The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak is a beautifully written novel that takes readers on a journey through history, family, and love. The story is set on the divided island of Cyprus, where two communities - Greek and Turkish - have been at odds for decades. Through …more the lives of its characters, Shafak explores the complexities of identity, memory, and belonging.

The novel begins in 1974, with the invasion of Cyprus by Turkey, which led to the forced separation of the island and its people. The story then jumps to the present day, where we meet a young woman named Ada who is struggling to find her place in the world. Ada is the daughter of a Greek Cypriot mother and a Turkish Cypriot father, and she feels torn between these two identities. She finds solace in the stories of her grandparents, who lived through the events of 1974 and have their own tales to tell.

The Island of Missing Trees is not just a story about the events of 1974, but also a story about the power of storytelling. Through the stories of Ada's grandparents, Shafak weaves together a rich tapestry of history and myth, exploring the ways in which these two things are intertwined. She shows how the stories we tell ourselves about the past can shape our present and future, and how the act of remembering can be both painful and healing.

One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is the way in which Shafak portrays the island itself. The island is not just a physical place, but a symbol of the divisions and tensions that exist between its people. Shafak captures the beauty and complexity of Cyprus, its history and culture, as well as the pain and trauma that have been inflicted upon it.

The characters in the novel are also beautifully drawn, each with their own unique perspective on the events that have shaped their lives. Ada is a sympathetic protagonist, struggling to find her place in a world that seems determined to keep her divided. Her grandparents are equally compelling, with their own stories of love and loss, hope and despair.

Overall, The Island of Missing Trees is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores some of the most complex issues of our time. Shafak's writing is lyrical and poetic, yet also grounded in a deep understanding of history and culture. The novel is a testament to the power of storytelling, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history, identity, and the power of the human spirit. (less)