In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner is a poignant tale that masterfully illustrates the Cambodian genocide through a child's eyes. Readers praise its lyrical prose and emotional depth. However, some feel the narrative pace can be slow. Overall, it's a compelling fusion of historical tragedy and enduring hope.

Readers who appreciate The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung will find In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner compelling. It appeals to those drawn to poignant, personal narratives set against turbulent historical backdrops.

In the Shadow of the Banyan follows Raami, a seven-year-old girl from a Cambodian royal family, living in 1970s Phnom Penh. Her family is forced from their home by the Khmer Rouge and faces intense persecution. To survive, they pose as farmers but are gradually separated and endure harrowing experiences as they navigate the brutal realities of the Cambodian genocide. Descriptions of war and trauma are present.

Melancholic / Inspirational / Contemplative

- Vaddey Ratner, the author of In The Shadow Of The Banyan, is herself a survivor of the Khmer Rouge regime, which adds a deeply personal layer to the narrative.
- In The Shadow Of The Banyan was a finalist for both the PEN/Hemingway Award and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, showcasing its critical acclaim and impact.
- The title of the book is inspired by the Banyan tree, a symbol of strength and resilience, which is also significant in various Asian cultures for its historical and spiritual importance.

**Raami**  
A young Cambodian girl who is seven years old at the time of the fall of Phnom Penh to the Khmer Rouge. She is deeply connected to Cambodian spiritual and folkloric traditions.

**Mama**  
Raami’s mother, who is described as beautiful and hails from a farming family. She adopts the lifestyle of the countryside with ease due to her background.

**Papa**  
Sisowath Ayuravann, a poet and minor Cambodian prince who is a high-priority target for the Khmer Rouge. He shares a close bond with Raami through storytelling.

**Big Uncle**  
Arun, Papa’s brother, who is skeptical of the Khmer Rouge's intentions and has a more pragmatic approach to survival. His perspective evolves to embrace hope and spirituality as the story progresses.

**Pok and Mae**  
An elderly husband and wife who welcome Raami, Radana, and Mama into their home in the farming community. They are representative of the “base people” celebrated by Khmer Rouge propaganda.

**Grandmother Queen**  
The mother of Papa, Big Uncle, and Tata, who is experiencing dementia and often speaks in ghostly prophecies. She serves as a bridge between the natural and spirit worlds to Raami.

**Radana**  
Raami’s younger sister, who is a toddler at the time of the family’s ordeal. Her presence highlights Raami’s feelings of inferiority due to her own physical limitations.

Vaddey Ratner

Adult

Novel

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