Heavens

Kamila Shamsie's novel "As the World Burns" is a fascinating and complex story that spans two centuries, from New York in 2000 to London in 1593. It follows the lives of Kate and Ben, who fall in love at a party in the near-utopian world of 2000, and Emilia, a court poet in 1593 who is plagued by apocalyptic visions. The novel explores themes of love, creativity, and madness, and is praised for its elegiac and moving writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2020
Publisher: Granta Books

"As the World Burns" is a novel by Kamila Shamsie that takes place in two distinct time periods: 2000 in New York, where the United Nations has just landed on Mars, and 1593 in London, where Kate wakes up as Emilia, a mistress to a nobleman and a friend to a court poet named Will. The novel explores themes of love, creativity, and madness, and is described as "bewitchingly complex," "astonishing," "playful," "tender," and "heart-breaking."

The story begins in 2000, when Kate and Ben meet at a party in a seemingly utopian world. They fall in love, but their relationship is challenged when Kate begins to experience apocalyptic premonitions. These premonitions lead her to believe that she can save the world from a catastrophic event. As a result, she makes a series of decisions that will change her life forever and ultimately lead her to become Emilia in 1593.

In 1593, Emilia is plagued by apocalyptic premonitions and sets out to save the world. She is aided in her quest by a court poet named Will, who is also a friend to her nobleman. As Emilia makes decisions that will shape her future, she begins to realize that her choices have consequences not only for her but for Kate as well.

The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the two time periods, and the characters are well-developed and complex. Kate's journey from 2000 to 1593 is filled with challenges and transformations, and she must navigate a world that is both familiar and unfamiliar. Emilia, on the other hand, is a strong and independent woman who is determined to make a difference in the world, even if it means risking her own life.

"As the World Burns" is a novel that has received critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. It has been praised for its ability to blend historical fiction with science fiction, and for its exploration of the human condition. The novel has also been noted for its feminist themes, as it challenges traditional gender roles and explores the power of women in a world that is often dominated by men.

In conclusion, "As the World Burns" is a remarkable novel that explores the power of love, creativity, and madness, and the consequences of our choices. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, science fiction, or feminist literature, and it will leave you thinking about the world and your place in it long after you have finished reading it.

Weight: 198g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783784868