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My Mother Pattu
Deeply humane, in turn wry and humorous, the stories in this collection haunt readers with their searing honesty.
Lalitha, abused by her own mother, learns that bullies carry emotional traumas that scar everyone’s lives.
Shiva Das confronts the truth of his own culpability when his adult special child dies in tragic circumstances.
A woman, deeply in love with her husband, discovers to her anguish that the love of a good man is not enough.
A little boy tries hard to hold his family together as his parents’ marriage disintegrates before his eyes.
A mother has a poignant yet brutal conversation with God about her severely disabled son.
Three young people idealistically reject racial prejudice and stereotyping, only to find that in Malaysia, their future paths are largely determined by ethnicity and privilege.
The extent to which a woman will go in her hatred for her daughter’s childhood friend, ends in a violent aftermath.
An Indonesian maid realizes that the money she sends home has become more important than her own welfare or safety to her family.
A racial slur triggers reflections on friendship, identity, the loss of belonging and trust in a multi-racial community.
Meet the extraordinary in ordinary people when they confront the truth of their past and present – and refuse to look away. Authentic and unsentimental, each story celebrates the resilience of the human spirit even as it challenges comfortable conventions about identity, love, family, community and race relations.
Lalitha, abused by her own mother, learns that bullies carry emotional traumas that scar everyone’s lives.
Shiva Das confronts the truth of his own culpability when his adult special child dies in tragic circumstances.
A woman, deeply in love with her husband, discovers to her anguish that the love of a good man is not enough.
A little boy tries hard to hold his family together as his parents’ marriage disintegrates before his eyes.
A mother has a poignant yet brutal conversation with God about her severely disabled son.
Three young people idealistically reject racial prejudice and stereotyping, only to find that in Malaysia, their future paths are largely determined by ethnicity and privilege.
The extent to which a woman will go in her hatred for her daughter’s childhood friend, ends in a violent aftermath.
An Indonesian maid realizes that the money she sends home has become more important than her own welfare or safety to her family.
A racial slur triggers reflections on friendship, identity, the loss of belonging and trust in a multi-racial community.
Meet the extraordinary in ordinary people when they confront the truth of their past and present – and refuse to look away. Authentic and unsentimental, each story celebrates the resilience of the human spirit even as it challenges comfortable conventions about identity, love, family, community and race relations.
- GenresShort StoriesRace
176 pages, Paperback
Published May 9, 2023
8 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 27, 2023
Devoured the whole book in one night. Loved each story so much. ‘My Mother Pattu’ is here to stay for a long time.
An anthology of 14 short evocative stories. A few stories stand out more from the others because of their stinging narrative mainly by the women-centric characters. The microcosms are beautifully illustrated in the stories where themes of marriage, parenting, aging, sexual desires, friendship, sense of belonging, and the most sensitive of all: motherhood. My Mother Pattu is about real, difficult, messy, flawed people, just like all of us, in the vicissitudes of family lives. The storytelling gives such vivid imagery of the characters.
These stories on ‘real’ women are meant to be purely known without any denial, implication, excuses or seeking any panacea or redemption. These women have their agencies, and for the sake of survival they make their own decisions in the present, find their ways and take charge of their circumstances in one way or another even if it means to breach moral codes.
Contrasts are shown in one woman who could willingly make her own independence, while another one involuntarily loses it at the hands of senility and progressively fraying nerves. Some trapped by their own memories cope with their scars while taking charge of their present day on their own terms.
Striking similarities between 2 married women, Sundari & ‘Mem’ living inside their own heads unable to close the gap with their husbands feeling trapped in their incomplete marriages. The wives recognize that their marital bond has hit a lull, no longer stimulating for these vivacious women who want more action and reinstate their identities as individualistic women of unique ideas and desires and who solely make their own choices as adults, freely, without being shut down by the responsibilities of marriage, family or children having any leverage in them.
The excitement the couple used to have has taken a backseat. The husbands assume the roles of being the ultimate provider; financially. So an equally ambitious working woman capable of earning, voices the warped perception that man are by default exempted from childcare responsibilities because they provide the income. This unbidden entitlement expects the wives to only stay home, mind the household, raise the children and nurture the family. The men come home to their families after a hard day out at work. They have their leisure time spent in front of the TV comfortably and guilt-free since they do not need to co-parent their children or do household chores. How completely insenstive and indifferent to their wives’ feelings.
Then we wonder how different is the bereft Ina from Sundari and Mem? Same regret, same discontentment, same desire to be visible, claiming their agency by rekindling their sexual desire (not emotionally vested), or deliberately creating an escape from their marriage.
Wanting more is the hint to the underlying regret that these women could not make the appropriate choices in their youth, or made misguided actions and clearly lost the opportunities their youth offered them to explore relationships with different types of men.
Sundari naively jumped at the first opportunity, inexperienced in realizing that an incompatible man can be greatly lacking or mentally draining despite his loyalty to her. The women aren’t long sufferers, so they confront their own predicament in their own ways, regardless of the aftermath of their actions.
The story ‘My Mother Pattu’ in chapter 4 would easily be perceived as unconvincing. We all keep our mothers on a pedestal a romanticized delusion, and will never allow the ideal, commercialised, dictatorial code of conduct of a mother to be anything offensive other than the sacrificing, subservient, tireless, selfless, sacred.
Pattu represents this obscure group of recalcitrant mothers who pervade the conventional mother narratives, whose story needed to be told and not to be subdued by cloying self-righteous voices that speak for them. Pattu represents the actual mothers expel their self-loathing unto their children for so many reasons. Pattu’s daughter does not relent easily. She put up a form of covert resistance on par to her mother’s aggression and asserted her right in her own way. I’m not giving any more spoilers.
Saras’s 14 stories reveal the vast & visceral spectrum of women with their desires known or hidden, talents, ambitions, complexities. That motherhood can be aggressively jealous, selfish, abusive, spiteful and fundamentally flawed. There’s cruelty, and there’s kindness. The mother pedestal has to be removed, because a mother is capable and has every right to leave her footprint wherever she wants to; not where we want her to.
Women are not defined by their children. Motherhood is not about sacredness. Ultimately, motherhood is not womanhood.The heaviness of the pedestal can come crushing down on the ignorant ones. This becomes a disservice to the children in fact. The cycle turns vicious which propagates. Removing the pedestal means the children grow up happier with healthier mothers. Also, shouldn’t co-parenting be the norm? In the story about Charan, Shiva Das, a father was made an example of his own culpability (as much as the mother) in his son’s death.
There are 2 searing stories that serve as a critical lens on racial prejudice and the impact it brought on 3 thick friends. The writer does not use her story to condemn the racially motivated crime but rather contextually share the racial commentary the 3 friends are manipulated by, & even we are familiar with it in our Malaysian or Singaporean societies. In fact the author does not judge any of her characters, she lets her stories take their own course in her reader’s minds.
The stories flow cohesively, and if one pays attention, a thread from the former chapter is interwoven in the next story like a shape shifter.
My personal favourites although I love them all are: My Mother Pattu, Dey Raju, When We Are Young, Woman in the Mirror, Cartwheels on the Corridor, Call It by Its Name, Charan, Invisible, Number One, Mambang Lane.
Special mention for the ronggeng girls, the last i saw one when i was a child. Can we have them back?
