🌙 Eid Reads : The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak

This Eid week, I am thrilled to delve into the captivating world of "The Island of Missing Trees."

Goodreads Summary :

“A rich, magical new book on belonging and identity, love and trauma, nature and renewal, from the Booker shortlisted author of 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World. Two teenagers, a Greek Cypriot and a Turkish Cypriot, meet at a taverna on the island they both call home. In the taverna, hidden beneath garlands of garlic, chili peppers and creeping honeysuckle, Kostas and Defne grow in their forbidden love for each other. A fig tree stretches through a cavity in the roof, and this tree bears witness to their hushed, happy meetings and eventually, to their silent, surreptitious departures. The tree is there when war breaks out, when the capital is reduced to ashes and rubble, and when the teenagers vanish. Decades later, Kostas returns. He is a botanist looking for native species, but really, he’s searching for lost love.

Years later a Ficus carica grows in the back garden of a house in London where Ada Kazantzakis lives. This tree is her only connection to an island she has never visited - her only connection to her family’s troubled history and her complex identity as she seeks to untangle years of secrets to find her place in the world.”

🛒 The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak Kinokuniya Malaysia | Amazon Paperback | Kindle e-Book | Audible Audiobook


Why I'm Excited About This Book:

For it’s magical realism element! If you’ve been here for awhile, you’ll know how I love the blur line between fantasy and reality! I am actually already in for few pages of the book, and I love how the story is delivered by a fig tree (still figuring it out, if this is a metaphor or really is a talking tree). I love it so far (Cos I always believe all living things have its own voices and its own soul, we just need to learn to listen to relate to them 🥰).

  • Blend of History, Romance, and Mystery: The book promises a narrative that seamlessly weaves together elements of history, romance, and mystery, ensuring an immersive and multifaceted reading experience.

  • Set in Cyprus, Offering a Unique Cultural Backdrop: Cyprus, beautiful place with its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, serves as a captivating setting for the story. I am eager to explore the intricate tapestry of Cypriot culture and tradition depicted in the novel.

  • Exploration of Themes: "The Island of Missing Trees" delves into themes such as love, loss, and the enduring impact of conflict on individuals and communities. I look forward to the thought-provoking exploration of these themes, which promise to resonate deeply with readers.

  • Richly Drawn Characters and Vivid Descriptions: From the evocative descriptions of Cyprus' landscape to the intricately developed characters, I anticipate being transported to a world alive with vibrant imagery and compelling personalities.

  • Promises to be a Thought-Provoking and Memorable Read: With its blend of poignant storytelling and profound insights, this book holds the promise of leaving a lasting impression and sparking meaningful reflection.

And that’s the reason why am excited to immerse myself with this treasure!


In conclusion, as I am still in Eid-mood, I eagerly anticipate the amazing experience that "The Island of Missing Trees" promises to offer ( I have so much confident in Shafak’s writing!). I hope to find moments of inspiration, introspection, and connection, making this Eid week truly memorable.


Found my content helpful? Consider to tip me a coffee via Ko-fi!

If you’re thinking of buying the books from this book lists, order yours using this link : 🛒 Order from Kinokuniya Malaysia | Amazon | Kindle e-Book | Audible Audiobook

You can also explore my favourite bookish accessories and more on my curated shopping list on 🛒 Products I love!

Explore my other book lists where you can find my books recommendation.

Your support not only gets you the next books to read but also fuels my creative endeavors (at no extra cost to you!). Many thanks!

Let’s be friends on Goodreads


Previous
Previous

👙 Beach Reading Vlog 🏝️ ☀️ Read 5 books on a Bornean beach 📚

Next
Next

18 Books in February ‘24 - Exploring genres