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Home of the Floating Lily
Home of the Floating Lily is a collection of eight short stories that provide a glimpse into the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants, mostly women, in Scarborough and the ways in which they deal with migration, displacement, and the longing for home as they move between countries, cities, and relationships.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2021
18 people are currently reading
2761 people want to read
About the author
Silmy Abdullah
1 book16 followersSilmy Abdullah is a Bangladeshi-Canadian author, lawyer and social justice advocate. Her debut collection of short stories, Home of the Floating Lily, explores the Bangladeshi immigrant experience in Toronto. Set primarily in a Bengali neighbourhood in the Scarborough/East York Area, close to the Danforth and Victoria Park intersection, the stories are inspired by her own lived experience as an immigrant, as well as the work she does in her community as a lawyer.
Silmy provides legal services to low-income South Asian clients in Ontario, many of whom are newcomers. Her practice focuses on the intersection of immigration, poverty and gender-based violence. Working on the ground with marginalized communities helps her to find the seeds for incredible stories of love, courage and resilience, and intensify the compassion and empathy with which she writes them. She is a passionate advocate who has spoken on important human rights issues on numerous platforms, including community workshops, mainstream media, the Parliament of Canada and conferences in Canada and overseas.
Silmy provides legal services to low-income South Asian clients in Ontario, many of whom are newcomers. Her practice focuses on the intersection of immigration, poverty and gender-based violence. Working on the ground with marginalized communities helps her to find the seeds for incredible stories of love, courage and resilience, and intensify the compassion and empathy with which she writes them. She is a passionate advocate who has spoken on important human rights issues on numerous platforms, including community workshops, mainstream media, the Parliament of Canada and conferences in Canada and overseas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
July 2, 2021
What a beautiful short story collection from a debut author! Such a heart breaking, yet powerful book about immigration and displacement.
All of the stories in here are memorable, but to me, the title story “Home of the Floating Lily” is a true standout amongst the others (but trust me, they’re all great, and so well written).
What I know will stick with me for the longest time is the focus on loneliness - each character in the stories were lonely in their own way, whether it be for their home, their family, belonging...it was all just so raw, and I won’t be able to not think of these characters.
A definite must-read!
All of the stories in here are memorable, but to me, the title story “Home of the Floating Lily” is a true standout amongst the others (but trust me, they’re all great, and so well written).
What I know will stick with me for the longest time is the focus on loneliness - each character in the stories were lonely in their own way, whether it be for their home, their family, belonging...it was all just so raw, and I won’t be able to not think of these characters.
A definite must-read!
July 24, 2021
Home of the Floating Lily is a story collection built on tales of immigration and emigration between Canada and Bengladesh. These are multi-generational stories of men and women seeking new lives and dreams or perhaps finding that those dreams aren’t possible. The stories unite in a setting, an area of Toronto favored by many Bengali immigrants, that is common to or mentioned in each story.
The central theme of each story, of each life presented, is the need for and search for home. This might mean slightly different things to different characters but each wants to belong. Many want a place where they believe their children will have a greater chance for success. Some find that the traditional ways call to them more strongly than they had thought. So many different views, of course.
I enjoyed this collection very much and enjoyed reading stories from this different, to me, cultural viewpoint. Rating 4.5 rounded up to 5*.
A copy of this book was provided by Dundern Books through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The central theme of each story, of each life presented, is the need for and search for home. This might mean slightly different things to different characters but each wants to belong. Many want a place where they believe their children will have a greater chance for success. Some find that the traditional ways call to them more strongly than they had thought. So many different views, of course.
I enjoyed this collection very much and enjoyed reading stories from this different, to me, cultural viewpoint. Rating 4.5 rounded up to 5*.
A copy of this book was provided by Dundern Books through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 4, 2024
Really really good. As another perk it’s a great book if you’re in the mood to hate men
December 10, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Dundurn Press for the opportunity to read Home of the Floating Lily so that I may provide an honest review.
Silmy Abdullah's has given readers a beautiful collection of short stories in her book Home of the Floating Lily. The stories are set in both Bangladesh and Canada, and the themes on which Abdullah writes are relatable and provocative in that they are not unique to that particular immigrant population, but rather part of the shared human experience. Abdullah has a gift of developing characters and narrative arc in this compact format. The stories are often quiet, but powerful. I look forward to recommending this collection widely when it is published in July 2021.
