enakshi_datta's review
emotional
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
jocelynw's review
2.0
On paper, I should have loved this - I have an abiding affection for the bildungsroman, I have a longstanding interest in India, I have connections to food and agriculture and am married to an academic - but it left me cold.
rothney14's review
I was listening to this one and it just wasn’t capturing my interest.
ryanpait's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
megbklyn's review
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence and War
Moderate: Abandonment
Minor: Suicide
caitwaring's review
4.0
4.5/5 stars. I want to read more of Lahiri's work because her writing is beautiful. Controlled but powerful and effective.
reneereads's review
dark
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
rglossner's review
5.0
Subhash and Udayan are brothers, born and raised in the Tallygunge section of Calcutta. Udayan is a questioner and a rebel from childhood; he becomes involved in the Naxalite movement, leading to tragedy. Subhash studies in the United States and makes a life there as a college professor and researcher, marrying his brother’s widow and raising his daughter as his own. Moving between India and Rhode Island, Lahiri explores the immigrant experience, family ties and family secrets. Lahiri’s writing is beautiful and her characters are unforgettable.
sassyquach's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
laurelinwonder's review
5.0
This is a beautiful novel that spans generations, and years in times and places, and explosive events that I could not have dreamed up. I love books that take me to places I do not know, and ask me to think about the world from perspectives far outside my own, and thus is certainly that & more. The language of this book is sharp, critical, and lovely, but most importantly, Lahiri knows how to treat her characters. The time given to each was just spot on. Read this book.