Vaseem Khan and Lucy Winkett discuss a book about elderly English people in India, exploring themes of loneliness, old age, and the changing landscape. They also explore complexities and racism in 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel', and discuss the metaphors and themes in 'The Island of Missing Trees' and 'We Need New Names'.
The book follows a group of elderly English people as they move to a guest house in Bangalore, India. The scheme is created by an Indian named Sonny in response to a request from Ravi, a doctor in London whose father-in-law, Norman, is described as a repulsive character. The book explores the challenges faced by English people in understanding and adapting to the culture and changes in India.
The Island of Missing Trees by Ellif Shafak
The novel tells the story of a Turkish woman who falls in love with a Greek man in Cyprus during the 1974 division of the country. It covers a few decades and explores the impact of historical events, such as World War II and British colonization. The book delves into themes of longing, displacement, and the relationship between humans and nature.
We Need New Names by No Violet Bulawayo
The novel is narrated by a girl named Darling, who lives in a shanty town in Zimbabwe. It follows her experiences as a child and as a migrant in the US. The book tackles themes of poverty, violence, and cultural shock. It showcases the resilience of the child protagonist and uses inventive and wild language to portray the harsh realities of her surroundings.