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The Great Reclamation 2023
The Great Reclamation is a 2023 historical fiction novel written by Singaporean author Rachel Heng and released by Riverhead Books. Set in pre-independence Singapore, the story follows a young boy and his rural fishing village community as they experience upheaval during World War II and through the transformation of Singapore into a modern nation-state in the mid-20th century. The novel explores how these massive changes affect individual lives and collective identity, portraying Singapore as a nation undergoing significant shifts. Themes of belonging, personal identity, and the human impact of development are central to its narrative.
Upon publication, The Great Reclamation received widespread critical praise for its storytelling and emotional depth. Many reviews highlighted its ability to merge intimate character moments with larger social issues. The book’s depiction of psychological and environmental displacement caused by modernization resonated strongly within Southeast Asian literature, where such topics had been less frequently addressed. Recognized for its literary quality and historical understanding, it was shortlisted for several major awards, including the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction.
Details
- Publisher
- Riverhead Books
- ISBN
- 9780593420119
- Pages
- 464
