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Historical Fiction· Cambodia

In the Shadow of the Banyan

by Vaddey Ratner
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 2012English
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About This Book

In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner is a landmark work of historical fiction, first published in 2012. Vaddey Ratner's novel is a semi-autobiographical account of a young girl's survival during the Khmer Rouge era. Through lyrical prose, the book explores themes of loss, hope, and the enduring power of storytelling. It is acclaimed for its ability to convey the beauty and brutality of Cambodia's history, offering readers a poignant and immersive experience. Themes of loss and hope, family, identity run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorVaddey Ratner
Published2012
Country of Origin🇰🇭 Cambodia
LanguageEnglish
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN9781451657708
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

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

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇰🇭 Cambodia

This book is part of Cambodia's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Cambodia →

Editorial Assessment

First published in 2012, Vaddey Ratner's In the Shadow of the Banyan is a work of historical fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with loss and hope, family, identity, storytelling gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. The appeal of In the Shadow of the Banyan lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of loss and hope, family, identity, storytelling is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Cambodia's literary landscape, Vaddey Ratner occupies a significant position. In the Shadow of the Banyan is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
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

NYT Best Sellers
list · global
20120
✍️
About the Author
Vaddey Ratner
Cambodia
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Vaddey Ratner is a Cambodia author whose work in historical fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is In the Shadow of the Banyan about?

Vaddey Ratner's novel is a semi-autobiographical account of a young girl's survival during the Khmer Rouge era. Through lyrical prose, the book explores themes of loss, hope, and the enduring power of storytelling. It is acclaimed for its ability to convey the beauty and brutality of Cambodia's history, offering readers a poignant and immersive experience.

Who wrote In the Shadow of the Banyan?

In the Shadow of the Banyan was written by Vaddey Ratner, from Cambodia. First published in 2012.

What awards has In the Shadow of the Banyan won?

In the Shadow of the Banyan has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is In the Shadow of the Banyan worth reading?

In the Shadow of the Banyan is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in loss and hope, family, identity.

Where can I buy In the Shadow of the Banyan?

You can buy In the Shadow of the Banyan on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is In the Shadow of the Banyan?

In the Shadow of the Banyan is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is In the Shadow of the Banyan from?

In the Shadow of the Banyan originates from Cambodia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Cambodia on our country page.

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