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Prisoner #1056: How I Survived War and Found Peace
#1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER
An incredible immigrant story from a prominent Canadian Tamil who fled torture and imprisonment, arrived in Canada with $50 in his pocket, then rose from the mailroom to the executive suite of the country’s largest independent asset management company.
Roy Ratnavel’s astonishing journey began at age seventeen, when he was seized by government soldiers and interned in a notorious prison camp for no reason other than being born a Tamil. He saw friends die, and was tortured for a few months—until an unlikely encounter allowed him to send a message beyond the prison walls, which led to his release.
Seeing nothing but more danger in his son’s future, Ratnavel’s father sought refuge for his son in Canada, far from the ethnic violence that was consuming Sri Lanka. When the consular immigration officer asked for proof that the boy’s life was at risk in his homeland, Ratnavel simply lifted his shirt to show the man his unhealed scars. It wasn’t long before he was on a plane. His father was shot and killed three days later.
To repay the debt he owed to his hero of a father, Ratnavel was determined to find the bright future that had been envisioned for him. He went to night school, worked three jobs at a time, and lived in a tiny space with seven housemates. Ratnavel persevered, and he hustled. He accepted no charity, even from relatives, but he made the most of the opportunities set in his path, the mentorship offered by those Canadians who recognized his potential, and by his new homeland, a country shaped by openness, tolerance, and a commitment to merit.
Prisoner #1056 is not only a moving immigrant success story and a searing account of surviving unimaginable injustice and trauma—it is an urgent warning that the dark forces of populism that tore apart the once-prosperous island of Sri Lanka can do their ugly work in Western societies too. Passionate, raw, thoughtful, and far-seeing, Prisoner #1056 makes the case that our destiny is in our own hands.
An incredible immigrant story from a prominent Canadian Tamil who fled torture and imprisonment, arrived in Canada with $50 in his pocket, then rose from the mailroom to the executive suite of the country’s largest independent asset management company.
Roy Ratnavel’s astonishing journey began at age seventeen, when he was seized by government soldiers and interned in a notorious prison camp for no reason other than being born a Tamil. He saw friends die, and was tortured for a few months—until an unlikely encounter allowed him to send a message beyond the prison walls, which led to his release.
Seeing nothing but more danger in his son’s future, Ratnavel’s father sought refuge for his son in Canada, far from the ethnic violence that was consuming Sri Lanka. When the consular immigration officer asked for proof that the boy’s life was at risk in his homeland, Ratnavel simply lifted his shirt to show the man his unhealed scars. It wasn’t long before he was on a plane. His father was shot and killed three days later.
To repay the debt he owed to his hero of a father, Ratnavel was determined to find the bright future that had been envisioned for him. He went to night school, worked three jobs at a time, and lived in a tiny space with seven housemates. Ratnavel persevered, and he hustled. He accepted no charity, even from relatives, but he made the most of the opportunities set in his path, the mentorship offered by those Canadians who recognized his potential, and by his new homeland, a country shaped by openness, tolerance, and a commitment to merit.
Prisoner #1056 is not only a moving immigrant success story and a searing account of surviving unimaginable injustice and trauma—it is an urgent warning that the dark forces of populism that tore apart the once-prosperous island of Sri Lanka can do their ugly work in Western societies too. Passionate, raw, thoughtful, and far-seeing, Prisoner #1056 makes the case that our destiny is in our own hands.
- GenresNonfictionCanadaMemoir
272 pages, Hardcover
Published April 18, 2023
10 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 21, 2023
This book needs some serious editing, pretty clear that Ratnavel is no writer by trade but props to him for putting together this book. That being said, I was kinda surprised that prisoner component of this story is done by the first 25 pages or so? Seems a bit like a fluff piece for Ratnavel and his life accomplishments, however his story was advertised as an immigrant exception when in fact, his story mirrors the humble origins of many Sri Lankan Tamils, not just in the setbacks but also the successes. I was most interested in the mental health component of this book and wish that was explored more, either Ratnavel’s own PTSD or that of his mother diagnosed with schizophrenia (can you tell I just finish my psych unit in med school rn?), however he brushes this off with repetitive phrases of “I don’t want to be a victim”. That isn’t to say I wouldn’t expect a response like that from Sri Lankan Tamil men of his generation but all I’m saying is that there was more opportunity for depth with this book.
