From the Splendid Sun to the Glorious Pound Paperback – 6 Sept. 2023

This book is a fascinating read for all those who are descendants of the first wave of migrants from India and Pakistan that came to UK in the 1950’s and early 1960’s. It is a very interesting and accurate documentation of the experience of these first Indians that came to the UK and made it their home, just like my own father who came to England in the early 1950’s. The hardship they initially endured but at the same time “ worked and played hard “ and were happy to make England their new home and lay a firm foundation for their own future and for the future of their children and grandchildren. The first 80 pages or so of the book describes the experience these people faced in India and the difficulties of obtaining a British passport and the journey to either port of departure, Mumbai ( Bombay) airport or to the nearest sea port. The book then focuses on the experiences and struggles of these migrants and their children in settling in England, establishing their own identity and culture whilst embracing all the great things England had to offer them. I recommend that a copy of this book should be in the household of every descendant of the the first generation of Indians that came to the UK as a historical document for their children grandchildren and future generations.The book is well written with a good sense of humour.

A well documented book that gives you an insight into challenges faced by the early settlers who came to work in the textile mills.It will resonate well with the surviving generation who lived through that early period with their families.The hard work and sacrifices made by the families in the 50’s and 60’s laid the foundations for the current generation.The book charts the trials and tribulations faced by the immigrant population.The book delves deep into stories of individuals and families who have made Uk their home ,offering a fascinating narrative that is both eye opening and inspiring.Overall a valuable and enlightening book that offers a good outlook on the immigrant population in the Uk

A must read, especially for those who left the sub-continent to make Britain their new home, and their descendants. Those like myself who are first generation British born, will find this book will not only be a trip down memory lane, but also make us realise the hardships faced by those who emigrated, and the challenges they faced. A very interesting read indeed.

A powerful and personal account of migration and identity. Yusuf Sultan writes with clarity and heart, offering insight into the challenges and resilience of settling in a new land. A compelling and important read that made me have greater respect for those trailblazing, postwar, first generation migrants to the gritty industrial north of England

From the Splendid Sun to the Glorious Pound - by Yusuf Sultan is a beautifully written, insightful novel that captures the struggles and triumphs of Bashir, an immigrant from India settling in 1960s England. Sultan vividly portrays Bashir’s journey—from cultural shocks to personal growth—as he builds a new life for himself and his family in a world vastly different from his own.Based on thorough research and real accounts, Sultan skilfully weaves postcolonial themes of identity, faith, and belonging into Bashir’s story, reflecting the complex realities many immigrants faced during that era. His storytelling is rich and authentic, painting a striking picture of both England and Bashir’s experiences of resilience and adaptation.This book is a must-read for those interested in immigrant stories and historical fiction. It's an evocative, heartfelt tribute to courage and change that will leave a lasting impression.

A fascinating story of adventure, determination hope + faith of 1960s immigrants who toiled hard in achieving their ultimate goals of living in Britain.An eye opening read.

Yusuf Sultan provides a wonderful insight into the hopes and aspirations of South Asians (predominantly Muslims) who travel from India and Pakistan to the UK (mainly West Yorkshire) and charts the challenges across three generations.For a first-time author he has done an outstanding job of gathering and recalling information over four decades - from the hope and apprehension of leaving South Asia (India in his case) to moving from the global extended family model to more of a UK-based family. We learn about shifts in the culture and attitudes including the ascendancy of Muslim women, and how the relationship between these 60's migrant communities and their relatives in India and Pakistan has transformed over time.From internal local community, social and political challenges to blatant racism and terrorism, including 9/11, he paints the picture of a community which has enormous resilience with a great desire to contribute to the UK and to help generate a positive image of South Asian Muslims.Anyone of South Asian origin will be able to relate to something in every chapter of the book and it will probably bring a smile to their face either because it is a fond memory or because it will remind them how the community has evolved so much over time ... definitely worth a read and glad I did!!!Good luck with your next book.SM