A great and reflective piece that is able to capture colonialism, small-mindedness and human relationships in a way that is both intimate and genuine. I have to strongly disagree with the other reviewer here: the book criticises both of the main characters while at the same time presenting them both as deeply human and flawed. In the end both of them are the same - while one is aggressive and lashes out and is therefore seen as horrible by the villagers, the other is manipulative and irresponsible and both abuse and use people around them and each other. Their escapist fantasy doesn't work out for them and ends up damaging their surroundings and the people around and them themselves.
Furthermore the book is beautifully designed and is a real pleasure to read.