Book Synopsis:
An important novel that is as compassionate as it is eye-opening, The Exile and the Mapmaker is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit.
Theo, an aging Parisian cartographer, is desperately searching for the woman he once loved before Alzheimer’s takes his memories of her.
Elise, his estranged daughter, moves in to take care of him. She still blames him for the tragic loss of her mother and is struggling with this new forced intimacy.
Nebay, an Eritrean refugee, becomes Theo’s carer and friend. Unbeknownst to Elise, Nebay does not have a visa for France and is working illegally in order to support his sister.
Each one is living a life of questions and secrets in a world where Nebay’s very presence in the France of Theo’s maps is steeped in uncertainty.
The Exile And The MapMaker is available in ebook, paperback and audiobook now. You can purchase your copy using the links below.
My Review:
The Exile And The MapMaker is a beautiful, captivating story about love, friendships and strength.
Firstly I hadn’t read much about what’s it like to be a refugee, so I found it very interesting to follow Nebay on his journey to Algeria. It is definitely a harrowing tale at times and my heart hurt from all that he had to endure, especially other people’s reactions to him. However amongst all the hardship there was also some moments of light which were lovely to read about. The wonderful friendships and sense of camaraderie that existed between the refugees were truly heartwarming, particularly when you learn how they share the little they have and look after each other.
All the main characters were fantastic creations that I enjoyed following throughout the book. They are all very different from each other but are united by one special thing. As well as shining a light on the experiences of refugees the author also tells the reader a little bit about dementia which I found fascinating as well as a bit of French and Albanian history which I found very interesting.
Overall i really enjoyed this thought provoking, special book which I will be recommending to everyone. In my opinion it would make a great book club read as there would be lots to discuss.
Huge thanks to Legend Press for inviting me onto the blog tour and for my copy of this book.
About The Author:
Emma is an editor and writer with Are You Syrious?, an independent daily news digest which chronicles news from the ground regarding the refugee situation in Europe. She is also a freelance consultant for Refugee Rights Europe. Twitter: @EmmaMusty.
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