Silmy Abdullah's has given readers a beautiful collection of short stories in her book Home of the Floating Lily. The stories are set in both Bangladesh and Canada, and the themes on which Abdullah writes are relatable and provocative in that they are not unique to that particular immigrant population, but rather part of the shared human experience. Abdullah has a gift of developing characters and narrative arc in this compact format. The stories are often quiet, but powerful. I look forward to recommending this collection widely when it is published in July 2021.
March 22, 2021
Home of the Floating Lily is a delightful and thoughtful short story collection that covers many themes but with a particular focus on immigration and romantic relationships. All the stories were well crafted with excellent pacing, and all featured characters that were well developed despite the short page count allotted to them. The Bangladesh culture is nicely portrayed and I learnt a few new things from reading these tales. That said, the themes in these stories are really universal and could apply to immigrants from any background, making them widely accessible. Recommended if you like perfectly crafted short stories with a focus on characters and relationships.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2021
Home of the floating Lily is a collection of eight stories that shuttles between Toronto and Dhaka. The stories vary in their flavor profile while maintaining integrity and dignity of the roles they play. The stories are all utterly grounded, humane and relatable. The characters the stories are made of are our cousins, relatives, aunties and uncles. We know of those people.
The collection is an accessible and easy read, to be able to get through in an afternoon. There are some stand out moments in the collection but none of them wow-ed. Its a good enjoyable read.
A good family: A newly married couple navigate their budding relationship where communication is misfired and secrets are incubated. Shumi, the wife, a young woman from Dhaka, finds herself alienated away from safety of her home in distant Toronto when her husband Asif rapidly makes plans for their future alone.
A Secret Affair: A bittersweet story of love and loss, of losing and loving. The story as such doesn't have depth but offers a sweet reprise for a man in grief.
Across the Ocean: A story that resonates in South Asian communities where girls from village immigrate to cities in search of work and endure verbal (and sometimes physical) abuse in the hands of families they work for. Amina is one such girl who encounters kind niece of her employer.
All the adjustments: All the adjustments for the bridge marrying into a different culture and all the spaces left behind after...pretty good story.
Familiar Journey: not everything is as it seems. The question of faith and the moments it binds us. Annie finds it the hard way.
The middle path: the bond between parents and siblings and just between siblings. I get that. A sweet story about two siblings whose take drastically different paths, have different beliefs, ideals and philosophies yet the bond they share remains strong through out.
Reflection: An arranged marriage and the revelations and reflections on their wedding night.
Home of the Floating Lily: the titular story of the collection is perhaps the longest one. This short story explores the relationship between a mother and her daughter. The loving relationship between the two women turns tumultuous. The author brings around the stigma that is still prevalent in sub-continent, and gives the story a hopeful ending.
Thank you to Netgalley and Dundurn Press for providing me with a free copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
The collection is an accessible and easy read, to be able to get through in an afternoon. There are some stand out moments in the collection but none of them wow-ed. Its a good enjoyable read.
A good family: A newly married couple navigate their budding relationship where communication is misfired and secrets are incubated. Shumi, the wife, a young woman from Dhaka, finds herself alienated away from safety of her home in distant Toronto when her husband Asif rapidly makes plans for their future alone.
A Secret Affair: A bittersweet story of love and loss, of losing and loving. The story as such doesn't have depth but offers a sweet reprise for a man in grief.
Across the Ocean: A story that resonates in South Asian communities where girls from village immigrate to cities in search of work and endure verbal (and sometimes physical) abuse in the hands of families they work for. Amina is one such girl who encounters kind niece of her employer.
All the adjustments: All the adjustments for the bridge marrying into a different culture and all the spaces left behind after...pretty good story.
Familiar Journey: not everything is as it seems. The question of faith and the moments it binds us. Annie finds it the hard way.
The middle path: the bond between parents and siblings and just between siblings. I get that. A sweet story about two siblings whose take drastically different paths, have different beliefs, ideals and philosophies yet the bond they share remains strong through out.
