We are All Birds of Uganda - Hafsa Zayan

I read this book as part of our maiden pick for our Kitaab book club. I had heard Hafsa Zayaan speak about it on Platform – Black and Asian writers conference and was fascinated by her writing process. Besides, I was keen to read about the Ugandan Asian history and since this story was set against the backdrop, it was a perfect fit.

Gist:

The story is set in two timelines in present day London where Sameer a successful lawyer is all set to take the next step in his career while in the 1960s Uganda Hasan who has just lost his wife is struggling with grief and as political events unfold, it seems like that all he had known was ready to be questioned.

My review:
 
I loved how the past and the present narratives were juxtaposed together. The past traced the historical aspect whereas the present showed the consequences of that historical event on a personal level. 

Loved the characters especially the camaraderie of the close friends,  which could have developed further, but then would have digressed from the main theme. 

The love angle of Sameer and Miriam seemed a bit weak but one could understand why it was so. As a plot device it worked well, to explain how a directionless Sameer was drawn to the purposeful Miriam as opposed to the opulent materialistic life of Aaliyah.

I also loved reading the historical backdrop of how Asians made their way to Uganda and through Hasan, it was fascinating to read an account of how Indians first made Uganda their home only to see them banished from it. It was also interesting to see instead of painting Indians as the victims, Zayan works towards a balanced perspective in the attitudes of Hasan towards Abdullah and in doing so shows up a more transparent version of events. A big highlight for me.

Over all, a great read that compelled me to keep turning the pages. It taught me a lot about Ugandan history while delivering a beautifully told story. One of my top reads, definitely!