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ആ നദിയോട് പേരു ചോദിക്കരുത് | Aa Nadiyodu Peru Chodikkaruthu
മലയാളത്തിന് അപരിചിതമായ ദേശങ്ങൾ അടയാ ഉപ്പെടുത്തുന്ന തീക്ഷ്ണമായ രചന. യേശുവിന്റെ കാലം മുതൽ കോവിഡ് കാലം വരെയുള്ള മനുഷ്യ ചരിത്രത്തിലെ വിട്ട ചില കാല്പാടുകൾ ആ നദിയുടെ തീരത്ത് പതിഞ്ഞു കിടക്കുന്നു. ഒറ്റിനും ചതിക്കും അധിനിവേശത്തിനും ഇരകളാകുന്ന പലസ്തീനി കളുടെ ജീവിതഗാഥ അതിന്റെ കൈവഴിയാണ്. ജന്മനാട്ടിൽ സ്വന്തം അസ്തിത്വം ചോദ്യം ചെയ്യപ്പെടുന്ന ലോകത്തിലെ ജനസമൂഹങ്ങളിലേക്കെല്ലാം അത് വഴിച്ചാൽ വെട്ടുന്നു. മലയാളിയായ മെത്തപ്പേലെത് റൂത്തിന്റെ കുരി ശിന്റെ വഴിയിലൂടെയുള്ള യാത്രയാണ് ഈ നോവൽ, എല്ലാ മുൾക്കി രീടങ്ങളും ഒന്നിച്ചണിയുന്ന ജനതയെ അവൾ വഴിയിൽ കണ്ടു മുട്ടുന്നു. കവികളുടെ നാട്ടിൽ വെച്ച് റൂത്ത് മനുഷ്യസംസ്കാരത്തിന്റെ വ്യാഖ്യാതാവും കൊടും ഹിംസയുടെ ദൃക്സാക്ഷിയുമാകുന്നു. പ്രണയം പോലും നീതിയുടെ കുരിശെന്ന് അവൾ തിരിച്ചറിയുന്നു. വയനാടൻ മപ്പാടത്തിന്റെ മണമുള്ള കാറ്റിൽനിന്ന് ജീവിതസമര ത്തിൽ പല ഭൂഖണ്ഡങ്ങളിൽ എത്തിപ്പെടുന്ന നായികയിലൂടെ എഴുത്തു കാരി മലയാളിസ്ത്രീയുടെ തൊഴിൽപ്രവാസത്തിന്റെ ഭൂപടവും വരയ്ക്കുന്നു. ഒപ്പം തൊഴിൽ കൃതികളുടെ കാണാക്കയങ്ങളും. ഒരിക്കൽകൂടി നീതിയുടെ കുരിശണിയുന്ന മനുഷ്യഭാവന കാണാൻ വരൂ ഈ നദിക്കരയിലേക്ക് - വി. മുസഫർ അഹമ്മദ്
304 pages
Published October 6, 2022
26 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Sheela Tomy
3 books13 followersSheela Tomy is a novelist and short-story writer from Kerala. She has a MA in Mass communication and Journalism. As a Malayalam short story writer, Sheela rose into prominence with her debut collection Melquiadesnte Pralayapusthakam (‘Melquiades’ Book of Floods’) in 2012. Valli is her debut novel which was awarded renowned Cherukad Award for Malayalam Literature 2021. ‘Valli’ in English was shortlisted for the JCB Award for Literature 2022 and Atta Galatta Banglore Literature Festival Book Prize 2022. ‘Valli’ also bagged O Abdulla translation award 2023. Sheela’s newest work, Aa Nadiyodu Preu Chodikkaruth (Do Not Ask the River Her Name), a novel addressing the struggle of people under siege, is well acclaimed. Sheela has resided in the Middle East for two decades and has been active in the social circles and Medias, as script writer for radios, lyricist and presenter of literary reviews.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 14, 2024
Ruth sets out from home to find work when an accident leaves her husband bedridden. Her fate takes her from the highlands to the deserts, passing through Riyadh and Dubai ultimately settling her in Nazareth, Israel. When she finds a means for living in this historical land and gets closer to its people, she gains an unique perspective on the Holy Land, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the lives of the Palestinian people, all while grappling with her own wounds. 'Do Not Ask The River Her Name' takes us into the heart of daily life in Nazareth, depicting both the struggles of many and small acts of kindness that connect people across divides.
'Do Not Ask The River Her Name' is a captivating literary and domestic fiction that sets sail in the magical and mythical lands of history's one of the ancient countries. For years I was looking for a book that would take me closer to the people suffering in the conflict and this book took me to the very heart of it. The story although a work of fiction immersed me in the shared struggles, resilience, and enduring humanity that transcend borders of nationhood and faith. But I must say, getting into the book at first was a bit tough for me. I had no clue what's going on and I was zoning out. But as I proceeded further I fell in love with the writing. The slow, bejewelled, poignant and almost poetic writing caught me off guard. This book has a plethora of characters but it does focus on few important ones. The characters are slowly build up and well fleshed out.
Coming to the writing. The book adorns meaningful verses throughout the narrative making it poetic and melancholic. But sometimes such melancholia is all we want, the shared grief and struggle gives us a pang of relatability. Both the writing style and quality is exceptional. The book comprises short chapters so it doesn't feel like a long book when you read it. The language is accessible for all readers. I would recommend this book to domestic fiction readers.
'Do Not Ask The River Her Name' is a captivating literary and domestic fiction that sets sail in the magical and mythical lands of history's one of the ancient countries. For years I was looking for a book that would take me closer to the people suffering in the conflict and this book took me to the very heart of it. The story although a work of fiction immersed me in the shared struggles, resilience, and enduring humanity that transcend borders of nationhood and faith. But I must say, getting into the book at first was a bit tough for me. I had no clue what's going on and I was zoning out. But as I proceeded further I fell in love with the writing. The slow, bejewelled, poignant and almost poetic writing caught me off guard. This book has a plethora of characters but it does focus on few important ones. The characters are slowly build up and well fleshed out.
Coming to the writing. The book adorns meaningful verses throughout the narrative making it poetic and melancholic. But sometimes such melancholia is all we want, the shared grief and struggle gives us a pang of relatability. Both the writing style and quality is exceptional. The book comprises short chapters so it doesn't feel like a long book when you read it. The language is accessible for all readers. I would recommend this book to domestic fiction readers.
August 23, 2024
A forty year old Malayali nurse working in the Middle East seems like an unlikely narrator of a book which largely focusses on the Arab-Israeli conflict and the oppression of the people of Palestine. Yet it is Ruth Albert who emerges as the soul of this book.
There are three main protagonists in the novel- Ruth Albert, Asher Menahem and Sahal Al Fadi- each of whom serves as a narrator. The three of them represent the three Abrahamic faiths, and each of them while appearing stereotypical actually defies stereotypes. In Ruth Albert, particularly, the author has created a truly unforgettable character.
The novel straddles geographies and time zones. It jumps from Kerala to the Middle East and then Europe. The book also goes back-and-forth in time; often while an incident is happening in the present at a historical site, the narration shifts to the same thing that happened centuries ago. It is almost like nothing has changed except the names of the protagonists!
The book looks at the Palestine issue from different perspectives, and condemns the violence from every one of them. But while that part of the story gains prominence because of what is happening today, of equal importance is the story of Indian migrant workers from an impoverished background in the Middle East.
August is ‘Women in Translation Month’, and if you haven’t narrowed in on a book yet, do pick this one up. You will be swept away by the descriptions of places, the depth of empathy displayed by each of the characters, and by the meticulous research that the author has done before embarking on the book. The book could not have been an easy one to translate, and Ministhy S. has done a commendable job.
I received an ARC from Harper Collins and a more detailed review is here: https://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2024/08/...
