Simran Mehta is pursuing a master’s in psychology at Columbia but loves writing, enough that she’s recently published a book of essays. When New York Times columnist Neil Desai shows up at her book party, he sparks disorder in Simran’s life by strengthening her confidence in herself as a writer but has her questioning her commitment to her fiancé Kunal, a medical student. Her mother Nandini, is a doctor but was raised traditionally under Indian culture, including her arranged marriage and acceptance of the demands put upon her by her husband’s extended family. She and Simran clash frequently as she attempts to guide her into more acceptable behaviors. But her own mother, Mimi Kadakia who lives in India, is more supportive of Simran’s independent nature and gives counsel to both as they try to find a peaceful connection.
One of my reading goals is to broaden my understanding of different cultures and when I first saw this title, I got excited because it appeared to be just what I was searching for in learning more about the modern Indian woman. This story far surpassed my expectations since it provided the perspectives of three generations of women who all were grappling with cultural demands in current times as well as their own private hopes and desires. These are complicated women who are smart, talented and insightful. Simran is a modern Indian woman but straddles the cultural conventions and her own independence, trying to figure out what’s really her own choices versus those from conditioning. Nandina is truly an enigma with a secret past that has somehow formed who she is today, a seemingly contradiction. Mimi is the catalyst who forces the three of them to communicate more honestly with each other and themselves.
I loved this story and appreciated how much I learned about authentic Indian culture from women’s perspectives in these well defined characters. It took a bit to engage me because I was immediately thrust into a world that was somewhat confusing. However, it didn’t take long for me to adapt and appreciate that beginning. I chose to listen to the story, which was ideal for me as the narrator elevated the story through her skill at accents, storytelling and pacing. I always knew which of the three points of view was in focus as each was given a distinctive voice that seemed to fit well. I also loved the ending, not perfect but right for the characters and the story. This was a wonderful listening experience and an extraordinary debut. I’m definitely in for the next book.
Book Info
- Release Date: July 14, 2020
- Narrator: Soneela Nankani
- Audio Length: 12 hours, 37 minutes
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
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(Thanks to Penguin Random House Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
So glad you enjoyed it, Jonetta! Perhaps if I had listened to it, I would have appreciated it better. If you still want to read a very fine story about and Indian woman, may I suggest The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi. Lovely review!
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Thank you, Marialyce💜 I highly suspected that I’d need to listen to this book to get the full cultural immersion and that was confirmed. Very interested in your thoughts about it. I actually have The Henna Artist and you’ve inspired me to move it up.
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The audio of The Henna Artist was quite good Jo.
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Yes! Just what I needed to know.
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Oh, I love doing this too, taking a chance on something different. I’ve read a few excellent translated works over the year that have introduced me to different countries and parts of the world. Iceland, Sweden, German, South America, and yes, India too. And I have the Henna Artist on my wish list too. ☺️
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My father’s career laid the groundwork for my wanderlust and curiosity about other cultures. I’m so glad that I can find satisfaction in books like this. I’ve added some Nordic Noir titles to my shelf and am looking forward to getting to them.
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The books I read from a Swedish journalist (crime fiction) were some of the best reads. I also love Vaseem Khan’s Insp. Chopra series too. And yeah Nordic Noir is usually dark and gritty.
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I can always count on you to find just the right book for the read, in this case cultural learning. I am glad it was so enjoyable for you. Excellent review!
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Thank you, Anne💜 They help me better understand this complicated world we live in.
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I enjoyed this one, too, Jonetta! It sounds like the audio is the perfect addition too. Terrific review! ♥️
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Thank you, Jennifer💜 The narrator was wonderful!
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Fab review Jo!
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Thank you, Nicki💜
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Great review, Jonetta. 🙂 Sounds like I will love this book. I am always on the lookout for books written by Indian authors.
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Thank you, Debjani💜 This is an author I’m going to continue to follow.
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This sounds wonderful! Great review!
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Thank you, Lisa💜 It truly was!
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This sounds wonderful. I had noticed the beautiful cover a while back but didn’t read the synopsis at the time. It sounds like a book I would enjoy, especially the way it spans multiple generations of women.
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Oh, I think you’d love this, Suzanne!
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Wonderful review!
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Thank you, Yvo💜
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Now this book is on my list too…
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Wonderful!
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Great review, that might be the best cover design I’ve seen all day – I LOVE the colours.
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Thank you, Jules💜 I love the cover, too!!!
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The cover is lovely! This book sounds incredible.
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I love the color, too! It is anexcellent story.
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This does sound quite interesting Jo. I too, am trying to learn more about other cultures, especially the way women are expected to live and “behave”. This sounds like a winner. Off to see if my library has it before heading to audible. Wonderful review.
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Thank you, Carla💜 It’s such a wonderful story.
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Good morning!
Hope allow well. Offhand, can you tell me whay book we are reading after Hidden Valley Road? ??
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Just sent you an email.
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