#mymotherpattu #sarasmanickam #malaysianlit #bookstagrammalaysia
#bookblogger #bookrecommendations #bookstagrammers #bookstagram #igreads #bookreviewer #bookreviewersofinstagram #bookworm #bibliophile #bookreview #readersofinstagram #Read #book #readingnationsg #penguinbookssea
An anthology of 14 short evocative stories. A few stories stand out more from the others because of their stinging narrative mainly by the women-centric characters. The microcosms are beautifully illustrated in the stories where themes of marriage, parenting, aging, sexual desires, friendship, sense of belonging, and the most sensitive of all: motherhood. My Mother Pattu is about real, difficult, messy, flawed people, just like all of us, in the vicissitudes of family lives. The storytelling gives such vivid imagery of the characters.
These stories on ‘real’ women are meant to be purely known without any denial, implication, excuses or seeking any panacea or redemption. These women have their agencies, and for the sake of survival they make their own decisions in the present, find their ways and take charge of their circumstances in one way or another even if it means to breach moral codes.
Contrasts are shown in one woman who could willingly make her own independence, while another one involuntarily loses it at the hands of senility and progressively fraying nerves. Some trapped by their own memories cope with their scars while taking charge of their present day on their own terms.
Striking similarities between 2 married women, Sundari & ‘Mem’ living inside their own heads unable to close the gap with their husbands feeling trapped in their incomplete marriages. The wives recognize that their marital bond has hit a lull, no longer stimulating for these vivacious women who want more action and reinstate their identities as individualistic women of unique ideas and desires and who solely make their own choices as adults, freely, without being shut down by the responsibilities of marriage, family or children having any leverage in them.
The excitement the couple used to have has taken a backseat. The husbands assume the roles of being the ultimate provider; financially. So an equally ambitious working woman capable of earning, voices the warped perception that man are by default exempted from childcare responsibilities because they provide the income. This unbidden entitlement expects the wives to only stay home, mind the household, raise the children and nurture the family. The men come home to their families after a hard day out at work. They have their leisure time spent in front of the TV comfortably and guilt-free since they do not need to co-parent their children or do household chores. How completely insenstive and indifferent to their wives’ feelings.
Then we wonder how different is the bereft Ina from Sundari and Mem? Same regret, same discontentment, same desire to be visible, claiming their agency by rekindling their sexual desire (not emotionally vested), or deliberately creating an escape from their marriage.
Wanting more is the hint to the underlying regret that these women could not make the appropriate choices in their youth, or made misguided actions and clearly lost the opportunities their youth offered them to explore relationships with different types of men.
Sundari naively jumped at the first opportunity, inexperienced in realizing that an incompatible man can be greatly lacking or mentally draining despite his loyalty to her. The women aren’t long sufferers, so they confront their own predicament in their own ways, regardless of the aftermath of their actions.
The story ‘My Mother Pattu’ in chapter 4 would easily be perceived as unconvincing. We all keep our mothers on a pedestal a romanticized delusion, and will never allow the ideal, commercialised, dictatorial code of conduct of a mother to be anything offensive other than the sacrificing, subservient, tireless, selfless, sacred.
Pattu represents this obscure group of recalcitrant mothers who pervade the conventional mother narratives, whose story needed to be told and not to be subdued by cloying self-righteous voices that speak for them. Pattu represents the actual mothers expel their self-loathing unto their children for so many reasons. Pattu’s daughter does not relent easily. She put up a form of covert resistance on par to her mother’s aggression and asserted her right in her own way. I’m not giving any more spoilers.
Saras’s 14 stories reveal the vast & visceral spectrum of women with their desires known or hidden, talents, ambitions, complexities. That motherhood can be aggressively jealous, selfish, abusive, spiteful and fundamentally flawed. There’s cruelty, and there’s kindness. The mother pedestal has to be removed, because a mother is capable and has every right to leave her footprint wherever she wants to; not where we want her to.
Women are not defined by their children. Motherhood is not about sacredness. Ultimately, motherhood is not womanhood.The heaviness of the pedestal can come crushing down on the ignorant ones. This becomes a disservice to the children in fact. The cycle turns vicious which propagates. Removing the pedestal means the children grow up happier with healthier mothers. Also, shouldn’t co-parenting be the norm? In the story about Charan, Shiva Das, a father was made an example of his own culpability (as much as the mother) in his son’s death.
There are 2 searing stories that serve as a critical lens on racial prejudice and the impact it brought on 3 thick friends. The writer does not use her story to condemn the racially motivated crime but rather contextually share the racial commentary the 3 friends are manipulated by, & even we are familiar with it in our Malaysian or Singaporean societies. In fact the author does not judge any of her characters, she lets her stories take their own course in her reader’s minds.
The stories flow cohesively, and if one pays attention, a thread from the former chapter is interwoven in the next story like a shape shifter.
My personal favourites although I love them all are: My Mother Pattu, Dey Raju, When We Are Young, Woman in the Mirror, Cartwheels on the Corridor, Call It by Its Name, Charan, Invisible, Number One, Mambang Lane.
Special mention for the ronggeng girls, the last i saw one when i was a child. Can we have them back?
#mymotherpattu #sarasmanickam #malaysianlit #bookstagrammalaysia
#bookblogger #bookrecommendations #bookstagrammers #bookstagram #igreads #bookreviewer #bookreviewersofinstagram #bookworm #bibliophile #bookreview #readersofinstagram #Read #book #readingnationsg #penguinbookssea
December 26, 2023
"Hate feels comfortable, a nurturing place to be in when the hater is a victim. I don't want to be a victim. I don't want to dine out on my displacement in my own country. I don't want my life to be a banality of hate and despair, regret and nostalgia. I don't want to open the door to those beasts but I don't know how not to. I sit and be."
My Mother Pattu is a collection of 14 short stories by Malaysian author, Saras Manickam, where most of the stories explored the experience of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia. Prima facie, these stories seem to highlight the issues of racism, classism, identity, patriarchal masculinities, and gender inequalities, mainly from the perspectives of Malaysian Tamils. However, instead of using a conventional lens to explore these issues, Manickam crafted her stories premised on female protagonists, which added some flavor of feminism into some of her stories. Gender dynamics, motherhood, mother-daughter relationships, marriage, domesticity, and women's identity, these rather complex yet prominent themes in the current literary landscape, seep through Manickam's prose in several of her stories. Not to mention that the language structure, the cultural references, as well as the setting of Manickam's stories echoed a strong Malaysian flavor, which is recommendable for readers who has yet to expose themselves to Malaysian literature.
The collection's highlight to me would be "My Mother Pattu", which explores the mother-daughter conflict (rarely done in Malaysian literature), generational trauma, and the confused love-hate relationship of Lalitha with her mother, Pattu. The first paragraph of the story itself is a gem, which effectively captures the dysfunctional relationship of the family members: "My mother Pattu graced our lives largely with her absence, for which my father and I, and to a lesser extent, grandma, were profoundly grateful. She descended upon us once a month to collect her allowance from grandma, loot the pantry, curse my father and cuff me on the ear. We breathed a collective sigh of relief when she went away, except for grandma, who wept in secret for the daughter she could not stand to live with". This story itself is a 5-star read to me and if it is expanded into a full-blown novel, it would possibly fit the criteria for the Women's Prize for Fiction. My other favorites would be "Number One Mambang Lane" (where a woman discovered that her love for her husband ultimately curtailed her freedom), "Witch Lady" (where the tale of 2 sisters was told from the perspective of the "Witch Lady", Millie Smith, which is not exactly reliable), and "Charan" (where a father, Shiva Das, grieved the death of his adult special child, Charan, with a very sad ending). Manickam managed to invoke an atmosphere of serenity, and harmony, which celebrates diversity by crafting our diverse characters from different races in Malaysia, mainly in the 1960s. It is perhaps a scene that is rarely witnessed currently, especially when there exist doubts on whether it is right to write Christmas greetings on cakes, and protests over concerts for ridiculous religious reasons which conveniently occurred on the minds of religious authorities today but not 10 or 20 years ago. That said, there seems to be a lack of coherency in this collection (a problem that I have with most short story collections). Also, this could be a more effective collection if Manickam is able to approach race issues in Malaysia in a more current and refreshing manner. All in all, this collection is a 3.5/5 star read to me, and the story "My Mother Pattu" would go down as one of the most memorable stories that I have read thus far.
