If you’re searching for a poignant, thought-provoking read that blends personal struggle with cultural richness, Fulkumari: The Tale of a Refugee and a Rat in Pandemic Paris by Pinaki Bhattacharya and David Selim Sayers deserves a spot on your bookshelf. Released in January 2025, this novel has already captured attention for its unique narrative and emotional depth. In this Fulkumari book review, we’ll dive into what makes it a standout story, its key themes, and why it’s a must-read for fans of refugee literature and pandemic fiction.
What Is Fulkumari About?
Set against the eerie backdrop of a locked-down Paris during the COVID-19 pandemic, Fulkumari follows a Bangladeshi refugee isolated in his apartment. His only companion? A tiny rat he names Fulkumari, meaning “Flower of the Moon.” What begins as a quirky bond transforms into a profound storytelling pact reminiscent of Arabian Nights. Each day, the refugee shares tales of his past—stories of revolution, famine, civil war, and cherished family memories—woven with the poetry, philosophy, and myths of Bengali culture.
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Written by Pinaki Bhattacharya, a Bangladeshi physician, author, and activist living in Paris, and edited by David Selim Sayers, this book is more than a novel. It’s a tapestry of resilience, identity, and hope, making it a compelling addition to contemporary literature.
Key Themes in Fulkumari
- Isolation and Connection
The pandemic’s desolate streets mirror the refugee’s inner loneliness, yet his bond with Fulkumari the rat offers a glimmer of companionship. This relationship highlights how even the smallest connections can sustain us in dark times. - Refugee Experience
Through the protagonist’s stories, readers glimpse the harsh realities of displacement—war, loss, and the longing for home. Bhattacharya’s own exile from Bangladesh due to his activism adds authenticity to this narrative. - The Power of Storytelling
Each tale the refugee tells Fulkumari builds a bridge between past and present, proving that stories can heal, preserve culture, and defy despair. It’s a tribute to the human spirit’s ability to find meaning amid chaos. - Cultural Richness
The novel bursts with Bengali flavors—smells of spices, sounds of poetry, and echoes of Tagore. It’s a love letter to a heritage that endures despite displacement.
What Makes Fulkumari Stand Out?
- Evocative Writing: Bhattacharya’s prose is poetic yet grounded, painting vivid scenes of both Paris’s ghostly quiet and Bangladesh’s vibrant past.
- Unique Premise: A rat as a confidante? It’s unconventional, but it works, symbolizing hope in the unlikeliest places.
- Timely Relevance: With its pandemic setting and focus on refugees, Fulkumari speaks to ongoing global crises, making it both timeless and timely.
- Emotional Depth: The interplay of sorrow and resilience will linger with you long after the final page.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautifully crafted storytelling with cultural depth.
- A fresh perspective on the refugee experience.
- Emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.
Cons:
- The pacing can feel slow in introspective sections, which might not suit readers seeking fast-moving plots.
- Some subplots could be tighter for a more streamlined read.
Who Should Read Fulkumari?
This book is perfect for:
- Fans of literary fiction with emotional and cultural layers.
- Readers interested in refugee stories or pandemic narratives.
- Anyone who loves books that blend personal journeys with broader societal themes, like The Kite Runner or Exit West.
Where to Buy Fulkumari
Ready to dive in? You can grab Fulkumari: The Tale of a Refugee and a Rat in Pandemic Paris on:
- Amazon: Available in print and Kindle editions.
- Barnes & Noble: Check for in-store or online options.
- Local Bookstores: Support indie shops like The Abbey Bookshop in Paris or San Francisco Books.
Final Verdict: 4.5/5 Stars
Fulkumari is a beautifully woven tale that balances heartache with hope. Pinaki Bhattacharya’s storytelling, paired with David Selim Sayers’ editorial finesse, creates a narrative that’s both intimate and universal. While the pacing may dip at times, its emotional resonance and cultural richness make it a standout read for 2025. If you’re looking for a book that challenges you to reflect on humanity, survival, and the stories that define us, Fulkumari won’t disappoint.
Have you read Fulkumari yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss this gem of a novel!
