Beyond Diaries

Hey book lovers! Last year, I had the chance to read one of the most talked about books by Elif Shafak, “The Island of Missing Trees” and it left me enchanted. The more I read Shafak, the deeper I fell in love with her writing (and of course her fantastic editorial team). In this blog, let’s embark on a captivating journey to understand what the novel has to offer the readers and why it would be an amazing read for you.

The Heart of the Story

At its core, Shafak’s novel is a poetic exploration of the human experience, wrapped in the embrace of a centuries-old Fig tree on the island of Cyprus in Nicosia. The tree becomes a silent witness to the lives and loves of its surrounding inhabitants, offering shelter and solace as generations come and go. The Fig tree is one of the main characters in the story taking us through time while it develops friendships with the fauna, irrespective of their origin.

Time-Traveling Narrative

One of the novel’s standout features is its unique narrative structure, which seamlessly transports readers between different timelines. From the Cyprus of the 1970s to the present day, Shafak skillfully blends the past and present, revealing the intricate connections between characters across generations.

Love, Loss, and Resilience

At the heart of the story is the epic love affair between Kostas and Defne, two souls destined to navigate the challenges of a divided island. Their love becomes a symbol of resilience, echoing the island’s own struggles for unity and peace. Shafak beautifully illustrates the power of human connection, even in the face of adversity.

Vivid Characters and Cultural Tapestry

Shafak’s pen breathes life into a rich tapestry of characters, each with their own dreams, fears, and quirks. The island becomes a microcosm of diverse cultures and histories, reflecting the beauty of coexistence. Through the characters’ eyes, readers gain a profound understanding of the complexities of identity and the impact of political divisions.

Nature as a Silent Witness

The titular missing trees are not just a physical absence but a metaphorical void left by the losses endured throughout history. Nature, represented by the resilient Fig tree, stands as a silent witness to the ever-changing landscape of human emotion, reminding us of the healing power found in the roots of the earth. I particularly enjoyed the environmental aspect of this narrative by the Fig tree. It shouts in the face that humans are so ignorant of the agony they bestow on nature while fighting to serve their pride and egos.

A Tapestry of Themes

“The Island of Missing Trees” is a tapestry of themes – love, loss, resilience, and the enduring spirit of humanity. Elif Shafak’s prose is like a gentle breeze that whispers the stories of generations past.

So, fellow bookworms, if you’re ready for a literary journey that will touch your heart and stir your soul, dive into “The Island of Missing Trees.” Let Shafak’s lyrical storytelling and vivid characters transport you to a world where the roots of emotion run deep, and the echoes of history linger in the rustling leaves of an ancient Fig tree.

I am currently reading “The Architect’s Apprentice”, by her and would love to share my review in the next blog! Till then, happy reading!