There are three main protagonists in the novel- Ruth Albert, Asher Menahem and Sahal Al Fadi- each of whom serves as a narrator. The three of them represent the three Abrahamic faiths, and each of them while appearing stereotypical actually defies stereotypes. In Ruth Albert, particularly, the author has created a truly unforgettable character.
The novel straddles geographies and time zones. It jumps from Kerala to the Middle East and then Europe. The book also goes back-and-forth in time; often while an incident is happening in the present at a historical site, the narration shifts to the same thing that happened centuries ago. It is almost like nothing has changed except the names of the protagonists!
The book looks at the Palestine issue from different perspectives, and condemns the violence from every one of them. But while that part of the story gains prominence because of what is happening today, of equal importance is the story of Indian migrant workers from an impoverished background in the Middle East.
August is ‘Women in Translation Month’, and if you haven’t narrowed in on a book yet, do pick this one up. You will be swept away by the descriptions of places, the depth of empathy displayed by each of the characters, and by the meticulous research that the author has done before embarking on the book. The book could not have been an easy one to translate, and Ministhy S. has done a commendable job.
I received an ARC from Harper Collins and a more detailed review is here: https://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2024/08/...
November 10, 2024
Do Not Ask The River Her Name by Sheela Tomy, and translated from Malayalam by Ministhy S, is an emotional tale set in Jerusalem. The protagonist, Ruth, an Indian nurse from Kerala, comes to Jerusalem to work and help her family, this time after her husband has become a bedridden. Ruth’s road meets with that of Sahal, a Palestinian poet, and Asher, who is an Israeli fighting against the violence that surrounds him. This novel tells in interconnected stories about loss of territory and search for self and how inescapable the violence is.
The cover photo of the book is what really caught my eyes in the beginning and I knew that I had to read this book. It is quite unique and attractive and so is the title. The writing style is really good and I could totally feel the emotions and the reality of lives was also brought out very well through this book.
Richly fleshed out, the characters in Sheela Tomy’s narrative are humane. Ruth’s innate ability to endure and adjust is evident in her settling down in Jerusalem. Sahal brings a tragic twist in his history and an equally tragic poet’s heart, while Asher’s struggle for reconciliation imposes the difficulties of existing in a battleground. They all have interesting stories that call for compassion, and it is impossible to forget any one of them in a long time after finishing the book.
I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves reading literary fiction. This book also goes through complex themes which have been written very beautifully. So grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy reading it as much as I did.
The cover photo of the book is what really caught my eyes in the beginning and I knew that I had to read this book. It is quite unique and attractive and so is the title. The writing style is really good and I could totally feel the emotions and the reality of lives was also brought out very well through this book.
Richly fleshed out, the characters in Sheela Tomy’s narrative are humane. Ruth’s innate ability to endure and adjust is evident in her settling down in Jerusalem. Sahal brings a tragic twist in his history and an equally tragic poet’s heart, while Asher’s struggle for reconciliation imposes the difficulties of existing in a battleground. They all have interesting stories that call for compassion, and it is impossible to forget any one of them in a long time after finishing the book.
I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves reading literary fiction. This book also goes through complex themes which have been written very beautifully. So grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy reading it as much as I did.
November 8, 2024
Don’t be misled by the book's title or the serene feeling the cover gives you. This book explores human nature, the search for belonging, and the power of empathy.
The story revolves around Ruth, Asher, and Sahal-Al-fadi. Ruth is a nurse who travels from Wayanad to Jerusalem to work as a caregiver and becomes deeply involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which gives us the main name to the story. Sahal is a Palestinian scholar and a rebel who runs the “Warrior of Light” campaign, while Asher Menahem is his friend trying to find and protect Sahal. Their interconnected stories tug your heartstrings.
The book takes you on a journey through different landscapes, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Middle Eastern countries, and Europe. I felt a deep connection to Ruth’s experiences and narrative, which reveals an understanding of the suffering caused by war, displacement, and the loss of identity. It highlights the experiences of those forced to leave their homes and the impact of conflict on individuals and communities.
The writing is both lyrical and poetic capturing the beauty and brutality of the region. The poetry woven into the narrative is simply beautiful. The author presents both sides of the conflict on who the land belongs to. However, at times the shift between different timelines can be confusing.
This is a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page with its powerful storytelling. If you're looking for translated fiction to read this year, let this be the one.
The story revolves around Ruth, Asher, and Sahal-Al-fadi. Ruth is a nurse who travels from Wayanad to Jerusalem to work as a caregiver and becomes deeply involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which gives us the main name to the story. Sahal is a Palestinian scholar and a rebel who runs the “Warrior of Light” campaign, while Asher Menahem is his friend trying to find and protect Sahal. Their interconnected stories tug your heartstrings.
The book takes you on a journey through different landscapes, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Middle Eastern countries, and Europe. I felt a deep connection to Ruth’s experiences and narrative, which reveals an understanding of the suffering caused by war, displacement, and the loss of identity. It highlights the experiences of those forced to leave their homes and the impact of conflict on individuals and communities.
The writing is both lyrical and poetic capturing the beauty and brutality of the region. The poetry woven into the narrative is simply beautiful. The author presents both sides of the conflict on who the land belongs to. However, at times the shift between different timelines can be confusing.
This is a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page with its powerful storytelling. If you're looking for translated fiction to read this year, let this be the one.
September 2, 2024
A Novel Par Excellence.
Do Not Ask the River Her Name
By Sheela Tomy
Translated into English from Malayalam
By Ministhy S
'Do Not Ask the River Her Name' is a novel that delves into the profound and universal theme of hiraeth, a deep longing for a lost home that may never be found. This exploration of an intensely resonant theme captivates the reader as it mirrors the characters' conflicts, desires, hallucinations, dreams, and experiences with their own. The theme weaves an epistemological saga of a lost homeland and encapsulates a tinge of ontological questioning of people's origins, destinations, and destinies. The story is about faith, religious domination, elimination of the enemy, personal identity, collective existence, justice and the search for financial, familial and societal security. It starts in Jerusalem, and the author takes you through the Holy Land and several other places, including Nazareth. A dominant question the journey raises is: Who is the owner of the land, the Israelites or the Palestinians? Who are humans to own land? The book is the most fascinating effort to answer the riddle, enticing the reader.
The storytelling in Do Not Ask the River Her Name is not just captivating; it's uniquely intriguing. It evokes heartfelt and rational reflections on life, human dignity, and what is good and evil. The narrative is dynamic, brimming with events that feel so real; it's as if you're living the story. An event may be ephemeral, but it bursts with meaning and images, guiding you into the world of human existence, struggle, and the unknown future. It's like the flight of Jonathan Livingston Sea Gull, a journey you can't help but be drawn into. Ruth's journey is such. The unique storytelling style will keep you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the next twist.
There is a string of plots, and each chapter is holistic but intertwined with its characters and the main story. However, it entraps the reader with its diversity and human conflicts, where the Holy Land is symbolic yet real and enveloped within their sorrows and little joys. The small events happening here and there are mystical and magical but simultaneously real, and that is the beauty of capturing reality per se, not per accident. This expedition will lead the reader to a myriad of emotions: anger, anxiety, anguish, sorrow, joy and sublimation, creating a profoundly engaging and emotionally connected reading experience. You'll find yourself deeply empathising with the character's emotional journey.
The characters in Do Not Ask the River Her Name are not just characters; they are mirrors that reflect human involvement. As you read, you can see, hear, touch, smell, and feel them; you know they are humans. A nurse from Kerala is the protagonist, and through her observations, the story evolves. She symbolises women everywhere, especially those who migrate for jobs beyond their country's borders to support their families back home. However, there is an awareness, a distressing reality, that many have no homeland or place to return to. The sonder you experience makes you realise that each character represents a human and has a life as vivid and complex as your own. The characters' metanoia is stupefying, as reading is a voyage that changes your mind, heart, self, or way of life. The sillage the characters emanate lingers while reading the novel, which is enthralling. At times, you may find yourself pondering the enthusiasm of life amidst the unending stone pelting, gunfire, bombing and deaths. This novel is not just a story; it's a trip that will change your perspective on life, and the reader starts travelling within her. The denouement of the narratives throughout the book is exceptional. They are lively, spontaneous and iridescent. The epiphany and the redamancy are pretty, such as:
* Ruth's reminiscence of the fragrance of Wayanad's Karima rice farmlands, ripe and golden in embracing her memory of the Alps while at Nazareth.