Reflection: An arranged marriage and the revelations and reflections on their wedding night.
Home of the Floating Lily: the titular story of the collection is perhaps the longest one. This short story explores the relationship between a mother and her daughter. The loving relationship between the two women turns tumultuous. The author brings around the stigma that is still prevalent in sub-continent, and gives the story a hopeful ending.
Thank you to Netgalley and Dundurn Press for providing me with a free copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2021
Home of the Floating Lily by Silmy Abdullah is a collection of eight short stories based on the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in Toronto.
The various protagonists have a connection with Bangladesh and Canada. The stories are independent and not related to each other. The author has addressed varied themes such as love, betrayal, friendship, and family. What binds them all together is the common thread of migration.
The characters in all the stories are as close to reality as possible. Their fears and flaws are etched in an honest and forthcoming manner. Be it the streets of Dhaka, or Crescent Town and Oakridge in Canada, the portrayal is almost lifelike.
Despite the trepidations the characters undergo, the ending is optimistic and promising. Kudos to the author for that. After all, hope is all one needs to keep going!
Apart from stirring deep emotions, these stories also give a glimpse of Bengali culture, customs, traditions and food habits. Silmy’s flawless writing and deeply engaging narrative make this for a wonderful read. Not with a whoosh, but with a slow, gentle caress the stories sucked me in.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC.
The various protagonists have a connection with Bangladesh and Canada. The stories are independent and not related to each other. The author has addressed varied themes such as love, betrayal, friendship, and family. What binds them all together is the common thread of migration.
The characters in all the stories are as close to reality as possible. Their fears and flaws are etched in an honest and forthcoming manner. Be it the streets of Dhaka, or Crescent Town and Oakridge in Canada, the portrayal is almost lifelike.
Despite the trepidations the characters undergo, the ending is optimistic and promising. Kudos to the author for that. After all, hope is all one needs to keep going!
Apart from stirring deep emotions, these stories also give a glimpse of Bengali culture, customs, traditions and food habits. Silmy’s flawless writing and deeply engaging narrative make this for a wonderful read. Not with a whoosh, but with a slow, gentle caress the stories sucked me in.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC.
April 13, 2021
Thank you to Dundurn Press and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader's Copy!
Available July 20 2021
Reading Silmy Abdullah's Home of the Floating Lily is like going for summer vacation in my aunt's apartment in Toronto, CA. I can almost breath the air tinged with fresh chotpoti and oily curries, hear my aunties gossiping while the men go outside for their cigarettes, see the many colorful Bengali fabric stores that line the avenues. Abdullah's short stories perfectly capture the experiences of Bengali immigrant life. Told in first and third person, the vignettes delicately explore the nuances of class and gender priviledge as women navigate jobs, marriages and family.
Available July 20 2021
Reading Silmy Abdullah's Home of the Floating Lily is like going for summer vacation in my aunt's apartment in Toronto, CA. I can almost breath the air tinged with fresh chotpoti and oily curries, hear my aunties gossiping while the men go outside for their cigarettes, see the many colorful Bengali fabric stores that line the avenues. Abdullah's short stories perfectly capture the experiences of Bengali immigrant life. Told in first and third person, the vignettes delicately explore the nuances of class and gender priviledge as women navigate jobs, marriages and family.
August 4, 2021
Home of the Floating Lily is an anthology of eight short stories written by Silmy Abdullah. It is a well-crafted debut collection explores the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in Toronto.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written rather well. Home of the Floating Lily is a collection of eight stories that are set in Canada and Bangladesh and follows the lives of the characters as they navigate the complexities of migration, displacement, love, friendship, and familial conflict. In each of the stories, characters embark on difficult journeys in the search of love, dignity and a sense of belonging.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Home of the Floating Lily is not an exception. Comparatively speaking, there were a couple of entries are weaker than others or which did not connect to me well. However, Abdullah captures the struggles that plague immigrant families extremely well.
