Prince of Ayodhya
The Ramayana, No. 1
By Ashok K Banker

     My introduction to the epic Ramayana was as I sat cross-legged on the floor with my classmates, listening in wonder to our teacher telling the tale. I was seven years old and spellbound. Yes, this is the way to hear it, but if you haven’t been so lucky, why not plunge into Ashok K Banker’s retelling? He has written this three thousand-year-old tale for modern readers, whether steeped in the Indian tradition or who have never even heard of it before. Step back in time to classical India (exact period unspecified) and the land of Ayodhya. Many people can remember when their Maharajah Dasaratha fought the terrible demons and drove them back and now their land basks in a golden age of peace and prosperity. But the demons are once again setting their sights on Ayodhya and plan to destroy it. In their way stand only the dying Dasaratha, his two immortal gurus and his four sons of which the eldest, Rama, is about to inherit the kingdom. But Rama is going to have to do a lot more than that before he comes into his birthright, and not all his enemies are demonic.

     Some people think that fantasy is the most recent of all genres, but of course it is the oldest. If you enjoy the usual type of fiction that Orbit publishes and yearn for something a bit different from space operas or Tolkeinesque trilogies then try this on for size. Demons, immortals, lush descriptions of classical India replete with palaces, elephants and fearsome warriors and a handsome young hero add up to one powerful tale and if you are a fan of the TV series 24, then you might be interested to know that this first part takes place during one very long day!

      I would have preferred an introduction for those who are not familiar with either the Ramayana or its vital role in Indian culture. There is a good glossary at the back, but a good map would be useful and a little more explanation about various aspects of the tale. This notwithstanding, I can heartily recommend this novel and wait eagerly for the next installment.