Play Book Tag discussion

Anil's Ghost by Michael Ondaatje - 4.5* - My Review

Anil is a forensic anthropologist who has returned to her native Sri Lanka as a representative of an international human rights organization. She works with archeologist Sarath as they attempt to identify a skeleton that they believe is a victim of atrocities committed by the government during the civil war. The storyline follows the pair’s journey toward identifying the victim, while flashing back to provide their personal histories. Sarath knows there is danger in pursuing identification, but Anil sees it as an opportunity to expose the truth to the world. They enlist help from Sarath’s brother, Gamini, a doctor who has treated civilians caught in the crossfire.

The writing is top rate. There are scenes of beauty as well as brutality. A number of storylines occur simultaneously, and they are seamlessly interwoven. We learn about archeology, forensic pathology, and medical practices used to treat victims of the civil war. We come to understand the different factions involved. Conflict is introduced in the interactions between Anil and Sarath. Anil does not entirely trust Sarath since he is a related to a government official. The tension builds in the second half, and the climactic scene is both unexpected and intense.

4.5

I loved this book when I read it.

Booknblues wrote: "I loved this book when I read it."

Oh, I forgot to mention that I am still reading Favorites off lists from other PBT members. I got this one from yours!

Joy D wrote: "Booknblues wrote: "I loved this book when I read it."

Oh, I forgot to mention that I am still reading Favorites off lists from other PBT members. I got this one from yours!"

I loved it when I read it. It got me started on reading Ondaatje.

Ondaatje is on my list of favorite authors. I eventually plan to read his entire back catalogue.