Around the World in 80 Books discussion

About the Book (Goodreads description)

The first novel from Madagascar ever to be translated into English, Naivo’s magisterial Beyond the Rice Fields delves into the upheavals of the nation’s past as it confronted Christianity and modernity, through the twin narratives of a slave and his master’s daughter.

Fara and her father’s slave, Tsito, have been close since her father bought the boy after his forest village was destroyed. Now in Sahasoa, amongst the cattle and rice fields, everything is new for Tsito, and Fara at last has a companion. But as Tsito looks forward to the bright promise of freedom and Fara, backward to a dark, long-denied family history, a rift opens between them just as British Christian missionaries and French industrialists arrive and violence erupts across the country. Love and innocence fall away, and Tsito and Fara’s world becomes enveloped by tyranny, superstition, and fear.

With captivating lyricism, propulsive urgency, and two unforgettable characters at the story’s core, Naivo unflinchingly delves into the brutal history of nineteenth-century Madagascar. Beyond the Rice Fields is a tour de force that has much to teach us about human bondage and the stories we tell to face—and hide from—ourselves, each other, our pasts, and our destinies.


About the Author
Naivo is the pen-name for Naivoharisoa Patrick Ramamonjisoa, a native of Madagascar.

I'm almost at the end of the book, very suspenseful at the moment. Really enjoyed it so far even though the writing isn't that amazing. Learned so much about Madagascar and the story takes place before the French colonization which makes it even more impressive.

Anyone planning to read this?

I finished it a few weeks ago and the characters Fara and Tsito are still on my mind. This is a great book to learn about Malagasy culture, their history, beliefs and royal family. This story takes place before the French colonization.

I read this a couple of years ago and enjoyed it. I agree that it offers very good insights into Malygasy history and culture.