Fiction
Verdict: Read it!
M.G. Vassanji is also a new author for me. This novel, internets, is why I pick up books by new authors. Once in a while you find something amazing.
It took me a little while to get into this book. It opens up and shares it's secrets slowly. But the further in you get, the more you must think - especially if you have ever had family expectations or religious doubts.
Karsan, the protagonist, grows up in a small Gujarati village. His father is a revered holy figure from a small sufi shrine. Karsan is expected to fill his shoes one day and grows up with this expectation on his shoulders. As happens with many children, Karsan grows up and begins to resent the expectations on him. He overcomes his family's reluctance and goes away to the US to study. Granted, it happens through pure chance and good luck, but sometimes small incidents like this can massively change a life trajectory.
As his mind opens and he is exposed to many different experiences and knowledge than his village, Karsan decides that he is going to turn his back on filling his father's shoes. As expected, this brings about a rather large rift in the family. Karsan never sees either of his parents alive again, and his relationship with his brother, who becomes a Muslim and is chased by the police for circumstances that are never verified. Karsan is able to shuck off the expectations of family and community, but sometimes decisions come with unseen and unavoidable consequences.
Woven in with this story, is the story of the pir in which their dargah is built for. Stories, lore, and myth surround the pir and follow Karsan through his life and bring him comfort even after he has decided that he won't follow his father's path. Such is the case for many who turn their back on religion and tradition. Many still find comfort from the songs, lore, and community.
So many themes, so much thinking. Definitely a must read.
~Becky~
