The Space Between Us – by Thrity Umrigar – 321 pages
Book Blurb:
Set in modern-day India, it is the story of two compelling and achingly real women: Sera Dubash, an upper-middle-class Parsi housewife whose opulent surroundings hide the shame and disappointment of her abusive marriage, and Bhima, a stoic illiterate hardened by a life of despair and loss, who has worked in the Dubash household for more than twenty years. A powerful and perceptive literary masterwork, author Thrity Umrigar’s extraordinary novel demonstrates how the lives of the rich and poor are intrinsically connected yet vastly removed from each other, and how the strong bonds of womanhood are eternally opposed by the divisions of class and culture.
My Review: 4 stars
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This is a wonderful, soulful book about two strong female characters in Bombay, India. Umrigar’s writing is top notch, filled with emotion and purpose. Her descriptions of the locales put you right in step with the characters. The title of this book was absolutely perfect as there was, and likely always will be, a space between them. This book does more than delve into the class issues in India, but also explores the gender discriminations as well. These two women shared so much of their hearts with one another…they were so close, yet so far. This book would make an excellent book club choice. Discussions about poverty, class, castes, abuse, marriage, friendship, loyalty, love and India would make interesting banter. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Quotes I Liked:
“Liquor is the kiss of the angels as well as the curse of the devil. It can conceal but also can reveal.”
-“And a mother without children is not a mother at all, and if I am not a mother, than I am nothing. Nothing. I am like sugar dissolved in a glass of water. Or, I am like salt, which disappears when you cook with it. I am salt. Without my children, I cease to exist.”
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I’m addicted to reading contemporary Indian women’s fiction and this is one of the best books I’ve read, although the entire genre is very rich. Not all love is romantic and Thrity Umrigar challenges us to look at another equally potent love connection. Brilliantly written. In fact, I may just be ready to re-read it.
So glad you enjoyed this book! I too enjoy contemporary Indian fiction!