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51 pages 1 hour read

Shyam Selvadurai

Funny Boy

Shyam SelvaduraiFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

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Book Brief

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Shyam Selvadurai

Funny Boy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

328

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sri Lanka • 1970s-1980s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

780L

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Super Short Summary

Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai follows young Arjie Chelvaratnam as he comes of age as a gay boy in an upper-middle-class Sri Lankan family during the 1980s civil war crisis, grappling with his identity and societal expectations while surrounded by escalating ethnic tensions and violence. The novel addresses themes of sexuality, class, family dynamics, and emigration amid a backdrop of social and political turmoil.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.3

9,050 ratings

78%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Shyam Selvadurai's Funny Boy receives acclaim for its evocative storytelling and rich portrayal of Sri Lankan culture during turbulent times, effectively capturing complex themes of identity and belonging. Critics praise its lyrical prose and character depth but note moments of uneven pacing. Overall, readers find it an impactful, albeit occasionally challenging, narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Funny Boy?

Readers who enjoy Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai are typically drawn to coming-of-age stories set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval. Similar to fans of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides, they appreciate nuanced explorations of identity, cultural conflict, and personal growth.

4.3

9,050 ratings

78%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

328

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sri Lanka • 1970s-1980s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

780L

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