Publisher: Knopf Canada
Released: September 2013
Pages: 352
Source: Publisher
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis:
Subhash and his brother Udayan were always inseparable, born
15 months apart and often mistaken for one another. While they were very similar,
Udayan was always the more outspoken and fearless one. Subhash wasn’t as
impulsive, and tended to do what was expected of him and not cause his parents
worry. When Udayan finds himself drawn
into the Naxalite rebellion, Subhash supports his brother but doesn’t get as
involved. Subhash hoped Udayan would outgrow his rebellious ways; he remained focused
on school and left home to attend school in the US. As Udayan’s political
passion escalates, he defies his parents by marrying a woman for love and not
by his parents choosing. Shortly afterward, Udayan is arrested and killed, his
family is shattered and Subhash tries to piece together the fragments of his
family.
Review:
The Lowland is a riveting read that fans of Lahiri have come
to expect. Her newest novel is no exception, spanning multiple generations,
readers dive into a close family who is torn apart by political unrest. The
death of Udayan has a long lasting residual effect on his loved ones. Secrets were
hidden, that threaten to be exposed causing further damage. Subhash tries his
best to protect Udayan’s wife, but his own life is forever turned around and
his relationship with his parent’s is strained. Subhash is no longer the “good”
child, he is the child that survived. Guilt seeps into Subhash’s life which
denies him a life of possibilities. His brother’s choices and his own choices
during this time, leave him living a very different life.
It’s really hard to review The Lowland, because Lahiri is such an
exceptional writer and I don’t feel like my review is doing her any justice.
Her characters are real, raw and exposed to readers. Lahiri’s setting in both
Calcutta and Rhode Island really brings the novel to life. Since this novel covers Subhash’s lifetime, I
don’t want to give away too many details. Subhash was the one who tried to
smooth over and do what he thought was best. He was the one who tries to help
everyone, but he was the one who suffered the most. I highly recommend this
one; the story, the writing, the characters, the atmosphere makes this book irresistible
and hard to put down.
Releases: September 2013
OMG! I am so jealous that you've already read Lahiri's latest!! Of course, I'm also glad, because you have just confirmed what I am looking forward to reading - exceptional writing!!! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of this one - I love Lahiri's work and am so excited that she has a new book FINALLY coming out ;) Loved your review and I think you got your point across perfectly - basically, you are telling us to read this awesome new book by Lahiri :)
ReplyDeleteI love Jhumpa Lahir, I'm so happy there's a new book to read. I love your review, you did her a great justice. Now I want to read it even more.
ReplyDeleteI've never read Lahiri but I know oodles of people who love her work. It sounds like it's for good reason too. I need to get hold of something she's written for sure!
ReplyDeleteI've never read this author either, but your review now has me all curious about her books!
ReplyDeleteGreat review.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Lahiri is an exceptional writer. I can't wait to read her new book!
Ah, I cannot wait to read this book!!!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThere's weakness here in the story arc--overall, pleasant, but nothing that shakes my tree--not that what I say matters, this read has much buzz, thanks to the big push of its publisher, and many will buy for that reason. It's shame because one of my absolutely favorite reads this year is a small press wonder, CLAIRE ANGE--gorgeous and richly humorous--and yes, storytelling at its best.
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