Mrs. Arpita Basu, the only daughter-in-law of Basu family, is here to tell you a story that will leave your stomach hurting with chuckles and laughter. A Chudail to her prim mother-in-law, inexistent to the devil father-in-law, a damped down bomb to her once best friend Naveena and well, nothing whatsoever to her own husband Akash, the 23-year-old finds herself questioning the very concept of familism as her six months of tumultuous married life is hit with unanswerable questions sprouting every now and then in her head. Speaking of head, what do you think is its importance in Mrs. Basu's life? Oh boy, you're in for a surprise! Because the quirks of their tongue-in-cheek relationship is bound to make you split your sides. However, in a split second Mrs. Basu's life goes kaput as her dark past comes knocking at the door. While she struggles to keep it at bay, her husband leaves her side with no promise of coming back ever. Is it mere coincidence that her past holds a connection to the disappearance of her husband? Or, is it what Mrs. Basu deserves for all she did in the past? This chapter of her life will unravel the mysteries of the present, all the knots of the past and the road to the future. Of course, in the most hilarious way possible. [About Author] Chirasree is a passionate writer with fanatic zeal to make a difference through her words. Her first book 'Done With Her…' released in Feb, 2019 and has grabbed remarkable positions in the top books list on Amazon a number of times. She'd started her career back in 2012 as a software engineer and in due course, realised her passion for writing. She worked as an editor and writer with various writing platforms and continues to expand the horizon of her skills with diverse forms of writing. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
Chirasree Bose is a critically acclaimed Indian author with popular fiction and non-fiction books under her belt, including "Live with Me Die with Me", "Where Love was Sinful", "Let's Talk Humanhood", and more. Her third book, “There’s Blood on Your Heart”, was released in 2021, eliciting praises about the depth of her storytelling skills. The book was nominated for the prestigious AutHer Award 2022 by JK Paper and Times of India. She has also recently ventured into the podcast world on Spotify, with a show based on her non-fiction title. Her books are available on Amazon, Flipkart, Kindle, Google Books. You should also often spot them at various book fairs and stores across the country.
Well apparently this is my second book from the author and let tell you the GIRL has worked hard . She has definitely improved in the art of plot construction as well master in narrative . This book's narrative was so good , that I didn't feel like keeping it down. Another thing which I found very refreshing was a dark sense of humour . It is very difficult to find such humour in the tragedy called life which the protagonist is living . Now coming to the actual review, you can a get basic idea of the plot by reading the blurb so I won't repeat. But all I can say is the characteristion has been beautifully done . Every and every character has been given a good , bad and a great. Attention has been distributed amongst all and emphasis has solely not been given on the protagonist. The narrative is smooth and the situations are highly realistic which makes it easier to the book . Overall I think it was a very short and funny read and would highly recommend it for married couples.
Truly after a long time I got to read a book that made me have good share of laughs. When this time of the year is famous for weddings this book makes itself a good one to be picked up . Bengali household. Arranged setup . Dramatic Indian Mother in law along with the married off once in a while visiting Sister in law who are high on gossiping about the newly-wed couple and leaving no opportunity to poke her and eat her mind off. The maid is funny , typical yet queerly modern . While Cooking and taking care of the father-in-law(who is another headache , she eont miss a day talking with Arpita on diverse topics adding mire fun to the plot. He has diminished the happiness of his own wife and son but now is paralyzed but his mouth is unstoppable.) Admist all these chaos and series of funny incidents every day, Arpita the bride is trying to adjust , with an unknown yet to be likable person in the bedroom , his full family and a new home . She is trying to keep her feminist mouth sound sweet but all these dramas seem to be taking it to another level. The climax is nice. Pick it up for a read that takes up this very relatable , filmy situation in a light humourous way where after marriage life , both the sides need to adjust but sometimes dramatic things take place and it will make you chuckle.
For me this book is hilariously awesome and I never think about it that anyone can write a book on this subject and Chirasree expressed each and every thought of an Indian daughter in-law in such a good manner and it makes this book extremely funny and amusing. In contrast to this it also depicted a true reality between family members ,their relationship and the real meaning of familism and feminism. This book is about Arpita a Bengali newly married girl ,her husband Aakash and their in-laws and maid Malti. Arpita's way of describing about her family members is extremely funny and being a married woman I truly relate to that. Please don't judge me, I'm not that bitchy like Arpita.
