Book: The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida

"The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida" by Shehan Karunatilaka is a captivating journey through the enigmatic afterlife of Maali Almeida, a war photographer who finds himself in a surreal liminal space after an untimely death. Set against the backdrop of civil conflict in Sri Lanka during the late 20th century, the novel weaves a narrative rich in mystery, political intrigue, and dark humor.

Maali, now a ghost, is given seven moons to solve his own murder and guide his loved ones to a hidden cache of photographs that could expose decades of corruption and violence. As he navigates the bureaucracy of the afterlife, filled with ghosts of the war-torn nation, Maali grapples with his past and the impact of his work. The novel masterfully combines elements of magical realism with sharp social commentary, drawing readers into a vivid and haunting exploration of love, loss, and the quest for justice. Karunatilaka’s intricate storytelling invites readers to ponder profound questions about identity and the legacies we leave behind.