LONGLISTED FOR THE MAN BOOKER PRIZEPenang, 1939. Sixteen-year-old Philip Hutton is a loner. Half English, half Chinese and feeling neither, he discovers a sense of belonging in an unexpected friendship with Hayato Endo, a Japanese diplomat. Philip shows his new friend around his adored island of Penang, and in return Endo trains him in the art and discipline of aikido. But such friendship comes at a terrible price.Tan Twan Eng's masterful debut novel is a haunting and unforgettable story of betrayal, barbaric cruelty, steadfast courage and enduring love.
Tan Twan Eng
Tan Twan Eng is a Malaysian author known for his lyrical and atmospheric writing style that often explores themes of memory, identity, and history. His most notable works include "The Gift of Rain" and "The Garden of Evening Mists," both of which have received critical acclaim and won numerous awards. Tan's intricate storytelling and richly detailed settings have established him as a prominent voice in contemporary literature, particularly in the genre of historical fiction. "The Garden of Evening Mists" is widely regarded as his masterpiece, earning him international recognition and solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. Tan's contributions to literature have helped bring Malaysian storytelling to a global audience, showcasing the richness and complexity of Southeast Asian culture and history.