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Burmese Days

By George Orwell
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Burmese Days is George Orwell's first novel, an honest and evocative examination of the corrupting impact of empire on both the coloniser and the colonised. Set in 1920s Burma, it portrays a group of Englishmen who gather at the exclusive European Club to escape the deep loneliness of colonial life. The story centres on James Flory, a timber merchant who is disillusioned by British rule yet unable to defend his Indian friend, Dr Veraswami, from social exclusion and prejudice. The narrative explores themes of friendship, conscience, and the harsh realities of imperialism as Flory struggles to do what is right amid personal and societal turmoil.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$4700

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This novel is well-suited for readers interested in historical fiction, colonial history, and literary works that critically explore the effects of empire. Fans of George Orwell’s later political writings will also find value in this early, compelling study of colonialism’s human costs.

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Honest and evocative, George Orwell's first novel is an examination of the debasing effect of empire on occupied and occupier.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Honest and evocative, George Orwell’s first novel is an examination of the debasing effect of empire on occupied and occupier.

Burmese Days focuses on a handful of Englishmen who meet at the European Club to drink whisky and to alleviate the acute and unspoken loneliness of life in 1920s Burma—where Orwell himself served as an imperial policeman—during the waning days of British imperialism.

One of the men, James Flory, a timber merchant, has grown soft, clearly comprehending the futility of England’s rule. However, he lacks the fortitude to stand up for his Indian friend, Dr. Veraswami, for admittance into the whites-only club. Without membership and the accompanying prestige that would protect the doctor, the condemning and ill-founded attack by a bitter magistrate might bring an end to everything he has accomplished.

Complicating matters, Flory falls unexpectedly in love with a newly arrived English girl, Elizabeth Lackersteen. Can he find the strength to do right not only by his friend, but also by his conscience?

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised by the New York Times as a "superior novel" with truly vivid characters and setting, Burmese Days is recognised for its engaging and well-constructed story. The Chicago Tribune commends its fast-moving, well-integrated plot, affirming Orwell's skillful storytelling.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780156148504

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 10 May 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: Mariner Books

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 135.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 231g

Pages: 288

Collections

Fiction General Fiction George Orwell Literary Fiction

About the Author

George Orwell was the pen name of Eric Blair, a writer and political commentator. In 2008, THE TIMES ranked him second on a list of 'The 50 greatest British writers since 1945.' His work continues to influence popular and political culture. Tamsin Greig., Nicky Henson and Toby Jones star in this new drama.

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