Portrait of an Island on Fire

by Ariel Saramandi
Portrait of an Island on Fire cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Essays / Essay Collections
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  • ID: 2230
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781804271612
  • Published: 2025-06-19
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Portrait of an Island on Fire is a deeply moving and revelatory collection of essays that delves into the critical moment in Mauritius' history. The book offers unceasing critiques of various abuses of power and the deep-seated ills within Mauritian society, tracing their roots back to colonialism. It examines how these historical factors influence government policy, environmental issues, education, and even personal relationships. The essays provide a milestone in understanding the lasting social and political effects of colonialism and how they manifest in contemporary society./n/nThis collection is not just a historical account but a profound exploration of the human condition in Mauritius. It challenges readers to think critically about the interconnectedness of power, history, and individual experiences. The essays are a testament to the resilience and complexity of Mauritian culture, offering a nuanced perspective that is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Reviews
The BookBag · Heather Magee · 2025-06-19
powerful 4.50

The essays are praised for their intelligence and powerful exploration of Mauritius. The reviewer highlights the courageous and stringent portrayal of the island.

Heather Magee from The BookBag finds Ariel Saramandi's collection of essays to be both intelligent and powerful. She particularly appreciates the way Saramandi delves into the complex history and social issues of Mauritius, providing a courageous and stringent account of the island. The reviewer notes that the essays are not just informative but also deeply reflective, offering a unique perspective on colonialism and its legacy. This collection is seen as a must-read for those interested in understanding the layered narratives of Mauritius beyond its typical portrayal as a holiday destination.

Quick quotes

    Ariel Saramandi is intelligent and writes with a sharp, incisive voice.

    This is a courageous, stringent and mesmerizing portrait of the island.

    The essays are not just informative but also deeply reflective.

Fitzcarraldo Editions · 2025-06-19
revelatory 4.50

The collection is described as a deeply moving and revelatory reading experience. It is noted for its searing account of Mauritius at a crucial historical juncture.

The reviewer at Fitzcarraldo Editions describes 'Portrait of an Island on Fire' as a deeply moving and revelatory reading experience. The essays are seen as a searing account of Mauritius, capturing the island at a crucial historical juncture. The collection is praised for its ability to reveal the layers of Mauritius' history and society, offering a profound and emotional journey through the island's complexities. The reviewer emphasizes the impactful nature of the essays, which are both informative and deeply affecting.

Quick quotes

    A deeply moving and revelatory reading experience.

    The essays collected in Portrait of an Island on Fire form a searing account of Mauritius at a crucial juncture.

    This collection is both informative and deeply affecting.

Martha's Monthly · 2025-04-01
challenging 4.00

The essays are noted for their challenging and hopeful perspective on Mauritius. The reviewer appreciates the collection's ability to shed light on the island's often overlooked realities.

Martha from Martha's Monthly finds 'Portrait of an Island on Fire' to be a challenging and hopeful collection of essays. She appreciates how the essays shed light on the often overlooked realities of Mauritius, moving beyond its typical portrayal as a holiday destination and tax haven. The reviewer notes that the essays are both informative and reflective, offering a nuanced understanding of the island's history and society. This collection is seen as a valuable contribution to the discourse on colonialism and its lasting impact.

Quick quotes

    Mauritius is often known as a holiday destination and a tax haven for the ultra-rich.

    The essays are both informative and reflective.

    This collection offers a nuanced understanding of the island's history and society.

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