Book is like a laughing rollercoaster ride with lots of funny scenes and dialogues. Chapters name are really amazing and i really want to admire author's humorous writing style which is main highlight of this book.
Living with our family in the privacy of our home should feel like heaven, right? Uhh..not always, not with the unsaid and unfair norms, preferences and taboos of society peering into our privacy through cunning maids and nosy neighbours. And judging us with their eagerly awaited findings. In order to adhere to those norms and maintain the family name, we take shortcuts in life which leave us stranded at dead ends. To be considered the 'good' son, daughter, wife or husband, we are often forced to sacrifice our happiness, ignore our dreams and responsibilities, sometimes even be victims or perpetrators to each other.. all for our family to be judged graciously by society. All in the name of "familism". 🤷🥀🙉🙈🙊🔥💛🏃 This is a witty and hilarious first-person narration by the protagonist -new housewife Arpita- as she tiptoes around her condescending, hateful mother-in-law Kanaklata. Familism had forced Arpita and Akash into a marriage of convenience. Arpita's perception of Akash, his domineering mother, father, and her own family changes with time, as she understands them better. Conversations between Arpita, her head and her heart are hilarious, as are the antics of the maids. Malti, maid and Arpita's friend, surprises with her simple but unbiased views on feminism and life, something which educated minds had not realised. 🤷🥀🙉🙈🙊🔥💛🏃 Author Chirasree covers the story in wit, fun and hilarity while taking jabs at the education system, it's aftermath, how mothers foster chauvinism in boys and submissiveness in girls, social taboos, pseudo-feminism and family politics. This book is for all you housewives who'd relate, the husbands who'd gain perspective and singles who'd gain perception. Would Arpita choose to exit? Would her tragic past catch up with her? Would her family support her? And what of her 'guava head' ex-NRI husband Akaash? Do read to find out😊 Even-paced and well edited, this is an easy 5/5 with a relevant social message.
❤Mrs. Basu's Uncensored Familism❤ Mrs. Arpita Basu, the only daughter-in-law of Basu family, is here to tell you a story that will leave your stomach hurting with chuckles and laughter. A Chudail to her prim mother-in-law, inexistent to the devil father-in-law, a damped down bomb to her once best friend Naveena and well, nothing whatsoever to her own husband Akash, the 23-year-old finds herself questioning the very concept of familism as her six months of tumultuous married life is hit with unanswerable questions sprouting every now and then in her head. However, in a split second Mrs. Basu's life goes kaput as her dark past comes knocking at the door. While she struggles to keep it at bay, her husband leaves her side with no promise of coming back ever. . ❤OMG, I swear it was full on fire. The moment I started it, I just couldn't put it down. Firstly, after many many days I read something which made me happy, which made me laugh so much, I mean it was so jolly altogether. The book follows a concept of newly married Bengali bride, who's in the house for six months or but she is still confused with her new life and family, the author made everything look so natural and real. I could nake Arpita's image and I could completely imagine her as a hilarious character. The language was witty yet simple, the writing style obviously nailed everything. I am already a fan of the characters, the book is not just about fun and smiles but touches important topics, it just showcases the struggle of a new bride in a complete new place in just the right way. . It was so unexpected, the way the book proceeds, it helped me understand the thoughts in a new bride's mind and even now am laughing, I loved the way the story transforms. I will just highly recommend it, it's amazing if you ignore few errors here and there. . Rating: 4🌟
The story is a combination of humour and new life. The book is written by well known author Chirasree Bose. There is something new to explore when I read here book as I have already read her previous books so was having high expectations as I know her book will have something new to offer.
The story is about Arpita Basu who gets married to a new family, I liked the fact that she was from Bengali family which added Bengali touch in the whole book. I really adore these people because of there witty sacrasim which they have in there talks. I loved the way the author made me laugh as Arpita Basu was the one who got married her new journey was a challenge. There are many changes that takes place in a women's journey after marriage by her Writing she tried to make her point clear that each girl is born to marry at one age or the another.
