#FLODown: This novel is gloriously descriptive, especially rich in its portrayal of Islam, but it does bring into question the accuracy of the information conveyed. This relatively large act of kindness started almost selfishly by Amina and Lilly to find their own loved ones and develops into a beautifully selfless and positive way to help people who were truly struggling to discover the fate of their families. Having a mutual understanding and respect is the foundation for Lilly’s relationships throughout the book, and the underlying plot throughout her London years shows her and her friend Amina setting up a small charity to help other refugees reunite with their loved ones that are missing in Ethiopia. Ultimately, Lilly’s story proves that identity and sense-of-self is about so much more than skin colour. Lilly relates more to fellow refugees and she becomes extremely close to another Ethiopian woman named Amina.
When the narrative flicks to Lilly in London it is apparent that she still stands out, although now she is amongst a plethora of other white people she chooses to wear a hijab. But her white skin makes her stand out, and she spends most of her time there attempting to prove people wrong and show her similarities with the locals instead. Lilly arrives in Ethiopia as a teenager with a thorough understanding of the Quran and a strong belief in Islam. Her tale brings her to Ethiopia, and that is where Lilly’s story truly begins. Her parents die early in the story and Lilly is orphaned. The novel starts out with Lilly’s parents, they are independent and bohemian and decide to take the young Lilly off to travel the world with them as a baby. However, it is worth noting that those who want a strong sense of plot to finish a book may struggle with the meandering and descriptive paragraphs – this is a story to be savoured, not devoured. The narrative structure alternates from chapter to chapter between Lilly’s early years in Marrakesh and Ethiopia, and the older Lilly in London.Īlthough this is most definitely a work of fiction, it reads like a memoir and draws readers into its pages completely the imagery is vivid, from the vibrant, but dusty streets of Africa to the cold and lonely in the stark concrete of London. It is laced with themes that are still prominent in today’s society, such as race and racism, immigration, identity and religion all told through the protagonist, Lilly.
Sweetness in the Belly is an utterly beautiful story of human strength and determination.
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