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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Historical Fiction / Literary Fiction

Book Review:
No Longer My Child is a poignant and powerful debut novel from Arthur de Zoysa, a writer who brings a lifetime of experience and a deep understanding of Sri Lankan society to his craft. Set against the backdrop of the tragic ''Black July'' riots of 1983, this is a story of terror, death, and duty that resonates far beyond its specific historical context.

The novel centers on a young girl orphaned by the violence, and a mother torn between her love for two very different sons: one a courageous army engineer, the other a dangerous militant. De Zoysa navigates these complex relationships with sensitivity and skill, exploring the painful choices that families are forced to make in times of conflict. The title, No Longer My Child, speaks to the profound loss and separation experienced when ideology and violence come between loved ones.

De Zoysa's prose is straightforward and compelling, allowing the emotional weight of the story to carry the narrative. While this is his first work of fiction, he demonstrates a natural storytelling ability and a gift for creating characters that stay with the reader. The book is a testament to the enduring human capacity for love and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

This is an important addition to Sri Lankan fiction, offering a deeply human perspective on one of the country's most painful chapters. Highly recommended.