All in all, Home of the Floating Lily is a wonderful collection of eight short stories that investigate the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in Toronto and their struggles common and unique to Bangladeshi experience.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written rather well. Home of the Floating Lily is a collection of eight stories that are set in Canada and Bangladesh and follows the lives of the characters as they navigate the complexities of migration, displacement, love, friendship, and familial conflict. In each of the stories, characters embark on difficult journeys in the search of love, dignity and a sense of belonging.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Home of the Floating Lily is not an exception. Comparatively speaking, there were a couple of entries are weaker than others or which did not connect to me well. However, Abdullah captures the struggles that plague immigrant families extremely well.
All in all, Home of the Floating Lily is a wonderful collection of eight short stories that investigate the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in Toronto and their struggles common and unique to Bangladeshi experience.
July 23, 2021
I liked these stories. They were simply told yet complex in the familial and cultural tones that were the structure of each story.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
July 3, 2023
Wonderful collection of short stories
December 13, 2021
At times like this, when I read surprising books like these, I feel like I have enjoyed my reading year just the way I intended to.
This was a surprising gem that I did not expect as I started reading. A few stories in, the better the experience got. I must proclaim my bias beforehand though, I am almost one of those featured in the narrative. Although I had extended family who left India before me, I was essentially alone and free to tailor my new identity as I went abroad, and even after my marriage, it was the two of us living a little differently than any neighbours we might have had (and still do).
It makes it easier to imagine the writing coming to life and feel the trials and tribulations of those people mentioned here. With the ever-shrinking world, I am sure even a non-south-Asian ex-pat would be able to see through the layers of many of the narratives and identify with some part of a character mentioned here. The writing was vivid enough to even attract those who do not actually relate to the characters as well.
Not all the stories are equally great, but they were all good, with a few that stand out. All of them have strong women who strive to do their best and survive. More than survive, they nurture. The nurturing was for children, parents, in-laws or even the odd neighbour. It was a satisfying read, even with all the sad undertones. I highly recommend this to
I liked the language used, the imagery that was conjured up, letting me enter the world in such a short time. The short stories here did not feel like bite-sized ones but a whole in-depth exploration of different people. Finally, it is a well-balanced collection because it showed different versions of life both in Bangladesh and Canada, letting the larger public know that there is more nuance in the lives of those who choose to live abroad and/or return than people of other countries could imagine.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a read about another culture.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
This was a surprising gem that I did not expect as I started reading. A few stories in, the better the experience got. I must proclaim my bias beforehand though, I am almost one of those featured in the narrative. Although I had extended family who left India before me, I was essentially alone and free to tailor my new identity as I went abroad, and even after my marriage, it was the two of us living a little differently than any neighbours we might have had (and still do).
It makes it easier to imagine the writing coming to life and feel the trials and tribulations of those people mentioned here. With the ever-shrinking world, I am sure even a non-south-Asian ex-pat would be able to see through the layers of many of the narratives and identify with some part of a character mentioned here. The writing was vivid enough to even attract those who do not actually relate to the characters as well.
Not all the stories are equally great, but they were all good, with a few that stand out. All of them have strong women who strive to do their best and survive. More than survive, they nurture. The nurturing was for children, parents, in-laws or even the odd neighbour. It was a satisfying read, even with all the sad undertones. I highly recommend this to
I liked the language used, the imagery that was conjured up, letting me enter the world in such a short time. The short stories here did not feel like bite-sized ones but a whole in-depth exploration of different people. Finally, it is a well-balanced collection because it showed different versions of life both in Bangladesh and Canada, letting the larger public know that there is more nuance in the lives of those who choose to live abroad and/or return than people of other countries could imagine.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a read about another culture.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
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August 18, 2021Silmy Abdullah displays prowess for creating a strong narrative arc and complex characters who defy stereotypes.
"Home of the Floating Lily" is a collection of eight stories about Bangladeshi-Canadians connected to a fictional Toronto neighborhood. In “A Secret Affair,” widower Abid Siddiqui marries again, which estranges him from his adult daughter. One favorite, “All the Adjustments,” is about the contrasting lives of two sisters-in-law: Bangladeshi-born Ayesha is expected to be a virtual servant to her in-laws, while Canadian-born Rachel has more freedom. “Home of the Floating Lily” is the title of the last story in the collection, which is told from the alternating points of view of a mother, Shahnaz, and her adopted teenage daughter, Tasneem, who rejects Shahnaz once she learns the story of her birth parents. The title of the chapter refers to a painting of floating lilies that Shahnaz treasures. The title also refers to Shahnaz herself, whose beauty as a young woman was compared to a lily. Shahnaz’s husband goes back to Bangladesh and wants her to return with him, but Shahnaz must decide where she wants to call home.
