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A review by cwalsh
Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
5.0
The Interpreter of Maladies is one of the most accessible collections of stories that I have ever read. Lahiri's writing is so simple yet dutiful; she succeeds in getting readers to examine the experiences of a diverse array of Indian immigrants and question the nuances of human nature. Each story examines the lives of a unique Indian family assimilating in the US (I believe most of these are in Massachusetts and Connecticut) alongside their observations and interactions with new culture. As mentioned in most reviews of Lahiri's works, one of the most impressive aspects of her craft is how she gently engages her audience, gradually builds a plot with beautiful character development, and gracefully leaves the reader with an outcome that requires some critical thinking.
Most short stories work well as a collection, but in this case, almost each one of the nine could be published individually. On a very petty note, I found myself so invested in each of the families - especially Shukumar and Shoba in A Temporary Matter - that the only criticism I have is that I wished each story was longer.
Highly recommended.
Most short stories work well as a collection, but in this case, almost each one of the nine could be published individually. On a very petty note, I found myself so invested in each of the families - especially Shukumar and Shoba in A Temporary Matter - that the only criticism I have is that I wished each story was longer.
Highly recommended.