July 13, 2023
This is an excellent, descriptive book about the horrors of the Sri Lankan war. It is one person’s account about the trauma of war. This book gave me great insight and understanding. It also taught me how fortunate we are to live in Canada, but also how important it is that we, as Canadians, must continue to move in a peaceful, tolerant direction.
May 7, 2025
I found Prisoner 1056 to be a powerful and emotional read, especially in the first half. Roy’s experiences during the war were intense, and I was fully pulled into his story. His portrayal of "Appa" and the Fernando family was particularly memorable. I could have read an entire book just on that part of his life, or even a book about "Appa."
One thing that stayed with me, though, was how often Roy spoke about wanting to make his Appa proud. That sentiment came up again and again, but did not express that same desire about his Amma. It felt like she was quietly present in the background, caring for him when his father was gone, yet rarely acknowledged with the same respect. The imbalance was subtle at first, but throughout the book, it really stood out. While I can empathize that the trauma surrounding his father's passing was a motivation point for him, it does resemble the all-too-common rhetoric of not appreciating mothers in the South Asian culture.
The final chapters also took a turn I didn’t quite expect. Roy’s political rambling about Canadian politics became more prominent, and some of them felt out of place. At one point, he subtly compares the Tamil struggle to debates about affirmative action in the West, which felt like a real stretch, and honestly a bit absurd.
That said, I really valued reading this book. Roy’s story deserves to be heard, and I mean no disrespect. As someone whose family also lived through the war, I connected with a lot of what he shared. I encourage more Tamil Canadians to share their story, just like Roy bravely did. I finished the book with mixed feelings, grateful for the story, but unsettled by some of the framing.
One thing that stayed with me, though, was how often Roy spoke about wanting to make his Appa proud. That sentiment came up again and again, but did not express that same desire about his Amma. It felt like she was quietly present in the background, caring for him when his father was gone, yet rarely acknowledged with the same respect. The imbalance was subtle at first, but throughout the book, it really stood out. While I can empathize that the trauma surrounding his father's passing was a motivation point for him, it does resemble the all-too-common rhetoric of not appreciating mothers in the South Asian culture.
The final chapters also took a turn I didn’t quite expect. Roy’s political rambling about Canadian politics became more prominent, and some of them felt out of place. At one point, he subtly compares the Tamil struggle to debates about affirmative action in the West, which felt like a real stretch, and honestly a bit absurd.
That said, I really valued reading this book. Roy’s story deserves to be heard, and I mean no disrespect. As someone whose family also lived through the war, I connected with a lot of what he shared. I encourage more Tamil Canadians to share their story, just like Roy bravely did. I finished the book with mixed feelings, grateful for the story, but unsettled by some of the framing.
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December 7, 2025One of the first memoir I have read sharing the experiences of an Eelam Tamil. This is a good read for those who want to hear the struggles and perseverance of many asylum seekers and immigrants coming to Canada.
April 8, 2024
There have been many books written in both English and Tamil about our struggle, life during war time, displacements and migrant life.
Late Anton Balasingham, who was integral part of the tiger movement wrote “War & Peace” which gave an insights into the many historical events of that time.
Former UN Ambassador and fellow Australian Gordon Weiss wrote “The Cage”, which documented the humanitarian catastrophe which unfolded in the last days of the war and how UN & the international community remained a silent witness.
Former BBC journalist Frances Harrison wrote “Still Counting the Dead”, a collection of stories of war crimes Tamil war victims and their miserable plight;
However, Roy Ratnavale’s book Prisoner 1056 is unique iand different from the others.
It is unique because Prisoner 1056 intertwines the personal story of a young Tamil refugee boy who went on to become a successful fund manager in Canada with that of the plight of his ethnic race which waged a liberation struggle and suffered genocide.
It is different because Prisoner 1056 is written by someone who has not been part of the struggle. It is different because it gives a face, a voice, an identity to the thousands of traumatic stories our community have to tell the broad world. In Roy’s words, telling us not selling and it is our fervent hope and belief that this book will sell our story to the broader world now and in years to come.