My Mother Pattu is a collection of 14 short stories by Malaysian author, Saras Manickam, where most of the stories explored the experience of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia. Prima facie, these stories seem to highlight the issues of racism, classism, identity, patriarchal masculinities, and gender inequalities, mainly from the perspectives of Malaysian Tamils. However, instead of using a conventional lens to explore these issues, Manickam crafted her stories premised on female protagonists, which added some flavor of feminism into some of her stories. Gender dynamics, motherhood, mother-daughter relationships, marriage, domesticity, and women's identity, these rather complex yet prominent themes in the current literary landscape, seep through Manickam's prose in several of her stories. Not to mention that the language structure, the cultural references, as well as the setting of Manickam's stories echoed a strong Malaysian flavor, which is recommendable for readers who has yet to expose themselves to Malaysian literature.
The collection's highlight to me would be "My Mother Pattu", which explores the mother-daughter conflict (rarely done in Malaysian literature), generational trauma, and the confused love-hate relationship of Lalitha with her mother, Pattu. The first paragraph of the story itself is a gem, which effectively captures the dysfunctional relationship of the family members: "My mother Pattu graced our lives largely with her absence, for which my father and I, and to a lesser extent, grandma, were profoundly grateful. She descended upon us once a month to collect her allowance from grandma, loot the pantry, curse my father and cuff me on the ear. We breathed a collective sigh of relief when she went away, except for grandma, who wept in secret for the daughter she could not stand to live with". This story itself is a 5-star read to me and if it is expanded into a full-blown novel, it would possibly fit the criteria for the Women's Prize for Fiction. My other favorites would be "Number One Mambang Lane" (where a woman discovered that her love for her husband ultimately curtailed her freedom), "Witch Lady" (where the tale of 2 sisters was told from the perspective of the "Witch Lady", Millie Smith, which is not exactly reliable), and "Charan" (where a father, Shiva Das, grieved the death of his adult special child, Charan, with a very sad ending). Manickam managed to invoke an atmosphere of serenity, and harmony, which celebrates diversity by crafting our diverse characters from different races in Malaysia, mainly in the 1960s. It is perhaps a scene that is rarely witnessed currently, especially when there exist doubts on whether it is right to write Christmas greetings on cakes, and protests over concerts for ridiculous religious reasons which conveniently occurred on the minds of religious authorities today but not 10 or 20 years ago. That said, there seems to be a lack of coherency in this collection (a problem that I have with most short story collections). Also, this could be a more effective collection if Manickam is able to approach race issues in Malaysia in a more current and refreshing manner. All in all, this collection is a 3.5/5 star read to me, and the story "My Mother Pattu" would go down as one of the most memorable stories that I have read thus far.
May 23, 2023
this is a collection of short stories about all walks of life in malaysia, we see and hear different voices, different perspectives, but there is not many happy endings. it is about struggling to even stay afloat, rioting covertly against the injustice and racial prejudice, and a lot of trauma left behind. this will touch the hearts of many, i assure you, for it has truly been one of the best anthologies i have read! (not a big fan of short stories in general but this one really kept me hooked)
sharing some of my favorite short stories from this collection:
🤍 invisible (this one, made me tear up so much, heavily annotated this story because it is so personal, slide 4 for my thoughts after reading this story)
🤍 will you let him drink the wind? (this. so brutally honest and real. one of the shorter stories but it left such a huge impact on me because of the discussion of god and people with disabilities)
🤍 when we are young (the ending line completely stole the show, how painful yet hopeful it is, please read to find out)
i just feel so much deep down reading this as a malaysian, so much unspoken thoughts inked on these pages, i highly recommend this for everyone to pick up, it is truly a moving and poignant short story collection about the unsung lives of locals and foreigners living in malaysia.
thank you to prhsea for sending me a review copy and having me on their book tour!
sharing some of my favorite short stories from this collection:
🤍 invisible (this one, made me tear up so much, heavily annotated this story because it is so personal, slide 4 for my thoughts after reading this story)
🤍 will you let him drink the wind? (this. so brutally honest and real. one of the shorter stories but it left such a huge impact on me because of the discussion of god and people with disabilities)
🤍 when we are young (the ending line completely stole the show, how painful yet hopeful it is, please read to find out)
i just feel so much deep down reading this as a malaysian, so much unspoken thoughts inked on these pages, i highly recommend this for everyone to pick up, it is truly a moving and poignant short story collection about the unsung lives of locals and foreigners living in malaysia.
thank you to prhsea for sending me a review copy and having me on their book tour!
June 3, 2023
“I am not somebody’s wife or mother. I am myself. I have my own identity. I earn my own respect. I am happy. It should count for something.” – Saras Manickam, Invisible (My Mother Pattu)
Thank you @penguinbookssea for sending me a copy and for including me in this #booktour.
REVIEW
Great dilemmas are not only found in the grandeur of epic fantasies, but they are also, more often than imagined, breathing in the mundane. A collection of fourteen short stories, “My Mother Pattu” is unflappable in its spearing of the gnarly molds enforced by society, shattering them in its wake. In this compendium, we glean into the lives of people as they discover what it costs to be resilient in the backdrop of 1960s Malaysia.
I find this a well-curated collection. Saras Manickam has carefully plucked threads and woven them into this poignant tapestry. Although heavily historical in its strokes, the stories housed in this resonate well in contemporary issues readers can relate to.
This book dissects topics that I find close to my heart. With a prominent feminist voice, it examines women’s identities stitched on marriage and motherhood; on what it is to be a "good child”; the burden of upholding family honor; parental responsibilities; and the struggles of being a second-class citizen in a country that festers in racism. It carefully presents how we are reluctantly defined by the lines drawn around us, the roles we are demanded to fill, and not be seen as ourselves by our own identities. As an Asian myself, the discussion on generational trauma and how culture and tradition has expected us to submit in obedience is resounding to me.
As is with anthologies, there are stories that I connected with more than others. My personal favorites would have to be “The Witch Lady”, “The Princess of Lumut”, “When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur”, “Cartwheels on Corridor”, and “Will You Let Him Drink the Wind”.
Overall, this collection is a searing exploration of the cages we are shoved into and the shackles we willingly place upon ourselves be it made of wicker, stone, steel, or gilded – there’s so much one can gather as we find offense and solace in the human condition.
RATING: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
Thank you @penguinbookssea for sending me a copy and for including me in this #booktour.
REVIEW
Great dilemmas are not only found in the grandeur of epic fantasies, but they are also, more often than imagined, breathing in the mundane. A collection of fourteen short stories, “My Mother Pattu” is unflappable in its spearing of the gnarly molds enforced by society, shattering them in its wake. In this compendium, we glean into the lives of people as they discover what it costs to be resilient in the backdrop of 1960s Malaysia.
I find this a well-curated collection. Saras Manickam has carefully plucked threads and woven them into this poignant tapestry. Although heavily historical in its strokes, the stories housed in this resonate well in contemporary issues readers can relate to.
