That Eurasian

"That Eurasian" by Aleph Bey is a poignant novel set in British India, that navigates the complex tapestry of identity, heritage, and cultural assimilation through the eyes of a child born of mixed parentage. This story unveils the protagonist's emotional odyssey as they grapple with the dualities of their existence, torn between their European and Asian roots during the late 19th century. The book begins with an encounter in France, which sets off a journey into a life marred by sorrow, disgrace, and an unwavering yearning for self-respect. A powerful childhood memory in Lucknow introduces the narrative's core conflict—the heartbreaking scene of the protagonist’s Mohammadan mother voicing her desolation upon separation from their English sire. That moment becomes the defining point in their relentless pursuit of identity and acceptance within the rigid confines of colonial society.