“Like a Diamond in the Sky,” written by Shazia Omar, is a powerful and poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of addiction, societal pressure, and personal redemption. Set in Dhaka, Bangladesh, this novel offers an unflinching look at the lives of young people grappling with the harsh realities of drug abuse and the quest for meaning in an unforgiving environment.
The story revolves around a group of friends, each battling their own demons. The protagonist, Deen, is a young man whose life spirals out of control due to his heroin addiction. As Deen and his friends navigate the tumultuous landscape of Dhaka’s underbelly, they are confronted with the harsh consequences of their choices and the limited opportunities available to them. Omar’s narrative is raw and honest, shedding light on the often-taboo subject of drug addiction in South Asian society. The novel explores themes of hopelessness, resilience, and the search for redemption. Through Deen’s journey, readers witness the profound impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones, and the struggle to reclaim one’s life amidst chaos.
Shazia Omar’s writing is evocative and lyrical, painting a stark yet beautiful picture of Dhaka and its inhabitants. Her prose is both poetic and gritty, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrancy as well as its darker sides. Omar’s ability to weave together detailed descriptions with emotional depth makes for a compelling read. The dialogue is authentic, reflecting the local vernacular and adding to the realism of the story.
Title Information: Like a Diamond in the Sky
Author: Shazia Omar,
Publisher: Penguin India, 2009, 2019
ISBN: 978-8189884147
Shazia Omar is a Bangladeshi writer and social activist known for her evocative storytelling and deep exploration of social issues. She holds an MA in Development Economics from Sussex University and works in the fields of development and social change. She currently runs Dhaka Flow, an advocate for mental health and a yoga instructor.
Instagram @shazzyom, @dhakaflowofficial
Additional Titles by Shazia Omar
Dark Diamond, 2009
Golden Bangladesh at 50: Contemporary Poems & Stories, 2021
Rani’s Seashell Necklace (co-authored with Raya Rashna Rahman), 2023
Sun Moon Secret, 2023
Photo taken by guest curator Erin Wilson during Book Week Celebration, Shazia Omar with Musheera Zahra.
Reviewer bio:
Musheera Zahra is a secondary student who fell in love with Shazia Omar’s book Like a Diamond in the Sky. When she met Shazia, she was in awe and fanning out. She is an aspiring writer, athlete, and loves reading Bangladeshi authors.
Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.
Global Literature in Libraries Initiative 