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The Brass Notebook: A Memoir
In this no-holds-barred memoir, renowned feminist economist and academician Devaki Jain recounts her own story and also that of an entire generation and a nation coming into its own.
She begins with her childhood in south India, a life of comfort and ease with a father who served as dewan in the Princely States of Mysore and Gwalior. But there were restrictions too, that come with growing up in an orthodox Tamil Brahmin family, as well as the rarely spoken about dangers of predatory male relatives. Ruskin College, Oxford, gave her her first taste of freedom in 1955, at the age of 22. Oxford brought her a degree in philosophy and economics—as well as hardship, as she washed dishes in a cafe to pay her fees. It was here, too, that she had her early encounters with the sensual life. With rare candour, she writes of her romantic liaisons in Oxford and Harvard, and falling in love with her ‘unsuitable boy’—her husband, Lakshmi Jain, whom she married against her beloved father’s wishes.
Devaki’s professional life saw her becoming deeply involved with the cause of ‘poor’ women—workers in the informal economy, for whom she strove to get a better deal. In the international arena, she joined cause with the concerns of the colonized nations of the south, as they fought to make their voices heard against the rich and powerful nations of the former colonizers. Her work brought her into contact with world leaders and thinkers, amongst them, Vinoba Bhave, Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Henry Kissinger, Amartya Sen, Doris Lessing and Iris Murdoch, her tutor at St Anne’s College, Oxford, who became a lifelong friend.
In all these encounters and anecdotes, what shines through is Devaki Jain’s honesty in telling it like it was—with a message for women across generations, that one can experience the good, the bad and the ugly, and remain standing to tell the story.
She begins with her childhood in south India, a life of comfort and ease with a father who served as dewan in the Princely States of Mysore and Gwalior. But there were restrictions too, that come with growing up in an orthodox Tamil Brahmin family, as well as the rarely spoken about dangers of predatory male relatives. Ruskin College, Oxford, gave her her first taste of freedom in 1955, at the age of 22. Oxford brought her a degree in philosophy and economics—as well as hardship, as she washed dishes in a cafe to pay her fees. It was here, too, that she had her early encounters with the sensual life. With rare candour, she writes of her romantic liaisons in Oxford and Harvard, and falling in love with her ‘unsuitable boy’—her husband, Lakshmi Jain, whom she married against her beloved father’s wishes.
Devaki’s professional life saw her becoming deeply involved with the cause of ‘poor’ women—workers in the informal economy, for whom she strove to get a better deal. In the international arena, she joined cause with the concerns of the colonized nations of the south, as they fought to make their voices heard against the rich and powerful nations of the former colonizers. Her work brought her into contact with world leaders and thinkers, amongst them, Vinoba Bhave, Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Henry Kissinger, Amartya Sen, Doris Lessing and Iris Murdoch, her tutor at St Anne’s College, Oxford, who became a lifelong friend.
In all these encounters and anecdotes, what shines through is Devaki Jain’s honesty in telling it like it was—with a message for women across generations, that one can experience the good, the bad and the ugly, and remain standing to tell the story.
232 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2020
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About the author
Devaki Jain
22 books24 followersDevaki Jain is an economist, feminist writer, and former director of the Institute of Social Studies Trust in New Delhi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 11, 2020
There is an episode narrated by Devaki in this memoir. Devaki's father, a Tamil Brahmin who works as a high profile official in the State of Mysore, comes home after a golf match. Her mom mixes him a glass of whiskey. Both of them have it and talk about their day. Her father has worked with various British Raj officials, kings and has published his memoir too. He is modern, but he still says things like, "My daughter is dead for me" for marrying a North Indian Jain.
Devaki writes about her horse riding experience as a child and going to safari in various national parks. She travels to England with her father, who was in the board of Air India. She hitchhikes across Europe wearing a sari. She enrolls herself in Oxford, eats beef, works in a restaurant, drinks beer to socialize. But when she wants to marry Lakshmi Chand Jain, she seeks her family's approval. Her life is full of privilege. But privilege doesn't make your life easy. You still fight other battles.
I had no clue about Devaki before reading this book. The stunningly beautiful and the authentic smile on the cover made me read the book. Yes, I sometimes judge a book by its cover. (Also, Tyler Cowen had mentioned in his blog about this economist's memoir). The title, "The Brass Notebook" is inspired by Doris Lessing's memoir "The Golden Notebook". Devaki says her life story is apt with pittalai (brass), a sturdy, and a popular metal used in the South Indian kitchens.
