It was full house at West Greenwich Library on March 28th for the launch of Under the Pipal Tree by Anjana Chowdhury.
Evocative is the first word that springs to mind to describe this remarkable debut novel, published by the independent, ever-innovative Cinnamon Press. Jan Fortune of Cinnamon Press introduced Anjana and the book, and then the author introduced and read three extracts, and explained how the book grew almost of its own accord, lead by its characters. The interlinking stories of the three women protagonists, narrated along different timelines, is intense and psychologically complex, so ‘evocative’ is a rather reductionist description of the book. Buy it (from Cinnamon Press or Amazon), read it and you will find many more adjectives to add to it.
Events
‘Chaos Dragon and the Light’ – January 27 at West Greenwich Library, 7 for 7.30
A poignant documentary film by local Director Sal Anderson. It tells the story of Marika, a Hungarian girl who was forced into hiding from the Nazis during WW2, and forced to flee from the Soviets in 1956 during the Hungarian uprising. Settled in London, she began a new life and was transformed by her creativity.
A free event to remember and honour all the victims of the Holocaust and of persecution, hatred and discrimination everywhere.
Tuesday March 24 at West Greenwich Library, 7 for 7.30
Poetry with NJ Hynes, Rosie Johnston and Alex Josepy – three favourites bringing on spring 2026. Save the date! More details nearer the time.