To the Tamil community, particularly to the next generation, this book is not just Roy’s story. It is my story, your story and each of the first generation migrant’s story.
This book tells you how within a span of 30 years how we went from being Victims to Victors. It tells you the story of how Tamils transcended Misery to Prosperity
Late Anton Balasingham, who was integral part of the tiger movement wrote “War & Peace” which gave an insights into the many historical events of that time.
Former UN Ambassador and fellow Australian Gordon Weiss wrote “The Cage”, which documented the humanitarian catastrophe which unfolded in the last days of the war and how UN & the international community remained a silent witness.
Former BBC journalist Frances Harrison wrote “Still Counting the Dead”, a collection of stories of war crimes Tamil war victims and their miserable plight;
However, Roy Ratnavale’s book Prisoner 1056 is unique iand different from the others.
It is unique because Prisoner 1056 intertwines the personal story of a young Tamil refugee boy who went on to become a successful fund manager in Canada with that of the plight of his ethnic race which waged a liberation struggle and suffered genocide.
It is different because Prisoner 1056 is written by someone who has not been part of the struggle. It is different because it gives a face, a voice, an identity to the thousands of traumatic stories our community have to tell the broad world. In Roy’s words, telling us not selling and it is our fervent hope and belief that this book will sell our story to the broader world now and in years to come.
To the Tamil community, particularly to the next generation, this book is not just Roy’s story. It is my story, your story and each of the first generation migrant’s story.
This book tells you how within a span of 30 years how we went from being Victims to Victors. It tells you the story of how Tamils transcended Misery to Prosperity
May 4, 2023
My reaction to this book is complex, and I hope to convey my thoughts with depth and nuance in this review.
Regarding the writing, I must admit that it falls short of literary excellence. However, it would be unfair to critique the book on this basis alone. Ratnavel, as a non-native English speaker, is not a professional writer, and I did not hold high expectations for the quality of his writing. So 1/5 for writing.
In terms of the story itself, I firmly believe that every tale has its own unique value and merits, particularly those chronicling the experiences of immigrants and refugees, which resonate deeply with me. The first half of the book held my attention and was particularly captivating as a daughter of Thamil refugees myself. It is crucial that we pay heed to the stories of those who have endured unimaginable hardships so that future generations can gain a fuller understanding of the struggles that they have faced. Unfortunately, the last 20% of the book devolved into a rambling opinion piece on Ratnavel's social and political views and ideologies, which caught me off guard, as I was expecting a memoir. I would have preferred if the publishers had made it clear that the book is a memoir with an opinion component. Moreover, I found that some of the concepts could have been presented more concisely, as they became dry and repetitive. 3/5 for the story of his immigrant experience.
One problematic aspect of the book, in my opinion, is the author himself. However, it is important to note that my assessment does not affect the rating I gave based on the story and writing. Ratnavel hails from an earlier generation of Thamil immigrants, and I recognize the sacrifices and struggles that they endured to forge new lives in unfamiliar lands. Nonetheless, as an individual, Ratnavel exhibits internalized racism, which is apparent throughout his narrative. For example, he and his wife changed their names to ones that were White passing, which I find tragic, as Thamil names are beautiful and worthy of pride. Additionally, he constantly tolerated insensitive remarks from colleagues; one example - when he shared the news of his son's birth to his boss who replied "it's not mine!" The jokes of his time, my god are terrible and I'm glad my generation has done the work to remove such misogyny. What truly was horrific was that he made problematic statements like "Canada is not a racist country." Ratnavel's claims that Sri Lanka is a racist country while denying that racism exists in Canada are contradictory and expose his blind spots. In my view, Ratnavel represents the category of men who have achieved success but fail to recognize that racism continues to exist for others . He falls into the dangerous thinking of "if I didn't have set backs due to racism it MUST not exist !" As a Thamil Canadian, I find it disheartening that Ratnavel does not acknowledge the active genocide of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a horrific reality, and we cannot turn a blind eye to it. I recognize that Canada provided a safe haven for my family, but we must also confront the fact that this country is responsible for killing millions of people and eradicating an entire lineage of indigenous peoples. As with the Sinhala in Sri Lanka, who may have viewed the country as a decent place to live despite its ongoing persecution of Thamils, these two realities can coexist and to say it doesn't is just pure ignorance and again, internalized racism. It truly breaks my heart that Ratnavel exhibits these traits but I also understand it happens often when you escape war and find peace in a Canada and fight to succeed in a white majority country. In conclusion I believe that Ratnavel only sees racism as overt and not have an educated and clear understanding of systematic racism which I am not surprised about but find it sad.