Devaki has led a colorful, eventful life. She was rubbing shoulders with Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Amartya Sen, and many such people. What stood out for me in her book was her struggle as a woman. Managing a traumatic experience by a sexual predator in England while pursuing her studies. Transitioning her life from an aspiring economist to being a stay at home mom to take care of her newborns. Then flourishing in her career as well as her relationship with her husband.
I found this memoir to be authentic, poignant, and lovely.
Devaki writes about her horse riding experience as a child and going to safari in various national parks. She travels to England with her father, who was in the board of Air India. She hitchhikes across Europe wearing a sari. She enrolls herself in Oxford, eats beef, works in a restaurant, drinks beer to socialize. But when she wants to marry Lakshmi Chand Jain, she seeks her family's approval. Her life is full of privilege. But privilege doesn't make your life easy. You still fight other battles.
I had no clue about Devaki before reading this book. The stunningly beautiful and the authentic smile on the cover made me read the book. Yes, I sometimes judge a book by its cover. (Also, Tyler Cowen had mentioned in his blog about this economist's memoir). The title, "The Brass Notebook" is inspired by Doris Lessing's memoir "The Golden Notebook". Devaki says her life story is apt with pittalai (brass), a sturdy, and a popular metal used in the South Indian kitchens.
Devaki has led a colorful, eventful life. She was rubbing shoulders with Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Amartya Sen, and many such people. What stood out for me in her book was her struggle as a woman. Managing a traumatic experience by a sexual predator in England while pursuing her studies. Transitioning her life from an aspiring economist to being a stay at home mom to take care of her newborns. Then flourishing in her career as well as her relationship with her husband.
I found this memoir to be authentic, poignant, and lovely.
January 22, 2022
It was my first foray into reading a memoir. The flawless writing, as well as Devaki Jain's extraordinary life, kept me completely engrossed throughout. Her perspective on life events was realistically depicted, making it relatable and inspiring.
October 8, 2024
This is a book I could relate to at so many levels. The author's parents reminded me of my grandparents. Her mother's summary of her life - "I am a lucky person" - could have been my own grandmother. That dragged me in, and once in, I couldn't escape.
The most remarkable part of the book is the candor with which she talks of things- of how even in her rather conservative family, child sexual abuse was swept under the carpet. Of her many romantic liaisons most of which were never going to become serious. And of how she ended up eloping with her one true love, who her family refused to accept. A lot of names that are familiar to us make an appearance, not all of them flattering- you can't help but be charmed by her honesty while talking about them.
Devaki Jain's work was something I could relate to and loved reading about. She was a pioneer in studying development economics as it applies to women, and the book traced the evolution of gender economics in India.
This is a book I would recommend to anyone who is interesting in the early days of feminism in the country, anyone who wants a better understanding of how development economics work in India, and anyone who just wants to read the memoirs of a person who doesn't take herself too seriously.
The most remarkable part of the book is the candor with which she talks of things- of how even in her rather conservative family, child sexual abuse was swept under the carpet. Of her many romantic liaisons most of which were never going to become serious. And of how she ended up eloping with her one true love, who her family refused to accept. A lot of names that are familiar to us make an appearance, not all of them flattering- you can't help but be charmed by her honesty while talking about them.
Devaki Jain's work was something I could relate to and loved reading about. She was a pioneer in studying development economics as it applies to women, and the book traced the evolution of gender economics in India.
This is a book I would recommend to anyone who is interesting in the early days of feminism in the country, anyone who wants a better understanding of how development economics work in India, and anyone who just wants to read the memoirs of a person who doesn't take herself too seriously.
February 9, 2022
The last ¼th of this book was interesting but everything else was boring and pointless.
February 14, 2025
Devaki Jain’s The Brass Notebook is a memoir that traces her journey as an economist and feminist writer, deeply involved in social development, particularly women's causes. The book is structured into six sections, following a roughly chronological order from her privileged childhood—her father being a high-ranking state officer in Mysore—to her years at Oxford, where she encountered influential figures who shaped her thinking.
