Reading the World discussion

When I’m Gone, Look for Me in the East by Quan Barry
Country: Mongolia
Genre: Literary Fiction / Philosophical Fiction / Spiritual Quest

A lyrical and meditative journey across the vast Mongolian steppe, this novel follows twin brothers, once united in a Buddhist monastery, now divided by belief. As they travel in search of a new reincarnation of a spiritual teacher, they grapple with the past, identity, and spiritual truth. Quan Barry weaves a spare, elegant narrative that blends Buddhist philosophy, nomadic landscapes, and personal reckoning into a story about the search for meaning in a fractured world.

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Finished this one earlier in the month and was really charmed by it. It gives a vivid and wide ranging description of the landscapes of Mongolia, and was a beautiful story about tradition vs modernization, and what role spirituality can play in a contemporary world, and how is this possible with changing views of what is practical and moral, and what we really value. The story of trying find common ground between the brothers was also touching. There are some really funny bits in there too.

as well several chapters take place in Bhutan if you are struggling to find a Bhutan story.

I also finished it and loved it. I learned about the physical country but more importantly the beliefs, culture and politics both ancient and modern of a country I knew little about. I particularly enjoyed the little girl who trained eagles. I thought the relationship of the brothers was well depicted and reflected the real nature of siblings with their undying love, jealousies and rivalries. Also, her depiction of Tibetan Buddhism allowed me to know more about that religion. All around quite a winner.
Also, strangely, her other books look very different from the blurbs.

Well, I really liked this book,also! It was a great way to learn about the history,land,religion,sports and economy of Mongolia. Oh,yeah,the weather/climate change as well. Having the main characters be twins made it feel personal.