The Last of Earth, Deepa Anappara (Review by Lara Ferguson)

Rating: 3.0/5 Stars

Deepa Anappara’s The Last of Earth is a richly atmospheric historical novel set in 19th-century Tibet, a land shrouded in mystery and closed to European outsiders. The story follows Balram, an Indian schoolteacher turned surveyor-spy for the British Empire, and Katherine, a determined Englishwoman seeking to become the first European woman to reach Lhasa. Their paths converge in a treacherous landscape filled with snow leopards, bandits, and imperial ambition.

Anappara’s prose is undeniably evocative. Her descriptions of the Tibetan terrain—its biting cold, dizzying altitudes, and spiritual allure—are immersive and often breathtaking. The novel excels in its ability to transport readers to a time and place rarely explored in fiction, and the historical context of colonial espionage adds a compelling layer of tension as she explores the nuances of the battle between Russia and England to control the territory.

However, while the setting is the star of the show, the pacing occasionally falters. The narrative is dense with historical detail and introspective reflection, which, though enriching, can slow the momentum. Balram and Katherine are intriguing characters, each grappling with personal loss and ambition, but as a spectator to their stories, I wanted more knowledge of their past so that I could better understand and relate to their present.

Thematically, The Last of Earth explores legacy, loyalty, and the human desire to leave a mark on the world. Katherine’s defiance of gender norms and Balram’s conflicted allegiance to empire offer poignant commentary on identity and power. Yet, the novel’s polyphonic structure—shifting perspectives and layered storytelling—can feel uneven, making it harder to connect deeply with the protagonists.

Overall, The Last of Earth is a thoughtful and ambitious work that rewards patient readers with its lyrical prose and historical depth. Its originality and scope are commendable it paints a terrible and beautiful picture of the time and place. A solid read for fans of literary fiction who appreciate slow-burning narratives and immersive settings.