One of the most prized objects in London’s Victoria and Albert Museum is a life-size wooden tiger automaton that bellows and roars as it chomps into the neck of a very unfortunate British soldier. Crafted in the late 18th century in Mysore, India, this fascinating creation is at the center of Tania James’ new novel of historical fiction “Loot.” The story follows Abbas, a 17-year old, the tiger’s creator, as he travels from India to Europe and encounters a Dickensian cast of characters from noblemen to foes and friends that are all part of this epic quest. As reviewers note, the novel offers a “wry awareness of the distorting function of racism and colonialism.” We talk to James about her book.
A Famous Tiger Automaton Animates the Novel “Loot”
(c) Elliott O'Donovan
Guests:
Tania James, author, "Loot." James is also the author of "Atlas of Unkowns," "Aerogrammes," and "The Tusk taht Did the Damage"
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