The Last Gift by Abdulrazak Gurnah - Novel

The audio version of The Last Gift by Abdulrazak Gurnah was narrated superbly by Lyndam Gregory. It was a joy to listen to the story that took the reader into the world of  a racial couple living in England. 

The author captures the trials and tribulations of Abbas and Maryam who did not follow the norms of their cultural upbringing. They live together and raise their children in an unmarried state. Maryam's parents reluctantly cope with this abnormal type of lifestyle. 

There are scenes of trauma, family secrets, long bouts of silences that emanate from Abbas. Their children feel British and yet have to accept that reality of being visible minorities. 

It is a moving story of this couple with an unusual past living as best they can with their children facing a variety of challenges. In many aspects some of the scenes can be classified as typical family dynamics of a dysfunctional sort. Gurnah's portrayal brings in the added nuances of a racialist family. His descriptions are captivating in a poignant manner that has a profound impact on the reader.

The Last Gift by Abdulrazak Gurnah is an engrossing story with many lessons to reflect on.