I am really happy to read this book because her mother in law has a major role to play as there was alot of drama added which gave me a taste of a comedy movie. The narration of the story was very descriptive with adding human sentiment and emotions. My take on cover and tittle is some what same as the title is fully related with the story, if someone likes the tittle he will love the story too. I would be really happy if someone would go deep into the story and understand the authors idea behind writing the novel. I liked the plot of the story which was new because of humrous tale.
‘Mrs. Basu’s Uncensored Familism’ by Chirasree Bose is a story of Mrs. Arpita Basu who is newly married to Mr. Akash Basu. The story tells us about how life changes for women after getting married the place is new, people are new and in these changing situations the women too have to adjust according to it. We get to see how dramas are sometimes created or sometimes take place but the best thing is that there is a touch of humour which makes some situations witty. To know more read Mrs. Basu’s Uncensored Familism.
My Thoughts:
The plot of the story is very humorous and relatable as well. Somewhere around the corner we find these situations and the author has handled/written them very well.
The characters are well developed and they will surely make the readers laugh. I loved all the characters and we also get to see the sentiments of a woman who is getting married.
The narration is well written and descriptive.
The language is simple and lucid which the readers will find easy to go through.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and would surely recommend it to everyone.
I don't know where to start the review for this book, I could just go on and on about any and each of the elements that there are.
Maybe let's just start with the story. The book is a first person narration of the protagonist (Mrs. Arpita Basu), where she tells you (the reader) about her story, 6 months into her marriage. (No spoilers!). The way it is told is what makes this book so amazing!
The book touches a lot of social/ marital issues, yet the protagonist (author?) has found a way to put them in a funny, witty way, mocking others, and even herself!
The structure of the book is awesome, the characters are well developed (I could not have the presence of "bai" as a primary character in any other way!), the pace is just around perfect, and the storyline is superb! Everything in, the few errors here and there don't count. After a long while, something worth 5/5!
PS. Also really just loved the way in which the protagonist is shown talking to herself at times! :D
Mrs Basu's Uncensored Familism - Not every ending is happy; some are hilarious.
By chirasree bose Published by Write India Publishers
Genre:- Modern Fiction
A book with amazing cover and quirky title😍😍
This is a modern fiction based in the topic of Familism. Written with a funny and quirky style, it covers a serious topic very wisely.
This is a story of 23 year old Arpita, who is forced into arrange marriage to an ex NRI. This marriage brings lots of changes and challenges in her life. Will she be happy? What does this relationship have in store for her? She has quit her job in the call center to focus on family and make it a priority, but was that a correct decision?
The story is very enjoyable and hilarious. The language is simple. A good pick if you want something light to read or u are in reading slump. Definitely recommended!
Mrs Arpita Basu, the only daughter-in-law of Basu family, it is all about the struggle she goes through tackling her menacing mother-in-law and unfaithful husband. I loved how it has been narrated in a humorous way, even few incidents in the book made me laugh out loud, also sometimes I felt bad for Arpita. The plot though bit predictable because of the narration I was hooked till the end, I had so much fun reading it. Things that happens in the book with Arpita is quite relatable, you could connect with her while reading, all the characters are well-sketched. Alongside the fun, through the story it throws light to many issues. Overall, a fun light-hearted read, loved it. I would highly recommend 'Mrs Basu's Uncensored Familism' by Chirasree Bose.
This is the second book of the author. The first book was a thriller and this is totally different from that work of her. This is based on a Bengali family, yes my native place's touch. A bengali woman and her relationship with her husband and mother-in-law. She and her not so perfect family are just like an ordinary family but the way he manages the things is something to read and enjoy. The plot is non-fictional one as it reflects a good view of Indian society but the real highlight is the humour that the author has beautifully added describing the family. Our indian society has some standards for the daughter-in-lawb and the same is potraited here. It was well placed and I finished it one sitting only. The narration is good. The language used is lucid.
