The Eye of the Horse

In the sequel to "Wheel of Surya," Jaspal and Marvinder are torn between two worlds: India and England. They are searching for reconciliation in a beautifully crafted story set against the backdrop of Indian independence and the Partition of India and Pakistan.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

The captivating second installment in Jamila Gavin's Surya Trilogy, following the acclaimed Coram Boy, transports readers to India in 1948, a year marked by profound sorrow and political upheaval. The assassination of Mahatma Gandhi has left a void in the hearts of the nation, plunging India into chaos and turmoil. Meanwhile, in England, Jaspal and Marvinder's father finds himself incarcerated, a decision that deeply divides the siblings. Jaspal harbors a deep resentment towards his father and longs to return to his village in the Punjab, where he feels a sense of belonging. On the other hand, Marvinder has found solace in friendship, her first love, and her remarkable talent as a violinist. However, her mother's persistent voice beckons her back to India, where she is torn between two worlds.

In this poignant sequel, Gavin skillfully weaves together the themes of reconciliation, the aftermath of Indian independence, and thePartition of India and Pakistan. Her portrayal of this historical period is nothing short of masterful, offering a profound and nuanced understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by the characters. Gavin's diverse voice serves as an ideal introduction to this captivating era for readers who have enjoyed The Bone Sparrow, Morris Gleitzman's Once, and Katherine Rundell's The Wolf Wilder.

As Jaspal embarks on his journey back to his village, he encounters a world that has been profoundly affected by the events of the past. The scars of partition loom large, dividing families and communities. Jaspal must navigate through the treacherous waters of prejudice and hatred, seeking solace and understanding in the face of adversity.

Marvinder, on the other hand, faces her own struggles as she grapples with the decision to follow her heart or heed her mother's call. She finds herself torn between two loves, two cultures, and two worlds that seem irreconcilable. Her journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, as she navigates the complexities of love, loyalty, and self-discovery.

The Surya Trilogy by Jamila Gavin is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to transcend boundaries and connect people across time and cultures. Through the eyes of Jaspal and Marvinder, Gavin offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals caught in the midst of historical events that shaped the course of history. The sequel to Wheel of Surya is a beautifully crafted story that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the final installment in this captivating trilogy.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008511258