About the Author
Janika Oza
ISBN 9781784744809
Rs. 1,120
Sceptre
A History of Burning
Who it's for: Readers of multi-generational family sagas and historical fiction
"A History of Burning" traces the century-long saga of an Indian family profoundly impacted by British colonial rule and the tumultuous journey across continents. Beginning in early 20th-century India with Pirbhai, a young man taken to labor on the East African Railway, the narrative follows his descendants as they navigate life in British colonial Uganda, endure Idi Amin's brutal regime and the South Asian expulsion, and eventually seek refuge in Toronto. This multi-generational story explores the lasting legacy of a single act of survival and the weight of inherited silence, as a family scattered across the globe confronts their past and redefines their future.Why You Should Read? Experience a sweeping multi-generational saga against the backdrop of significant historical events. Explore themes of colonialism, displacement, identity, and the enduring power of family secrets. Gain insight into the East African Indian diaspora and the impact of political upheaval in Uganda. Discover a compelling narrative of survival, resilience, and the search for belonging across continents.
Highlights
- Spans a century from early 20th-century India to modern Toronto.
- Follows Pirbhai's labor on the East African Railway and his descendants.
- Covers life under British colonial Uganda and Idi Amin's regime.
- Explores the South Asian expulsion from Uganda and refugee experience.
- Focuses on inherited silence and the legacy of a survival act.
Themes
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Sign inQuestions about this book
What historical events does the book cover?
The book covers British colonial rule in India and Uganda, the construction of the East African Railway, Idi Amin's regime, and the expulsion of South Asians from Uganda.
Is this a true story?
No, it is a work of fiction, but it is set against real historical events and follows a fictional family's experiences.
What is the main focus of the story?
The story focuses on the impact of historical upheavals on an Indian family across generations, exploring themes of survival, displacement, and family secrets.
Where does the family eventually settle?
After being expelled from Uganda, the family seeks refuge in Toronto, Canada.