This is my second book by Chirasree. The writing style has improved so so much in this book. This is a thought provoking family drama presented with a humourous narration. You will get to see the struggles of a newly married woman to fit in the new house, her confusions about the husband, a mother-in-law who isn't willing to approve her efforts, a typical family drama. An interesting and fun read with a packed story.
This book is my best read of December until Now. Loved it😅
👯Now let's talk about the Book:-
Mrs Arpita Basu, the only daughter-in-law 👰 of Basu family, is here to tell you a story that will leave your stomach hurting with chuckles and laughter 🤣🤣. A Chudail to her prim mother-in-law, inexistent to the devil father-in-law👹, a damped down bomb to her once best friend Naveena👭 and well, nothing whatsoever to her own husband Akash, the 23-year-old finds herself questioning the very concept of familism as her six months of tumultuous married life is hit with unanswerable questions sprouting every now and then in her head.
Speaking of head, what do you think is its importance in Mrs Basu's life? Oh boy, you're in for a surprise! Because the quirks of their tongue-in-cheek relationship are bound to make you split your sides🤷♀️.
However, in a split second Mrs Basu's life goes kaput as her dark past comes knocking at the door🙆♀️. While she struggles to keep it at bay, her husband leaves her side with no promise🙅♀️ of coming back ever.
Is it mere coincidence that her past holds a connection to the disappearance of her husband?🙍♀️
Or, is it what Mrs Basu deserves for all she did in the past?💁♀️
This chapter of her life will unravel the mysteries of the present, all the knots of the past and the road to the future. Of course, in the most hilarious way possible.
Now, let's talk about what I like most in the book:- 👩🎓 The book has touched the serious problem of life and left us to think about that. 👩🎓The author hilarious style of scripting. 👩🎓Book Cover and Title 👩🎓The author has done a commendable job at portraying the scenarios of marriage💍
BOOK REVIEW: ✨ Title: Mrs. Basu’s Uncensored Familism
Author: Chirashree Bose
Genre: Fiction- Comedy
Pages: 151
Format: Kindle/ Paperback
Ratings: 4.7/5🌟
Starting from PHA-MI-NI-JAM the author has made me laugh throughout the book. It is certainly not easy at all to write a book that makes the readers laugh.😂 Writing a comedy novel is so tough but I could feel how much the author has enjoyed writing it through her flawless words.☺
The first few chapters goes with the introduction of the family members and I swear, I can’t resist myself from loving this book. Mrs. Arpita Basu is surely someone memorable. 😍 It’s just 6 months since she got married and started living with her family. She questions every concept of familism that would make the readers think too! But her married life is not happy as her husband Akash don’t support her and so his family.✨
The writing style is simple and intriguing. The chapters are short and satisfying.💖 I loved the character Arpita, who questions everything and Malti, who is unique in her ideas though uneducated. Nobody could beat the author in description of characters. I’m seriously in love with them!💖
I enjoyed reading this entertaining book filled with cute funny events. I also want readers to read this and laugh their hearts out! Surely it is suitable for beginners who wants to get into reading. ✨
Mrs . Basu' s uncensored familism by Chirasree Bose is a story of a humble and an educated girl Arpita . .
Arpita was married to a man named Akash at the age of 23 where they mutually were not ready to welcome this big change in their lives . But , because of their parental pressure they agreed and married each other . . At the start , Arpita has explained her in law's behaviour traits in a very humorous way . There was only one person in her family with whom she shared a very nice bonding which was Malti , helper for her father in law . Malti used to give her emotional support and they used to make fun of the other family members together. . The writer has successfully brought up the heavy thoughts which a girl's parents face when they prepare up for their daughter's big day . The writer has also highlighted all the aspects in a very humourous way . The author became successful in bringing up the patriarchal society which is still prevailing in some areas of our country . In some instances , I got confused and took time to come up with the flow of reading but after a while it was worth it .I was completely in awe with the cover and the theme of the book .
🌼I think I'm saying it to often but here again I found a book which dealt with degrading issues of society and is somehow a light-hearted read.
🌼It deals with marriatal issues, family prejudices, patriarchy, chauvinism, sexism that too not in a subtle way and still the book is belongs to genre - humor.
