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Historical Fiction· Sri Lanka

Anil's Ghost

by Michael Ondaatje
Aggregate Editorial Score44/100
★Booker Prize
Published 2000English
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About This Book

Few works of historical fiction have earned the sustained critical attention that Anil's Ghost (2000) by Michael Ondaatje continues to receive. Set in Sri Lanka during the civil war, this novel follows Anil Tissera, a forensic anthropologist, as she investigates political murders. The book delves into the themes of identity, memory, and the search for truth amidst chaos. Ondaatje's lyrical prose and intricate narrative structure have earned the novel critical acclaim, highlighting the human cost of war and the complexities of justice. Themes of identity, memory, truth and justice run through the work. The book has received recognition from Giller Prize 2000.

Book Details

AuthorMichael Ondaatje
Published2000
Country of Origin🇱🇰 Sri Lanka
LanguageEnglish
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN9780375709457
Editorial Score44/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇱🇰 Sri Lanka

This book is part of Sri Lanka's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Sri Lanka →

Editorial Assessment

Michael Ondaatje published Anil's Ghost in 2000, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of historical fiction from Sri Lanka. The book's treatment of identity, memory, truth and justice, war accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Among its recognitions: Giller Prize 2000. With an editorial score of 44/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. The appeal of Anil's Ghost lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of identity, memory, truth and justice, war is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Anil's Ghost reflects Michael Ondaatje's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Sri Lanka's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Booker Prize
shortlist · global
20000
✍️
About the Author
Michael Ondaatje
Sri Lanka
View Author →

Michael Ondaatje is a celebrated author from Canada known for influential works of literary fiction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anil's Ghost about?

Set in Sri Lanka during the civil war, this novel follows Anil Tissera, a forensic anthropologist, as she investigates political murders. The book delves into the themes of identity, memory, and the search for truth amidst chaos. Ondaatje's lyrical prose and intricate narrative structure have earned the novel critical acclaim, highlighting the human cost of war and the complexities of justice.

Who wrote Anil's Ghost?

Anil's Ghost was written by Michael Ondaatje, from Sri Lanka. First published in 2000.

What awards has Anil's Ghost won?

Anil's Ghost has received the following recognition: Giller Prize 2000.

Is Anil's Ghost worth reading?

Anil's Ghost is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 44/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in identity, memory, truth and justice.

Where can I buy Anil's Ghost?

You can buy Anil's Ghost on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Anil's Ghost?

Anil's Ghost is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is Anil's Ghost from?

Anil's Ghost originates from Sri Lanka's literary tradition. Explore more books from Sri Lanka on our country page.

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