I do appreciate that that he speaks about mental health - something that generation does not acknowledge and needs to. I hope he continues to speak on Mental Health because when you escape a war, the devastating illness is the scars it leaves behind mentally. I've had so many conversations with my own kin about seeing a therapist for those scars and it is simply a battle I will never win, so I admire that he courageously spoke out about his rage, and hauntings of the war. I hope the previous generation of refugees can understand and learn from his view point on that.
Overall, I have read way better memoirs but nonetheless I think every Thamil story is worth being published, heard or read.
Regarding the writing, I must admit that it falls short of literary excellence. However, it would be unfair to critique the book on this basis alone. Ratnavel, as a non-native English speaker, is not a professional writer, and I did not hold high expectations for the quality of his writing. So 1/5 for writing.
In terms of the story itself, I firmly believe that every tale has its own unique value and merits, particularly those chronicling the experiences of immigrants and refugees, which resonate deeply with me. The first half of the book held my attention and was particularly captivating as a daughter of Thamil refugees myself. It is crucial that we pay heed to the stories of those who have endured unimaginable hardships so that future generations can gain a fuller understanding of the struggles that they have faced. Unfortunately, the last 20% of the book devolved into a rambling opinion piece on Ratnavel's social and political views and ideologies, which caught me off guard, as I was expecting a memoir. I would have preferred if the publishers had made it clear that the book is a memoir with an opinion component. Moreover, I found that some of the concepts could have been presented more concisely, as they became dry and repetitive. 3/5 for the story of his immigrant experience.
One problematic aspect of the book, in my opinion, is the author himself. However, it is important to note that my assessment does not affect the rating I gave based on the story and writing. Ratnavel hails from an earlier generation of Thamil immigrants, and I recognize the sacrifices and struggles that they endured to forge new lives in unfamiliar lands. Nonetheless, as an individual, Ratnavel exhibits internalized racism, which is apparent throughout his narrative. For example, he and his wife changed their names to ones that were White passing, which I find tragic, as Thamil names are beautiful and worthy of pride. Additionally, he constantly tolerated insensitive remarks from colleagues; one example - when he shared the news of his son's birth to his boss who replied "it's not mine!" The jokes of his time, my god are terrible and I'm glad my generation has done the work to remove such misogyny. What truly was horrific was that he made problematic statements like "Canada is not a racist country." Ratnavel's claims that Sri Lanka is a racist country while denying that racism exists in Canada are contradictory and expose his blind spots. In my view, Ratnavel represents the category of men who have achieved success but fail to recognize that racism continues to exist for others . He falls into the dangerous thinking of "if I didn't have set backs due to racism it MUST not exist !" As a Thamil Canadian, I find it disheartening that Ratnavel does not acknowledge the active genocide of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a horrific reality, and we cannot turn a blind eye to it. I recognize that Canada provided a safe haven for my family, but we must also confront the fact that this country is responsible for killing millions of people and eradicating an entire lineage of indigenous peoples. As with the Sinhala in Sri Lanka, who may have viewed the country as a decent place to live despite its ongoing persecution of Thamils, these two realities can coexist and to say it doesn't is just pure ignorance and again, internalized racism. It truly breaks my heart that Ratnavel exhibits these traits but I also understand it happens often when you escape war and find peace in a Canada and fight to succeed in a white majority country. In conclusion I believe that Ratnavel only sees racism as overt and not have an educated and clear understanding of systematic racism which I am not surprised about but find it sad.