This book dissects topics that I find close to my heart. With a prominent feminist voice, it examines women’s identities stitched on marriage and motherhood; on what it is to be a "good child”; the burden of upholding family honor; parental responsibilities; and the struggles of being a second-class citizen in a country that festers in racism. It carefully presents how we are reluctantly defined by the lines drawn around us, the roles we are demanded to fill, and not be seen as ourselves by our own identities. As an Asian myself, the discussion on generational trauma and how culture and tradition has expected us to submit in obedience is resounding to me.
As is with anthologies, there are stories that I connected with more than others. My personal favorites would have to be “The Witch Lady”, “The Princess of Lumut”, “When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur”, “Cartwheels on Corridor”, and “Will You Let Him Drink the Wind”.
Overall, this collection is a searing exploration of the cages we are shoved into and the shackles we willingly place upon ourselves be it made of wicker, stone, steel, or gilded – there’s so much one can gather as we find offense and solace in the human condition.
RATING: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
June 3, 2023
My Mother Pattu is a collection of 14 short stories that are narrated from the perspective of the different diaspora in Malaysia, be it Indians who may have arrived in Malaysia few generations ago or maids who may have come on work from Indonesia or migrant workers from Bangladesh or a host of Chinese immigrants who may or may not have the right papers. Each story is built in context with the surroundings that impact the upbringing or life of the protagonists.
Some of the stories required context but as one went along, googling it interpreting, it became easy to follow.
The author reserved the best stories for the last-
When I speak of Kuala Lumpur is the story of an Indonesian girl who comes to Malaysia to work as a maid. She soon realises that she is living there like a slave, her passport is in her madam’s custody and she is having to work without leave and also suffer abuse. When she finally manages to escape and start working as an illegal, she understands why her family doesn’t want her to return - the steady income that she provided them with and the stories she told about Kuala Lumpur made her family believe that she has a great life there . Of course, she always told them what they wanted her to say . In contrast, the story Invisible that also talks of migrant worker, has a kindly woman as the madam who goes all out to ensure she is well taken care of and does nothing foolish. Shows it takes all types in this world
Some of the stories required context but as one went along, googling it interpreting, it became easy to follow.
The author reserved the best stories for the last-
When I speak of Kuala Lumpur is the story of an Indonesian girl who comes to Malaysia to work as a maid. She soon realises that she is living there like a slave, her passport is in her madam’s custody and she is having to work without leave and also suffer abuse. When she finally manages to escape and start working as an illegal, she understands why her family doesn’t want her to return - the steady income that she provided them with and the stories she told about Kuala Lumpur made her family believe that she has a great life there . Of course, she always told them what they wanted her to say . In contrast, the story Invisible that also talks of migrant worker, has a kindly woman as the madam who goes all out to ensure she is well taken care of and does nothing foolish. Shows it takes all types in this world
May 28, 2023
I enjoyed reading her short story in the Unsaid book and when I saw this book; I knew I had to get my hands on it.
The cover is just mesmerising. Such a beautiful illustration by Neelima P Aryan. 😍
Coming to the content of the book, it’s a compilation of 14 short stories, the beginning few stories has some connection to each other. It’s only about 165 pages long. Hence, I thought I would be able to complete it in one seating.
However, the themes in these short stories are heavy and hence, I took my time processing my read. The author weaved the story eloquently and it was an enjoyable read.
I found some characters relatable especially the character Meena. I think she is a good example of the typical Malaysian Indian girl. The parental restrictions, and the societal expectations on her. In addition to that, the honour of the family, is put upon her shoulder. I guess that’s how most of us feel and treated and hence, I found her comparable.
Some stories were just heavy for me that I had to pause and take a break. Will You Let Him Drink Wind? and Woman In the Mirror were a little tough to read. I will let you to discover what is it about when you pick this book up. 🙂
Some notable trigger warnings will include racism, mental health, inequality and abuse. Therefore, I would certainly recommend to wade through this book slowly at your own pace.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and would totally recommend everyone to pick this book and dive into the world of flavourful Malaysian stories. It’s every house hold story; I think you will find yourself in some of the stories.
Some of my favourite lines:
✨’They didn't carry their own names, these women, only the label of being their children's mothers.’
✨..’Other people get children who make their parents proud but I, I get clowns! What have I done to deserve this, hah?’
✨’It took me years to understand that in her world, a young man was either a brother or
a husband. He couldn't be a best friend to a girl.’
Thank you Penguin Books Sea for sending me a copy of this book.
The cover is just mesmerising. Such a beautiful illustration by Neelima P Aryan. 😍
Coming to the content of the book, it’s a compilation of 14 short stories, the beginning few stories has some connection to each other. It’s only about 165 pages long. Hence, I thought I would be able to complete it in one seating.
However, the themes in these short stories are heavy and hence, I took my time processing my read. The author weaved the story eloquently and it was an enjoyable read.
I found some characters relatable especially the character Meena. I think she is a good example of the typical Malaysian Indian girl. The parental restrictions, and the societal expectations on her. In addition to that, the honour of the family, is put upon her shoulder. I guess that’s how most of us feel and treated and hence, I found her comparable.
Some stories were just heavy for me that I had to pause and take a break. Will You Let Him Drink Wind? and Woman In the Mirror were a little tough to read. I will let you to discover what is it about when you pick this book up. 🙂
Some notable trigger warnings will include racism, mental health, inequality and abuse. Therefore, I would certainly recommend to wade through this book slowly at your own pace.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and would totally recommend everyone to pick this book and dive into the world of flavourful Malaysian stories. It’s every house hold story; I think you will find yourself in some of the stories.
Some of my favourite lines:
✨’They didn't carry their own names, these women, only the label of being their children's mothers.’
✨..’Other people get children who make their parents proud but I, I get clowns! What have I done to deserve this, hah?’
✨’It took me years to understand that in her world, a young man was either a brother or
a husband. He couldn't be a best friend to a girl.’
Thank you Penguin Books Sea for sending me a copy of this book.
June 2, 2023
SYNOPSIS
A collection of 14 short stories based on immigrant Indians and Chinese in Malaysia, casteism, infidelity, family dynamics etc.
#bookhoarderreviews
Short stories are a great way to get back the reading mojo in case of a prolonged reading slump. This book with its fourteen brilliantly written stories on myriad themes was just the perfect antidote to my 2-month long slump.
Short stories are also tricky business since it is difficult to convey the right message in a few words without being incoherent. My Mother Pattu had open ended stories left to the reader's imagination yet completely conveying the apt messages throughout.
The themes covered are very different ranging from family sagas to friendship to caste systems to handling immigrant issues. The stories had a beautiful blend of cultures with a sprinkle of South Indian lifestyles and a dash of Malaysian sensibilities served in a conversational style of writing. The dialogues and the use of mixed vocabulary made it extremely relatable and easy to comprehend.
Coming to a few specific stories like Dey Raju, The Princess of Lumut, My Mother Pattu, Invisible and Woman in the mirror were truly heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. I could not stop myself from reading them even though they stirred so many mixed emotions in me.
If you are looking for some gripping short stories which are easy to read yet provoke enough emotions and thoughts to ponder upon, your search ends here.
A collection of 14 short stories based on immigrant Indians and Chinese in Malaysia, casteism, infidelity, family dynamics etc.
#bookhoarderreviews
Short stories are a great way to get back the reading mojo in case of a prolonged reading slump. This book with its fourteen brilliantly written stories on myriad themes was just the perfect antidote to my 2-month long slump.
Short stories are also tricky business since it is difficult to convey the right message in a few words without being incoherent. My Mother Pattu had open ended stories left to the reader's imagination yet completely conveying the apt messages throughout.
