Beyond The Door of No Return

In his novel "The Revenant," David Diop explores the tragic consequences of colonialism and greed during the eighteenth century. The book is a captivating blend of adventure, romance, and historical fiction, following the story of Michel Adanson, a young botanist who becomes obsessed with a woman abducted and sold into slavery.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Pushkin Press

FINALIST FOR THE 2023 NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FOR TRANSLATED FICTION





MAZA MENGISTE, the Booker Prize-shortlisted author of The Shadow King, has unveiled a fresh perspective on the eighteenth century, shedding light on its heinous cruelties. Abdulrazak Gurnah, the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature, praises Diop's captivating romantic adventure as a profound exploration of the complexities of colonialism.

In his poignant novel, Diop delves into the depths of human suffering, revealing the tragic consequences of colonialism and greed. Through an act of remembrance, he seeks to establish a repository of lives and histories lost to the slave trade. The Financial Times acclaims Diop's powerful storytelling, describing the novel as a "compelling exploration of the cruelties of colonialism." The Sunday Times selects it as the Historical Fiction Pick of the Month, highlighting its ability to transport readers to a bygone era while delivering a thought-provoking examination of human nature.

Set in Paris in 1806, the novel follows Michel Adanson, a dying botanist, as he reflects on his life and uncovers a secret history. As his daughter sorts through his belongings, she discovers a notebook that reveals the fantastical and terrible tale of his time in Senegal as a young botanist. Adanson becomes obsessed with finding a young woman of noble birth, abducted and sold into slavery across the seas, who miraculously returns to live in hiding.

The novel is a captivating blend of adventure, revenge, and impossible desires. Diop subverts our expectations about who we are and who we love, presenting a nuanced portrayal of individuals caught in the web of colonialism. The characters are deeply flawed, their motivations driven by a complex mix of emotions, including love, jealousy, and greed.

Through Adanson's journey, Diop explores the complexities of human nature and the destructive power of colonialism. The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the natural world, showcasing Diop's expertise as a botanist. The lush landscapes and vibrant flora serve as a backdrop to the human drama, emphasizing the contrast between the beauty of nature and the brutality of human actions.

The Shadow King is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to shed light on the darker aspects of history. Diop's novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of colonialism, human nature, and the enduring legacy of slavery.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 223 x 142 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782278399