"Sea of Poppies" is a historical novel written by Indian author Amitav Ghosh. It is the first book in the Ibis Trilogy, which explores the impact of the opium trade in the 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the British colonial era in India and follows a diverse group of characters who come together on a ship named the Ibis. The novel delves into themes of migration, identity, and the effects of colonialism. It highlights the lives of individuals from different backgrounds, including coolies, sailors, and opium farmers, as they navigate their fates amidst the turbulent socio-political landscape of the time.