I do appreciate that that he speaks about mental health - something that generation does not acknowledge and needs to. I hope he continues to speak on Mental Health because when you escape a war, the devastating illness is the scars it leaves behind mentally. I've had so many conversations with my own kin about seeing a therapist for those scars and it is simply a battle I will never win, so I admire that he courageously spoke out about his rage, and hauntings of the war. I hope the previous generation of refugees can understand and learn from his view point on that.
Overall, I have read way better memoirs but nonetheless I think every Thamil story is worth being published, heard or read.
May 8, 2025
This is a great story about Roy as an immigrant coming to Canada and defying all odds to make a successful career. I must admit, at first I had some doubts about reading this book, due to a few poor reviews from some female followers. But nothing could be further from the truth. He delivers a great story telling memoir with enough quips and prose to entertain any type of reader.
F. Scott Fitzgerald once famously wrote whenever you feel like criticizing any one...just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had.
Having been born and raised in Jaffna myself, it felt like he transported me back to a time that seemed so far away to me. Also, he put so many aspects of his past life and Srilankan Tamil history into perspective that I haven't yet worked out myself.
I also felt that his sentiments of LTTE are perhaps too personal and in no way conducive to the modern day struggles of the Tamils battling for equality with their current government. Nevertheless, I was able to empathize more with the LTTE and their actions during their struggle. As a follow-up generation, all I can say, I honor your struggle and grateful for your efforts for the Tamil diaspora sir.
F. Scott Fitzgerald once famously wrote whenever you feel like criticizing any one...just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had.
Having been born and raised in Jaffna myself, it felt like he transported me back to a time that seemed so far away to me. Also, he put so many aspects of his past life and Srilankan Tamil history into perspective that I haven't yet worked out myself.
I also felt that his sentiments of LTTE are perhaps too personal and in no way conducive to the modern day struggles of the Tamils battling for equality with their current government. Nevertheless, I was able to empathize more with the LTTE and their actions during their struggle. As a follow-up generation, all I can say, I honor your struggle and grateful for your efforts for the Tamil diaspora sir.
May 15, 2024
This is a riveting narrative, a beautiful tapestry of the English language depicting the author's extraordinary life. It is an honest account of a boy’s journey from facing heinous challenges to becoming a man, a husband, and a father while reaching the pinnacle of the corporate world in Canada. The author often uses an inspiring metaphor of ‘lamb to a lion’ when referring to himself throughout the book.
His vulnerability seeps through the book as he pens in equal candor unapologetic prose about his fears and strengths, triumphs and failures, unimaginable griefs, and perpetual will to rise as the phoenix. A narrative that is a testament to indomitable resilience, a quality that will inspire and motivate any reader. The book flows seamlessly, adorned with beautiful words and phrases.
It is a powerful story of hope and tenacity, a testimony to the human capacity to overcome the most challenging adversities driven by unceasing commitment to family and core principles; it's a beam of hope, resilience, and fulfillment. It will be an excellent read for the young, offering guidance and inspiration.
His vulnerability seeps through the book as he pens in equal candor unapologetic prose about his fears and strengths, triumphs and failures, unimaginable griefs, and perpetual will to rise as the phoenix. A narrative that is a testament to indomitable resilience, a quality that will inspire and motivate any reader. The book flows seamlessly, adorned with beautiful words and phrases.
It is a powerful story of hope and tenacity, a testimony to the human capacity to overcome the most challenging adversities driven by unceasing commitment to family and core principles; it's a beam of hope, resilience, and fulfillment. It will be an excellent read for the young, offering guidance and inspiration.
May 31, 2023
Prisoner #1056.
When all identity is stripped and one is only a number,is it the end? Clear the calendar, pick up the book, and find out that it is a page turner.
No it is not the end, but the beginning of many struggles to survive,to overcome, to reach the potential that the Tamil spirit always aspires for and is quite capable of.
Roy Ratnavel has written his story with complete honesty, integrity and a good sense of humour! He writes about his successes, failures and shortcomings with total openness. The reader cannot help but wish him continued success, because he hides nothing.
With a very supportive and understanding wife by his side and a son to nurture may Roy continue to express the resilient Tamil spirit!
