2000*1st* Anil’s Ghost - Michael Ondaatje(Bloomsbury)

"Anil’s Ghost" by Michael Ondaatje is a compelling novel set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s civil war in the 1980s and 1990s. Published in 2000, the novel blends elements of mystery, political thriller, and historical fiction to explore themes of identity, memory, and the search for truth.

The story follows Anil Tissera, a Sri Lankan expatriate who has spent the last fifteen years living in the West. Anil is a forensic anthropologist working for an international human rights organization. She returns to Sri Lanka on a mission to investigate and document human rights abuses and to uncover the truth behind the widespread violence and disappearances that have plagued the country.

Anil teams up with Sarath Diyasena, a local archaeologist, who becomes her reluctant partner in the investigation. Together, they discover a skeleton, nicknamed "Sailor," hidden in an ancient burial site. The remains appear to be recent and suggest that the person was a victim of a political murder. Determined to identify the victim and bring the perpetrators to justice, Anil and Sarath embark on a perilous journey through the war-torn landscape, confronting their own pasts and the brutal realities of the conflict.

The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives, including those of Anil, Sarath, and other characters they encounter along the way. Ondaatje’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring to life the beauty and horror of Sri Lanka, painting a poignant and haunting portrait of a country scarred by war.

"Anil’s Ghost" delves into the complexities of truth and justice in a society where violence and secrecy reign. It explores the impact of political turmoil on individuals and the ways in which people cope with trauma and loss. Through Anil’s quest to uncover the identity of "Sailor" and seek accountability, the novel reflects on the broader human struggle for understanding and reconciliation in the face of profound suffering.

Ondaatje’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make "Anil’s Ghost" a powerful and thought-provoking read that resonates with readers long after the final page.