A murder on Malabar Hill - Book reviewed

A Murder on Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautifully knitted tale of a murder using different colourful strands of cultural conflicts, class conflicts and interpersonal relationships in India during the British Raj.
Sujata Massey has also delved into the issue of women's rights and the attitude towards them in the given circumstances. The story is womancentric and revolves around the protagonist Pervin Mistry who despite the ban on women appearing in court, finds a way around to fulfil her desire to practice law and do her bit for the pardanashin women (women in burqa who do not have any direct contact with male strangers), hence giving them an opportunity to present their fundamental rights to property and life.
This is not the sitting in the armchair and solving mystery tale but full of adventure out on the streets and homes.
The ideas and the language flows seamlessly and keeps the reader engrossed in all the goings on during the entire length of the book.

Wonderful read. It has induced me to look forward to reading more of her books.


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Mrs.C Remembers - Book reviewed

Mrs C Remembers by Himanjali Sankar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A beautifully written tale about a woman whose memory deteriorates due to dementia and how she and others around her react to it.
While narrating this tale Himanjal Sankar has craftily woven in the role of the Indian woman as a wife, daughter, mother, grandmother and mother-in-law in the educated yet patriarchal and communal/casteist Indian social society.
The narration is in first person alternating between the mother and daughter and how they react to different situations differently.
Am sure every Indian, man or woman, will relate to at least one if not some of the situations in the book. Do read to find out.
It is hypocrisy of the Indian 'educated elite' exposed.
Most importantly, it gives an insight into the world of people suffering from dementia and it is very important as it is becoming increasingly prevalent and identifiable in modern times.

Definitely worth a read.



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Free country - Book review

Free Country: A Penniless Adventure the Length of Britain by George Mahood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After P.G. Wodehouse, George Mahood.
George Mahood's humour is typically British and his writing keeps you in splits all the time, hence if you are reading this book in a public place, be sure to see some raised eyebrows around you as you guffaw!
This book is about his 'Penniless Adventure the Length of Britain' wherein he writes about cycling from the bottom of England to the top of Scotland without spending a penny, along with a friend. They depended on the goodness and generosity of the people on the way for everything (clothes, food, shelter and even cycles). As a matter of fact, they started out wearing just a mere pair of Union Jack boxer shorts!
The hilarious experiences en-route, rather he makes them so, when he relates them, are fun to read.
This book has the capacity to brighten up the gloomiest day.
By the way there is a town called Patna in Scotland! Ha! Imagining our very own Laloo Prasad Yadav gallivanting there!
Go guys! Buy this book! Give it a read and treat yourself to some real good belly laughs!

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