Taking a journey to the vast land of Mongolia with my first read by Quan Barry. A surreal tale that combined history, culture and a delicate perspective on religion and beliefs; When I’m Gone, Look For Me In The East brought me to a story of a novice monk, Chuluun and his twin brother, Mun on their road trip to find an ‘ancient light’— a reincarnation of an enlightened teacher who was said to be reborn into another life. From town of Bor-Urt to the capital of Ulaanbaatar, a destiny of luck and adventure with few unexpected incidents searching for the three child candidates; a boy shaman, a girl hunter and a ghostly dinosaur seer, the plot explored an uplifting story of a sibling and a new friendship while touring on an enchanting and picturesque land of Mongolia.

Having back and forth timelines told from Chuluun’s perspective, this can be quite comforting and spiritually sentimental for how it delved intricately into Buddhism and one’s faith; a question of doubt that observed a destiny of Chuluun to continue his path and Mun who decided to reject his monastic life. Love the mystical part of their relationship of how both having the ability to hear and read each other’s minds which at times it can be strangely haunting too.

“I can see into my brother’s mind and he into mine, our experiences passing between us like books in a library.”

As much as I love the calmness in its prose, I can’t help to feel underwhelmed by the whole execution which somehow progressed quite dull to me. I get bored in between and at times, Chuluun’s narration can be a bit draggy to follow as well. The backdrop was my fav anyway with its immersive elements of culture and traditions; an engrossing reflection on Mongolian society, their diversity and lifestyle as well a riveting view towards the land history which told through the story of the three candidates and Chuluun’s past.

This can be an appealing read if you’re into a religion related literary fiction with minimal conflict and no tight plot. A philosophical narrative, mesmerising esp if you want to explore more into the Buddhist path and teachings. 3.5 stars to this!

Thank you Times Reads for sending me a copy to review!