That's exactly what I was trying to say, that some indian authors I read in past few days talked about disheartening and soul wrenching agendas but they managed somehow to managed to keep readers jovial and hopeful.
🌼The book is written just like a melodramatic Indian soap.
🌼 Most sarcastic and amusing conversations are between Protagonist-her head-her heart and I loved them
*Chauvinist sasurji (father in law) *patriarch sasu ma (mother in law) *dispassionate husband *feminist domestic help *enthusiastic neighbors prying into family matters and providing unwelcomed advice. and *the confused protagonist juggling in between them.
I really loved the book. Starting with the cover and title, both are bewitching. The narration is lucid and the book can be read by even the beginners. It kept me on the hook. I could not keep it down before finishing it. Its funny and sarcastic, but not overdone. . It has plenty of endearing moments like when the protagonist, Arpita calls her mother in law as 'ma'. The author's expressive writing, humour and engaging storytelling makes it an unputdownable book. . Being an easy read, its just outstanding. The way it starts from feminism and ends on familism. I loved Arpita's candour. . Comprising of 35 chapters it describes the life of a married woman and her struggles in a very detailed manner. In a nutshell, the book is laced with subtle humor. If you’re on the fence about whether this one would be a fit for your library, go ahead and jump that fence! I highly recommend reading (and owning) this!
The book is damn amazing. As i started reading the book i cant takes my eyes off. My stomach starting aching so much that i can't explain. Bt i really enjoyed reading the book till the last word. The book is divided into chapters and all the chapters are short and superb.The story is about a bengali woman who is married and is confused with her married life. The book has touched many topics in a full comedy way. The author had very well explained the struggle of a newly married women in a very real manner. Many at a part of the book i get really attached. The characters of the book are well explained. The book is totally imaginary. It was like watching a comedy movie with a reality. The cover is beautiful and the title is perfect.
Mrs. Basu's uncensored familism- Chirasree Bose🌺 Do we sometimes focus so much on being good than being right?? Mrs. Basu is the daughter-in-law of basu family who questions the unfair norms and practices of Indian society that cherish family's name above family. She present to us the moments in her married family life with Wit and humour. A little voice of her head keeps interuppting and questioning the things and beliefs she follow. The sweet and sour relationship of mother-in-law and daughter-in-law is displayed beautifully in the story. This book inspire us to value the needs of every family member and In case of problems, we must support each other without judgement. The author manages to give us a very valuable message with humour and fun. I totally recommend this book..💞♥️ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is my second book of humor genre, and I enjoyed every bit of it. I love that the book touches on the topic feminism and familism. Mrs. Arpita Basu is newly married, and she narrates in the book how her life takes a 360-degree turn. She had an arranged marriage to an ex NRI. She has to deal with her husband, who is unfaithful, and her mother-in-law. Arpita describes her family in a humorous way. The author did an amazing job of writing a book that deals with social issues like patriarchy, chauvinism, but in a witty way. This book will make your stomach churn with laughter. The characters and the plot are well developed without any loopholes. It is a light-hearted book and recommended for all.
Story revolves around Mrs Arpita Basu, a 23 yr old woman who is forced to marry Akaash, a guy who doesn't even love her. But Arpita also has a mother-in-law to worry about who contastly keeps testing and troubling her. The story discusses the familism one woman faces when she has to leave her job, her hobbies, her choices for no good. What does she gets on other hand? A family who keep degrading her and not treating her as their own. A husband who doesn't loves. But arpita is above every thing than that... The story tells her story of her contribution to end this all. I enjoyed it as a one time read. But this isn't my genre tbh...
3.5 stars It was a fun read, but it always talks about some serious issues. I love Arpita's internal monologues, they were funny. Few of the plot twists were predictable
This book is totally worth to read. It is very well written and I loved it. The story is about Mrs. Basu, newly married woman, and her situations while balancing various relationships. It is very well written and quite humorous. The best part is the climax to me. It shows us a very important perspective which is required to be seen and accepted in today's life when there is huge societal influence. I would recommend this book to everyone.