*She was smiling. That smile, flitting between open and opaque, seemed familiar.
*Noah's ark was hobbling on the Mediterranean Sea. The voyagers included Abba, Eema, Asher, Leah, Sofia, Lilly, Binu, a few sleepy metapelites, and Mariam of Bethany. Captain Ruth Albert spread open the wind map.
*The song from the Malayalam film Bhargavi Nilayam was playing in the background.
*She felt as if Temple Mount was a gargantuan tree and that she was a delicate leaf dangling at the tip of its bough on the verge of dropping.
The dialogue is concise, crispy, gripping, and sometimes philosophical. For example:
*" Just a moment, child. Look at this page, the penultimate one."
*" Good to say! Try falling from the heights. Then you will know…"
*" Nina, I need a job. Please, I don't want to return."
*" Four zatoun trees, Alhamdulillah, that all we needed for our livelihood! Those kept away hunger, gave us food and fuel. The devils cut down those too!"
*" Call me anything. Even Aletsch Glacier will do!"
The prose is evocative and extensively references literature. Sheela Tomy has done a remarkable job; no reader leaves it halfway. It has the beauty, internal consistency and tenacity to enthral the reader as the author has powerfully depicted the conflict we read about between the Israelites and Palestinians. The conflict depicted throughout the book is existential. It originates in the human head and spreads to the land, a battle of perception of religious identities. Those who believe in Islam constitute 1900 million, whereas the population of Jews is 15.7 million, 0.2 per cent of the total world population. Jews in Israel are 7.2 million, while the Arabs around them are 475 million, as per the 2023 statistics. The novel emphasises that everyone has a right to exist and obligates us to spread amity and equality. The book raises many vital questions in uncertain terms, mainly how the Israelis and Palestinians can peacefully coexist as the collective human trauma overturns all the political realities and initiates everyone to rewrite existing ideologies in the light of human dignity and human rights, which are fundamental to being human.
Sheela Tomy's style is evocative and robust in dexterity. She writes her ideas and visions succinctly and in lovely language and extensively references Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, thereby capturing despair and hope in their primaeval essence. The effort leads to a holistic awareness of the place of religion in our civilisation and helps to confront the proximity of death. All acts in human life are endeavours to escape death physically or spiritually. The book is excellent because it takes the readers to the vicissitudes of human suffering and shows the light of love from diverse angles and colours.
Beyond its tangible story, there is an intangible one, the story of humanity, and the main character is love, pure and simple love. Jesus wept when he heard about his friend Lazarus's death, and throughout Do Not Ask the River Her Name, a discernible reader can listen to that cry, the cry of humanity for love. Only a brilliant writer like Sheela Tomy could express it imperceptibly.
The translation of Ministhy S is outstanding. It astounds the reader as it vividly shows her knowledge of the subject, the nuances of the cultures, the history of Israel, Palestine, and the Arab-Israel conflict. Her reflexive understanding of Judaism, Christianity and Islam is remarkable. The chosen words and phrases she encompassed are elegant, enchanting, and appropriate, and her command is solid in Malayalam and English. The words flow like a sparkling stream and effortlessly meander through the hills and valleys of the book. The feeling of oneness with the author's ideas created is dynamic and closer to the source in Ministhy's translation.
Sheela Tomy's work is unique and epochal. Yet, I may compare it with Things Fall Apart, The Grapes of Wrath, The Remains of the Day, The Underground Railroad, To the Lighthouse, The Bluest Eye and Randidangazhi, even though there are similarities with essential dissimilarities. I will not be surprised if Sheela Tomy and Ministhy S share a Booker Prize for their vibrant work.
Varghese V Devasia
Do Not Ask the River Her Name
By Sheela Tomy
Translated into English from Malayalam
By Ministhy S
'Do Not Ask the River Her Name' is a novel that delves into the profound and universal theme of hiraeth, a deep longing for a lost home that may never be found. This exploration of an intensely resonant theme captivates the reader as it mirrors the characters' conflicts, desires, hallucinations, dreams, and experiences with their own. The theme weaves an epistemological saga of a lost homeland and encapsulates a tinge of ontological questioning of people's origins, destinations, and destinies. The story is about faith, religious domination, elimination of the enemy, personal identity, collective existence, justice and the search for financial, familial and societal security. It starts in Jerusalem, and the author takes you through the Holy Land and several other places, including Nazareth. A dominant question the journey raises is: Who is the owner of the land, the Israelites or the Palestinians? Who are humans to own land? The book is the most fascinating effort to answer the riddle, enticing the reader.
The storytelling in Do Not Ask the River Her Name is not just captivating; it's uniquely intriguing. It evokes heartfelt and rational reflections on life, human dignity, and what is good and evil. The narrative is dynamic, brimming with events that feel so real; it's as if you're living the story. An event may be ephemeral, but it bursts with meaning and images, guiding you into the world of human existence, struggle, and the unknown future. It's like the flight of Jonathan Livingston Sea Gull, a journey you can't help but be drawn into. Ruth's journey is such. The unique storytelling style will keep you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the next twist.
There is a string of plots, and each chapter is holistic but intertwined with its characters and the main story. However, it entraps the reader with its diversity and human conflicts, where the Holy Land is symbolic yet real and enveloped within their sorrows and little joys. The small events happening here and there are mystical and magical but simultaneously real, and that is the beauty of capturing reality per se, not per accident. This expedition will lead the reader to a myriad of emotions: anger, anxiety, anguish, sorrow, joy and sublimation, creating a profoundly engaging and emotionally connected reading experience. You'll find yourself deeply empathising with the character's emotional journey.
The characters in Do Not Ask the River Her Name are not just characters; they are mirrors that reflect human involvement. As you read, you can see, hear, touch, smell, and feel them; you know they are humans. A nurse from Kerala is the protagonist, and through her observations, the story evolves. She symbolises women everywhere, especially those who migrate for jobs beyond their country's borders to support their families back home. However, there is an awareness, a distressing reality, that many have no homeland or place to return to. The sonder you experience makes you realise that each character represents a human and has a life as vivid and complex as your own. The characters' metanoia is stupefying, as reading is a voyage that changes your mind, heart, self, or way of life. The sillage the characters emanate lingers while reading the novel, which is enthralling. At times, you may find yourself pondering the enthusiasm of life amidst the unending stone pelting, gunfire, bombing and deaths. This novel is not just a story; it's a trip that will change your perspective on life, and the reader starts travelling within her. The denouement of the narratives throughout the book is exceptional. They are lively, spontaneous and iridescent. The epiphany and the redamancy are pretty, such as:
* Ruth's reminiscence of the fragrance of Wayanad's Karima rice farmlands, ripe and golden in embracing her memory of the Alps while at Nazareth.
*She was smiling. That smile, flitting between open and opaque, seemed familiar.
*Noah's ark was hobbling on the Mediterranean Sea. The voyagers included Abba, Eema, Asher, Leah, Sofia, Lilly, Binu, a few sleepy metapelites, and Mariam of Bethany. Captain Ruth Albert spread open the wind map.
*The song from the Malayalam film Bhargavi Nilayam was playing in the background.
*She felt as if Temple Mount was a gargantuan tree and that she was a delicate leaf dangling at the tip of its bough on the verge of dropping.
The dialogue is concise, crispy, gripping, and sometimes philosophical. For example:
*" Just a moment, child. Look at this page, the penultimate one."
