The story tells Aman’s search for his true self and the purpose of his life, as these really chrystallise in a short period of his life when important events about life, love and career all force him to make important choices. The story brings out those choices and how they make Aman realise what is really important to him and what are mere ideas about what one should achieve. The book brings up questions about what we think others expect of us, what we think we should be achieving in life and what we take for granted or overlook.
The story is full of very recognisable situations of life choices for middle-class educated western people who juggle family and career – with the backdrop of their family origins and expectations. In this case, the Asian family expectations and traditions give special colouring. And in this case Aman’s point of view is male, with all the expectations and ideas of that role in a family. For others of us in similar situations – the story is very relatable even in the details and examples. I believe the book could be used for self-development courses and group discussions – and in therapy situations where people are looking for their life purpose and making work and family choices.
As a novel, the story is sometimes too detailed and the storyline takes 3/4 of the struggle and fight against the situation for Aman to realise his real priorities. In my opinion, this could have been done sooner, to be able to discuss his realisations much more. In this case, the realisations come so late in the book, they are squeezed into the last chapter. Some of the descriptions are very long, like the wedding. I would also have enjoyed the perspective and thoughts of his wife as to his choices. Some chapters in her perspective would be interesting.
Jonna Byskata