Author | Leila Aboulela |
---|---|
Language | English |
Genre | Prose |
Publisher | Groove press |
Publication date | March 7,2023 |
Pages | 320 |
ISBN | 978-0-80-216066-9 |
River spirit is a novel by Leila Aboulela. It is a historical fiction narrative which takes place in 1880s Sudan. The novel tells the story of the time before Britain took over Sudan in 1898.It explores the conflict between Britain and Sudan,Christianity and Islam and those who ruled and those who were ruled…[1]
When Akuany and her brother Bol lost their parents in a village attack in South Sudan, they were taken in by a kind merchant named Yaseen. He promises to take care of them, and this promise connects him to Akuany as they grow up. As a new leader, called the Mahdi, starts gaining power in Sudan and challenging the rule of the Ottomans, everyone has to decide which side they are on.[2][3][4]
Setting
The setting is primarily Sudan during the late 19th century, specifically in the city of Al-Ubayyid and on the journey from there to Khartoum. These locations are characterised by their arid desert landscapes, the presence of the White Nile river, and the oppressive atmosphere of war and captivity due to the Mahdist uprising. The passages depict a time of conflict, slavery, and hardship, with themes of survival and resilience amidst adversity.
References
- ^ Aboulela, Leila (2023-03-07). River Spirit. New York: Grove Press. ISBN 978-0-8021-6066-9.
- ^ Majumdar, Megha (2023-03-07). "Amid Conflict and Cruelty, a Love Story That Endures". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2024-04-26.
- ^ "River Spirit | Leila Aboulela". leila-aboulela.com. Retrieved 2024-04-26.
- ^ Koenig, Andrew. "River Spirit". Harvard Review. Retrieved 2024-04-26.