English Harem

Synopsis

A hilarious and provocative story of love, menus and Islam. To spice up the tedium of her work on a supermarket checkout, 20-year-old Tracy Pringle lets her imagination run riot. As she hands the change to Princess Leia or Omar Shariff, her life seems quite exotic. But far greater excitement is in store. Sacked for her compulsive daydreaming, she finds a new job as a waitress at the Taste of Persia-despite the reservations of the restaurant's proprietor, Samaan 'Sam' Sahar. This new world surpasses even Tracy's well-stocked imagination, and she soon finds herself falling headlong into dinner plates, Islam, and a rather tricky domestic arrangement. But as word of this English harem spreads, so too does prejudice and fear. 'The English Harem dares to speak of English multiculturalism in the satirical tongue that most native writers keep mute.' - Observer 'Anthony McCarten's sparkling new novel manages to deal with big issues-cultural differences, religion, marriage-in a funny and often moving way.' - Sunday Tribune, Dublin Anthony McCarten was born in New Plymouth in 1961. He is New Zealand's leading director and playright. His most recent play, Ladies Night, is in its thirteenth year and has won several awards. He has written the screenplay for his first book, Spinners, which was published to wide critical acclaim and sold in several territories. He divides his time between Wellington, Los Angeles and London, and is currently working on his next novel.