The Gift of Rain is a novel written by Tan Twan Eng, published in 2007. The story is set in Penang, Malaysia, during the Japanese occupation of World War II and the post-war period. The protagonist, Philip Hutton, is a half-Chinese, half-English young man who lives with his wealthy family in a mansion called “The Rock” on the island of Penang.

The novel begins with an elderly Philip reflecting on his life and the events that led him to become a traitor to his country. He then takes us back to his youth when he meets Endo-san, a Japanese diplomat and martial arts master who becomes his mentor and teaches him Aikido. Endo-san also introduces Philip to his daughter, Michiko, with whom he falls in love.

As the war progresses, Philip is torn between his loyalty to his family and his love for Michiko. He eventually becomes a spy for the Japanese and betrays his own people. After the war ends, Philip is haunted by guilt and shame for what he has done. He leaves Penang and travels to Japan to seek redemption.

The novel explores themes of identity, loyalty, betrayal, love, and forgiveness. It also provides insight into the history and culture of Malaysia and Japan during World War II.

In conclusion, The Gift of Rain is a beautifully written novel that tells a compelling story of one man’s journey through war and its aftermath. It offers readers a glimpse into the complex relationships between individuals and nations during times of conflict.

The Gift of Rain

• By: Tan Twan Eng
• Narrated by: Gordon Griffin, Luke Thompson

Set during the tumult of World War II, on the lush Malayan island of Penang, The Gift of Rain tells a riveting and poignant tale about a young man caught in the tangle of wartime loyalties and deceits.

In 1939, 16-year-old Philip Hutton – the half-Chinese, half-English youngest child of the head of one of Penang’s large merchant families – felt alienated from both the Chinese and British communities. Eventually, he discovers a sense of belonging in his unexpected friendship with Hayato Endo, a Japanese diplomat. Philip proudly shows off his new friend around his beloved island, and in return Endo teaches him about Japanese language and culture, and trains him in the art and discipline of aikido. But such knowledge comes at a terrible price. When the Japanese brutally invaded Malaya, Philip realized that his mentor and mentor – to whom he owes absolute loyalty – was a Japanese spy. Young Philip has unwittingly become a traitor, and must now work in secret to save as many lives as possible, even if his own family has to kneel.

Gorgeous and engrossing story. The audible performances are the best I have heard. Gordon Griffin and Luke Thompson are stunningly sensitive to accents, diction, and tone. The degree of difficulty of the performance is a 9 out of 10.

 

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