Anil’s Ghost by Michael Ondaatje

“Anil’s Ghost” is a novel written by Michael Ondaatje, a Canadian novelist and poet. The novel tells the story of Anil Tissera, a Sri Lankan-born forensic anthropologist who returns to her homeland to investigate human rights violations during the civil war that took place in the late 20th century.

The novel is set against the backdrop of the conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers, a militant separatist group. Anil is assisted in her investigation by Sarath Diyasena, a local archaeologist, and Gamini, a former friend who has become a government operative.

As Anil delves deeper into her investigation, she uncovers evidence of mass graves and extrajudicial killings, and becomes embroiled in a dangerous web of political intrigue and violence. She is forced to confront the dark and complex realities of her homeland and the complicity of those she once trusted.

Ondaatje’s writing is lyrical and evocative, and he paints a vivid portrait of Sri Lanka’s turbulent history and the human toll of political violence. The novel is also a meditation on memory, identity, and the ways in which the past continues to shape the present.

Overall, “Anil’s Ghost” is a haunting and powerful novel that offers a moving and insightful exploration of the impact of war and political violence on individuals and communities. It is a testament to Ondaatje’s skill as a writer and his deep understanding of the human experience.