Is volume ll to follow soon?
When all identity is stripped and one is only a number,is it the end? Clear the calendar, pick up the book, and find out that it is a page turner.
No it is not the end, but the beginning of many struggles to survive,to overcome, to reach the potential that the Tamil spirit always aspires for and is quite capable of.
Roy Ratnavel has written his story with complete honesty, integrity and a good sense of humour! He writes about his successes, failures and shortcomings with total openness. The reader cannot help but wish him continued success, because he hides nothing.
With a very supportive and understanding wife by his side and a son to nurture may Roy continue to express the resilient Tamil spirit!
Is volume ll to follow soon?
April 21, 2023
Roy's book is a compelling and emotional read that sheds light on his personal experiences of prison torture, the loss of his father, and his mother's mental illness. His raw and vulnerable storytelling showcases his unwavering determination to overcome every obstacle. The book provides a unique perspective on the human cost of conflict and displacement, contextualizing Roy's struggles against the backdrop of his country's civil war and the suffering of the Tamil community. Overall, this thought-provoking and nuanced portrayal of a remarkable life journey is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human experience and the resilience of the human spirit.
December 25, 2023
It’s amazing how some books come into your life. This one was referred to me at a conference party. Being from the Tamil heritage it was very humbling reading this book and appreciating what it takes to share the personal journey. Especially in the times we are in, it was such a great reminder to see that it is our mindset, habits and reactions that make our luck with the cards we are dealt with in life. I also have a deep appreciation for my own loved ones journey to being immigrants in Canada. Peace starts with us and the work we do on ourselves. Such a great read that I will pass on to my loved ones.
February 9, 2024
i really enjoyed the authors recount of his experience while in sri lanka and then moving to canada. the book shares brief history about the tamil liberation struggle which i found informative. the end was disappointed when the author went on a political rant. i understand his perspective coming from a war torn country, but disagreed with parts of his beliefs concerning racism in canada.
January 9, 2025
Lower the barrier, not the bar.
"People who thought Western civilization was a bad deal will bitterly regret it if they ever come under the heels of real oppression, which they are flirting with today.
It is always easy to criticize freedom, democracy and capitalism while enjoying the associated benefits of it."
"People who thought Western civilization was a bad deal will bitterly regret it if they ever come under the heels of real oppression, which they are flirting with today.
It is always easy to criticize freedom, democracy and capitalism while enjoying the associated benefits of it."
February 5, 2025
One of the best books I've finished
One of Toronto's greatest immigrants
I don't want to give away too much but if you're a Canadian you must read it
A very proud Tamil and explains clearly the Tamil struggles . Phenomenal written
One of Toronto's greatest immigrants
I don't want to give away too much but if you're a Canadian you must read it
A very proud Tamil and explains clearly the Tamil struggles . Phenomenal written
July 17, 2023
Wow what an excellent story. The strength, courage and determination to succeed is amazing.
Read
February 25, 2025It was an interesting read. I don't think I can provide this book a rating because who am I to rate someone's life.
June 21, 2025
very good personal read
December 10, 2025
This book should’ve ended 2 chapters ago and the whole anti “woke” rant was a struggle to read through. This books needs some serious editing, some parts read out like verbatim.
December 28, 2025
I respect the author's journey and struggle, from navigating torturous prisons in Sri Lanka to working precarious jobs in Canada upon his arrival. Yet his past and struggle are precisely why I was quite disappointed in this book, which almost read as a motivational speech spanning 250 pages.
First, a comprehensive historical context of Sri Lanka and the persecution of Tamils is missing in this book. Adding more details on the historical context would have allowed readers, especially non-Tamil readers, to understand the Tamil struggle better. However, the author mentions significant events and facts throughout the book, which contextualize the armed conflict and his journey to Canada.
Even so, he makes problematic conclusions, such as at one point stating that it was not an ethnic conflict and explaining that his family was friends with another Sinhalese family. While he rightly blames the Sri Lankan government for the mass atrocities against Tamils, he fails to challenge how the majority Sinhalese population also had a role in enabling (or not preventing) this violence. Instead, he absolves such responsibility, even for a high-ranking military official who happened to be a family friend, despite that individual playing a key role in the wrongful imprisonment of Tamils.
