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anusha_reads 's review for:
The Covenant of Water
by Abraham Verghese
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
THE COVENANT OF WATER, ABRAHAM VERGHESE
I’m late to the party, but as the saying goes, better late than never.
This three-generational family saga is an enthralling read, primarily set in Kerala, with occasional scenes in Madras. Spanning timelines from 1900 to 1977, the book captures the essence of a rich Malayali Christian family and their intertwined lives with remarkable depth and emotion.
The author, a Malayali Christian doctor, brings authenticity to the narrative by vividly portraying every scene with meticulous detail.
“THE SADDEST DAY OF A GIRL’S LIFE IS THE DAY OF HER WEDDING,” HER MOTHER SAYS.
This sentiment resonates through the opening chapter, where a 12-year-old girl is married off to a 40-year-old widower with a two-year-old son. This girl, who grows up to be known as "Big Ammachi," emerges as the linchpin of the family. She lovingly nurtures and guides them through the years, playing a pivotal role in holding them together.
A recurring mystery haunts the family: they seem to have an ominous connection with water. Some members harbour an irrational fear of it, while others tragically drown. The origins of this curse unfold much later in the story, keeping readers hooked. The inclusion of Malayalam words throughout the narrative lends authenticity, immersing the reader in the rich culture and setting.
Running parallel to the family’s tale is the story of Scottish doctor Digby Kilgour, who travels to Madras to join the Indian Medical Service. His journey offers a fascinating glimpse into medical cases and practices, narrated with a precision that only a doctor could achieve. As Digby’s life unfolds, his story gradually merges with the main narrative, much like a river joining the sea.
What stood out to me most was the vivid depiction of Malayali culture—their food, habits, clothing, and lifestyle were so richly described that I felt like I was watching it all unfold on screen. Every character, no matter how small, played their role to perfection.
The book is an exploration of generations, family values, human emotions, and societal changes. Themes of love, hatred, tragedy, resilience, food, culture, religion, rebellion, and education run throughout. As the family transitions into the third generation, we witness a marked shift—this younger generation is far more educated than Ammachi’s, reflecting broader changes in society.
Ammachi, in particular, left a lasting impression on me. She is portrayed as a strong and literate woman, contrasting with her hardworking but illiterate husband. Her resilience and wisdom make her a truly inspiring character.
At 720 pages, this book might seem daunting, but it’s unputdownable from start to finish. If you haven’t read The Covenant of Water yet, I highly recommend it—it’s a journey you won’t regret taking.
I’m late to the party, but as the saying goes, better late than never.
This three-generational family saga is an enthralling read, primarily set in Kerala, with occasional scenes in Madras. Spanning timelines from 1900 to 1977, the book captures the essence of a rich Malayali Christian family and their intertwined lives with remarkable depth and emotion.
The author, a Malayali Christian doctor, brings authenticity to the narrative by vividly portraying every scene with meticulous detail.
“THE SADDEST DAY OF A GIRL’S LIFE IS THE DAY OF HER WEDDING,” HER MOTHER SAYS.
This sentiment resonates through the opening chapter, where a 12-year-old girl is married off to a 40-year-old widower with a two-year-old son. This girl, who grows up to be known as "Big Ammachi," emerges as the linchpin of the family. She lovingly nurtures and guides them through the years, playing a pivotal role in holding them together.
A recurring mystery haunts the family: they seem to have an ominous connection with water. Some members harbour an irrational fear of it, while others tragically drown. The origins of this curse unfold much later in the story, keeping readers hooked. The inclusion of Malayalam words throughout the narrative lends authenticity, immersing the reader in the rich culture and setting.
Running parallel to the family’s tale is the story of Scottish doctor Digby Kilgour, who travels to Madras to join the Indian Medical Service. His journey offers a fascinating glimpse into medical cases and practices, narrated with a precision that only a doctor could achieve. As Digby’s life unfolds, his story gradually merges with the main narrative, much like a river joining the sea.
What stood out to me most was the vivid depiction of Malayali culture—their food, habits, clothing, and lifestyle were so richly described that I felt like I was watching it all unfold on screen. Every character, no matter how small, played their role to perfection.
The book is an exploration of generations, family values, human emotions, and societal changes. Themes of love, hatred, tragedy, resilience, food, culture, religion, rebellion, and education run throughout. As the family transitions into the third generation, we witness a marked shift—this younger generation is far more educated than Ammachi’s, reflecting broader changes in society.
Ammachi, in particular, left a lasting impression on me. She is portrayed as a strong and literate woman, contrasting with her hardworking but illiterate husband. Her resilience and wisdom make her a truly inspiring character.
At 720 pages, this book might seem daunting, but it’s unputdownable from start to finish. If you haven’t read The Covenant of Water yet, I highly recommend it—it’s a journey you won’t regret taking.