Unlike many memoirs, this one is not self-congratulatory. Jain candidly reflects on her struggles as an Indian woman in post-independence India, striving to be taken seriously as a professional. She writes openly about her sexuality and personal life, unflinchingly recounting traumatic experiences with predators within her family and academic circles—events that profoundly impacted her and nearly derailed her studies. Her resilience and honesty stand out in these sections, as does her courage in speaking about difficult moments.
She also discusses the challenges of marriage and motherhood, raising two sons while pursuing a demanding career. Despite having a supportive husband, balancing personal and professional life was not without its difficulties. Later in the memoir, she reflects on her professional achievements and regrets, particularly regarding the impact she could have had within the institutions she worked with. Jain comes across as fiercely independent, hard-working, and possessing a rebellious streak that drove her to leave a mark on society.
Towards the end, she writes about the loss of her mother and husband, conveying the deep grief and helplessness she felt in those moments. Throughout the book, her habit of journaling serves as both a narrative thread and a source of self-reflection, with frequent excerpts adding depth to her storytelling. This practice, in itself, is remarkable.
The Brass Notebook is an introspective and deeply personal account of a life shaped by conviction, struggle, and resilience—an honest memoir of a life well lived.
Unlike many memoirs, this one is not self-congratulatory. Jain candidly reflects on her struggles as an Indian woman in post-independence India, striving to be taken seriously as a professional. She writes openly about her sexuality and personal life, unflinchingly recounting traumatic experiences with predators within her family and academic circles—events that profoundly impacted her and nearly derailed her studies. Her resilience and honesty stand out in these sections, as does her courage in speaking about difficult moments.
She also discusses the challenges of marriage and motherhood, raising two sons while pursuing a demanding career. Despite having a supportive husband, balancing personal and professional life was not without its difficulties. Later in the memoir, she reflects on her professional achievements and regrets, particularly regarding the impact she could have had within the institutions she worked with. Jain comes across as fiercely independent, hard-working, and possessing a rebellious streak that drove her to leave a mark on society.
Towards the end, she writes about the loss of her mother and husband, conveying the deep grief and helplessness she felt in those moments. Throughout the book, her habit of journaling serves as both a narrative thread and a source of self-reflection, with frequent excerpts adding depth to her storytelling. This practice, in itself, is remarkable.
The Brass Notebook is an introspective and deeply personal account of a life shaped by conviction, struggle, and resilience—an honest memoir of a life well lived.
October 26, 2020
Reads like an honest account, simply delivered. In this simplicity lay profound insights, fluidly presented. Till part 6 of the book, I felt that she belonged to another world, privileged and cocooned from a thousand realities of women in India. The transformation, when it comes, integrates and builds on her connections and experiences earned throughout life, so the life is not in parts, only the book is. Much food for thought, and respect for this wonderful womanist.
July 23, 2021
It is a good one. The GR blurb does a better job of describing what it is all about than what I could end up doing :)
Rating: 4.5 stars
Rating: 4.5 stars
Read
May 8, 2021i feel weird rating this cus its a memoir???
but anyway
read it.
it is fantastic
and I say this as someone who actively avoids non-fic, recommended or not
it is accessible and so readable
her writing is simple without cutting any corners and so so interesting
it's insightful and vast in what it covers
I easily could've read this in one or two sittings if I wanted
fascinating and made me think about so many things (such a horrible sentence, so vague and gross but dhgj)
but anyway
read it.
it is fantastic
and I say this as someone who actively avoids non-fic, recommended or not
it is accessible and so readable
her writing is simple without cutting any corners and so so interesting
it's insightful and vast in what it covers
I easily could've read this in one or two sittings if I wanted
fascinating and made me think about so many things (such a horrible sentence, so vague and gross but dhgj)
March 19, 2021
For Devaki Jain, a lady with such acclaimed credentials, The Brass Notebook, unfortunately, does not work in her favour. She has a great story to tell. But something seems amiss, the tone and the presentation. And for this, I feel her editor must take a large part of the blame.
We have a list of all that she pursued. The places she travelled to. The people in high places she met. But what was the outcome? How did her research get transformed for the benefit of the common man for whom she claims to be working? What policy changes, if any, did it bring about? The book provides no answers. Devaki Jain failed to form an emotional connect even when she mentions personal experiences when people close to her break their trust in her. I had a tough time completing it.
