The Year of the Runaways by Sunjeev Sahota

Sahota, Sunjeev, The Year of the Runaways, London: Pan Macmillan, 2016.

This novel is about the struggle of Indian immigrants in Sheffield, England which universally also represent the hope, fight for better life and attachment to home country of all immigrants. This multi layered story focuses on the live of four immigrants in the span of a year, hence the title. Tochi, whose family is victim of caste based violence in Bihar. Avtar, from a lower middle class family in Punjab whose options are limited due lack of jobs and reservations. Randeep, from a government family in Punjab with father having psychological issues. And Narinder, from a devout Sikh family living in the UK, who has lived her life within the box drawn by her family and expectations from her immigrant society. The wonderful plot follows the characters search for work, community, faith and love. The story interweaves the characters, two countries and different times. It ends with an optimism that is inspiring and enlightening. "Sahota depicts the culture, language and mentality of Britain's Indian immigrant community from deep within" - James Coan, Library Journal.

More about the author, Sunjeev Sahota from Fantastic Fiction.

Click here for a comprehensive interview with the author by The Guardian.