Publisher’s Notes: “The Olander family embodies the modern American Dream in a globalized world. Jaya, the cultured daughter of an Indian diplomat and Keith, an ambitious banker from middle-class Philadelphia, meet in a London pub in 1988 and make a life together in suburban California. Their strong marriage is built on shared beliefs and love for their two children: headstrong teenager Karina and young son Prem, the light of their home.
But love and prosperity cannot protect them from sudden, unspeakable tragedy, and the family’s foundation cracks as each member struggles to seek a way forward. Jaya finds solace in spirituality. Keith wagers on his high-powered career. Karina focuses relentlessly on her future and independence. And Prem watches helplessly as his once close-knit family drifts apart…”
My thoughts: One of the most memorable books I have had the pleasure of reading was Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda. When I learned of this author’s latest book, I couldn’t wait to start it.
In The Shape of Family, the author continues to engage the reader. Her words reveal the most intimate thoughts of the members of the Olander family who attempt to survive and carry on after a tragic event. Although the book is told from the standpoint of each of the four members of the family, much of the story is how the daughter Karina searches for a secure environment as she deals with the tragedy and leaves home to attend college. Karina’s journey is a primary focus of the book, but I felt as if there was too much attention paid to this, particularly after Karina leaves college. I became disinterested for much of this time period and hoped for more illumination into Jaya’s journey. Having said that, the book is beautifully written and enjoyable to read. I recommend this book to those readers that appreciate family-based fiction.
Thanks to Edelweiss and William Morrow for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here. The book publishes on March 17, 2020.
My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5.