*" Good to say! Try falling from the heights. Then you will know…"
*" Nina, I need a job. Please, I don't want to return."
*" Four zatoun trees, Alhamdulillah, that all we needed for our livelihood! Those kept away hunger, gave us food and fuel. The devils cut down those too!"
*" Call me anything. Even Aletsch Glacier will do!"
The prose is evocative and extensively references literature. Sheela Tomy has done a remarkable job; no reader leaves it halfway. It has the beauty, internal consistency and tenacity to enthral the reader as the author has powerfully depicted the conflict we read about between the Israelites and Palestinians. The conflict depicted throughout the book is existential. It originates in the human head and spreads to the land, a battle of perception of religious identities. Those who believe in Islam constitute 1900 million, whereas the population of Jews is 15.7 million, 0.2 per cent of the total world population. Jews in Israel are 7.2 million, while the Arabs around them are 475 million, as per the 2023 statistics. The novel emphasises that everyone has a right to exist and obligates us to spread amity and equality. The book raises many vital questions in uncertain terms, mainly how the Israelis and Palestinians can peacefully coexist as the collective human trauma overturns all the political realities and initiates everyone to rewrite existing ideologies in the light of human dignity and human rights, which are fundamental to being human.
Sheela Tomy's style is evocative and robust in dexterity. She writes her ideas and visions succinctly and in lovely language and extensively references Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, thereby capturing despair and hope in their primaeval essence. The effort leads to a holistic awareness of the place of religion in our civilisation and helps to confront the proximity of death. All acts in human life are endeavours to escape death physically or spiritually. The book is excellent because it takes the readers to the vicissitudes of human suffering and shows the light of love from diverse angles and colours.
Beyond its tangible story, there is an intangible one, the story of humanity, and the main character is love, pure and simple love. Jesus wept when he heard about his friend Lazarus's death, and throughout Do Not Ask the River Her Name, a discernible reader can listen to that cry, the cry of humanity for love. Only a brilliant writer like Sheela Tomy could express it imperceptibly.
The translation of Ministhy S is outstanding. It astounds the reader as it vividly shows her knowledge of the subject, the nuances of the cultures, the history of Israel, Palestine, and the Arab-Israel conflict. Her reflexive understanding of Judaism, Christianity and Islam is remarkable. The chosen words and phrases she encompassed are elegant, enchanting, and appropriate, and her command is solid in Malayalam and English. The words flow like a sparkling stream and effortlessly meander through the hills and valleys of the book. The feeling of oneness with the author's ideas created is dynamic and closer to the source in Ministhy's translation.
Sheela Tomy's work is unique and epochal. Yet, I may compare it with Things Fall Apart, The Grapes of Wrath, The Remains of the Day, The Underground Railroad, To the Lighthouse, The Bluest Eye and Randidangazhi, even though there are similarities with essential dissimilarities. I will not be surprised if Sheela Tomy and Ministhy S share a Booker Prize for their vibrant work.
Varghese V Devasia
November 10, 2024
Sheela Tomy's 'Do Not Ask the River Her Name' combines this point and more to create a poignant and deeply layered narrative that passes across national, cultural and religious boundaries. This celebrated book in Malayalam, 'Aa Nadiyodu Peru Chodikkaruth', was originally written and had now received a new life with Minsthy S's English translation; It is set in a world of suffering, resilience and the unbreakable humanity but the lives it explores are those of the three protagonists—Ruth Albert, Asher Menahem and Sahal Al Sadi—living in a world interspersed with the Israel and Palestine war.
The heart of the book is Ruth Albert. She is a kind, resilient, middle aged Malayali nurse who leaves her family in Kerala; now has to work in Dubai. Eventually, she finds her way to Israel where she works as a caregiver for a great Jewish professor call David Menahem. Ruth experiences about the weight of history and contemporary conflict directly in her interactions with David and his son Asher. Her compassion, shaped by her own hardships, becomes a vehicle through which readers experience both the beauty and pain of the land she now calls home.
Another layer is added to contribute Asher Menahem, an archaeologist, the son of Professor David Menahem. His friendship with Sahal, a Palestinian poet and an activist, is the best example of the fact that people build close relationships under conflict zones.
The diversity of this geographical settings like kerala's lush landscapes to the deserts of Middle East to the historical lands of Jerusalem The book embued with the emotional journeys of its characters: each grappling with displacement, identity, and belonging with multiple timelines.
The book is unusual in that each protagonist has a different Abrahamic faith: Ruth is a Christian, Asher is a Jew, and Sahal is a Muslim, and the book is set in a context of religious harmony in the midst of turmoil. Instead, she emphasizes the great realties of love and friendship that are not constructed.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is how layered it approaches the Israel-Palestine conflict. Though this is a central theme, the story doesn’t restrict itself to one dimensional concept.
From the eye's of Ruth, the author offers a fresh touch of both sides whether it is human site or political unrest. This empathy is especially impactful as it’s not limited to the characters’ immediate experiences but extends to broader reflections on global displacement and migration.
The book is also a tribute to Arab poets, the voices of whom have too often been silenced. In this homage the book expands its engagement with cultural identity and loss, with a touch of sorrow and dignity for Sahal’s character. Through poetry and metaphor she brings to life a place where strife and beauty have filled the region for centuries, making the setting feel and veritably live.
Despite this, many readers may struggle with the story's non-linear timeline and jumps from past to present. Also, although the translation, for the most part, proves faithful and suggestive, at times it can require more work to read for those unacquainted with the cultural milieu of the region in which the original Malayalam prose is written. But they’re outweighed by the depth and richness of feel of the novel itself.
In conclusion, it is a powerful book that demands reflection on the pressing issues facing humanity. The characters are not just observers but participants in a world shaped by resilience, identity, and friendship. Ruth, Asher, and Sahal’s stories remind us of the inherent beauty in human connections, even amidst the darkest of times. It's not the story of suffering and endurance but a celebration of our incredible human spirit to outlast all odds.
For readers interested in exploring themes of cultural identity, displacement, and the timeless quest for belonging, this book is a must read.
The heart of the book is Ruth Albert. She is a kind, resilient, middle aged Malayali nurse who leaves her family in Kerala; now has to work in Dubai. Eventually, she finds her way to Israel where she works as a caregiver for a great Jewish professor call David Menahem. Ruth experiences about the weight of history and contemporary conflict directly in her interactions with David and his son Asher. Her compassion, shaped by her own hardships, becomes a vehicle through which readers experience both the beauty and pain of the land she now calls home.
Another layer is added to contribute Asher Menahem, an archaeologist, the son of Professor David Menahem. His friendship with Sahal, a Palestinian poet and an activist, is the best example of the fact that people build close relationships under conflict zones.
The diversity of this geographical settings like kerala's lush landscapes to the deserts of Middle East to the historical lands of Jerusalem The book embued with the emotional journeys of its characters: each grappling with displacement, identity, and belonging with multiple timelines.
The book is unusual in that each protagonist has a different Abrahamic faith: Ruth is a Christian, Asher is a Jew, and Sahal is a Muslim, and the book is set in a context of religious harmony in the midst of turmoil. Instead, she emphasizes the great realties of love and friendship that are not constructed.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is how layered it approaches the Israel-Palestine conflict. Though this is a central theme, the story doesn’t restrict itself to one dimensional concept.
From the eye's of Ruth, the author offers a fresh touch of both sides whether it is human site or political unrest. This empathy is especially impactful as it’s not limited to the characters’ immediate experiences but extends to broader reflections on global displacement and migration.
The book is also a tribute to Arab poets, the voices of whom have too often been silenced. In this homage the book expands its engagement with cultural identity and loss, with a touch of sorrow and dignity for Sahal’s character. Through poetry and metaphor she brings to life a place where strife and beauty have filled the region for centuries, making the setting feel and veritably live.
