Anil's Ghost by Michael Ondaatje and first novels

I have just finished this book which I would thoroughly recomend for its writing quality and poetic qualities but the subject - Sri Lankan civil war  is most disturbing and provides an insight into the way that people live in such dangerous places.  By contract I am now  reading Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson which although still a story of human divisions in society is a much easier read.  Its been on my list for a while as I have a pile of first novels - for inspiration. To me this one is very accomplished and you would never know it was his first! Would anyone else like to share first novels you have been impressed with?