Book Review: The Island of Missing Trees

A friend recommended this book; otherwise, I might have set it aside. In the beginning, it felt wonky. This unusual idea of a tree not only personified but in love with a human (which, coming full circle, made more sense at the end). I am glad I stuck with it, however. There were plenty of redeeming features to the tale. The writing was lyrical and beautiful. I loved the vivid illustration of a tree strangled by its roots when the father is attempting to explain the mother's pain to his daughter. Having battled depression, this book was worth it for that image alone.

On the island of Cyprus, star-crossed lovers, Kostas and Defne, live out a classic Romeo and Juliet forbidden romance. The only private place they can find to meet where people will not talk and spill their secret is a tavern called The Happy Fig, so-called for the fig tree growing in the middle of the tavern. Kostas loves all living things, but animals and plants most of all. War rips choice away from these two, separating them for a time (they end up married and living in London with their teenage daughter). In fleeing Cyprus, Kostas brings a small portion of the fig tree to replant in their London garden. This tree is not only a symbol of their love but also a thing that grows and understands despite the wars and damage inflicted by humankind.

As I said, it is a bit abstract, while rooted in many truths about life. The exposition on plants and creatures is fascinating. This author clearly did her research and presents information you may have never encountered. Though I'm nothing like the author (differ in life perspectives), I can appreciate her well-written words. To get a taste of the book and hear some of the tree's eloquent observations, listen to the author's brief talk on "If Trees Could Speak."

Content Caution: 📒