Letters to Singapore

by Kaur Kelly

Growing up in Singapore, Simran always knew what was expected of to learn how to be a good mother and wife. The only problem? Simran has no interest in any of this. After a close escape (almost at the altar!), Simran earns a reprieve to attend the University of Calgary in Canada. Letters exchanged back home to her mother, sister and friends reveal that no matter which path women take, traditional or independent, life is fraught with conflict, hilarity and peril. Simran’s experience as a brave and hopeful young woman and a new Canadian will touch your heart; her thoughtful determination to chart her own course will inspire you.

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2022

Reviews

[Gail Sherley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever wondered what it might be like to be dropped into a foreign culture and then start swimming? This book has captured it. Reading this story enabled me to see through the eyes and heart of a courageous, young woman who dares to leave her constricting culture and start a new life in western Canada. The author is witty, clever, and best of all, so real. I have new found empathy for new Canadians because I read this book. Anything that enlarges my heart (and keeps me up late reading) gets 5 stars. Well done!!

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book by this Canadian author. Each chapter is a letter to or from home, making it an easy read. That said, once I got a few chapters in I had a hard time putting the book down as I was caught up in the characters and wanted to see what wild adventures they would experience next. A beautiful and powerful way to explore the pressures and choices women of different cultures and countries experience. An inspiring book that I recommend all women read. And men too.

[Sumhitha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like that even tho it is set in the 80s the feelings of crossing cultures is similar to today. Of course, a lot has changed, and we have more freedom than they did in the book, but the underlying idea of freedom stays.

[Cindy Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most intriguing, sad, funny book I've read this year.