Dear Readers,
In early March 2020, I (Sri) was working at Satya Special School on a research and intervention program on menstrual hygiene and reproductive health education for women with disabilities. I had to abruptly stop this work to return to California when COVID-19 sent the world into a tailspin. My students asked me when I’d return, my colleagues tried convincing me there was no need to leave (“you won’t get sick if you go to the gym and eat rice”), and my friends commissioned a local fisherman to take us out for a farewell swim in the Indian Ocean.
Despite my fond memories of that time, when the opportunity to visit Pondicherry finally presented itself this month, I was filled with nervousness and uncertainty. I thought perhaps too much time had passed, and much had changed. But from revisiting my school, to savoring fresh sathukudi (sweet lime) juice from the back of a motorcycle, and drinking chai against a picturesque rooftop sunset—I cherished every moment of my one-day reunion tour this month. What struck me the most was the beauty of slowness.
Amidst the chaos of my daily life and responsibilities, this brief interlude with old friends reminded me of the enduring spirit of connection. It was a privilege to pause, reflect, and appreciate the simple joys life has to offer. I appreciate the fullness of my life now, between my career and BGB, friends and family. But I am very grateful for the day of pause I received in my favorite little beach town. I wish you the same pause and peace, whether that looks like catching up with an old friend or picking up a book. As always, we have some recommendations to get you started.
Until next time,
Mishika and Sri
The River, The Town by Farah Ali
Reviewed by: Upsana Kakroo
Farah Ali masterfully captures the harsh realities of poverty and the resilience of individuals in the Pakistani interiors. “The River, the Town” draws comparisons to the classic novel "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya. While Ali, like Markandaya, writes from a position of privilege, she avoids generalizations, instead focusing on the specific lives of her characters.
Meena, Raheela, and Baadal embody a Kashmiri expression "lyambi manz pamposh," a notion of a lotus that flourishes admid adversity, gracefully navigating their challenging circumstances with practicality and aspiration. Their relatable experiences of striving for upward mobility resonate with readers from the South Asian middle class, transcending geographical boundaries.
Ali skillfully emphasizes our shared humanity rather than accentuating differences, delving into themes such as mental health, the climate crisis, abject poverty, and loneliness with remarkable clarity. These themes also find their place in her previous works. Ali's measured and straightforward writing style allows readers to peel back the emotional layers and reflect on their lingering ideas of spaces long after the book is done.
The essence of the novel lies in its restrained portrayal of everyday urban aspirations. This sentiment of being trapped in a concrete jungle, devoid of sustenance yet brimming with emotions is undeniably a powerful depiction. One thought lingers in my mind, and goes beyond the realm of Farah Ali’s beautifully and sensitively written work: as storytellers from positions of privilege, how do we ensure that those who have been underestimated and marginalized are represented authentically? Whose story is this to tell?
📚 Get your copy of “The River, the Town.”
The Best Possible Experience by Nishanth Injam
Reviewed by: Nikita Satapathy
Nishanth Injam's “The Best Possible Experience” seamlessly blends a medley of identities into a cohesive collection that encourages readers to reflect on their own encounters with status, love, and community.
As a child of immigrants, I often experienced a sense of longing while growing up. Injam skillfully utilizes a range of settings, from the lush landscapes of Andhra Pradesh to a bus journey through tourist attractions in Goa, to a McDonald's in Boston, in order to tell the stories of individuals and families who share this same feeling. The author has a remarkable ability to vividly depict the struggles of everyday experiences: green card marriages become deeply personal, caring for a sick grandparent hits close to home, and inviting a school friend into your immigrant household becomes a once-in-a-lifetime event. The act of establishing a home, whether it is physical or aspirational, serves as the central theme in Injam's stories.
One particular favorite, "Come with Me," illustrates a tale of forbidden love set during a hot summer in Karimnagar, and highlights the importance of acceptance. Another, "The Zamindar's Watch," captures childhood innocence with poise. It is evident that Injam draws from his own upbringing in India and the challenges he faced while immigrating to the United States, resulting in storytelling that is both simple and compelling in its execution. He doesn't rely on unnecessary embellishments or exaggerations; instead, these stories offer glimpses into people's everyday lives, and Injam presents them with the utmost sincerity and respect.
📚 Get your copy of “The Best Possible Experience.”
All The Yellow Suns by Malavika Kannan
Reviewed by: Kinari Shah
“All the Yellow Suns” is a literary tour de force, captivating readers from the very beginning and never letting go. Kannan bursts onto the literary scene by transcending the boundaries of young adult fiction, delving into difficult themes with eloquent prose.
Through the eyes of the teenage protagonist, Maya Krishnan, readers embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. Maya's identity is forged against many relationships: she is the daughter of a single immigrant mother, abandoned by her artistic genius father, and enthralled by the rebellious and enigmatic Juneau Zale, an older classmate. Maya also finds herself drawn into an activist group at her school, adding a new dynamic to her already complex world.
As readers follow along Maya's journey, we cannot help but be reminded of our own adolescent years, with all their attendant angst and confusion. Kannan masterfully captures how Maya discovers love in all its forms: the enduring bonds with immigrant parents, the warmth of fierce friendships, and the enchantment of first love. Amidst the tapestry of cultural identity, queerness, white privilege, authority, racism, and the turmoil of messy teenage romances, Kannan weaves a rich and deeply satisfying plot.
Ultimately, it is Maya's emotional growth that leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart and mind. Readers of all ages will be captivated by the profound beauty of “All The Yellow Suns”, a testament to the enduring strength found within us all.
📚 Get your copy of “All the Yellow Suns.”
Sylvia by Maithreyi Karnoor
Reviewed by: Raina Kadavil
In countless instances, much like those times when one unknowingly appears in a stranger's photograph, Sylvia emerges in the lives of others. Sometimes it is intentional, other times accidental. Sylvia assumes various roles: a colleague, a lover, and a friend. To some, she is merely an amusing anecdote, while to others, she represents a serendipitous encounter that sparks a profound transformation.
“Sylvia” invites introspection, encouraging readers to pause and contemplate the role they have played in the lives of others. I found myself pondering how I could approach others' stories with greater intention and gentleness, whether purposefully or inadvertently becoming a part of them.
Karnoor skillfully captures the diversity of India through her world-building. The book's glossary not only includes Hindi terms but also encompasses Malayalam, Urdu, Konkani, Kannada, Tamil, Arabic, and Tulu. Her cast of characters spans Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and agnostics, while her vivid settings transport us to Goa, Karnataka, and Odisha. The beautiful verses of poetry, the echoes of folklore, and the infusion of mythology all distinctly and undeniably embody the essence of Indian culture. Karnoor elevates Indian representation, particularly that of South India, to an unprecedented level.
What sets this book apart is its unique perspective, as its eponymous character is not its central figure. Instead, the narrative revolves around all the lives touched by Sylvia. From the captivating allure of her long-lost snake-charming uncle in the small town of Goa, enchanting both villagers and reptiles alike, to a family of skilled bonesetters with intriguing tales, and even a young woman who goes to great lengths to wash her hair, Sylvia leaves an indelible mark on each person she encounters. Think of this book as a feast, with every story presented as a delectable dish crafted from entirely different ingredient; Sylvia is akin to salt—a constant presence, not the main attraction, yet her absence would certainly be noticed.
To view all of the books featured on our page and/or purchase them from independent booksellers:
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I love this. I'm always hunting for South Asian authors! So glad I found your newsletter today!