Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens

This is a powerful and at times disturbing novel. It is very well written and not a difficult read, the characters are likeable and relatable and it has light feel good moments, however it tackles some serious subjects. Very graphic descriptions of the civil war in Sri Lanka and episodes of upsetting racism towards the refugees from the war. The stories are necessary and need telling. The book is on the whole a serious piece of literature, and I will read and recommend this author. My only concern is that the marketing of this book, which makes it look like a new "Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" will mean word of mouth will have to do a lot of heavy lifting. It is an enjoyable book with a serious heart.

A really interesting read. It explores the prejudice of Australia towards a Sri Lankan community living in the suburbs of Sydney. It does this through so many different views and sub plots. It covers race, politics, identity and the feeling of home. I think it feels very of the moment .
The title and the blurb doesn’t give much away so I really enjoyed leaping into the book not having an idea of where it was going.

This book helped me think about prejudices I might inadvertently carry. There were moments of tenderness in the novel which made me smile, and family tensions which were highly relatable. I enjoyed learning a little about the Tamil struggle.

You do need to concentrate as you read it as it is a double cultural shift with both Sri Lankan and Australian culture involved. However, the quality of the writing and plot repays the effort. I was pleased that as a reader I wasn’t patronised by Anglo names.

Some interesting interweaving of characters and plots especially Rubén’s story. The time shifts were well managed, I would have liked more set in Sri Lanka. Perhaps another book about Sri Lanka will come from this author. The stirring of Nationalism is a current issue. There would be lots for a book group to discuss and I would love to chat this book through with others. I really enjoyed this one

Surprising and well written book, touching many topics: the violence of the Sri Lankan civil war, racism, colonialism and old age. Memorable characters and a lesson on the power of social media in Australia today.

Don’t be fooled by the title and cover of this novel. It is a raw examination of racism. Beautifully written it tells the story of various characters and their experiences with prejudice in both their home countries and the place they have emigrated to, in this case Australia.