Oromay

Maaza Mengiste's novel "Oromay" is a masterpiece of Ethiopian literature that explores the horrors of war and the complexities of love and loyalty. Set in 1982 during the Eritrean insurgency, the story follows Tsegaye, a propaganda officer who becomes embroiled in the city's nightlife and encounters betrayals that shake his faith in both the regime and human nature. The novel was banned upon its initial publication and its author, Baalu Girma, disappeared in 1984, likely kidnapped and murdered by the same regime.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2025
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

Astonishing and compelling, Maaza Mengiste's novel "The Shadow King" takes readers on a journey through Ethiopia's tumultuous history. Set in 1982, the story follows Tsegaye, a head of propaganda tasked with quashing the Eritrean insurgency. When he arrives in Asmara, Tsegaye is drawn into the city's vibrant nightlife, but his misgivings about the campaign grow as he falls in love with Asmara and Fiammetta. When the army attacks the insurgents' mountain stronghold, Tsegaye confronts the horror of war and experiences betrayals that shake his faith in both the regime and human nature. "Oromay" is a masterpiece of Ethiopian literature, a thrilling political satire, and a turbulent tale of love and war. It was banned upon its initial publication in 1983 and its author, Baalu Girma, vanished in 1984, likely kidnapped and murdered by the same regime in retaliation for the novel. Translated from Amharic by David DeGusta and Mesfin Felleke Yirgu, "Oromay" is a powerful and thought-provoking read that sheds light on Ethiopia's complex history and the human cost of conflict.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529428384