We have a list of all that she pursued. The places she travelled to. The people in high places she met. But what was the outcome? How did her research get transformed for the benefit of the common man for whom she claims to be working? What policy changes, if any, did it bring about? The book provides no answers. Devaki Jain failed to form an emotional connect even when she mentions personal experiences when people close to her break their trust in her. I had a tough time completing it.
June 29, 2024
Really good. Such an unconventional woman. Written with such honesty, so refreshing and inspiring!
December 2, 2023
Author seems to have had loads of luck and the right opportunities….privileged background, connections, access to people in power etc etc. Some incongruities e.g. not being able to speak in Kannada, but only English….*parents allowing her to travel on her own in Europe, but throwing her out for marrying out of caste…etc etc
*Nine yards saree clad lady drinking whisky and soda and not wanting religious rites….image that suggests very ‘progressive’ parents…not consistent with fuss made on choice of spouse
As a memoir not all that well written in my view
*Nine yards saree clad lady drinking whisky and soda and not wanting religious rites….image that suggests very ‘progressive’ parents…not consistent with fuss made on choice of spouse
As a memoir not all that well written in my view
April 3, 2021
The autobiography of a feminist and development activist who also was the Economics Teacher at Miranda House in the early stages of her career. The author, a Tamilian from Bangalore married to a North Indian, narrates about her life from childhood till date including how she blazed her trail despite the restrictive environment of the society across the year with help and support from family and even on her own. She is also the mother of the NDTV presenter Sreenivasan Jain.
December 7, 2020
The Brass Notebook : A Memoir by Prof. Devaki Jain
Publisher: Speaking Tiger
Price: Rs. 599
Prof. Jain is an icon and inspiration to millions of young people. She led an exemplary and remarkable life. I met Prof. Devaki Jain last year during a book launch at Nehru Memorial Library and we had a good conversation which was an opportunity of a lifetime for me. She has been a Gandhian and a leading thinker of our times. The title of the book is inspired by Doris Lessing’s The Golden Notebook. Though a forward by Nobel laureate Amartya Sen has said a lot about the amazing accomplishments of Padma Bhushan Prof. Jain, this memoir is a collection of anecdotes from her life. In India, unfortunately, women are considered as the weaker sex and are often discouraged to achieve more in life, in the truest sense, Devaki Jain broke that glass ceiling. She met and worked with people who are global icons like Nelson Mandela, Julius Nyerere, and Desmond Tutu and it was amazing to see images in the book itself. She as a Professor at Miranda House and as a global leader has done pioneering work in giving shape to the women’s movement in India.
During my conversation with Devaki Jain last year, we talked about the state of the Indian economy and how the Gandhian economy might come to the rescue and she also mentioned her meetings with the then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. She is as she mentions, the before midnight’s children who were born in the 1930s and were young adults in the 1950s, the formative years of the Indian republic. Married to a Gandhian activist and writer LC Jain, Devaki’s 200-page long memoir tells us the story of how a South Indian feminist traveled across the globe and worked closely at the grassroots levels. An interesting anecdote from Jain’s childhood is the Conversation her father had with Gandhiji, a day before Gandhiji was assassinated. This memoir is undoubted, an enjoyable read, and an inspiring one about an icon who achieved a lot in her remarkable life and made her own space in a patriarchal society. I will always cherish my conversation with Prof. Devaki Jain, as well as this beautiful memoir.
Publisher: Speaking Tiger
Price: Rs. 599
Prof. Jain is an icon and inspiration to millions of young people. She led an exemplary and remarkable life. I met Prof. Devaki Jain last year during a book launch at Nehru Memorial Library and we had a good conversation which was an opportunity of a lifetime for me. She has been a Gandhian and a leading thinker of our times. The title of the book is inspired by Doris Lessing’s The Golden Notebook. Though a forward by Nobel laureate Amartya Sen has said a lot about the amazing accomplishments of Padma Bhushan Prof. Jain, this memoir is a collection of anecdotes from her life. In India, unfortunately, women are considered as the weaker sex and are often discouraged to achieve more in life, in the truest sense, Devaki Jain broke that glass ceiling. She met and worked with people who are global icons like Nelson Mandela, Julius Nyerere, and Desmond Tutu and it was amazing to see images in the book itself. She as a Professor at Miranda House and as a global leader has done pioneering work in giving shape to the women’s movement in India.