Despite this, many readers may struggle with the story's non-linear timeline and jumps from past to present. Also, although the translation, for the most part, proves faithful and suggestive, at times it can require more work to read for those unacquainted with the cultural milieu of the region in which the original Malayalam prose is written. But they’re outweighed by the depth and richness of feel of the novel itself.
In conclusion, it is a powerful book that demands reflection on the pressing issues facing humanity. The characters are not just observers but participants in a world shaped by resilience, identity, and friendship. Ruth, Asher, and Sahal’s stories remind us of the inherent beauty in human connections, even amidst the darkest of times. It's not the story of suffering and endurance but a celebration of our incredible human spirit to outlast all odds.
For readers interested in exploring themes of cultural identity, displacement, and the timeless quest for belonging, this book is a must read.
September 5, 2024
Have you heard that all is well that ends well? I must say, it's true with this book. Not that the book has a happy ending, but the way the story progresses makes you think that something is amiss but it surprises you and makes you want to read more of it - it's that kind of ending.
The story intertwines the lives of Sahal, Asher and Ruth through misfortunes, pain and endurance. Sahal is a young Palestinian scholar and rebel who runs a social media forum called 'Warrior of Light'. He keeps publishing the atrocities of the Israeli army against the Palestinian civilians on his page and is now being hunted down by the army. Asher, his Jewish friend, is his protector and keeper who fights any form of evil irrespective of religion and nation. But now Asher hasn't seen Sahal in days and is worried about his safety. He needs to track down his beloved friend to help him move to Jordan and start his life afresh.
Ruth, a middle-aged Indian nurse working in Israel at Asher's residence, learns about their lives and does everything possible to help them. Because Ruth had already suffered enough in her younger days and would have appreciated the help herself. Not once, but twice, she was kidnapped on her quest for a job in the Middle East, which she had escaped with the help of a few well-wishers. Now it's her turn to help those in need in an unknown land. But who will survive the torment and escape is a complex equation to solve.
The book is so honest and elaborate on its take on the Israel-Palestine conflict, and I liked how it was told from an outsider pov. The translation was rigid and quite hard to decipher for most parts, but as I said, it all gets easier towards the second part. Though interesting and intense, Ruth's story felt like a female version of goat life. I was much more invested in Sahal and Asher's story than Ruth's. I would have loved more of their stories than hers, as it felt like a separate track away from the central theme.
There were a lot of religious attributions from the holy books that could have been toned down. But apart from that, I was very much into the story and couldn't put it down until I reached the end. The ending shattered me beyond despair, though I expected it from the beginning. Asher and Sahal will now always remain my greatest literary best friends ever, and everyone must try this book to understand relationships and friendships that transcend man-made boundaries.
The story intertwines the lives of Sahal, Asher and Ruth through misfortunes, pain and endurance. Sahal is a young Palestinian scholar and rebel who runs a social media forum called 'Warrior of Light'. He keeps publishing the atrocities of the Israeli army against the Palestinian civilians on his page and is now being hunted down by the army. Asher, his Jewish friend, is his protector and keeper who fights any form of evil irrespective of religion and nation. But now Asher hasn't seen Sahal in days and is worried about his safety. He needs to track down his beloved friend to help him move to Jordan and start his life afresh.
Ruth, a middle-aged Indian nurse working in Israel at Asher's residence, learns about their lives and does everything possible to help them. Because Ruth had already suffered enough in her younger days and would have appreciated the help herself. Not once, but twice, she was kidnapped on her quest for a job in the Middle East, which she had escaped with the help of a few well-wishers. Now it's her turn to help those in need in an unknown land. But who will survive the torment and escape is a complex equation to solve.
The book is so honest and elaborate on its take on the Israel-Palestine conflict, and I liked how it was told from an outsider pov. The translation was rigid and quite hard to decipher for most parts, but as I said, it all gets easier towards the second part. Though interesting and intense, Ruth's story felt like a female version of goat life. I was much more invested in Sahal and Asher's story than Ruth's. I would have loved more of their stories than hers, as it felt like a separate track away from the central theme.
There were a lot of religious attributions from the holy books that could have been toned down. But apart from that, I was very much into the story and couldn't put it down until I reached the end. The ending shattered me beyond despair, though I expected it from the beginning. Asher and Sahal will now always remain my greatest literary best friends ever, and everyone must try this book to understand relationships and friendships that transcend man-made boundaries.
November 15, 2024
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
"Yea, I shall return with the tide,
And though death may hide me, and the greater silence enfold me, yet again I will seek your understanding...
For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one..."
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬?
I’d heard much praise for the original Malayalam version of this book, Aa Nadiyodu Peru Chodikkaruth. When I found out it was translated into English, I couldn’t resist picking it up.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The cover is striking, with the silhouette of a woman symbolizing the FMC, Ruth Albert. The vibrant layers, I feel, reflect the story’s complex layers, while the blue hints at the river. The title holds both aesthetic appeal and profound meaning, perfectly aligning with the storyline.
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The narration strikes a careful balance, with the story gradually building momentum. The language maintains a blend of clarity and richness, adding to its appeal.
𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧:
✓The book opens with a quote by Mahmoud Darwish, setting a contemplative tone. As someone who enjoys travel and the serenity of nature, I found it deeply resonant.
✓It includes a character list, specifying when each character enters the story, and even provides a map of Jerusalem’s ancient city, adding depth and connection.
✓The narrative explores finding inner peace, purpose, and one’s true self. With each new place Ruth visits and every task she undertakes, a sense of belonging and curiosity grows.
✓Biblical and Arab literary references enrich the story, adding layers of cultural and historical depth.
✓Sensitive topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the intersection of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are thoughtfully incorporated, along with humanity's internal and personal struggles.
✓The book is a treasure trove of memorable lines, like: "On certain nights, I would dream of Baba, who would hoist me on his shoulders, and climb down the hills to pluck the olives", "Call me anything. Even Aletsch Glacier will do" and "Nina, I need a job. Please, I don't want to return."
✓Ruth’s character is intriguing—her dedication to family and her dynamic personality make her memorable. The characterisation has been done excellently.
✓This is not a light read; it delves into the current geopolitical climate, merging present realities with ancient narratives, evoking emotional intensity and reflection.
September 21, 2024
"The world remains so beautiful because of those willing to be wounded for others."
From the moment I saw the title, I was intrigued, but the book itself exceeded all expectations. This is a powerful & deeply moving story about an Indian woman who leaves her home in Wayanad to support her family, eventually finding herself in Nazareth, Israel. Her journey of struggles, resilience, and the yearning for a place to call home is portrayed with such emotional depth that it pulls you in and ends up raising so many questions in your mind.
The book explores complex themes of diversity, culture, the identity of oneself as well as the land, and the universal search for safety, with the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel as its backdrop. It’s an intricate story of lives woven together by the threads of shared humanity. The story offers a window into the heart-wrenching emotions experienced by those living in war-torn regions, their suffering, strength, and relentless struggle for survival. It’s a raw and eye-opening exploration of a world we know exists but seldom fully understand.
Honestly, I felt a bit lost at the beginning, maybe due to my unfamiliarity with the landscape of Jerusalem and some native words. However, it quickly faded as I was drawn into the book's touching narrative of humanity, friendship, kindness, and the harsh realities of war. The writing (or translation) is nothing short of poetic. The poems scattered throughout are incredibly impactful, retaining their emotional potency even in translation, which, in itself, is a task.
This is a book that demands deep reflection on the pressing issues facing humanity, even those that may not directly affect us. It is an exploration of resilience, identity, and the unbreakable spirit of those caught in the crossfire of conflict. It’s a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the beauty of those who endure for the sake of others. This is a story that will linger in your heart and mind long after you turn the final page.
From the moment I saw the title, I was intrigued, but the book itself exceeded all expectations. This is a powerful & deeply moving story about an Indian woman who leaves her home in Wayanad to support her family, eventually finding herself in Nazareth, Israel. Her journey of struggles, resilience, and the yearning for a place to call home is portrayed with such emotional depth that it pulls you in and ends up raising so many questions in your mind.
