Fiction
Read it!
This is the first book I've ready by Ryan Lobo. I definitely am looking forward to reading further ones.
This novel is about a South Indian Brahmin who has been sent to Banares to die. It's never clear why nor what's wrong with him - aside that perhaps his family didn't want to care for him anymore. Until the end of the novel, he never seems sick, aside from age related aches and pains. Mr. Iyer goes on a few grand adventures throughout the novel with his friend and faithful sidekick Bencho. I particularly liked Bencho's character and read it as Bhenchod every single time. I'm not sure if that was the author's intent, but it was amusing. Why Mr. Iyer and Bencho go on adventures isn't really clearly explained either. Either he actually believes he is Bheem out to vanquish Bakasura, or he has dementia. It's not really made clear. The interesting thing about Mr. Iyer is that he seems perfectly lucid and well spoken, except for this one thing. Draw your own conclusions. Iyer and Bencho have run ins with many folks through this religious lense of vanquishing evil, and have the crazy luck that only the genious or insane can boast. It's truly amusing watching Iyer go to war and get through every situation he faces.
Lobo does a brilliant job of pacing and raising the intensity as the book progresses. He also made Mr. Iyer a character you want to cheer for. He's cranky, old, judgy, and annoying. But you like him. Even after you find out that he was an alcoholic and crazy. The book indulges in a wild Philosophical run at the end and in his fevered state, Iyer explains to his love interest that all of the relationships he has now, he has had in many past lives. He finally seems at peace with himself. The characters around him enrich the story. I especially like the landlord character. He's a charicature of landlords of this type, but so well executed it's brilliant.
Another great part of this book is the Banares culture that is going on in the background, juxtaposed by a stereotyped South Indian Brahmin. Who becomes good friends with a low caste cremator and general scamster. It's a whirlwind to read adn take in all the details.
Read it!
~Becky~
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