During my conversation with Devaki Jain last year, we talked about the state of the Indian economy and how the Gandhian economy might come to the rescue and she also mentioned her meetings with the then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. She is as she mentions, the before midnight’s children who were born in the 1930s and were young adults in the 1950s, the formative years of the Indian republic. Married to a Gandhian activist and writer LC Jain, Devaki’s 200-page long memoir tells us the story of how a South Indian feminist traveled across the globe and worked closely at the grassroots levels. An interesting anecdote from Jain’s childhood is the Conversation her father had with Gandhiji, a day before Gandhiji was assassinated. This memoir is undoubted, an enjoyable read, and an inspiring one about an icon who achieved a lot in her remarkable life and made her own space in a patriarchal society. I will always cherish my conversation with Prof. Devaki Jain, as well as this beautiful memoir.
January 13, 2021
Devaki Jain’s memoir deserves a read from the young generation of today, not because its heavily encouraging, massive and bright—but because there is an absolute honesty in the pages, the quality of being at sync with life, and separating accolades from satisfaction.
Ms. Devaki’s life initially seems to be laden with timely privileges, ripe opportunities and sheer merit being put to play. But what is not seen almost immediately, is that her life is perhaps many lives at once, with plurality being in harmony but also with a strong will and stark individualism. She goes on to champion the causes of many, pioneering in the field of not only education, but also humanitarian fronts like women rights, liberty and equality.
In ‘The Brass Notebook’ Ms. Devaki narrates her story, of how gets the taste of independence, of how she applies her foreign education to work at the grassroot level in India—for poverty, for women, for children. She talks of her exposure to the Gandhian ways and also the pages of time which made her acquainted with personalities like Amartya Sen, Nelson Mandela and Vinoba Bhave to name a few. Her story is severely marked by a fearless spirit, frank confidence and a very straightforward approach to face life squarely.
An economist and a social activist, Ms. Devaki’s academic orientation is luminous and her experience is par excellence. What makes her story special are the applications of these subjects for humane causes, of working for her homeland India—and not letting the subject knowledge remain in pieces of paper certificates. Her life is an epitome of the fact that determination can be sustained all throughout without relent, and when done with love and passion, working for others is forever an enriching experience.
‘The Brass Notebook’ has filled me with a sense of pride, awe and confidence, that makes me believe that if we want to work, there is no scarcity of ways. This is the life of a woman who took fame and recognition quite frankly, but never chopping off her roots, or sacrificing her core values. It is fluid, inspiring and vigorously motivating.
Thanks Speaking Tiger for the review copy.
Ms. Devaki’s life initially seems to be laden with timely privileges, ripe opportunities and sheer merit being put to play. But what is not seen almost immediately, is that her life is perhaps many lives at once, with plurality being in harmony but also with a strong will and stark individualism. She goes on to champion the causes of many, pioneering in the field of not only education, but also humanitarian fronts like women rights, liberty and equality.
In ‘The Brass Notebook’ Ms. Devaki narrates her story, of how gets the taste of independence, of how she applies her foreign education to work at the grassroot level in India—for poverty, for women, for children. She talks of her exposure to the Gandhian ways and also the pages of time which made her acquainted with personalities like Amartya Sen, Nelson Mandela and Vinoba Bhave to name a few. Her story is severely marked by a fearless spirit, frank confidence and a very straightforward approach to face life squarely.
An economist and a social activist, Ms. Devaki’s academic orientation is luminous and her experience is par excellence. What makes her story special are the applications of these subjects for humane causes, of working for her homeland India—and not letting the subject knowledge remain in pieces of paper certificates. Her life is an epitome of the fact that determination can be sustained all throughout without relent, and when done with love and passion, working for others is forever an enriching experience.
‘The Brass Notebook’ has filled me with a sense of pride, awe and confidence, that makes me believe that if we want to work, there is no scarcity of ways. This is the life of a woman who took fame and recognition quite frankly, but never chopping off her roots, or sacrificing her core values. It is fluid, inspiring and vigorously motivating.
Thanks Speaking Tiger for the review copy.
November 13, 2021
“Brass is a hardier, homelier metal than gold. It represents not perfection or unity, but an honourable imperfection consistent with my own limits. It seemed more appropriate as the receptacle for my story” says Mrs Jain explaining the reason behind naming this book which she was inspired from Anna Wulf's memoir 'The Golden Note book' . Reading this at the age of sixteen she had decided to pen hers own sometime one day.
