by Shahida Rahman (Author)
Lascar is the epic story of one man's journey
to fulfil his destiny.
When Ayan discovers his brother has cancer, the need to cover
medical expenses compels him to leave poverty-stricken Bengal
and emulate their late father by becoming a Lascar, shovelling
coal in the bowels of the steamships trading between India and
England. The brutal reality of this existence leaves Ayan fearing
for his life. Fleeing the ship, he disappears into the bitter-cold
streets of Victorian London.
What follows is a true test of faith, as Ayan experiences love,
loss, prejudice and extreme injustice. After serving time for a
crime he did not commit, the kindness of a new friend, and a
chance meeting with a young half-caste street urchin changes
everything, prompting Ayan to re-examine his life.