Lascar by Shahida Rahman

Set against the backdrop of the British Empire's maritime expansion in the early 20th century, this historical novel follows the tumultuous journey of a young Bengali sailor who leaves his homeland in search of a better life. As he navigates the challenges of racial prejudice, cultural dislocation, and the harsh realities of life at sea, he becomes entangled in a web of personal and political struggles. The narrative delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the quest for belonging, painting a vivid picture of the often-overlooked lives of South Asian seamen during this era.

Purchase from Bookshop.org