The Covenant of Water is a sprawling family saga that covers several generations of a family with a mysterious curse. In this family, at least one in a generation dies of drowning. Told in ten parts, in some ways this book reads as a series of connected novellas. There are some characters that are in multiple parts and others that are only in one. Verghese writes absolutely beautiful characters that feel like they came straight from the past, not from his imagination. I found myself connecting to someone in each part, especially after part one wrapped up by establishing the horrible family curse. 

There's so much in this massive novel that I can't do justice to in a review. I am so glad I listened to the audiobook, which is deftly read by the author. His accents and narration are incredible. As he takes us from 1900 to 1977 in India, this book is also rich with historical information that will be new to many. The medical details are impressive and also far from overwhelming. Really, I'm convinced Verghese is capable of anything. What can't he do? 

The characters from this book will live in my heart for so long. I cannot recommend this book enough if you enjoy family dramas. If you loved The Love Songs of W. E. B. Du Bois, this is absolutely a great comp.