Ratnavel also makes many problematic statements throughout the book. One notable example was labelling the Tamil community as antisemitic because Israel provided military support for Sri Lanka's genocide against the Tamils. Like what we are seeing today, it is extremely disingenuous to equate valid criticism of Israel's military support to Sri Lanka as antisemitic.
The last two chapters of the book criticize the "woke police" and are aptly summed up by this quote: "Canada has transformed from a bulwark of a free and color-blind society into a Social Justice utopia whose only inputs are skin color, gender, and race, and whose only outputs are grievance, division, and victimhood." In these last two chapters, he feeds into the neoliberal idea that everyone who works hard can climb up the economic ladder. In doing so, he invalidates the experiences of others who experience systemic racism in Canada daily by promoting this individualistic approach of hard work as a pathway to success.
While I commend the author's ability to work his way up after arriving in Canada alone as a teenager, it is dangerous to use this singular experience to deny the experiences of systemic racism of many refugees and immigrants in Canada. Just because he achieved success does not mean that many people struggle to prosper in Canada due to barriers that are inherently based on race. On that note, claiming that Canada is not a racist country ignores the country's historic and current issues of the genocide of Indigenous communities, colonization, slavery, anti-Black racism, etc. Ratnavel uses the common yet flawed idea that meritocracy and individualism will lead to prosperity without acknowledging the broader, systemic and structural barriers imposed on Indigenous, Black and racialized communities.
Finally, the writing style throughout the book is repetitive and simplistic, with many clichéd and overly descriptive depictions of people and places. Overall, a decent overview of the struggles of refugees and immigrants, which could have been a lot better if the last two chapters were left out.
First, a comprehensive historical context of Sri Lanka and the persecution of Tamils is missing in this book. Adding more details on the historical context would have allowed readers, especially non-Tamil readers, to understand the Tamil struggle better. However, the author mentions significant events and facts throughout the book, which contextualize the armed conflict and his journey to Canada.
Even so, he makes problematic conclusions, such as at one point stating that it was not an ethnic conflict and explaining that his family was friends with another Sinhalese family. While he rightly blames the Sri Lankan government for the mass atrocities against Tamils, he fails to challenge how the majority Sinhalese population also had a role in enabling (or not preventing) this violence. Instead, he absolves such responsibility, even for a high-ranking military official who happened to be a family friend, despite that individual playing a key role in the wrongful imprisonment of Tamils.
Ratnavel also makes many problematic statements throughout the book. One notable example was labelling the Tamil community as antisemitic because Israel provided military support for Sri Lanka's genocide against the Tamils. Like what we are seeing today, it is extremely disingenuous to equate valid criticism of Israel's military support to Sri Lanka as antisemitic.
The last two chapters of the book criticize the "woke police" and are aptly summed up by this quote: "Canada has transformed from a bulwark of a free and color-blind society into a Social Justice utopia whose only inputs are skin color, gender, and race, and whose only outputs are grievance, division, and victimhood." In these last two chapters, he feeds into the neoliberal idea that everyone who works hard can climb up the economic ladder. In doing so, he invalidates the experiences of others who experience systemic racism in Canada daily by promoting this individualistic approach of hard work as a pathway to success.
While I commend the author's ability to work his way up after arriving in Canada alone as a teenager, it is dangerous to use this singular experience to deny the experiences of systemic racism of many refugees and immigrants in Canada. Just because he achieved success does not mean that many people struggle to prosper in Canada due to barriers that are inherently based on race. On that note, claiming that Canada is not a racist country ignores the country's historic and current issues of the genocide of Indigenous communities, colonization, slavery, anti-Black racism, etc. Ratnavel uses the common yet flawed idea that meritocracy and individualism will lead to prosperity without acknowledging the broader, systemic and structural barriers imposed on Indigenous, Black and racialized communities.
Finally, the writing style throughout the book is repetitive and simplistic, with many clichéd and overly descriptive depictions of people and places. Overall, a decent overview of the struggles of refugees and immigrants, which could have been a lot better if the last two chapters were left out.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews