The frangipani tree mystery by Ovidia Yu
Crown Colony, book 1. Constable, 2017. ISBN: 9781472125200.
(Age: 15+) Recommended. After reading The
paperbark tree mystery I immediately pursued the first
in the series and was not disappointed. The frangipani
tree mystery introduces SuLin, a young girl who suffered polio
in her youth. Educated at a mission and very intelligent, SuLin
wants to become a journalist and travel, escaping an arranged
marriage. When the opportunity comes to look after Dee-Dee, the
daughter of the Acting Governor of Singapore, she grabs it, even
though it looks as if Charity Byrne, the Irish governess has been
murdered in mysterious circumstances. When another murder happens at
the Governor's residence, SuLin's acute observation skills and
ability to gain the trust of the people around her, assist Chief
Inspector LeFoy in working out just what happened.
It is 1936 in Singapore and Ovidia Yu brings a fascinating
historical background to the mystery. She weaves the history of
colonialism and the belief of superiority that the white British
administrators have, as a backdrop to the mystery. It is always
subtly done, but by the end of the novel the reader has become well
acquainted with life in a governor's residence, the way servants are
treated and the hierarchy of Chinese residents, with SuLin's
grandmother organising money lending and owning shops.
Some of SuLin's Chinese family's superstitions are also explored.
They believe that because of her limp, she could bring bad luck, and
she is prepared to work for a living if she can. Dee-Dee has an
intellectual disability, and Yu's sympathetic portrayal of her makes
her a relatable character, as is her brother Harry who disappears on
strange assignations at night.
This is an easy to read mystery with fascinating historical detail
and big themes like racism, class, gender and family relations, all
brought in as subtle background to the murder. An article featuring
the author and her writing can be found here.
The frangipani tree mystery certainly sets up all the
atmosphere and plotting of a very good entertaining mystery, leaving
the reader wanting to see what happens next with SuLin and Chief
Inspector LeFoy.
Pat Pledger