Review of LION
by Johny McFliggen, PhD Literature & Business, Oxford
In the realm of memoirs, where the human condition is dissected with the precision of a surgeon's scalpel, Saroo Brierley's "LION" stands out as a narrative that is both a geographical and emotional odyssey. Originally published under the less feral title "A Long Way Home," Brierley's story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a lost child who finds his way back to his origins not through a yellow brick road but via the magic of Google Earth.
From the onset, one is tempted to compare Brierley's journey to the likes of Dorothy in Oz, albeit without the ruby slippers. Here, the protagonist is armed with nothing but a grainy childhood memory and an insatiable longing for home. The book's strength lies in its raw honesty. Brierley does not romanticize his plight; instead, he lays bare the stark realities of displacement that tug at one's sense of identity and belonging. It is this authenticity that elevates "LION" from a simple lost-and-found tale to a profound exploration of kinship and self-discovery.
The narrative's trajectory from a bustling Indian train station to the serene shores of Tasmania unfolds with the urgency of a thriller and the delicacy of a coming-of-age story. However, it's not without its flaws. The pacing occasionally stumbles, particularly during Saroo's comparatively idyllic life in Australia. One might argue that these sections serve as a necessary contrast to his harrowing beginnings, yet they sometimes feel like filler episodes in an otherwise gripping series.
Comparisons to works like Tara Westover's "Educated" are inevitable. Both memoirs explore the intricate dance between past and present, and the tension between where one comes from and where one is headed. Yet, Brierley's use of technology as a narrative catalyst sets "LION" apart. It's reminiscent of William Kamkwamba's "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind," where innovation becomes both a literal and metaphorical light in the darkness.
The book's adaptation into a film starring Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman has undeniably contributed to its acclaim, but the essence of Brierley's story remains untouched by cinematic glitz. It's a narrative that transcends its own medium, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the pull of their roots or the whisper of an unfinished story.
While "LION" may not have claimed literary awards, its impact is palpable, particularly in discussions around adoption and technological empowerment. It serves as both a mirror reflecting Brierley's unique experience and a window into universal themes that strike at the core of human existence.
In sum, "LION" is more than just Saroo Brierley's memoir; it is an invitation to ponder our own journeys, our own searches for belonging, and perhaps most importantly, our own definitions of home. In an era where distance is often measured in bandwidth rather than miles, Brierley's story reminds us that sometimes, finding our way back is only a click away.
Purchase Link: LION on Amazon
