We Are All Birds of Uganda – Book Review

Have you ever delved into the pages of a novel where fiction seamlessly intertwines with real historical events? If so, prepare to be captivated by “We Are All Birds of Uganda.” This book promises a riveting blend of fiction and history that will keep you spellbound from beginning to end. Join us as we explore its genre, storyline, characters, and themes. Be warned, this review may leave you yearning for more, prompting a visit to the nearest library in search of a copy.

What Genre is “We Are All Birds of Uganda” book?

“We Are All Birds of Uganda” by Hafsa Zayyan, released in January 2021, is a captivating historical fiction novel. It intricately weaves together the tales of two characters across different eras and continents, creating a compelling blend of history and fiction.

A Glance into “We Are All Birds of Uganda” novel.

1960s UGANDA. Hasan struggles to keep his family business afloat following the sudden death of his wife. As he begins to put his shattered life back together piece by piece, a new regime seizes power, and a wave of rising prejudice threatens to sweep away everything he has built.

Present-day LONDON. Sameer, a young high-flying lawyer, senses an emptiness in what he thought was the life of his dreams. Called back to his family home by an unexpected tragedy, Sameer begins to find the missing pieces of himself not in his future plans, but in a heritage he never knew.

Did we love the overall storyline?

“Although I typically steer clear of historical literature, both fiction and non-fiction. “We Are All Birds of Uganda” by Hafsa Zayyan, recommended by a friend, caught my attention because its the first book I’ve encountered shedding light on the expulsion of Asians from Uganda. And surprisingly, I found it captivating and engaging.

Zayyan’s novel delves into the expulsion of East African Indians from Uganda under the dictatorship of General Idi Amin. Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of Amin’s regime was mostly shaped by movies. However, experiencing his rule through the lens of a novel felt like encountering it for the first time. “We Are All Birds of Uganda” vividly captures the fear and instability experienced by these individuals, highlighting the racism and bullying they endured.

The story takes us close to their experiences and gives us a well-rounded understanding of the situation. And honestly, I loved how strikingly paced the story was by taking us through Sameer and Hasan’s journeys. It provided insights from the victims’ standpoint, offering readers a deeper understanding of them and their histories.

Editor’s Remark

Overall, “We Are All Birds of Uganda” is a great book in terms of geographical, historical fiction, and cultural scope. It captivates readers with its compelling narrative and rich character development. It offers insights into Uganda’s people, history, and culture, making it a must-read for those seeking a fresh perspective on the country.

The book is available on different platforms like Goodreads and Amazon. So get your copy and dive into its mesmerizing storyline.