Abdullah’s writing style is accessible and direct. The stories have enough detail to paint a picture of the setting, characters, and family situations without hindering the plot's progression. With each story, I became emotionally invested in the unique characters and their families. Readers who are interested in multicultural fiction, and fiction with well-developed characters, will enjoy this book.
"Home of the Floating Lily" is a collection of eight stories about Bangladeshi-Canadians connected to a fictional Toronto neighborhood. In “A Secret Affair,” widower Abid Siddiqui marries again, which estranges him from his adult daughter. One favorite, “All the Adjustments,” is about the contrasting lives of two sisters-in-law: Bangladeshi-born Ayesha is expected to be a virtual servant to her in-laws, while Canadian-born Rachel has more freedom. “Home of the Floating Lily” is the title of the last story in the collection, which is told from the alternating points of view of a mother, Shahnaz, and her adopted teenage daughter, Tasneem, who rejects Shahnaz once she learns the story of her birth parents. The title of the chapter refers to a painting of floating lilies that Shahnaz treasures. The title also refers to Shahnaz herself, whose beauty as a young woman was compared to a lily. Shahnaz’s husband goes back to Bangladesh and wants her to return with him, but Shahnaz must decide where she wants to call home.
Abdullah’s writing style is accessible and direct. The stories have enough detail to paint a picture of the setting, characters, and family situations without hindering the plot's progression. With each story, I became emotionally invested in the unique characters and their families. Readers who are interested in multicultural fiction, and fiction with well-developed characters, will enjoy this book.
April 1, 2021
Silmy has an incredible gift for delicately weaving and conveying the varied texture of her characters' emotional experiences and of human nature in general. She uses characterization, dialogue, setting, and pace to unravel the deep complexity of migration and settlement within just a few pages. As a first-generation immigrant/settler myself, who has firsthand experience of the impacts of migration on the family unit, relationships, and mental health, it fills my heart to see a written rendering that is so gentle yet powerful in its shadings, in its representation. Thank you Silmy for sharing your talent and this beautiful collection with the world. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
April 21, 2021
What a great collection of short stories! Beautiful writing about family, friendship, love, commitment and a lot more from the lives of Bangladeshi immigrants in Canada. Eight separate stories, each with a different flavour, yet the people in them seem like old friends or relatives living in the same neighbourhood.
This book is coming out in July 2021. I am grateful for NetGalley and Dundurn Press for an Advance Reading Copy.
This book is coming out in July 2021. I am grateful for NetGalley and Dundurn Press for an Advance Reading Copy.
September 17, 2021
The eight stories in this wonderful collection will sneak up on you - so perfectly curated are they that you will find yourself carried away to a time and a place as evocative and immersive as if you were lost in the pages of a full-length novel.
Very reminiscent to me of the haunting works of Rohinton Mistry and the cross-cultural angst of Neil Bissoondath ( two of my very favorites), in this book author Silmy Abdullah weaves multi-textured characters who are struggling with grief, loss, loneliness, and alienation; caught between the restrictions and expectations of two very different cultures - in this case; Toronto, Canada (my hometown) and Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Although the stories do not directly intersect, each perfect little gem opens the door on a world inhabited by characters who could very well be neighbors, each of them carrying the stamp of their deeply patriarchal Bengali upbringing, and its impact on their search for connectedness in a culture where arranged marriages, parental authority, and family obligations supersede any claim of the personal.
- In a “Good Family” we meet Shumi - who after being courted, married and spirited off to Toronto with her new husband Asif, who is himself a virtual stranger, finds herself completely adrift and achingly lonely in her alien surroundings.
“They (skinny jeans) seemed to be made for a girl who was made of sticks. She felt like she was suffocating when she put them on. Asif told her she looked beautiful”.
- In “All of the Adjustments”, (which is perhaps my very favorite in this collection), a young Dhaka widow, imprisoned by duty to care for her grieving in-laws, is challenged by her relationship with her new Canadian sister-in-law, a visitor (in the form of a free-spirited outsider) who unintentionally stirs up intense and complex emotions.
