The Island of Missing Trees: A Novel

“The Island of Missing Trees” by Elif Shafak Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is a historical fiction set in 1974 when Cyprus was invaded by the British, Greek and Turkish forces. This novel explores the emotional upheaval experienced by the islanders of Cyprus during such turbulent times. Elif Shafak has crafted a masterpiece bringing to life unforgettable characters whose stories linger in our hearts long after finishing the book. Two young souls, Kostas and Defne (a Greek Cypriot and a Turk Cypriot respectively) dare to defy the world around them and fall in love amidst the vortex of war and chaos. This is their story. This is their story when they had dwelled on the same island. And this is their story when they are nations apart separated by distance but are connected by the echos of their past. I personally found the account of Yusuf and Yiorgos to be deeply saddening. Such courageous individuals didn’t deserve such a fate. My heart ached for them. Apart from the characters, the author also paints a dramatic backdrop with rich depictions of the natural world that is pulsing with life. Her choice of making the story unfold through the voice and narration of a Fig Tree is truly unique and admirable. In the beginning of the story, this Fig Tree strangely admits that it is in love with a human. The author managed to justify those lines with an astounding climax at the end of the novel. I literally got goosebumps reading the last chapter as it felt so intense and emotional! Overall, Elif Shafak’s profound storytelling combined with a perfect pace makes the readers wanting for more. I can’t help but wonder if a sequel is on the horizon for this brilliant work because I don’t think I’ll be able to forget these characters anytime soon. Highly recommended!

I found the book to be beautifully written, but the first half felt quite slow and repetitive at times. It took me a while to get into the rhythm of the story. However, things picked up significantly after Kostas leaves for London — from that point on, the narrative became much more engaging and emotionally compelling. The second half truly brought the characters and themes to life.

I read this borrowed book then friends after me read it. We all thought the same, weird start, but absolutely intriguing story a few chapters in. Historically based, I learnt about a period I previously did not know about. Would recommend.

I had read a book by this author a long time ago and had forgotten about her. While browsing the library I came across this book. So very glad I did. This book is so well written, I loved the humanization of trees and insects which Shafak described so well. The narrators were superb. The accents and differing voices in the narration were superb. There is so much of richness, love and beauty in this book. It’s about relationships, war, love, botany, science, painful history. Cultural and generational division is the main theme of this book. I totally now have a different appreciation of fig trees. This book will remain with me for a long time. Don’t miss reading this book!

An absolute masterpiece