Song of the Sun God

FROM THE WINNER OF THE MILES FRANKLIN LITERARY AWARD

Shankari Chandran

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English

Ultimo Press
05 July 2023

Modern & contemporary fiction (post c 1945); Sagas; Australian Fiction

Nala and Rajan, a young couple, begin their married life in 1946, on the eve of Ceylon’s independence from Britain. Arranged in marriage, they learn to love each other and protect their growing family, against the backdrop of increasing ethnic tension.

As the country descends into a bloody civil war, Nala and Rajan must decide which path is best for their family; and live with the consequences of their mistakes.

Over time, Nala and Rajan teach their family why some parts of their history and heritage are worth holding onto; and why some parts and people have to be left behind.

Song of the Sun God spans three continents and three generations of a family that remains dedicated to its homeland, whilst learning to embrace its new home. Funny, warm and tender, we see Nala and Rajan’s family navigate war, migration, old loyalties and new beginnings, relying on the philosophy of their religion, their ancestors and each other.

Song of the Sun God is about the wisdom, mistakes and sacrifices of our past that enable us to live more freely in the future.

PRAISE FOR SONG OF THE SUN GOD

‘an emotive and insightful read.’ – The Saturday Paper

‘a book that doesn’t look away from the brutality of the Sri Lankan conflict – torture, forced displacements and disappearances, cultural destruction and worse – but it also balances horror with humour, and indeed love.’ – Sydney Morning Herald

‘[Chandran] does not shy from the horror of war yet holds hope for mankind.’ – The Weekend Australian

‘a rich heritage tapestry to embrace’ – The Australian Women's Weekly

‘a sweeping tale of love, duty and migration’ – The West Weekend

By: Shankari Chandran
Imprint: Ultimo Press
Country of Publication: Australia
Dimensions: Height: 198mm, Width: 129mm,
ISBN: 9781761152290
ISBN 10: 1761152297
Pages: 400
Publication Date: 05 July 2023
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Shankari Chandran was raised in Canberra, Australia. She spent a decade in London, working as a lawyer in the social justice field. She eventually returned home to Australia, where she now lives with her husband, four children and their cavoodle puppy, Benji. She is the author of three novels, Song of the Sun God, The Barrier and Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens.

Reviews for Song of the Sun God: FROM THE WINNER OF THE MILES FRANKLIN LITERARY AWARD

‘moving’ * The Age & The Sun Herald * ‘mighty’ * The Weekend Australian * ‘a book that doesn’t look away from the brutality of the Sri Lankan conflict – torture, forced displacements and disappearances, cultural destruction and worse – but it also balances horror with humour, and indeed love.’ * Sydney Morning Herald * ‘an emotive and insightful read.’ * The Saturday Paper *