• r e v i e w • ( partnering with @niyogibooks )

Mental health is still such a taboo topic in Indian households. Perhaps this is why it makes me immensely happy to see so many books coming out to address the importance of mental health and how it is anything but a forbidden subject. When @niyogibooks mentioned about People On Our Roof, I was quick to say yes. Yes, that I'd love to read and review this novel. Shefali Tripathi Mehta writes with ease, instantly building a connection between the readers and the characters. Naina, the protagonist is from a middle class family who was mostly brought up by her grandparents. Having to look after a schizophrenic mother and an autistic younger sister, Naina grew up much before her time.

Naina struggles with a myriad of emotions in trying to find a normal life and her own love life doesn't make things easier for her. People whisper about madness running in her family and to make things worse, her father's abandonment often feels like salt being rubbed on a wound. Yet, Naina is patient and kind towards her mother, constantly reassuring her that there are no real people on the roof trying to cause them harm. By finding a job, she finds friendship in a gentle and practical man but her turbulent feelings refrains her from committing to anyone. Throughout the novel, Naina faces countless hurdles but she crosses them all. Shefali goes on to show how being a caregiver is a taxing process, to constantly keep an eye on the safety of mentally challenged people, to not listen to gossipmongers and to love the ones in their care unconditionally. Through simple yet effective narration, Shefali paints a striking picture of a young woman who cares for her family in spite of several ups and downs. I recommend this.

Rating : 4/5.