The themes covered are very different ranging from family sagas to friendship to caste systems to handling immigrant issues. The stories had a beautiful blend of cultures with a sprinkle of South Indian lifestyles and a dash of Malaysian sensibilities served in a conversational style of writing. The dialogues and the use of mixed vocabulary made it extremely relatable and easy to comprehend.
Coming to a few specific stories like Dey Raju, The Princess of Lumut, My Mother Pattu, Invisible and Woman in the mirror were truly heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. I could not stop myself from reading them even though they stirred so many mixed emotions in me.
If you are looking for some gripping short stories which are easy to read yet provoke enough emotions and thoughts to ponder upon, your search ends here.
May 24, 2023
My Mother Pattu takes readers on a captivating journey through South and Southeast Asia, spanning five decades. The collection of ten short stories, authored by Saras Manickam, offers a fresh and immersive experience for avid fans of short stories. The title story bagged the 2019 Commonwealth Short Story Prize for the Asian region.
The characters in these stories are flawed but also relatable, grappling with the complexities of life in profound ways. Lalitha's story exposes the lasting scars of abuse and the ripple effects it has on generations. Shiva Das confronts his own guilt and the heartbreaking loss of his special needs child, forcing readers to confront their own vulnerabilities. The exploration of love and its limitations in a marriage adds a layer of emotional depth to the collection.
The author's writing style is both authentic and unsentimental, refusing to shy away from uncomfortable truths. Each story celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing the extraordinary within ordinary people. The themes of identity, love, family, community, and race relations are handled with sensitivity and nuance, challenging societal norms and prejudices.
Throughout the collection, readers are reminded of the power of introspection and the importance of confronting the truth, even when it is painful. The book is a thought-provoking and compelling read that will leave you contemplating the intricacies of the human condition long after you turn the last page
The characters in these stories are flawed but also relatable, grappling with the complexities of life in profound ways. Lalitha's story exposes the lasting scars of abuse and the ripple effects it has on generations. Shiva Das confronts his own guilt and the heartbreaking loss of his special needs child, forcing readers to confront their own vulnerabilities. The exploration of love and its limitations in a marriage adds a layer of emotional depth to the collection.
The author's writing style is both authentic and unsentimental, refusing to shy away from uncomfortable truths. Each story celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing the extraordinary within ordinary people. The themes of identity, love, family, community, and race relations are handled with sensitivity and nuance, challenging societal norms and prejudices.
Throughout the collection, readers are reminded of the power of introspection and the importance of confronting the truth, even when it is painful. The book is a thought-provoking and compelling read that will leave you contemplating the intricacies of the human condition long after you turn the last page
December 15, 2023
Colourful, honest, brutal, sad and much much more. An exciting collection of stories set in Malaysia. Each story feels so real, devoid of gloss and romanticism, characters are well developed and relatable.
July 3, 2024
This might be controversial but I feel like there’s an unspoken prerequisite that, for books written in English by Malaysian authors to be ‘successful’/popular, or even to secure a place on the shelves and tables at major bookstores, they must always have ‘unique’ elements that make us ‘exotic’.
Peddle a little bit of colonial times or history here and there, insert some angmoh characters, add some cultural lore that is distinctive to your race and then and only then, can you possibly get the chance to be featured amongst those chosen to be published by the bigger publishing houses.
God forbid we could have our own thrillers, romance, detective fiction or just contemporary fiction without a touch of our history of oppression and our old lores and traditions if we expect our stories to be heard on a bigger scale. This makes me yearn for simpler tales depicting current, common Malaysians, each living in their own ways, struggling with their own ‘mundane’ battles, in this country I call home.
My Mother Pattu by Saras Manickam ticks all the boxes of the things I look for in Malaysian fiction. Wit, representation of the colorful and varied cultures in Malaysia, some rojak lingo, racial issues plaguing our society and humane depiction of people who are ‘invisible’ without malice or bigotry. On top of that, she does this in a feminist voice, that dissects the hypocrisy of the double standards placed upon women and men by our society, particularly in Malaysia.
Though the 14 short stories featured are only loosely connected, it has the unifying theme where marginalized voices are given centre stage. We see the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, children learning their places in the spaces assigned to them, motherhood, the privileges and disadvantages of certain races over others, people coming to terms with and embracing old age.
I feel like Manickam lifts up the invisible veil covering something that exists that’s pushed to the periphery that people don’t usually like paying attention to. I don’t think it is possible to write these humane stories, giving the spotlight to these ‘invisible’ people in our society without a high level of compassion and empathy which I feel is lacking in this cruel world. Some of these stories are hard to digest, it makes you face your own biases, insecurity and question your own moral values. Where do you draw the line when it comes down to your own interests at the expense of other people’s convenience?
Malaysian or not, I’d recommend this book without hesitation.
Peddle a little bit of colonial times or history here and there, insert some angmoh characters, add some cultural lore that is distinctive to your race and then and only then, can you possibly get the chance to be featured amongst those chosen to be published by the bigger publishing houses.
God forbid we could have our own thrillers, romance, detective fiction or just contemporary fiction without a touch of our history of oppression and our old lores and traditions if we expect our stories to be heard on a bigger scale. This makes me yearn for simpler tales depicting current, common Malaysians, each living in their own ways, struggling with their own ‘mundane’ battles, in this country I call home.
My Mother Pattu by Saras Manickam ticks all the boxes of the things I look for in Malaysian fiction. Wit, representation of the colorful and varied cultures in Malaysia, some rojak lingo, racial issues plaguing our society and humane depiction of people who are ‘invisible’ without malice or bigotry. On top of that, she does this in a feminist voice, that dissects the hypocrisy of the double standards placed upon women and men by our society, particularly in Malaysia.
Though the 14 short stories featured are only loosely connected, it has the unifying theme where marginalized voices are given centre stage. We see the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, children learning their places in the spaces assigned to them, motherhood, the privileges and disadvantages of certain races over others, people coming to terms with and embracing old age.
I feel like Manickam lifts up the invisible veil covering something that exists that’s pushed to the periphery that people don’t usually like paying attention to. I don’t think it is possible to write these humane stories, giving the spotlight to these ‘invisible’ people in our society without a high level of compassion and empathy which I feel is lacking in this cruel world. Some of these stories are hard to digest, it makes you face your own biases, insecurity and question your own moral values. Where do you draw the line when it comes down to your own interests at the expense of other people’s convenience?
Malaysian or not, I’d recommend this book without hesitation.
December 31, 2023
This book has such a strong short stories collection, each one tackling various issues, including mental health, the low status of Indians, the diversity in a neighbourhood, where Chinese, Malays and Indians live together, stereotypes, inequality, mistreatment, history, pain and love, freedom, acceptance and grief, and so much more.
The range is almost endless. The most important thing is that the author highlights the trauma of women, women's life, Indian women especially. How they are treated and what emotional impacts they have due to their childhood days, as well as their happiness too. This book is not all dark and gloomy. I read a truly shocking story 'Witch Lady' and then smiled sillily at 'Dey Raju'. Sometimes, following the traditions does end well for some people, while for most people, it might not work.
The author also highlights the changes and differences between the olden days with 1965 (considered modern or the present timeline in the book), how the girls are treated and start thinking differently, how life should be changing for the better.
Honestly, I'm still reading the stories but after reading 8 out of 14 stories, I can be absolutely sure that this book is going to be one of my best reads of the year!
UPDATE:
I finished all 14 stories and it's one of the boldest books, I feel the rage, the author's voice and the message is clear about how Indians are always mistreated and judged all the time. The later stories are more of the 3 races together and how the Indians are always struggling. The stereotypes they face every single day. The racial slur and how actually all of us, Malaysians, do have certain prejudice towards other race despite how much we deny it. It's just so good.
