When his brother was murdered Lalloo was a seven years old boy. This incident around which most of the When the Fireflies Dance by Aisha Hassan was built is not necessarily explained, but fuels from the background the intentions of the characters and the directions of the plot.
Shortly after, his parents are trapped working hard to pay their debts, and Lalloo´s dream is to be able to help them end their painful situation. But as he grows up and is trying to build up his own life, there may be things happening that will request a decision on his part. He falls in love, learn life´s hardest lessons.
The world where Lalloo grows up is cruel, unfair and desperately fighting for survival is what keeps people alive. Despite everything though, the characters have a natural way of being human, with all their flaws and shortcomings, but also with hopes and suffering that may comes with.
The evocative tone suits the best the ambiance of the story, with family secrets deeply burried and a sense of brotherhood and honor that is deeply rooted in Lalloo´s personality.
This debut novel is one of the most emotional I´ve read recently, with a strong storytelling voice that hopefully will be used to tell more stories soon. The tone of the story is clear, empathic and able to convene the emotions of the characters as well as their everyday life constraints.
Beautifully written, When the Fireflies Dance convenes a slice of humanity and resilience but also of hope, against all odds.
Rating: 5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered as part of the book tour but the opinions are, as usual, my own
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