The book explores complex themes of diversity, culture, the identity of oneself as well as the land, and the universal search for safety, with the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel as its backdrop. It’s an intricate story of lives woven together by the threads of shared humanity. The story offers a window into the heart-wrenching emotions experienced by those living in war-torn regions, their suffering, strength, and relentless struggle for survival. It’s a raw and eye-opening exploration of a world we know exists but seldom fully understand.
Honestly, I felt a bit lost at the beginning, maybe due to my unfamiliarity with the landscape of Jerusalem and some native words. However, it quickly faded as I was drawn into the book's touching narrative of humanity, friendship, kindness, and the harsh realities of war. The writing (or translation) is nothing short of poetic. The poems scattered throughout are incredibly impactful, retaining their emotional potency even in translation, which, in itself, is a task.
This is a book that demands deep reflection on the pressing issues facing humanity, even those that may not directly affect us. It is an exploration of resilience, identity, and the unbreakable spirit of those caught in the crossfire of conflict. It’s a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the beauty of those who endure for the sake of others. This is a story that will linger in your heart and mind long after you turn the final page.
November 3, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐
"The land which we leave behind is like an unrequited love. It shall be attached to the heart forever."
This book is a congruence of three powerful narratives as there are three main protagonists: Ruth Albert, Asher Menahem, Sahal Al Sadi, who also serve as a narrator. The story changes its pace often as it is told back and forth in time.
Ruth a Malyali Nurse embarks upon a journey to find work in Dubai so that she could look after her family back at home in Kerala. She moves through countries, faces some setbacks back in her day and finally she reaches Israel where she gets to work as a metapelet for a renowned Jewish Professor, David Menahem.
The second protagonist Asher is an archaeologist, son of Prof David Menahem. Even though he's a Jew, he loves his friend Sahal and does everything in his power to protect him, keeping him safe.
Sahal Al Sadi is a young man who would become a renowned Arab poet in the later years. He's someone fighting for the basic rights for his family and people. Although all is lost yet he strives to save whatever is left.
In this searing, heart wrenching book the Israel Palestine conflict could be seen with a fresh set of eyes. The three protagonists are of three different faiths Ruth a Christian, Asher a Jew and Sahal a Muslim yet they are tied to one thing altogether, HUMANITY.
The book will transport you to the picturesque landscape of Israel but it'll also make you witness the conflict closely where life is always in ashes and smoke. The story is a metaphorical prose depicting the plight of people, struggling to survive daily and not knowing when could be their last breath.
It is an ode to the Arab poets whose voices have been silenced. It is a well researched book and an enthralling tale of an account of people's life destroyed and still being destroyed with a pinch of diplomacy and facts. This book speaks volumes about unrelenting faith in humanity, suffering, nationhood and friendships.
I won't be able to forget Asher, Ruth and Sahal anytime soon and even though the ending was predictable it broke my heart. It's a must read, you'll realise not much has changed.
"The land which we leave behind is like an unrequited love. It shall be attached to the heart forever."
This book is a congruence of three powerful narratives as there are three main protagonists: Ruth Albert, Asher Menahem, Sahal Al Sadi, who also serve as a narrator. The story changes its pace often as it is told back and forth in time.
Ruth a Malyali Nurse embarks upon a journey to find work in Dubai so that she could look after her family back at home in Kerala. She moves through countries, faces some setbacks back in her day and finally she reaches Israel where she gets to work as a metapelet for a renowned Jewish Professor, David Menahem.
The second protagonist Asher is an archaeologist, son of Prof David Menahem. Even though he's a Jew, he loves his friend Sahal and does everything in his power to protect him, keeping him safe.
Sahal Al Sadi is a young man who would become a renowned Arab poet in the later years. He's someone fighting for the basic rights for his family and people. Although all is lost yet he strives to save whatever is left.
In this searing, heart wrenching book the Israel Palestine conflict could be seen with a fresh set of eyes. The three protagonists are of three different faiths Ruth a Christian, Asher a Jew and Sahal a Muslim yet they are tied to one thing altogether, HUMANITY.
The book will transport you to the picturesque landscape of Israel but it'll also make you witness the conflict closely where life is always in ashes and smoke. The story is a metaphorical prose depicting the plight of people, struggling to survive daily and not knowing when could be their last breath.
It is an ode to the Arab poets whose voices have been silenced. It is a well researched book and an enthralling tale of an account of people's life destroyed and still being destroyed with a pinch of diplomacy and facts. This book speaks volumes about unrelenting faith in humanity, suffering, nationhood and friendships.
I won't be able to forget Asher, Ruth and Sahal anytime soon and even though the ending was predictable it broke my heart. It's a must read, you'll realise not much has changed.
November 10, 2024
‘Do Not Ask the River Her Name’ by Sheela Tomy is an evocative, thought provoking story capturing the different shades of humanity in the face of suffering. Combining multiple narratives, the book weaves an immensely powerful story.
The story revolves around the lives of Ruth, Sahal & Asher. Set in Jerusalem, Sahal is a young Palestinian activist highlighting the atrocities by the Israeli Army against Palestinian civilians. When Sahal goes missing and presumed to be hunted by the Israeli army, Asher, his Jewish friend decides to track him down and help him. Ruth, a caregiver from Kerala, working at Asher’s home decides to help them. As their lives intertwine, will they be able to survive this adversity?
Set in the background of the Israel-Palestine conflict, the story explores it from different viewpoints. The story brings out the struggle and the oppression of common Palestinians. The story goes back and forth in time, weaving together multiple narratives across time. It also highlights the plight of the migrant workers working in conflict zones. The narrative shifts to varied locations from Kerala to Jerusalem, Nazareth and Europe, often exploring the universal nature of grief.
What sets the story apart is the characters and how they are bound together by a common thread of suffering and loss of home. Ruth, Sahal & Asher, though from diverse background on the surface, their stories converge to show that they are not so different after all. The backdrop of the Palestinian conflict adds a new dimension to the story.
The language is lyrical, capturing the sorrow, grief, the brutality and the essence of humanity, making you feel one with the oppressed and the translation has been excellent. The multiple timelines can be confusing at the start but the story gathers momentum in the second half.
Overall, ‘Do Not Ask the River Her Name’ is a memorable read that stay with you for a long time.
The story revolves around the lives of Ruth, Sahal & Asher. Set in Jerusalem, Sahal is a young Palestinian activist highlighting the atrocities by the Israeli Army against Palestinian civilians. When Sahal goes missing and presumed to be hunted by the Israeli army, Asher, his Jewish friend decides to track him down and help him. Ruth, a caregiver from Kerala, working at Asher’s home decides to help them. As their lives intertwine, will they be able to survive this adversity?
Set in the background of the Israel-Palestine conflict, the story explores it from different viewpoints. The story brings out the struggle and the oppression of common Palestinians. The story goes back and forth in time, weaving together multiple narratives across time. It also highlights the plight of the migrant workers working in conflict zones. The narrative shifts to varied locations from Kerala to Jerusalem, Nazareth and Europe, often exploring the universal nature of grief.
What sets the story apart is the characters and how they are bound together by a common thread of suffering and loss of home. Ruth, Sahal & Asher, though from diverse background on the surface, their stories converge to show that they are not so different after all. The backdrop of the Palestinian conflict adds a new dimension to the story.
The language is lyrical, capturing the sorrow, grief, the brutality and the essence of humanity, making you feel one with the oppressed and the translation has been excellent. The multiple timelines can be confusing at the start but the story gathers momentum in the second half.
Overall, ‘Do Not Ask the River Her Name’ is a memorable read that stay with you for a long time.
November 11, 2024
' Do not lock up the suffering inside your mind , share it with someone. What cannot be spoken , try to write down on a piece of paper . Then you should mince the page to small pieces and scatter the scraps in the winds. Let the innards cool down. That is how one survives ...'
