Naia Nathan

Truly the best book I have read in a long time. As a Singaporean it imprinted upon me how remarkable the country’s progress was but also how much was lost. While reading, I found myself constantly awed by the looming skyscrapers I’ve grown up in but never really thought twice about, finding it difficult to believe it the same place inscribed in the book. It connected me emotionally to the path of the nation in a way history books have never been able to do. Even beyond the historical context (which is remarkable in its breadth, accuracy and empathy), the books characters shine through. This is a novel with great heart. It’s characters feel real and over and over it fills you with hope and heartbreak. The characters and their choices linger long after you’ve finished reading. It is a deeply emotionally affecting work, and feels, above all, honest. The prose too is written lyrically, with great skill. Can’t recommend this book enough.