Scan barcode
A review by drunk_on_literature
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka
5.0
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is a breathtaking literary work that explores the complexities of life, death, and everything in between. It is a story rich in emotions, full of vivid imagery, and written with a passion that will captivate any reader.
Set amid a civil war-torn Sri Lanka during the late 1980s, the book explores the life and death of Maali Almeida, a closeted queer photographer who captures the atrocities of war with his camera lens. After his untimely death, Maali finds himself in a state of limbo, caught between life and the afterlife, given only seven moons to decide whether to move on or stay in this in-between space.
The narrative is beautifully written, with the author, Shehan Karunatilaka, expertly weaving magical realism and fantasy elements into the harsh realities of war and violence. The story is captivating from the first page, with a fast-paced, at times staggering journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
One of the standout features of The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is its protagonist, Maali Almeida, who is both flawed and relatable. He is a man who captures the rawness of war with his camera, and yet, he is not a hero, nor does he always make the right choices. His moral compass is only sometimes true; he gambles away much money and constantly cheats on the supposed love of his life. But despite all of his flaws, he is a character that the reader cannot help but empathize with.
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is not only a story about Maali but also about the people he meets during his seven-day journey. Through various encounters, the author raises important questions about our motivations in life and the lengths we go to achieve our goals. The characters that Maali meets along the way provide a profound, poignant commentary on the human condition, exploring themes such as love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty.
.
In conclusion, The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.
Set amid a civil war-torn Sri Lanka during the late 1980s, the book explores the life and death of Maali Almeida, a closeted queer photographer who captures the atrocities of war with his camera lens. After his untimely death, Maali finds himself in a state of limbo, caught between life and the afterlife, given only seven moons to decide whether to move on or stay in this in-between space.
The narrative is beautifully written, with the author, Shehan Karunatilaka, expertly weaving magical realism and fantasy elements into the harsh realities of war and violence. The story is captivating from the first page, with a fast-paced, at times staggering journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
One of the standout features of The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is its protagonist, Maali Almeida, who is both flawed and relatable. He is a man who captures the rawness of war with his camera, and yet, he is not a hero, nor does he always make the right choices. His moral compass is only sometimes true; he gambles away much money and constantly cheats on the supposed love of his life. But despite all of his flaws, he is a character that the reader cannot help but empathize with.
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is not only a story about Maali but also about the people he meets during his seven-day journey. Through various encounters, the author raises important questions about our motivations in life and the lengths we go to achieve our goals. The characters that Maali meets along the way provide a profound, poignant commentary on the human condition, exploring themes such as love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty.
.
In conclusion, The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.