How beautifully suggested by Abba to Ruth .
Well , this book is my one of the best read of 2024 . When I started reading this I knew this gonna wrenche my heart and it did like books of Khalid Hussini.
'This is not a city of peace it's of explosion '.
Even after knowing the bitter truth the people were trying their best to survive .
Asher's concern for Sahal taught us sometimes real bonds established beyond kith and kinship.
While reading this book one gonna know a lot about Palestine and Israel. I appreciate the author for her splendid research in the subject matter.
I feel like this book is not only the story of Ruth , through Ruth one can witness a lot of other stories too , this book taught me one thing the art of gratitude, the value of kindness , it's not only enrich my knowledge but by the end of last pages of it I learnt a lot about life too , the topic which is so diverse.
Mariam the third eye of Ruth , who connects two epochs ancient and modern is one of my favourite character of this book, knowing the fact that she is just the voice of Ruth's conscience.
The references of Arab literature in the book make it extraordinary, and Sahal words always sound like a smooth poetry to me not a doubt that he is the lead of the story.
Do not ask the river her name
Never ask the water creatures ,
The land from where they hail.
How beautifully suggested by Abba to Ruth .
Well , this book is my one of the best read of 2024 . When I started reading this I knew this gonna wrenche my heart and it did like books of Khalid Hussini.
'This is not a city of peace it's of explosion '.
Even after knowing the bitter truth the people were trying their best to survive .
Asher's concern for Sahal taught us sometimes real bonds established beyond kith and kinship.
While reading this book one gonna know a lot about Palestine and Israel. I appreciate the author for her splendid research in the subject matter.
I feel like this book is not only the story of Ruth , through Ruth one can witness a lot of other stories too , this book taught me one thing the art of gratitude, the value of kindness , it's not only enrich my knowledge but by the end of last pages of it I learnt a lot about life too , the topic which is so diverse.
Mariam the third eye of Ruth , who connects two epochs ancient and modern is one of my favourite character of this book, knowing the fact that she is just the voice of Ruth's conscience.
The references of Arab literature in the book make it extraordinary, and Sahal words always sound like a smooth poetry to me not a doubt that he is the lead of the story.
Do not ask the river her name
Never ask the water creatures ,
The land from where they hail.
November 11, 2024
"Do Not Ask the River Her Name," is a soul-stirring book written by Sheela Tomy & translated from Malayalam into English by Ministhy S. It explores the theme of the lost homeland and the remnants of humanity channeling itself through lesser known pathways, metaphorically akin to the flow of a river.
In the current context of sieges and violence perpetrated on one another, this book emerges as a beacon of new awareness and signal of beckoning peace. Through the travels of the protagonist, Ruth, as she leaves her home to look for a job in a way to combat penury, a whole new series of experiences await her. She passes the historical Holy Land, comes across the condition of the people brutally affected by the Arab-Israeli war, and the condition of the Palestinians while relating to her own pain inflicted by the exodus.
By consolidating the struggles of various people around the world, Sheela Tomy composed a story that ushers upon mankind the inherent presence of love and humanity that often gets blurred with the rigidity of borders.
With such a coherent plot and detailed description of events, the book will surely touch the readers owing to the relatability factor. After all, we are all living in a world marked by chaos and violence. Against such a scary backdrop, this book surges as a much-needed resource for all of us.
Though certain sections may appear to be a bit heavy in terms of the events narrated, it is a true literary marvel with the translation being on point, as well.
In the current context of sieges and violence perpetrated on one another, this book emerges as a beacon of new awareness and signal of beckoning peace. Through the travels of the protagonist, Ruth, as she leaves her home to look for a job in a way to combat penury, a whole new series of experiences await her. She passes the historical Holy Land, comes across the condition of the people brutally affected by the Arab-Israeli war, and the condition of the Palestinians while relating to her own pain inflicted by the exodus.
By consolidating the struggles of various people around the world, Sheela Tomy composed a story that ushers upon mankind the inherent presence of love and humanity that often gets blurred with the rigidity of borders.
With such a coherent plot and detailed description of events, the book will surely touch the readers owing to the relatability factor. After all, we are all living in a world marked by chaos and violence. Against such a scary backdrop, this book surges as a much-needed resource for all of us.
Though certain sections may appear to be a bit heavy in terms of the events narrated, it is a true literary marvel with the translation being on point, as well.
May 28, 2025
Certain books have a profound impact, leaving an indelible mark on our minds and hearts. For me, Sheela Tomy's "Never Ask the River Her Name" is one such book. This poignant narrative sheds light on the harsh realities of life, revealing the unimaginable struggles faced by some individuals.
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Through the eyes of Ruth, a courageous and resilient Indian Christian woman, we experience the turmoil of being caught between the Israel-Palestine conflict. As a caregiver, soldier, and fierce woman, Ruth's story is intertwined with those of Asher and Sahal, each hailing from different religious backgrounds. This masterfully crafted novel explores their lives, faith, hope, and unwavering belief in humanity's goodness. ✨️
.
Sheela Tomy's exceptional writing and vivid descriptions have created a truly unforgettable reading experience. I am deeply grateful to have encountered Ruth, whose memory will stay with me forever. Her story has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will always treasure it. Sheela Tomy's brilliant storytelling has beautifully captured the indomitable RIVER of love and humanity, transcending boundaries of nationhood and religion. ✨️
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Through the eyes of Ruth, a courageous and resilient Indian Christian woman, we experience the turmoil of being caught between the Israel-Palestine conflict. As a caregiver, soldier, and fierce woman, Ruth's story is intertwined with those of Asher and Sahal, each hailing from different religious backgrounds. This masterfully crafted novel explores their lives, faith, hope, and unwavering belief in humanity's goodness. ✨️
.
Sheela Tomy's exceptional writing and vivid descriptions have created a truly unforgettable reading experience. I am deeply grateful to have encountered Ruth, whose memory will stay with me forever. Her story has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will always treasure it. Sheela Tomy's brilliant storytelling has beautifully captured the indomitable RIVER of love and humanity, transcending boundaries of nationhood and religion. ✨️
November 13, 2024
This book is something else entirely. It's set in the backdrop of Israel - Palestine conflict and of an Indian Christian woman stranded in between. I'd expected some biases because of the sensitive subject of the book but this was a good one. As a Malayali myself I had a deeper connection with Ruth the main character. She's a caregiver in the Middle East and I have to admit, she's such an unlikely narrator for such a backdrop. One would expect a soldier to narrate this story but it would be Ruth for now.
Sheela Tomy's choice in narrators is what got me. Ruth, Asher and Sahal, hailing from three different regions, religions and upbringing narrate their stories. Most of all, this book is a testament of their faith and life. It's a story about compassion in the time of war. It's a highly recommended read because of it's varied perspective and the fact it's not reduced to a political statement is a thing of allure.
It's a short but impactful read.
Sheela Tomy's choice in narrators is what got me. Ruth, Asher and Sahal, hailing from three different regions, religions and upbringing narrate their stories. Most of all, this book is a testament of their faith and life. It's a story about compassion in the time of war. It's a highly recommended read because of it's varied perspective and the fact it's not reduced to a political statement is a thing of allure.
It's a short but impactful read.
October 11, 2024
3.25⭐
This book is a story of suffering, friendship, humanity and nationhood
I personally felt that it was really complex and dealt with real strong emotions. The topics discussed in this book are really deep and make you question things.
This book also has a lot of religion and culture reference and also about the boundaries drawn by them
This book is based on different places in the world - Kerala, Dubai, Europe. The description of all the settings is well written. It also goes back and forth in time, highlighting the similarities and differences.
The characters- Ruth, Asher and Sahal are truly unforgettable.
The ending absolutely scattered my heart
This book is a story of suffering, friendship, humanity and nationhood
I personally felt that it was really complex and dealt with real strong emotions. The topics discussed in this book are really deep and make you question things.
