese army, he must live with the consequences of his espionage. Teachers and classmates spend time in jail. Political movements and marches take place. Leaders are questioned. But can They Sein accept himself and his involvement in the thought and mind police? Will he ever see a future with Saw Lei?