- In “Reflection” a new Bengali bride, on her wedding day, steels herself to her new life with a man she does not know and who is not her love.
“Bengali brides can cry without any restraint on our wedding day, easily releasing all kinds of suppressed agony under the guise of that one pain we have absolute permission to fee, the pain of leaving our parents.”
I absolutely loved this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
A great big thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
January 23, 2023
This collection of stories focused on the lives of individuals who had migrated to Canada (and sometimes back to Bangladesh). Although they lived their "ordinary" lives, their stories were extraordinary as they navigated family issues, stigma, racism, intersectionality and challenges of everyday life.
My favourite was the final story, Home of the Floating Lily as it described the delicateness of relationships, love, choices and dedication despite the challenges of living in a new country.
I picked up this book as my son was reading for his Grade 10 English class. Although he may not have been enamoured with the book, there are so many important messages in it but I am not sure that he is ready to focus on the seriousness of these short stories as he navigates his own privileged but teenaged life.
My favourite was the final story, Home of the Floating Lily as it described the delicateness of relationships, love, choices and dedication despite the challenges of living in a new country.
I picked up this book as my son was reading for his Grade 10 English class. Although he may not have been enamoured with the book, there are so many important messages in it but I am not sure that he is ready to focus on the seriousness of these short stories as he navigates his own privileged but teenaged life.
July 18, 2021
Home of the Floating Lily by Silmy Abdullah is a beautiful collection of stories that follow individuals and immigrant families who travel and live in both Canada and Bangladesh. It examines the complex issues of migration, family, displacement, love, conflict, culture and survival. Each story is an engrossing facet of a greater story and theme of belonging, identity and endurance. I felt a connection to each story within moments and was immersed in the narrative including a mother whose sons defy her expectations only to discover something richer, a woman who travels to Toronto and discovers a secret sediment layer in her husband’s past, and a mother and daughter whose lives are fractured when a secret is exposed only to find a deeper connection. An intimate exploration of love and belonging I would definitely look out for future books from this writer.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
September 23, 2021
I love a good short story collection and Home of the Floating Lily was one that not only stuck with me after reading, but inspired me with beautiful writing, compelling themes, and well-developed characters.
Home of the Floating Lily is a collection of eight short stories that depict the experiences of Bangladeshi-Canadians living in the neighbourhood of Crescent Oak Village. The opening story grabs you right away; it follows a women named Shumi who is feeling lonely and out of place after joining her husband in Canada. After discovering a devastating secret, her relationship with her husband and close friend is great changed. Other stories in the collection handle topics of remarriage after the death of a spouse, the experience of returning to Bangladesh after moving to Canada, the contrasting lives of two sister-in-laws, and raising a family in a new country.
Being familiar with the area the characters neighbourhood was based on really brought the collection to life for me. I was able to picture them moving through their apartments, streets and stores. Silmy's writing is vivid and lively, putting you in the shoes of the characters and relating to their feelings and struggles. Many of the stories are relatable to anyone who has immigrated or is the child of immigrants.
An absolute must-read— I can't wait to read more of Silmy's work in the future!
Home of the Floating Lily is a collection of eight short stories that depict the experiences of Bangladeshi-Canadians living in the neighbourhood of Crescent Oak Village. The opening story grabs you right away; it follows a women named Shumi who is feeling lonely and out of place after joining her husband in Canada. After discovering a devastating secret, her relationship with her husband and close friend is great changed. Other stories in the collection handle topics of remarriage after the death of a spouse, the experience of returning to Bangladesh after moving to Canada, the contrasting lives of two sister-in-laws, and raising a family in a new country.
Being familiar with the area the characters neighbourhood was based on really brought the collection to life for me. I was able to picture them moving through their apartments, streets and stores. Silmy's writing is vivid and lively, putting you in the shoes of the characters and relating to their feelings and struggles. Many of the stories are relatable to anyone who has immigrated or is the child of immigrants.
An absolute must-read— I can't wait to read more of Silmy's work in the future!
