A review by baielleebooks
Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai

emotional funny informative reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Arjie is a fabulous narrative voice; his bright curiosity, coming of age and his own navigation of a deeply fractious Sri Lanka is all navigated with great skill by Shyam Selvadurai.
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Generational inheritance of social attitudes, gender and cross-cultural love are all fascinating themes explored in Funny Boy. Selvadurai’s exploration of the fiery, bloody conflicts in Sri Lanka’s national history are explored with the utmost seriousness. And, yet, with his authorial voice, we see characters that are gloriously human in their attempt to seek out hope and solidarity despite these tumultuous circumstances. A truly great read.
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