Shyam Selvadurai

Shyam Selvadurai is a Sri Lankan Canadian novelist known for his works that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience. His debut novel, 'Funny Boy', received critical acclaim and won several awards. Selvadurai's writing often reflects his own experiences as a gay man navigating cultural and personal intersections.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Funny Boy

    Set against the backdrop of the escalating ethnic tensions in Sri Lanka during the 1970s and 1980s, the novel follows the coming-of-age journey of a young Tamil boy named Arjie. As he navigates the complexities of his identity, Arjie grapples with his sexual orientation and the societal expectations imposed on him. Through a series of poignant and often humorous experiences, he discovers the harsh realities of prejudice and the impact of political unrest on his family and community. The story explores themes of self-discovery, cultural conflict, and the search for acceptance in a world marked by division and intolerance.

    The 7820th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Cinnamon Gardens

    Set in the lush and vibrant backdrop of 1920s colonial Ceylon, this novel intricately weaves the lives of two families navigating the complexities of love, tradition, and societal expectations. The story delves into the personal struggles of its characters as they confront issues of identity, class, and forbidden desires, all while the country itself is on the brink of political change. Through rich, evocative prose, the narrative explores the tension between personal freedom and cultural constraints, painting a vivid portrait of a society in transition.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
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