The range is almost endless. The most important thing is that the author highlights the trauma of women, women's life, Indian women especially. How they are treated and what emotional impacts they have due to their childhood days, as well as their happiness too. This book is not all dark and gloomy. I read a truly shocking story 'Witch Lady' and then smiled sillily at 'Dey Raju'. Sometimes, following the traditions does end well for some people, while for most people, it might not work.
The author also highlights the changes and differences between the olden days with 1965 (considered modern or the present timeline in the book), how the girls are treated and start thinking differently, how life should be changing for the better.
Honestly, I'm still reading the stories but after reading 8 out of 14 stories, I can be absolutely sure that this book is going to be one of my best reads of the year!
UPDATE:
I finished all 14 stories and it's one of the boldest books, I feel the rage, the author's voice and the message is clear about how Indians are always mistreated and judged all the time. The later stories are more of the 3 races together and how the Indians are always struggling. The stereotypes they face every single day. The racial slur and how actually all of us, Malaysians, do have certain prejudice towards other race despite how much we deny it. It's just so good.
November 16, 2023
Dear Saras, you’re a beautiful writer and I’m so glad I got a chance to meet you!
This book was so good that it made me experience all emotions at once, from unease to sadness to relief, you name it. This is how you know a book was so well written.
I am so glad to know a book like this is out there in my country as it covers many aspects of the lives lived by my people. It was so raw and authentic it made me reflect on many things in my life.
I would truly recommend this book to a Malaysian.
This book was so good that it made me experience all emotions at once, from unease to sadness to relief, you name it. This is how you know a book was so well written.
I am so glad to know a book like this is out there in my country as it covers many aspects of the lives lived by my people. It was so raw and authentic it made me reflect on many things in my life.
I would truly recommend this book to a Malaysian.
February 13, 2024
The journeys the many characters in the book ventured on hits close to home in many instances. The cultural anecdotes, experiences, racial division are so beautifully depicted in true honesty.
It is a book that lifts the veiled curtain of an every day Malaysian life, exposing the wonders of its people and the country as well as its ugly underbelly.
It is a book that lifts the veiled curtain of an every day Malaysian life, exposing the wonders of its people and the country as well as its ugly underbelly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2023
Lately, I've been finding reading a bit of a slog, so this book was the breath of fresh air I needed. Of course, short stories are easier to manage with a patchy attention span but they also need to be colourful, gripping, and able to blinker my eyes towards the page when my cat keeps trying to smack the Kindle out of my hand. 'My Mother Pattu' definitely hits all the right notes, it's an easy read but it is not a shallow one. It's like ingesting sugar and medicine in the same spoonful, a book that is light on the eyes but sits firmly in the heart. A good use of time when time is so finite. So yes absolutely if you're unsure, just buy it and read it.
The first story (Number One, Mambang Lane), which you can read in the amazon ebook sample is a strong beginning, but it's important to point out that all the other short stories in this book continue that impression. I think it's a well-balanced collection, there are no weak stories that need weeding out. If you enjoy the sample I'd say that's a good indicator that this is definitely a book for you.
Of course though, I have some favourites.
'Will You Let Him Drink the Wind?" is my number one. Begrudgingly, because it has me in streams of tears each time, but I can't deny it's impactful and moving and now I'm getting tearful even writing the bloody review. I think this story would move anyone regardless of their interests and if you don't have time to read all the stories in this book, then just read this one.
My second favourite is 'When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur' I love the subject matter of seeing things from the perspective of a domestic worker but I really like the style and structure of this piece, I think it's really clever and it loops back to itself very neatly. So tidy and perfect.
The other stories are all great too with a mix of well-developed and intriguing characters and settings and with personable themes, the only shortcoming of this piece is that I want more! I hope that one day there will be a follow-up collection with maybe the odd story or easter egg that refers back to the stories held within "My Mother Pattu".
I apologise if my review is a little ineloquent. I don't usually write book reviews, but this time I could not help myself.
The first story (Number One, Mambang Lane), which you can read in the amazon ebook sample is a strong beginning, but it's important to point out that all the other short stories in this book continue that impression. I think it's a well-balanced collection, there are no weak stories that need weeding out. If you enjoy the sample I'd say that's a good indicator that this is definitely a book for you.
Of course though, I have some favourites.
'Will You Let Him Drink the Wind?" is my number one. Begrudgingly, because it has me in streams of tears each time, but I can't deny it's impactful and moving and now I'm getting tearful even writing the bloody review. I think this story would move anyone regardless of their interests and if you don't have time to read all the stories in this book, then just read this one.
My second favourite is 'When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur' I love the subject matter of seeing things from the perspective of a domestic worker but I really like the style and structure of this piece, I think it's really clever and it loops back to itself very neatly. So tidy and perfect.
The other stories are all great too with a mix of well-developed and intriguing characters and settings and with personable themes, the only shortcoming of this piece is that I want more! I hope that one day there will be a follow-up collection with maybe the odd story or easter egg that refers back to the stories held within "My Mother Pattu".
I apologise if my review is a little ineloquent. I don't usually write book reviews, but this time I could not help myself.
June 19, 2023
📚📚📚📚📚
Book: My Mother Pattu by @saras.manickam
📚📚📚📚📚
The Reviewer Says:
I am unsure where and how to begin.... 😂😂
When I found out that Saras will be coming out with an anthology of short stories that included My Mother Pattu, the short story that won 2019's Commonwealth Short Story Prize, i was ESTATIC! I KNEW I HAD TO GET IT SOMEHOW.
.
.
.
What followed was an agonizing wait for the book as it was almost impossible to find. My online purchase from Kinokuniya Malaysia took almost 3 to 4 weeks to arrive and I was getting quite impatient.
.
.
.
The cover. How do i begin to describe the cover? The lady in red saree and scarlet lips with beautiful flowers adorning her hair, the gorgeous nosepin and the signature red pottu, the cage, the fishes... i believe one of the prettiest book covers i have come across in a long long time. Adjectives and adverbs fail me as i try to explain the magnificence of the cover.
.
.
.
The stories. 14 stories that will tug your heart and some that will make you weep. This is one book every Malaysian Indian should read as there will be atleast ONE story that you will relate to. From child abuse to domestic violence, from racial tensions to death in police custody, from tensed family relationships to caring for aged parents, this book covers them ALL! Each character is beautifully flawed, Saras brings out the deepest of emotions flawlessly on paper. Words such as "keling" and "balik india" that potrayed the racism, indignity and discrimination one faces for a different skintone are peppered along the stories which makes the reader reflect upon their own personal experiences.
.
.
.
What captivated me further was the setting. Quite a large number of stories were set in a place called Mambang. As a reader, you feel as if you were transported to Mambang, a bystander watching and learning of the lives of your neighbours. Keeps you wanting to know more and more.
.
.
The stories are a reminder and a reality check as well. Thank you Saras for this masterpiece. Worth the wait.
📚📚📚📚📚
The Reviewer Gives: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (I wish i can give more stars)
📚📚📚📚📚
Book: My Mother Pattu by @saras.manickam
📚📚📚📚📚
The Reviewer Says:
I am unsure where and how to begin.... 😂😂
When I found out that Saras will be coming out with an anthology of short stories that included My Mother Pattu, the short story that won 2019's Commonwealth Short Story Prize, i was ESTATIC! I KNEW I HAD TO GET IT SOMEHOW.
.
.
.
What followed was an agonizing wait for the book as it was almost impossible to find. My online purchase from Kinokuniya Malaysia took almost 3 to 4 weeks to arrive and I was getting quite impatient.
.
