The Island of Missing Trees

[Nimra Kiran]

The Island of Missing Trees, Elif Shafak.

Set in between two timelines (Shafak's signature style), exploring the truths about history that are been never told. The novel began with a natural representation of the lush green Island of Nicosia, located in Cyprus with its rich and picturesque scenery that no one ever wants to get back once visited this place. Shafak used intense imagery of golden beaches, turquoise water, and lucid skies to attract the attention of readers. This island was inhabited by Turks and Greeks. But later on, there is a gradual shift towards the darkness and deeper condition of the island caused by humans. This shift is to make the reader aware of the aftermaths of Colonialism that it has an adverse effect on creation and Mother Earth. As a result, colonization occurred and the creation resisted expressing their frustration, belonging and this sense of resistance is the central point of this study through characters who experienced colonialism directly or indirectly in their own ways.

I loved this novel, the metaphorical language in it is so deep and convincing. A blend of history where love blooms in the midst of chaos is something worth reading.