July 21, 2021
This compelling book offers intimate views of characters, nuanced but relatable stories, and an evocative sense of surroundings. Reading this made me homesick for my old hometown of Toronto, but more importantly it made me contemplate the profound tension of trying to adapt to and belong in a place where you weren't born. The weather, the smell of the air, the way the light falls, the architecture that surrounds us—it affects us more than we usually acknowledge. Not to mention our complicated reasons for leaving our homeland and the subsequent lasting grief and loss we live with over the years.
March 26, 2022
Everybody needs to feel belonging in their life, as it offers a place of tranquility and leads to a fulfilling life.
A sense of belonging is a wonderful thing. When one has this sense of belonging, it brings them such peace and joy. It means feeling at home somewhere.
Home of Floating Lily by Silmy Abdullah is a book that has a similar emotion where we see our protagonists struggling to find their place in the world.
Getting married is a happy and wonderful experience that all of us go through in our life. However, what happens when our Happily Ever After turns to be a lie?
When forced to make a choice between her love for her country and the future of her daughter, what will a woman choose?
All the above as well as other thought provoking questions have been answered by the author in this book.
A sense of belonging is a wonderful thing. When one has this sense of belonging, it brings them such peace and joy. It means feeling at home somewhere.
Home of Floating Lily by Silmy Abdullah is a book that has a similar emotion where we see our protagonists struggling to find their place in the world.
Getting married is a happy and wonderful experience that all of us go through in our life. However, what happens when our Happily Ever After turns to be a lie?
When forced to make a choice between her love for her country and the future of her daughter, what will a woman choose?
All the above as well as other thought provoking questions have been answered by the author in this book.
December 19, 2022
“Home of the Floating Lily” is a collection of short stories that take place in Dhaka Bangladesh and Toronto Canada. Through immigration, characters experience feelings of discomfort, loneliness and alienation as they struggle to identify what and where home is.
In the story, “Across the Ocean”, Reema was not at home in Toronto or Dhaka or even in her aunt's house. Her home did not belong in a country or a city. It belonged in the people who raised her and allowed her to feel a sense of "familiarity" (49). To be specific, Reema once built her home in her parents. When Reema's parents passed away, they took her home away from her, and left her behind with a conflicted identity.
I very much enjoyed reading each story. Thank you Silmy Abdullah.
In the story, “Across the Ocean”, Reema was not at home in Toronto or Dhaka or even in her aunt's house. Her home did not belong in a country or a city. It belonged in the people who raised her and allowed her to feel a sense of "familiarity" (49). To be specific, Reema once built her home in her parents. When Reema's parents passed away, they took her home away from her, and left her behind with a conflicted identity.
I very much enjoyed reading each story. Thank you Silmy Abdullah.
March 24, 2022
Moving to a new place can be a fun experience, however at the same time, we must remember that it is equal parts exhilarating and scary.
We never realize quite how strongly tied to the culture of your home country you are until we are forced to move abroad.
It is during this time that we are faced with a culture—and possibly a language—that is markedly different than your own, the time when we’ll definitely feel the change.
Home of the Floating Lily by author Silmy Abdullah is a book which will help the readers embrace this change, instead of letting it get the best of us.
I loved how the author has compiled different stories pertaining to distinct individuals that have been narrated in the book.
However, there is one common theme that is at the center of it all and presumably the factor that keeps the story bound together.
We never realize quite how strongly tied to the culture of your home country you are until we are forced to move abroad.
It is during this time that we are faced with a culture—and possibly a language—that is markedly different than your own, the time when we’ll definitely feel the change.
Home of the Floating Lily by author Silmy Abdullah is a book which will help the readers embrace this change, instead of letting it get the best of us.
I loved how the author has compiled different stories pertaining to distinct individuals that have been narrated in the book.
However, there is one common theme that is at the center of it all and presumably the factor that keeps the story bound together.
March 12, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy. This collection of short stories from a Bangladeshi author were mostly sad. The cultural norms and values really shine through. I appreciate that this book was mostly clean, except for a few small expletives. Family, friendship, the immigrant story, and Islamaphobia are the major themes to be discussed. I wouldn't necessarily recommend this for classroom use, as they are mostly adult fiction short stories. However, some of the short stories could be used for young adults. I look forward to reading more from Silmy Abdullah.