.
.
The cover. How do i begin to describe the cover? The lady in red saree and scarlet lips with beautiful flowers adorning her hair, the gorgeous nosepin and the signature red pottu, the cage, the fishes... i believe one of the prettiest book covers i have come across in a long long time. Adjectives and adverbs fail me as i try to explain the magnificence of the cover.
.
.
.
The stories. 14 stories that will tug your heart and some that will make you weep. This is one book every Malaysian Indian should read as there will be atleast ONE story that you will relate to. From child abuse to domestic violence, from racial tensions to death in police custody, from tensed family relationships to caring for aged parents, this book covers them ALL! Each character is beautifully flawed, Saras brings out the deepest of emotions flawlessly on paper. Words such as "keling" and "balik india" that potrayed the racism, indignity and discrimination one faces for a different skintone are peppered along the stories which makes the reader reflect upon their own personal experiences.
.
.
.
What captivated me further was the setting. Quite a large number of stories were set in a place called Mambang. As a reader, you feel as if you were transported to Mambang, a bystander watching and learning of the lives of your neighbours. Keeps you wanting to know more and more.
.
.
The stories are a reminder and a reality check as well. Thank you Saras for this masterpiece. Worth the wait.
📚📚📚📚📚
The Reviewer Gives: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (I wish i can give more stars)
📚📚📚📚📚
June 1, 2023
"I was shocked at first that a mother would not automatically love her baby but it was a secret relief to hear her words. I was free then to hate Pattu without guilt."
- Saras Manickam, My Mother Pattu
'My Mother Pattu' is an anthology of short stories that gives a key testimony to the spirit of Malay people across interracial lines. Even then Ms. Manickam doesn't shy away from expressing her despair over the
derogatory names used to address Chinese and Indian immigrants in Malaysia. These are the stories of the people of Malaysian and Indian communities who ate Malaya food but were raised on a staple diet of Tamil cinema and songs.
The titular characters are women who are mothers and wives of rich men, some perfect and some deeply flawed as perceived by society.
"Some of us are born to carry our family’s burdens. Others— They just live off us.''
Woman Migrant workers residing in wooden houses with tinned roofs at Mambang lane braved many storms, bore abuses, and carefully tied their secrets in a knot in their Sarong.
Saras has sketched contrasting characters with finesse. For example, in 'Will you let him drink the Wind?', a mother is tired of the pretentious, sympathetic treatment meted out to her disabled child and questions God's ways.
'Charan' is a story partly about a father's remorse and his wife, a mother who without psychiatric intervention harboured a deep seething hatred for her child.
One of my favorite stories in the collection has to be 'Invisible' in which a migrant worker has a moment of reckoning after having a heart-to-heart conversation with her employer.
- Saras Manickam, My Mother Pattu
'My Mother Pattu' is an anthology of short stories that gives a key testimony to the spirit of Malay people across interracial lines. Even then Ms. Manickam doesn't shy away from expressing her despair over the
derogatory names used to address Chinese and Indian immigrants in Malaysia. These are the stories of the people of Malaysian and Indian communities who ate Malaya food but were raised on a staple diet of Tamil cinema and songs.
The titular characters are women who are mothers and wives of rich men, some perfect and some deeply flawed as perceived by society.
"Some of us are born to carry our family’s burdens. Others— They just live off us.''
Woman Migrant workers residing in wooden houses with tinned roofs at Mambang lane braved many storms, bore abuses, and carefully tied their secrets in a knot in their Sarong.
Saras has sketched contrasting characters with finesse. For example, in 'Will you let him drink the Wind?', a mother is tired of the pretentious, sympathetic treatment meted out to her disabled child and questions God's ways.
'Charan' is a story partly about a father's remorse and his wife, a mother who without psychiatric intervention harboured a deep seething hatred for her child.
One of my favorite stories in the collection has to be 'Invisible' in which a migrant worker has a moment of reckoning after having a heart-to-heart conversation with her employer.
January 30, 2024
I read three excellent books on Malaysian life last year. While Preeta Samarasan and Marc de Faoite’s fiction hit its respective sociopolitical targets hard from afar (both authors live in France), Saras Manickam’s short story collection, My Mother Pattu is that more difficultly wrought thing, a slab of local honesty.
You get a great sense of the lives of Indian families here – closeness and support along with crippling obligation and control; Manickam pulls no punches. Though Malaysia’s three main population groups are all entangled in these stories’ dramas, Indian Malaysians are more focal, being described as “Ethnic and cultural Indian with a Malaysian operating system and apps”.
These tales are page turners. Rather than relying on being all-action, issues are dealt with sharply yet realistically. Dey Raju features arranged marriage and its feuding families with much of the social realism coming through rich reported speech. The back cover lists the social issues covered, which in many countries might help to qualify the book’s use for classroom discussion.
That said, the title story My Mother Pattu confronts teen motherhood head-on, via a candidly reluctant mother. It is also good on specifics, such as the names of her father’s favourite restaurant and tailor’s shops, which brings us in closer and leaves us wanting more. This story won the Commonwealth short story prize in 2019.
You get a great sense of the lives of Indian families here – closeness and support along with crippling obligation and control; Manickam pulls no punches. Though Malaysia’s three main population groups are all entangled in these stories’ dramas, Indian Malaysians are more focal, being described as “Ethnic and cultural Indian with a Malaysian operating system and apps”.
These tales are page turners. Rather than relying on being all-action, issues are dealt with sharply yet realistically. Dey Raju features arranged marriage and its feuding families with much of the social realism coming through rich reported speech. The back cover lists the social issues covered, which in many countries might help to qualify the book’s use for classroom discussion.
That said, the title story My Mother Pattu confronts teen motherhood head-on, via a candidly reluctant mother. It is also good on specifics, such as the names of her father’s favourite restaurant and tailor’s shops, which brings us in closer and leaves us wanting more. This story won the Commonwealth short story prize in 2019.
January 30, 2024
Towards the end of the reading, I realised that these stories were about the forgotten. People who were left behind, were unwanted and discriminated against because they were considered unimportant. I love how the stories and characters were somehow related to one another. I love all the stories, but my favourites are 1) Witch Lady, 2) My Mother Pattu, 3) When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur, and 4) When We Are Young. The endings were written beautifully, and it gave me a sense of empathy for the emptiness and hopelessness of the character. ‘Malaysian disease’ was highlighted in most of the stories, and it really showed how the minorities were being treated in this country – which, as a ‘privilege’ community, makes me agree with Farida that “there’s always the lurking guilt, knowing why things are much easier for me.”
In the collection of stories, it becomes evident towards the end that the central theme revolves around the plight of the forgotten individuals in society. These are the people who have been left behind, regarded as unwanted, and subjected to discrimination simply because they are deemed unimportant. It is truly remarkable how the stories and characters are interconnected, adding depth and richness to the overall reading experience.
From the various tales, there were several that stood out and captured my attention. Among my favourite stories are 1) Witch Lady, 2) My Mother Pattu, 3) When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur, and 4) When We Are Young. Each of these narratives is exquisitely written, showcasing the author's skill in crafting compelling conclusions. The endings not only leave a lasting impact but also elicit a profound sense of empathy for the characters and their feelings of emptiness and hopelessness.
Furthermore, the recurring notion of the "Malaysian disease" is ever-present throughout most of the stories. This serves as a stark reminder of how minority groups are treated within the country. As a member of the "privileged" community, I find myself in agreement with Farida's sentiment that there is a constant sense of guilt, knowing that my own circumstances are far easier to navigate. The author's exploration of this societal disparity serves as a powerful critique and sheds light on the unjust treatment faced by marginalised individuals in Malaysian society.
