Mohinder’s War

Description

Mohinder’s War

Bali Rai

(Bloomsbury)

Young Joelle Breton has lived an idyllic rural life in pre-war France, being the daughter of an English mother and French father.  They are kept busy by their family boulangerie.

Following the outbreak of war and Nazi occupation however they support the French Resistance. When Joelle happens upon Mohinder, an RAF pilot whose plane has crashed, they keep him safe in their home.  But this is at huge risk, for the Germans know about the plane crash and have placed a reward on his capture. Alongside the ever-present menace of discovery, the French Resistance want Mo as a bargaining chip. “The British left us to rot,” they say.“Now, in exchange for their pilot, they must pay too’”.  Then, when treachery leads to tragedy, Mo comes good on his promise to protect Joelle.

This is a short, pacy novel driven by compelling characters and engaging dialogue. It is also excellent for prompting discussions around WWII and for the broader ethical issues it raises.  Betrayal, trust and how to do the right thing are recurring themes.

Importantly, it also shows the vital role played by Indian citizens in Britain’s war campaign.  It also features and shares information about Mohinder’s Sikh faith. The story is framed by a contemporary setting, with Joelle revealing this incredible – and hitherto unknown – story at Mo’s funeral.

Bali Rai’s novel about an Indian regiment’s involvement in the evacuation of Dunkirk, Now or Never, is also available in the Bookwagon on-line store.

Check out this Q&A interview with author Bali Rai, who talks about the novel https://www.worldbookday.com/2020/06/qa-with-bali-rai-author-of-mohinders-war/