This book also has a lot of religion and culture reference and also about the boundaries drawn by them
This book is based on different places in the world - Kerala, Dubai, Europe. The description of all the settings is well written. It also goes back and forth in time, highlighting the similarities and differences.
The characters- Ruth, Asher and Sahal are truly unforgettable.
The ending absolutely scattered my heart
November 13, 2024
Unique and intriguing storytelling is what places ‘Do Not Ask the River Her Name” as not just a captivating book. A translated work from Malayalam, this book is the story of Ruth who is away from home to keep her family running. Originally in Malayalam by Sheela Tomy, this book is translated by Ministhy who is known for her well-received translated works. This is a poignant and evocative novel that gives you a new and refreshing perspective on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Sheela conveys the hardships that Malayali nurses face amid war and destruction on lands across their birthplace.
The writer combines past and future weaving an emotional tale, filled with tragedies and the need of the hour. Several characters who are connected across lands and periods are connected in this story which questions reasons which could be politics or religion behind this bloodshed.
The writer combines past and future weaving an emotional tale, filled with tragedies and the need of the hour. Several characters who are connected across lands and periods are connected in this story which questions reasons which could be politics or religion behind this bloodshed.
March 14, 2025
The opening of the book with a list of characters was enough to keep me seated with this book for hours. But I’m not sure what it says about me or the book. Just a mere character list excites me this much, or I haven’t read many books with characters listed like this. I always make a list of my own in their order of appearances in the book, a description of 2 words maximum. This book saved that time for me. The beginning was so beautiful. But later on, there were times when I was worried that importance would be shifted to one side alone. Because the author covers many issues in this fiction, among which, the Israel and the deception of women who go abroad to put food on the table were the main focus. Even though it shifted a little towards the latter, it was made up with the end chapters of the book. The way she managed to weave a story where both main conflicts, along with humanity, relations, spirituality, and maybe some other thing which passed by me unnoticed, is amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2025
"വല്ലി" യിൽ ഷീലാ ടോമി എന്നെ അത്ഭുതപ്പെടുത്തി, എന്നാൽ ഈ പുസ്തകത്തിൽ എന്റെ പ്രതീക്ഷകൾക്കും വളരെ മുകളിലാണ് എന്നെ എത്തിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നത്.
പിറന്ന മണ്ണിൽനിന്ന് പലായനം ചെയ്യേണ്ടിവന്ന ഒരു ജനതയും, ജനിച്ച മണ്ണിൽ തന്നെ അഭയാർഥികളാകേണ്ടി വരുന്ന മറ്റൊരു ജനതയും, ഇസ്രയേൽ - പലസ്തീൻ സംഘർഷങ്ങളുടെ കെടുതികൾ അനുഭവിക്കേണ്ടി വരുന്ന ഒരു കൂട്ടം മനുഷ്യരുടെ കഥ. റൂത്ത് എന്ന മെത്തപ്പേലെത്ത്, അവളിലൂടെയാണ് ഈ നോവൽ പറയുന്നത്. യുദ്ധത്തിന്റെ ഭീകരതയും പലായനവും അത്ര വിശദീകരിച്ചില്ലെങ്കിലും അതിന്റെ തീവ്രത വായിക്കുന്നവരിലേക്കു എത്തിക്കുവാൻ കഴിഞ്ഞിട്ടുണ്ട്.
4.5/5
പിറന്ന മണ്ണിൽനിന്ന് പലായനം ചെയ്യേണ്ടിവന്ന ഒരു ജനതയും, ജനിച്ച മണ്ണിൽ തന്നെ അഭയാർഥികളാകേണ്ടി വരുന്ന മറ്റൊരു ജനതയും, ഇസ്രയേൽ - പലസ്തീൻ സംഘർഷങ്ങളുടെ കെടുതികൾ അനുഭവിക്കേണ്ടി വരുന്ന ഒരു കൂട്ടം മനുഷ്യരുടെ കഥ. റൂത്ത് എന്ന മെത്തപ്പേലെത്ത്, അവളിലൂടെയാണ് ഈ നോവൽ പറയുന്നത്. യുദ്ധത്തിന്റെ ഭീകരതയും പലായനവും അത്ര വിശദീകരിച്ചില്ലെങ്കിലും അതിന്റെ തീവ്രത വായിക്കുന്നവരിലേക്കു എത്തിക്കുവാൻ കഴിഞ്ഞിട്ടുണ്ട്.
4.5/5
November 9, 2024
Towards the end of the read, there are few pages dedicated to the conversations between Sheela Tomy (the author) and Ministhy S (the translator). It is there that Sheela mentions of her attempt “to segue the dual worlds of writing and imagination” in this read.
Boy did she deliver!!!
What a powerful and beautiful read!
Boy did she deliver!!!
What a powerful and beautiful read!
June 21, 2025
ആ നദിയോട് പേര് ചോദിക്കരുത് ..
ആ കാണുന്നത് മിസൈ�� ആണോ? അതോ കാൽപാദങ്ങളോ?
രണ്ടു തരത്തിൽ ഉണ്ട് പാലായനങ്ങൾ ആണ് എന്റെ അഭിപ്രായം .. ജീവിക്കാനുള്ള ഒരു കടൽ കടത്തും... ജീവൻ പോകാതിരിക്കാനുള്ള കടൽ കടത്തും...
ജറുസലേമിലെ ഒരു ജൂത കുടുംബത്തിൽ ഹോം നേഴ്സ് ആയി എത്തിയ റൂത് - ഈ പേരുള്ള കഥാപാത്രങ്ങൾ എപ്പോളും മനസിനെ സ്പർശിക്കാറുണ്ട്... ഇത് റൂത്തിന്റെ കഥയാവാം... ഇത് ടൈപ്പ് ചെയുമ്പോൾ ലോകത്തിന്റെ പല ഭാഗങ്ങളിലും രാവിലെ എഴുനെല്കുമ്പോൾ മേൽക്കൂര ഉണ്ടാകുമോ.. കുടുംബം ജീവനോടെ ഉണ്ടാകുമോ.. എന്നാലോചിച്ചു ഉറക്കം ഇല്ലാതെ കഴിയുന്നവർ ഉണ്ട്. അവരിൽ ആരുടേയും കഥയാകാം.. പാലസ്റ്റീൻ ജനതകളുടെ കഥയുമാകാം..
ആ കാണുന്നത് മിസൈ�� ആണോ? അതോ കാൽപാദങ്ങളോ?
രണ്ടു തരത്തിൽ ഉണ്ട് പാലായനങ്ങൾ ആണ് എന്റെ അഭിപ്രായം .. ജീവിക്കാനുള്ള ഒരു കടൽ കടത്തും... ജീവൻ പോകാതിരിക്കാനുള്ള കടൽ കടത്തും...
ജറുസലേമിലെ ഒരു ജൂത കുടുംബത്തിൽ ഹോം നേഴ്സ് ആയി എത്തിയ റൂത് - ഈ പേരുള്ള കഥാപാത്രങ്ങൾ എപ്പോളും മനസിനെ സ്പർശിക്കാറുണ്ട്... ഇത് റൂത്തിന്റെ കഥയാവാം... ഇത് ടൈപ്പ് ചെയുമ്പോൾ ലോകത്തിന്റെ പല ഭാഗങ്ങളിലും രാവിലെ എഴുനെല്കുമ്പോൾ മേൽക്കൂര ഉണ്ടാകുമോ.. കുടുംബം ജീവനോടെ ഉണ്ടാകുമോ.. എന്നാലോചിച്ചു ഉറക്കം ഇല്ലാതെ കഴിയുന്നവർ ഉണ്ട്. അവരിൽ ആരുടേയും കഥയാകാം.. പാലസ്റ്റീൻ ജനതകളുടെ കഥയുമാകാം..
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