Funny Boy (1994) is a coming-of-age narrative that tells the story of Arjie, a young boy who grapples with his homosexuality and Tamil ethnicity. The story is set on the cusp of the 30-year Sri Lankan Civil War and contains events suggestive of the infamous historical incidents that led to the conflict. The novel’s power lies in its ability to portray complex socio-political issues in a nuanced and relatable way. Through a young narrator, both knowledgeable and novice readers experience the subtle notions that lead to greater ethnic tensions and reinforce dominant power structures. You can read my full review here.