51 pages • 1 hour read
Shyam SelvaduraiFunny Boy
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai follows young Arjie Chelvaratnam as he comes of age as a gay boy in an upper-middle-class Sri Lankan family during the 1980s civil war crisis, grappling with his identity and societal expectations while surrounded by escalating ethnic tensions and violence. The novel addresses themes of sexuality, class, family dynamics, and emigration amid a backdrop of social and political turmoil.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Shyam Selvadurai's Funny Boy receives acclaim for its evocative storytelling and rich portrayal of Sri Lankan culture during turbulent times, effectively capturing complex themes of identity and belonging. Critics praise its lyrical prose and character depth but note moments of uneven pacing. Overall, readers find it an impactful, albeit occasionally challenging, narrative.
Who Should Read Funny Boy?
Readers who enjoy Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai are typically drawn to coming-of-age stories set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval. Similar to fans of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides, they appreciate nuanced explorations of identity, cultural conflict, and personal growth.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
780L