'The Runaways' by Fatima Bhutto to hit shelves in October

The novel delves into questions about modern Muslim identity in a world full of violence

After her best-selling debut novel The Shadow of the Crescent Moon and Songs of Blood and Sword, Fatima Bhutto is back with a new book. Her latest work of fiction is titled The Runaways, publishing house Penguin has announced.

"I am very happy that The Runaways, my new novel, will be published first in Pakistan, India and the region by Penguin India this October," Fatima tweeted.

I am very happy that The Runaways, my new novel, will be published first in Pakistan, India and the region by @PenguinIndia this October. #therunaways https://t.co/NaVJb1pcwm

— fatima bhutto 🇵🇸🇱🇧 (@fbhutto) April 11, 2018

The upcoming novel delves into questions about a modern Muslim identity in a world full of violence. From the slums of Karachi to life in Portsmouth, the story follows three individuals who cross paths in the middle of a desert - forcing them to make difficult decisions.

Languishing in poverty with her mother and brother, Anita Rose resides in one of Karachi's biggest slums. Determined to escape from the suffering, Anita struggles to educate herself. Awaiting a promising life ahead, she scribbles English words in glossy red notebook that she learns from watching TV or her elderly neighbour.



Monty, whose father owns half of the city, lives at the other end of Karachi. However, he wants more than just fast cars and girls. When rebellious Layla joins his school, Monty realises that his life might never be the same again.

Distanced in Portsmouth, Sunny doesn't fit in crowds. He realises the true purpose of his life when he meets his cousin charismatic cousin Oz.

The Runaways is slated to hit shelves in October 2018.

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