The cover and the title of the book is totally apt to the content.The plot of the story is interesting and entertaining. It is a perfect blend of family drama, humour and sarcasm.The author has amazingly narrated Bengali household setup, drama of mother in law and sister in law, cartoon type maid and funny father in law.The book also highlights on the subjects like feminism, familism, social non acceptance, homosexuality, dowry etc in a humorous way.She has described the adjustment of a bride in Indian family very nicely.The book is divided into 35 chapters which is readers friendly.The language is simple and witty.The characters are well developed and described by the author that they seems to be filmy yet realistic. The flow of the book is well paced and climax is unexpected.Overall, a humorous read with a good message. Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recommend this book to all.
I generally look at the title and skim through the blurb to see what its about. I don't read blurb much because I want to be surprised. Thus, When I picked this book up, I expected some humourous accounts of a housewife dealing with her (not-so) perfect family.
But, Like I wanted to, I ended up being surprised! The book was humorous, but in a completely different way. The narration was so intriguing it kept me on my toes until I finished it. It is filled with clever observations and humor, whilst dealing with serious topics like Feminism and Homosexuality.
The book also shows us the importance of a family, rather than just an image of it. The ending felt a little bit dragged to me, and I lost a little interest until the very end. Still, the book turned out to be way better than my expectations. Must read 💖
Believe it or not, but often you can really cope up with the family drama without falling apart. And even more than that, you can turn conflict into a productive conversation ,that results in the family effectively dealing with the issues at hand. Really! It’s not magic. If you are dealing with a toxic family member,don't worry. You can always find a way to set healthy boundaries to deal with toxicity. A humorous family drama about a Bengali household. This is a story of Arpita Basu newly married with Akash Basu, adjusting herself in a new habitat in all possible ways where her mother-in-law doesn't leave any opportunity to poke her. The story is very natural and organic but the way author hascnarrated it is very creative. This is a full-fledged family drama about 'Miss Basu's Uncensored Family'. An entertaining and light read that would bring a smile on your face. A hilarious story telling the funny incidents and struggles of a bride in a new family. Apart from fun this story is a satricial sketch of how a new bride has to adapt with her husband and his entire family. Somewhere unconnected but the characters are funny.
The language is lucid and the book is divided into small chapters. Recommended.
Book name - Mrs. Basu's Uncensored Familism Author - Chirasree Bose Ratings - 4.5⭐
After so long I got to read something tale. The title perfectly suits the theme and cover is very attractive. Its a family drama full of fun and joy. The writing style is brilliant, Author has done wonderful job. The story is about a newly Bengali bride, its been 6 months passed of her marriage but she is still confused with her new Life and Family. The language was witty yet simple. I like the way how Author end up conveying the message beautifully in a Funny way. The author has shown the character so real that you can feel connected with it. With the touch of Bengali it makes the book an amazing read.
Just read “Mrs basu’s uncensored familism” written by chirasree bose . The story revolves around basu family where the protogonist, Arpita basu is newly married bahu of this family, and just started to adjust in her new life. The book is all about indian family issues and orthodox families. This book is filled with sarcasm and hilarious incidents. Funny and dramatic!!! I loved the start of the book where malti, the caretaker of arpita’s father-in-law, describes the word PHAA-MI-NI-JAM. The language is understandable. I loved the cover of the book, it’s quite sensible as you go through the story I would give it 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
Ratings 4.8/5 Arpita is a young newlywed, trying hard to be an ideal wife as well as daughter-in-law. In her bid to please everyone, right from the members of her old family to her new family, she has forgotten her own happiness and there’s a constant battle of words between her heart and mind, which is brought out hilariously in this relatable drama, especially for Indian women. Does Arpita win the battle between her heart and mind? Read this book to find out.
