A History of Burning

Pirbhai is only thirteen when he is taken across the sea to East Africa on a vague promise of work. He grows up fast, and when he meets fierce, loyal Sonal, they know instantly they are one another's future.

Their family expands and thrives in the orderly, white-washed city of Kampala. But their granddaughters - proud Latika, diligent Mayuri and open-hearted Kiya - come of age in a divided nation. Finally forced to flee the brutality of Idi Amin, the family scatters across the world.

They take with them a favourite rolling pin, a handful of photos, the taste, memory and language of home. They carry their secrets - past and present - too. One of which, when it comes out, will reveal the true cost of what gets left behind.

A History of Burning is a gorgeous family portrait of love, survival, inheritance - and the eternal search for home.