Devaki Jain , an eminent personality in the Indian & world economic arena writes her mighty memoir talking about her parents , childhood , education , career , travelogues, her romantic encounters , love of her life whom she had married & dearly calls Lakshmi ( Lakshmi Jain) in a gullible fashion.
Doting daughter of Deewan of Mysore & later Gwalior, outcasted for marrying a person from two steps below the caste hierarchy, discusses ruptures in her pre & post marital life ; recounts her traumatic post partum after two child births & outbursts of detest & contempt she had undergone then.
Flipping from her personal to professional recitings, she gives a reader oodles of information introducing us to many great personalities explaining their fortes in shorts. I realized how women were deprived from minimal credit facilities untill few decades ago & how Indian statiscal & fiscal system had ignored outrightly a woman's stance while arriving at a consensus.
She had authored & coined many economic aids at freehand exclusively for women. Thereby labelling herself as a 'feminist economist' she lectures financial equality should be on par with gender equality to the woman of a household. She contributed many articles & designed various programmes for the upliftment of economic status of women in southern continents especially colonised countries as a whole.
Her prose is amiable.
Her knowledge is substantial.
Her achievements are aplenty.
Her skills are exceptional.
Her endeavours are fruitious.
Her acquaintances are venerable.
Her friendships are precious.
And not dare to miss , look at the cover!
Her smile is infectious.
Devaki Jain , an eminent personality in the Indian & world economic arena writes her mighty memoir talking about her parents , childhood , education , career , travelogues, her romantic encounters , love of her life whom she had married & dearly calls Lakshmi ( Lakshmi Jain) in a gullible fashion.
Doting daughter of Deewan of Mysore & later Gwalior, outcasted for marrying a person from two steps below the caste hierarchy, discusses ruptures in her pre & post marital life ; recounts her traumatic post partum after two child births & outbursts of detest & contempt she had undergone then.
Flipping from her personal to professional recitings, she gives a reader oodles of information introducing us to many great personalities explaining their fortes in shorts. I realized how women were deprived from minimal credit facilities untill few decades ago & how Indian statiscal & fiscal system had ignored outrightly a woman's stance while arriving at a consensus.
She had authored & coined many economic aids at freehand exclusively for women. Thereby labelling herself as a 'feminist economist' she lectures financial equality should be on par with gender equality to the woman of a household. She contributed many articles & designed various programmes for the upliftment of economic status of women in southern continents especially colonised countries as a whole.
Her prose is amiable.
Her knowledge is substantial.
Her achievements are aplenty.
Her skills are exceptional.
Her endeavours are fruitious.
Her acquaintances are venerable.
Her friendships are precious.
And not dare to miss , look at the cover!
Her smile is infectious.
January 6, 2021
This was quite a fascinating read! As someone who is interested in historical fiction just before and after Independence, Devaki Jain's life as the daughter of a minister in the Mysore state was interesting to read from her love of horse riding to her introduction to anti-colonial thought while still a student in a convent school. In particular, I could relate to some of her experiences, both as woman in economics and having studied in England. The last few chapters were the most exciting where she details her work in feminist economics and how she went about challenging the neoclassical notion of single household in economics. Additionally, she writes about her time as a member of the South Commission, a body set up to help frame policies better suited for the Global South. Furthermore, she dedicates a chapter to her time in South Africa when her husband, Lakshmi Jain served as the Indian High Commissioner.
She also details about a experience she had with a senior economist who is indirectly hinted to be Gunnar Myrdal, a Nobel prize winner. She describes the trauma the incident caused her and the imposter syndrome like state it placed her in.
There are also anecdotes of her friendships with other academics such as Amartya Sen, KN Raj, Gloria Steinem and others. Another relevant aspect of the book is when she relates her frustration of not being able to actively take part in economic research because of having to take care of her children. She also writes about her marriage to Lakshmi Jain which was looked down upon initially by her family since it was an intercaste marriage and the impact being isolated from her family had on her. Finally, there is a fun anecdote about she and some friends taking a road trip across Europe in Range Rover.
I also find it interesting that people could get into Oxford then by just going and talking to a handful of professors. Seems much easier then the graduate application process today!
