Mar 31, 2023
Juntree Siriboonrod 's 106th Birthday
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates the 106th birthday of Thai author Juntree Siriboonrod, widely regarded as the “father of Thai science fiction”.
Siriboonrod was born on this day in 1917. Not much is known about his childhood. Super fans might suspect he traveled from an alternate universe or warded off aliens from the crib, but — in true science fiction fashion — no one knows his origin story for sure!
He initially worked for the Thai government as a civil servant in the Department of Ministry Fuels. After taking a job as a high school science teacher, Siriboonrod started writing science-focused articles and stories.
In 1945, Siriboonrod collaborated with the Science Society of Thailand to write Witthayasat Mahatsachan, a Thai science magazine. He wrote everything from science fiction to scientist’s biographies until his resignation in 1959. During this time, he published Phu Dap Duang Athit, or The Man Who Put Out the Sun, a collection of fantastical, science-fiction short stories that is still celebrated across Thailand today.
In 2005, the Science Society of Thailand and the Science Writers and Publishers Forum established the Juntree Siriboonrod Award in his honor. The award celebrates achievements in the field of Thai science fiction, and serves as a reminder of Siriboonrod’s literary impact.
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More