Cereus Blooms at Night was written by Trinidadian filmmaker/artist/writer Shani Mootoo. The book tells the story of an older lady named Mala Ramchandin through the eyes -- and mouth -- of a lively and energetic nurse named Tyler. Set in the Caribbean, the book follows the turbulent and interesting history of Ramchadin's family -- particularly Mala's role in a gruesome murder. After a judge finds her incompetent to stand trial, she is placed in a nursing home, where the nurse Tyler takes care of her, becoming her friend along the way. The book is rich, layered, and complex (which some reviewers argue is to the detriment of the novel), and covers topics such as autonomy, individuality, and diaspora.
Upon its release, Cereus Blooms at Night received a number of very positive reviews (it was also shortlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize)Diane Cole of The New York Times liked the book overall, calling it an "impressive first novel" but pointing out that "her writing [at times] tends to be overly elaborate, and the plot takes a few too many twists and turns. But the plea for tolerance that lies at the heart of this novel is both authentic and powerful." Many other reviews thought the same way: that the book was good and authentic, but ultimately too elaborate for its own good. Writes Kirkus Reviews: "An intricate plot and vigorously inventive prose are the distinguishing features of this highly praised first novel by [Shani] Mootoo." Although it will likely never be regarded as a classic, Cereus Blooms at Night is undoubtedly a very solid book.
