The Glass Palace

In The Glass Palace, a young boy's rise amid chaos leads to a lifelong quest for love, set against the backdrop of colonial Burma.

Set against the backdrop of the British invasion of Burma in 1885, The Glass Palace unfolds the compelling story of Rajkumar, a young boy who rises from poverty amidst the tumult of social and political upheaval. As the royal family is forced into exile from the Glass Palace, Rajkumar's life intertwines with that of Dolly, a young woman from the court of the Burmese Queen. Their bond, forged in the chaos of war, becomes a defining element of Rajkumar's journey as he seeks to build an empire in the rich teak forests of Burma.

As the narrative progresses, The Glass Palace explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of identity across generations. Rajkumar's relentless quest for Dolly, even after achieving wealth and status, highlights the complexities of human relationships shaped by historical events. The story spans multiple countries, including Burma, Malaya, and India, weaving together the lives of its characters against the backdrop of colonialism and cultural change.

This masterful novel, penned by a Booker Prize-shortlisted author, captures the essence of a time marked by conflict and transformation. With its rich prose and intricate character development, The Glass Palace is not just a tale of personal ambition but also a poignant reflection on the impact of history on individual lives, making it an unforgettable epic that resonates with readers on many levels.