What I liked about the book: —> It taught me the word ‘Familism’ ( which somehow reminded me constantly of Big B’s dialogue from Mohabbatein ; ‘Parampara, Prathishta aur Anushashan’) —> The cheeky and relatable humorous anecdotes. —> The first person narrative which makes the whole story very personal and inclusive. —> The conversations between Arpita’s head and mind, which are not only funny but also make us reflect on our own internal struggles where we do things just because they’re labelled as ‘Right’ even when our mind says it’s not logical or that we should question it. —> Malti’s (the house-help) character and her wit and wisdom (I think I liked her even more than the protagonist Arpita) —> Rightly points out that being broad minded, knowing what is right and wrong, or being a feminist has nothing to do with one’s caste, class or even education. —> The buildup to Arpita’s past and how it connects to her present, also explaining why she makes certain decisions and behaves in a certain way in her current life. —> The whole Billu Babaji episode and how Arpita stands up against the atrocity of so called pretentious Godmen in our country. —> Never bitterly or blatantly belittles any relationship or the way the Indian society functions (for instance Arpita’s animosity towards her mother-in-law or how Arpita explains to Maddy in the climax scene that we shouldn’t blame the country for our choices and inability to speak up) —> Arpita’s turnover and character development from a mute spectator or a no-nonsense woman.
What I did not like about the book: —> Akash’s secret was kind of predictable midway (this might be because I’ve read so many books) —> Certain scenes felt confusing and required more finesse.
Quotable quotes: —> It’s not about how men are served in this world? It’s about how we are. The treatment need not be equal; it only ought to be fair. And, if it is not, we should have the courage to say no. Do we? Do I? —> Family - it promises nothing but teeny-weeny moments. The moments wherein your people including you are not faking happiness. Neither are you searching for it. —> Before alleging men for being unfair, do we even reflect on where this pretentiousness is rooted in? —> How many women, irrespective of class, religion, and educational qualification, in our country get a say in family planning? —> Hope is always there, but its presence doesn’t change the truth.
The journey of Ms. Arpita Gupta into becoming Mrs Arpita Basu, and then residing in her in-law’s home which she calls a ‘monster’s den’ is unconventional yet has its seeds sown deep into familiarity. Arpita is a hilarious character—but she’s always ready to adjust and adapt to change. She calls her husband ‘a guava-head’, her mother-in-law as ‘red-eyed monster’…whereas she herself feels that she is a ‘chudail’ (a.k.a evil witch) to her husband’s family.
The first half of the book was full of humour; some light and some nudging at deeper satirical implications. Arpita’s life in the den of her in-laws is like an adventure---she is the lead character, her mother-in-law as her stark villain, her father-in-law as impassive as a frozen statue, her husband Akaash as a character one cannot count upon in terms of weaponry and the household help Malti, who secretively supplies her with ammunitions so as to fend against the stream of words hurled by her fastidious mother-in-law. Arpita’s relationship with her husband is dry and fragmented, and they hopelessly find ways to carry forward their familial chores. But when Arpita’s dark past tugs her back into the times she wants to desperately forget, she finds that Akaash’s indifference is rooted deep into something hazy too. As the tables turn, what aspects of her close family will be exposed and what will happen of her marital haven?
The author’s writing is sometimes quite satirical; pointing fingers at the issues that still continue to threaten our society as a whole. Through her protagonist Arpita, the author manages to differentiate ‘family’ and ‘familism’ –which, according to her, is the shackle that binds most married women in the Indian social ladder. The writing style is brimming with story-telling and ‘keeping-readers-hooked-to-the-book’ kind of expertise, which indeed makes way for a very engrossing reading experience. The characterization is fantastic and so is the sequence of events that binds the plot as a whole. The suspense build-up is unhurried yet fascinating, whereas the role of the characters in the primary storyline is well-structured and balanced.
The second half of the book takes a solemn turn as Akaash’s and Arpita’s past is slowly unravelled, and it brings along complications and conflicts. The humour part slowly dies out at this stage and out emerges a more complex cauldron of emotions. But the turn of events become a bit predictable when the author introduces certain topics to steer the story towards the climax. The denouement and the ending of the book sees an able execution (not entirely unforeseen), and although not all loose ends are tied and not all conflicts are resolved---still the story promisingly concludes with a tinge of optimism and heralds a fresh beginning.
The author’s note at the end of the book says: “Value your family, the needs of each member. Problems arise and that’s normal. Talk about them, don’t hush them up. Listen, don’t question. Understand, don’t judge. Love, don’t suspect. I am sure you can afford to lose familism, not your family.”