One-line Summary:

The Island of Missing Trees is a captivating historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two families on the divided island of Cyprus, intertwining their stories with themes of love, loss, and the impact of political conflict.

The Story:

Set against the backdrop of the divided island of Cyprus, The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak is a poignant tale that weaves together the lives of two families, spanning several generations. The story takes place in two timelines, the 1970s and the present day, shedding light on the complex history and ongoing conflict between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

In the 1970s, Kostas and Defne, two young lovers from different sides of the island, find solace in a hidden grove of trees, symbolizing their forbidden love and the unity they long for. As tensions rise between the Greek and Turkish communities, their lives are torn apart, and they are forced to flee their homes.

Decades later, Ada, a young woman of Greek Cypriot descent, discovers a photograph of her grandmother, Defne, and embarks on a journey to uncover her family’s history. Through her exploration, she uncovers the secrets and untold stories of her ancestors, as well as the impact of the political conflict on their lives.

The Themes:

Love and Loss:

At the heart of The Island of Missing Trees is the theme of love and loss. The forbidden love between Kostas and Defne serves as a powerful symbol of the unity and connection that transcends political and cultural divisions. Their separation and the subsequent loss they experience highlight the devastating consequences of conflict and division.

The Impact of Political Conflict:

The novel delves into the complex history of Cyprus, exploring the lasting impact of political conflict on individuals and communities. Shafak skillfully portrays the deep-rooted animosity, fear, and mistrust between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots, while also emphasizing the shared humanity and desire for peace.

Identity and Heritage:

Through Ada’s journey of self-discovery, The Island of Missing Trees explores the importance of identity and heritage. Ada grapples with her mixed heritage and the question of where she truly belongs. As she unravels her family’s history, she gains a deeper understanding of herself and the interconnectedness of her Greek and Turkish roots.

Key Takeaways:

• The Island of Missing Trees is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the impact of political conflict on individuals and communities.
• The novel highlights the enduring power of love and the longing for unity, even in the face of deep-seated divisions.
• Shafak’s storytelling skillfully intertwines the personal and the political, shedding light on the complex history of Cyprus.
• The theme of identity and heritage resonates throughout the novel, as characters grapple with their sense of belonging and the legacy of their ancestors.

A Memorable Quote:

“In the end, it is the trees that suffer the most. They are the ones that pay the highest price for our follies and our wars.”

The Island of Missing Trees is a beautifully written novel that transports readers to the divided island of Cyprus, immersing them in the lives of its characters and the turbulent history that has shaped their destinies. Through its exploration of love, loss, and the impact of political conflict, the book serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of human connection and the importance of understanding our shared humanity.