She also details about a experience she had with a senior economist who is indirectly hinted to be Gunnar Myrdal, a Nobel prize winner. She describes the trauma the incident caused her and the imposter syndrome like state it placed her in.
There are also anecdotes of her friendships with other academics such as Amartya Sen, KN Raj, Gloria Steinem and others. Another relevant aspect of the book is when she relates her frustration of not being able to actively take part in economic research because of having to take care of her children. She also writes about her marriage to Lakshmi Jain which was looked down upon initially by her family since it was an intercaste marriage and the impact being isolated from her family had on her. Finally, there is a fun anecdote about she and some friends taking a road trip across Europe in Range Rover.
I also find it interesting that people could get into Oxford then by just going and talking to a handful of professors. Seems much easier then the graduate application process today!
February 20, 2022
What an extraordinary and inspiring story of India's one of the prominent economists. Honestly, I have never heard her name before reading the book. But once I started reading the first chapter, I was hooked. I literally did in-depth research on the work, life and philosophy of this beautiful, daring woman. Her life story was so unique and immensely inspiring that sometimes it made me think that probably I am reading a Bollywood script-it was so dramatic and full of unbelievable turns.
In particular, I absolutely loved the part of her life when she hitchhiked from Germany to the United Kingdom in a saree. How graceful she looked! Also, the one where she drove with her friends in a Land Rover from London to New Delhi via Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan- something which is completely unimaginable today.
Her entire career in raising a voice on behalf of the precarious situation of women from the Global South, particularly India and South Africa, was very motivating. Her academic and on-field contributions are truly commendable. The fact that she could travel so many countries in the Global South and almost all of India owing to the nature of her work was simply amazing.
The other part that hit home was the chapter where she writes about the sexual harassment she faced while working abroad, in India, and even during childhood. I deeply admire the way she dealt with the topic and, through her own experience, put across an essential and, unfortunately, a pretty relevant subject even today for the readers to get acquainted.
In particular, I absolutely loved the part of her life when she hitchhiked from Germany to the United Kingdom in a saree. How graceful she looked! Also, the one where she drove with her friends in a Land Rover from London to New Delhi via Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan- something which is completely unimaginable today.
Her entire career in raising a voice on behalf of the precarious situation of women from the Global South, particularly India and South Africa, was very motivating. Her academic and on-field contributions are truly commendable. The fact that she could travel so many countries in the Global South and almost all of India owing to the nature of her work was simply amazing.
The other part that hit home was the chapter where she writes about the sexual harassment she faced while working abroad, in India, and even during childhood. I deeply admire the way she dealt with the topic and, through her own experience, put across an essential and, unfortunately, a pretty relevant subject even today for the readers to get acquainted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
This book was not what I expected it to be. I was not familiar with the author, and this was my introduction to her.
The chapters/ sections are not necessarily arranged in chronological order. They follow a more thematic approach, going back and forth in time to fill in the gaps. The time and places that the author describes are hard to imagine. Her life was different from that of her parents before her and some of her own siblings. There are even a few photographs in between to give us a look at the people she mentions.
I think I did not expect as much frankness as I got from the book about some of the thoughts and experiences of the author.
This book talks of a time that straddled the before and after the independence of my own country and it seemed strange to see it look almost familiar to me.
I would definitely recommend it to people who find the blurb interesting.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
The chapters/ sections are not necessarily arranged in chronological order. They follow a more thematic approach, going back and forth in time to fill in the gaps. The time and places that the author describes are hard to imagine. Her life was different from that of her parents before her and some of her own siblings. There are even a few photographs in between to give us a look at the people she mentions.
I think I did not expect as much frankness as I got from the book about some of the thoughts and experiences of the author.
This book talks of a time that straddled the before and after the independence of my own country and it seemed strange to see it look almost familiar to me.
I would definitely recommend it to people who find the blurb interesting.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
May 31, 2024
I was very intrigued by the blurbs by heavyweights across fields of endeavour. But the book is extremely disappointing. It is merely a stringing together of events which borders on name-dropping, with very little insight into the person. Admittedly, she has been a path breaker in many ways, but her facile presentation robs the narrative of depth. Her relationships seem transactional, her intellectual prowess and contribution to society just do not come through. Reading this became wearying and I could not make it through to the end.
