A review by astha_shah
What a Happy Family by Saumya Dave

medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.0

Honestly the story had so much promise. As a child of Gujarati Indian immigrants myself, this book felt like it would see me like no other work had and perfectly encapsulate my experience growing up. Instead, the writing lacked any feeling whatsoever. The characters were flat and one-dimensional, falling into the "But I'm not perfect either!" stereotype. There was no conclusion that you as the reader were brought to on your own; everything was spoon-fed directly into your skull. On paper, yes this was the child-of-immigrant experience articulated in words. In practice, it tried too damn hard and was devoid of any real personality. Deeply disappointing
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