December 11, 2021
Several short stories. I took a really long time to read it and put it down for quite some time but over the past couple weeks I finally prioritized it. Although I’m not Muslim, the stories had a sense of familiarity to my upbringing and my life. The sense of family and commitment and the struggle that so many newcomers face when they are trying to settle in their new lands. The headline story is the last one within this book and it was my favourite. The story of Shahnaz and her daughter Tasleen was complex but so touching. The range of emotions was really well done and get so real. I’m pleased with the ending but was worried at times about how it might go.
The deep and complicated, often heartbreaking stories of immigrants are explored through the 8 short stories in this book. It’s so beautiful and just reminds you how little you actually know about the folks you interact with everyday, especially in a city like Toronto.
The deep and complicated, often heartbreaking stories of immigrants are explored through the 8 short stories in this book. It’s so beautiful and just reminds you how little you actually know about the folks you interact with everyday, especially in a city like Toronto.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2021
This book of short stories by Silmy Abdullah was an absolute delight to read; this is one of my favorite collections of the year (thank you Netgalley for the ARC!). I’d give 5 stars to every single story, something that short fiction lovers will understand is somewhat rare. I love that this author focused on a relatively specific setting and community (Bangladeshi families each with a connection to the same neighborhood in Toronto) and that the stories held some overlapping themes, yet each one stood on its own. Abdullah explores the unexpected new forms of family relationship forged in the experiences of immigration, and the resulting pain and beauty of these. Bittersweet and ultimately hopeful, these stories are beautiful on so many levels. I hope they can be enjoyed widely by a large readership and that we’ll see more from this author soon!
December 9, 2021
Such a wonderful collection of stories of Bangladeshi immigrants in Canada. Truly enjoyed them all!
December 27, 2021
Beautiful collection of short stories that leaves you wondering what happens next with each family. Being born and raised into a Muslim household in Canada it’s completely relatable and some parts made me laugh at how my mother raised us and now me thinking about the same things with my own children. Definitely worth the read! I saw Silmy read a passage in a conference I was in and book her book that same day! I am trying to get all my friends and family to read it too
December 21, 2021
Thank you Dundurn Press for my #gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
This collection of short stories may be my fave collection I’ve read and I’m sad I’ve been sitting on this one for as long as I have!
A short story collection of eight different journeys, this collection follows immigrant women from a Bangladeshi neighbourhood as they struggle to navigate home, relationships, and happiness.
Jumping between Canada and Bangladesh, the collection really hits you in the feels as you yearn, rejoice, and hurt with the characters. As the daughter of immigrants, this story hits close to home, and it also takes place in the Greater Toronto Area, hitting even closer.
I didn’t think it was possible to fit such an impactful read in only 216 pages but Silmy definitely achieved that (in her debut too!??!) and I’ll be recommending this one forever.
If you’re looking to end your reading year off on an impactful note, I highly recommend picking this one up (and it’s only 216 pages so, bonus).
You know when you read a book and you just sigh and clutch your hand to your heart because you can’t really describe your feelings? That’s the feeling I have after reading this one.
This collection of short stories may be my fave collection I’ve read and I’m sad I’ve been sitting on this one for as long as I have!
A short story collection of eight different journeys, this collection follows immigrant women from a Bangladeshi neighbourhood as they struggle to navigate home, relationships, and happiness.
Jumping between Canada and Bangladesh, the collection really hits you in the feels as you yearn, rejoice, and hurt with the characters. As the daughter of immigrants, this story hits close to home, and it also takes place in the Greater Toronto Area, hitting even closer.
I didn’t think it was possible to fit such an impactful read in only 216 pages but Silmy definitely achieved that (in her debut too!??!) and I’ll be recommending this one forever.
If you’re looking to end your reading year off on an impactful note, I highly recommend picking this one up (and it’s only 216 pages so, bonus).
You know when you read a book and you just sigh and clutch your hand to your heart because you can’t really describe your feelings? That’s the feeling I have after reading this one.
December 20, 2021
What a stunning debut! Collection of short stories that Left me wanting more and reminded me so much of Jhumpa Lahri’s Namesake.
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