Overall, this collection of stories is a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on society's forgotten voices. The author's ability to interweave multiple narratives and explore themes of discrimination and privilege is commendable. Through the power of storytelling, these stories compel readers to reflect on the disparities that exist within our own communities. It is a book that leaves a lasting impact and prompts important conversations.
In the collection of stories, it becomes evident towards the end that the central theme revolves around the plight of the forgotten individuals in society. These are the people who have been left behind, regarded as unwanted, and subjected to discrimination simply because they are deemed unimportant. It is truly remarkable how the stories and characters are interconnected, adding depth and richness to the overall reading experience.
From the various tales, there were several that stood out and captured my attention. Among my favourite stories are 1) Witch Lady, 2) My Mother Pattu, 3) When I Speak of Kuala Lumpur, and 4) When We Are Young. Each of these narratives is exquisitely written, showcasing the author's skill in crafting compelling conclusions. The endings not only leave a lasting impact but also elicit a profound sense of empathy for the characters and their feelings of emptiness and hopelessness.
Furthermore, the recurring notion of the "Malaysian disease" is ever-present throughout most of the stories. This serves as a stark reminder of how minority groups are treated within the country. As a member of the "privileged" community, I find myself in agreement with Farida's sentiment that there is a constant sense of guilt, knowing that my own circumstances are far easier to navigate. The author's exploration of this societal disparity serves as a powerful critique and sheds light on the unjust treatment faced by marginalised individuals in Malaysian society.
Overall, this collection of stories is a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on society's forgotten voices. The author's ability to interweave multiple narratives and explore themes of discrimination and privilege is commendable. Through the power of storytelling, these stories compel readers to reflect on the disparities that exist within our own communities. It is a book that leaves a lasting impact and prompts important conversations.
August 20, 2024
The first 10 stories are a solid 5/5. I love how the same characters OR friends of friends from Mambang Lane appear across stories. I often run into someone I know whenever I step out of my house (no joke).
However, the last few stories, like "When We Are Young," "Cartwheels on the Corridor," and "Call It by Its Name," can felt too direct, almost regurtigating similar racial messages onto the readers.
Although it centers on the Indian community, the book is truly a Malaysian read, featuring the famous trio - Malay, Chinese, and Indian. There are also stories told from the perspective of a "kakak", the Indonesian caretakers in Malaysia. As well as viewpoint of a mother raising up a special child.
It's both maddening/saddening how politicians stir up racial issues to maintain their status quo and protect the majority's rights in this country. This has been deeply rooted in our generation, I’m not sure how we can overcome this situation. Perhaps the first step is fostering self-awareness, treating the people around us with understanding and empathy, and celebrate diversity (and read this bloody book!)
However, the last few stories, like "When We Are Young," "Cartwheels on the Corridor," and "Call It by Its Name," can felt too direct, almost regurtigating similar racial messages onto the readers.
Although it centers on the Indian community, the book is truly a Malaysian read, featuring the famous trio - Malay, Chinese, and Indian. There are also stories told from the perspective of a "kakak", the Indonesian caretakers in Malaysia. As well as viewpoint of a mother raising up a special child.
It's both maddening/saddening how politicians stir up racial issues to maintain their status quo and protect the majority's rights in this country. This has been deeply rooted in our generation, I’m not sure how we can overcome this situation. Perhaps the first step is fostering self-awareness, treating the people around us with understanding and empathy, and celebrate diversity (and read this bloody book!)
April 8, 2024
I bought this book at a bookstore in Kuala Lumpur with the intention of reading more about Malay culture and literature. However, the book is about the lives of immigrants from India, Indonesia, and Bangladesh in Kuala Lumpur and the surrounding rural areas. Despite my expectations, I really enjoyed reading this book.
The book is divided into 14 stories, some of which are connected to each other while others are not. The timeline varies across the stories, ranging from the late 1950s to the present day. It was an easy-to-read book, and I can recommend it to anyone who would like to know more about the daily lives of immigrants in Kuala Lumpur.
The book is divided into 14 stories, some of which are connected to each other while others are not. The timeline varies across the stories, ranging from the late 1950s to the present day. It was an easy-to-read book, and I can recommend it to anyone who would like to know more about the daily lives of immigrants in Kuala Lumpur.
April 27, 2025
what an amazing collection of stories. i’m amazed at the diverse perspectives of the characters and relationships explored throughout the book, from mothers and daughters, parents caring for disabled children, children caring for their elderly parents, the exploration of race within friendships and malaysian society (in which the author doesn’t shy away at all in addressing our harsh truths), and so on.
i can’t name any favourites because most of them left such a lasting impression. i’m super grateful to have picked this up during aesop’s free books event in 2024 and got it signed by ms. saras manickam herself! 💞 overall, it’s a very refreshing read within the sea of malaysian literature
i can’t name any favourites because most of them left such a lasting impression. i’m super grateful to have picked this up during aesop’s free books event in 2024 and got it signed by ms. saras manickam herself! 💞 overall, it’s a very refreshing read within the sea of malaysian literature
March 22, 2024
Stories that most Malaysian would relate to. A lot of the characters are trapped in their own peculiar circumstances from aunty Sundari to Judith/Meena to Ina the maid and all the other characters.
The last chapter though was painful but so true. Most of us who live in Malaysia grow up with a sort of muted racism. It’s in the undercurrent of everything.
Each chapter was unique and generally a good read.
The last chapter though was painful but so true. Most of us who live in Malaysia grow up with a sort of muted racism. It’s in the undercurrent of everything.
Each chapter was unique and generally a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2025
I bought this book a couple of months ago at the Kolkata Literary meet where Saras Manickam was an invited speaker. It is probably the best collection of short stories I have ever read and I have read many. Between them the stories bring to life a multi-ethnic society peppered with contrasting facets of kindness and injustice. But the stories are all intensely human. If you are curious about cultures and just like a good read, this book is for you.
July 4, 2024
Highly readable collection of short stories, touching on some taboo Malaysian subjects, cultural differences and racial sensitivity, and discriminatory practices in this fair land of ours. Simultaneously engaging and riveting, fellow Malaysians will find some of the stories hit close to home, spotlighting the best and worst of people and their prejudices.
February 16, 2025
Brilliant collection of stories, from different people’s perspectives, together painting the picture of a little town and its people in Malaysia. Tamils, Chinese and Malay, the young, the old, the middle aged, male, female, queer, straight, the rebellious, the traditional the dark and the good.. South East Asian historic fiction has certainly piqued my interest..
June 5, 2025
I loved the honesty in this book, so much so it made me feel uncomfortable to confront it at times (I had to take couple of breaks between stories to reflect and process the content I had just read). This book discusses heavy topics with intelligent writing. It was an amazing read, I personally feel everyone Malaysian should read this book.
March 5, 2024
The author puts forth a moving, perceptive and piercing observation of the Malay society, which stands true in varying degrees of societies world over, through this collection of short stories. My favourites were 'Will you Let Him Drink the Wind' and Invisible. A lovely anthology.
June 23, 2024
I was looking to read a Malaysian author and I'm glad I found this book! It's hard to pick a favourite. Call It by Its Name, Will You Let Him Drink the Wind and Invisible will stick with me the longest I think..
December 31, 2024
a collection of short stories based in Malaysia which explore the cultural and racial diaspora of the country. the stories were thick with drama, grief, hilarity and hope - could not have asked for a better book to end the year!
July 22, 2024
Engaging stories on dashed hopes and dreams and the ugliness that seeps into life. I particularly appreciated the stories which carried the deep sting of discrimination.
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