Song of the Sun God

by Shankari Chandran

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Pub Date 5 Oct 2023 | Archive Date 6 Aug 2023

General Fiction (Adult)

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Description

Song of the Sun God is about the wisdom, mistakes and sacrifices of our past that enable us to live more freely in the future. Nala and Rajan, a young couple, begin their married life in 1946, on the eve of Ceylon’s independence from Britain. Arranged in marriage, they learn to love each other and protect their growing family, against the backdrop of increasing ethnic tension.

As the country descends into a bloody civil war, Nala and Rajan must decide which path is best for their family; and live with the consequences of their mistakes.

Over time, Nala and Rajan teach their family why some parts of their history and heritage are worth holding onto; and why some parts and people have to be left behind.

Song of the Sun God spans three continents and three generations of a family that remains dedicated to its homeland, whilst learning to embrace its new home. Funny, warm and tender, we see Nala and Rajan’s family navigate war, migration, old loyalties and new beginnings, relying on the philosophy of their religion, their ancestors and each other.

Advance Praise

Praise for Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens

‘Wise and dignified.’ — The Australian Women's Weekly

‘Chandran is an excellent storyteller.’ — The Weekend Australian

‘this story burns with anger and sings with optimism, sprinkled through with moments of levity and humour.’ — The Canberra Times

‘This is an engaging story that feels both urgent and necessary. It is also a terrific read.’ — The Daily Telegraph

‘a powerful, compassionate novel about friendship, family, community-building, and the racism faced by members of diasporic communities in this country.’ — The AU Review

‘Chandran’s novel has serious heft, spanning several timelines and tackling complex topics like race, trauma and the structural inequality engendered in so-called multicultural Australia.’ — The Guardian

‘might at first appear to be a straightforward feel-good tale, but quickly reveals itself to be firmly grounded in the light and shade of real life.’ — The West Australian

Praise for Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens

‘Wise and dignified.’ — The Australian Women's Weekly

‘Chandran is an excellent storyteller.’ — The Weekend Australian

‘this story burns with anger and...