The Spoon and the Sea by Mrs. Rachel Hayley Caplin

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A sweeping historical novel of identity, memory and belonging – across Zanzibar, London, and Jerusalem

A richly woven novel about memory, identity, and the tangled threads of family across continents and generations.

Ashi has always lived between worlds: the Arab island of Zanzibar where he was raised by his father, and the Jewish heritage of his British mother, Rose, who left when he was a child. Now, as Rose slips into the haze of dementia, she and Ashi begin an emotional journey to trace the fragments of a life lived apart.

From the leafy streets of Golders Green to the battle-scarred streets of British Mandate Palestine, through the spice markets of Zanzibar and into the soul of Jerusalem, The Spoon and the Sea is a sweeping, intimate novel about the fragile threads that bind us across generations, time and distance.

Inspired by true events and named a finalist for The Australian/Vogel’s Literary Award, this novel explores the ache of separation, the power of storytelling, and the possibility of healing before time runs out.

Year first published: 2025