December 12, 2023
Reading a memoir consciously for the first time, meaning may have read a memoir but was not aware it was one. It is a quick read and in very simple language. The author has also been vulnerable and written about some very personal things. And while I mention the simple language as a plus point, I wonder if that is the reason for my low rating :-)
January 31, 2024
Lots of incredible accomplishments, but in some places I felt like she blew over some things with out given them enough weight. For example, before she could marry her husband she had 2 abortions! In India in the lat 50s! That could not have been easy, but it was just mentioned as fact, no emotion, no sense how that was even possible in sucha conservative society.
November 26, 2020
The Brass notebook is the memoir of an extraordinary woman, who made a significant contribution in the fight for equality for women. She worked tirelessly to improve the lot poor women, the world over. It's written in a simple narrative style. I loved the book. I strongly recommend the book.
June 21, 2021
Devaki Jain is a torchbearer in feminist economics whose memoir captures the fire that has lit the way for many in her footsteps. Between captivating coming-of-age vignettes and a legendary cast of pioneers who shaped Devaki throughout her career, this book was a pleasure to read.
March 14, 2023
Really enjoyed learning about Devaki Jain's remarkable story and journey as a feminist. I'd recommend this book to anyone interested in women's/human's rights, her story is inspiring. The book was well-written and read easily for that reason.
August 24, 2021
Simple. Candid. Riveting.
January 23, 2024
Average memoir for a non-average leader.
January 3, 2024
A woman ahead of her times, Devaki Jain chose to chart an independent path in an era when women were confined to their homes. She certainly deserves more fame that she currently enjoys.
While this is a good read, giving the reader a view of how Devaki used her privilege to forge an interesting life, even a new brand of economics, I couldn't help feeling that this memoir could have been much more that it is. There is so much of fame by association, but too little about her work. Is it a tendency of women to downplay their professional life and exaggerate the impact of other people on their lives? I came away wishing there was more in this about the accomplishments of Devaki the economist
While this is a good read, giving the reader a view of how Devaki used her privilege to forge an interesting life, even a new brand of economics, I couldn't help feeling that this memoir could have been much more that it is. There is so much of fame by association, but too little about her work. Is it a tendency of women to downplay their professional life and exaggerate the impact of other people on their lives? I came away wishing there was more in this about the accomplishments of Devaki the economist
July 9, 2021
What an incredibly incredible book! The book traces the life trajectory of Devaki Jain, an economist who worked for the cause of women and colonized nations of global south. Her work brought her into contact with Nelson Mandela, Vinoba Bhave, Amartya Sen and many more world leaders and thinkers. The book goes well beyond her professional achievements and delves into her early life experiences that shaped her into the person she is today.
It's a book worth reading; a life story worth knowing and learning about.
It's a book worth reading; a life story worth knowing and learning about.
October 5, 2021
I read this one in less than a day .. a powerful and inspiring memoir .. I really enjoyed reading it .. for multiple reasons:
-It was an honest and sincere account
-Some of the content reminded me of my MBA days at IRMA: two different fieldwork segments - one in affluent Baroda and one in drought stricken Bikaner
-It reminded me of the elective Gender Studies related courses that I opted for and unfortunately the situation for women workforce (especially the informal sector) has still not changed considerably in the last 20 years
-I also enjoyed reading this book because it talks about the India of 1950s to 1980s maybe 1990s too .. which in my opinion was way more intellectual and progressive than the current India .. I think my parents generation was much more open minded (mostly) than my own generation as parents .. I know a lot of people would not like this statement .. please do not waste your time in counter statements .. I don’t intend to debate .. this is my personal opinion .. let’s agree to disagree and move on 🙏
-It was an honest and sincere account
-Some of the content reminded me of my MBA days at IRMA: two different fieldwork segments - one in affluent Baroda and one in drought stricken Bikaner
-It reminded me of the elective Gender Studies related courses that I opted for and unfortunately the situation for women workforce (especially the informal sector) has still not changed considerably in the last 20 years
-I also enjoyed reading this book because it talks about the India of 1950s to 1980s maybe 1990s too .. which in my opinion was way more intellectual and progressive than the current India .. I think my parents generation was much more open minded (mostly) than my own generation as parents .. I know a lot of people would not like this statement .. please do not waste your time in counter statements .. I don’t intend to debate .. this is my personal opinion .. let’s agree to disagree and move on 🙏
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