THE DICTIONARY OF LOST WORDS, PIP WILLIAMS

A New York Times best-seller and a selection for Reese Witherspoon's book club, The Dictionary of Lost Word won numerous literary awards and was shortlisted for The Walter Scott Prize.

Set between 1887 -1928, this story is a beautiful blend of facts and fiction. What seems like a bildungsroman about a curious and brilliant little girl evolves into a tale of the birth of a dictionary. The real Dr James Murray appears in the book. He is seen with lexicographers while little Esme is huddled below a table in a scriptorium at Sunnyside, Oxford. Esme is a motherless child and is enchanted with the words her father and his colleagues work on. She begins collecting words of her own.

I loved the questioning nature of this child and admired how she learned so much on her own.

“SOME WORDS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN OTHERS – I LEARNED THIS, GROWING UP IN THE SCRIPTORIUM. BUT IT TOOK ME A LONG TIME TO UNDERSTAND WHY.”

Another powerful character was Esme’s godmother Edith Thompson (Ditte here), a real Historian and a lexicographer, who contributed many words to the Oxford English Dictionary and who also wrote a biography of her grandfather that didn’t get published. The Dictionary of Lost Words highlights the contributions of many unsung unknown ladies to the dictionary. Ditte is a constant source of motivation and support for Esme.

Some characters leave an indelible mark, and Mabel, a rag vendor and carver, is one of them. She introduces Esme to many words she had never heard before. Despite her struggles, Mabel radiates happiness and resilience.


Lizzie, an Irish maid slightly older than Esme, is her friend, guide, motivator, and helper. Reading about Lizzie’s selflessness toward Esme filled me with happiness. The two go on word-finding escapades, and one particularly endearing moment is when they wear trousers for the first time.

When Esme discovers the word “b.o.n.d.m.a.i.d” on a slip, she hides it in Lizzie’s trunk—a trunk where she begins collecting her own words. The author’s note reveals that Pip Williams’s love of words and curiosity about the absence of women in the dictionary’s creation inspired her to write this book.

The backdrop of the women’s suffrage movement and World War I adds depth to the story, portraying the chaos and its impact on the dictionary.

This book encourages readers to reflect on the history behind words, their evolution, and the nature of language itself. I thoroughly enjoyed this inquisitive, fascinating work of historical fiction!

 

The Gift of the Magi

This short story was published in December 1905 by the writer William Sydney Porter, who wrote under the pen name O. Henry.
The story is set in the same era in New York. I’m sure everyone knows the story of how the loving couple, Della and James, sell their most valued possessions to buy Christmas gifts for each other.

At the end of the story, O. Henry writes:
“The magi, as you know, were wise men—wonderfully wise men—who brought gifts to the Baby in the manger. They invented the art of giving Christmas presents. Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house.”

I read this short story many years ago. A friend of mine was reading it recently, so I reread it, and it made me reflect: What are gifts? I believe we humans have become too materialistic to truly appreciate acts of kindness or even simple objects, like a beautiful flower.

Though our lives are fleeting, we can leave behind eternal good thoughts. By performing kind deeds and spreading positive words and ideas, we can gift the coming generations and those around us, cheer and goodwill.

In my opinion, the company of good people—whether friends, relatives, or family—keeps us in good spirits and, in turn, in good health. There is no greater gift than a sound body and mind.

Here’s to positivity and fun!


Merry Christmas!

 

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.

MARIA, JUST MARIA
Written in Malayalam by Sandhya Mary, Translated by Jayasree Kalathil

This is a Bildungsroman – a novel that evokes tears, laughter, and deep contemplation. It challenges the rigidity of what we define as "normal." The story addresses an issue often ignored or trivialized yet amplified when seen from a societal perspective: mental illness.

The narrative invites reflection on the concept of normalcy. Is everyone truly "normal" according to societal norms? Aren't quirks and idiosyncrasies a part of being human? What we learn within our homes, families, and communities shapes our idea of "normal." But why is it that when someone deviates from this perceived normalcy, they are often labelled as abnormal?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. After finishing it, I revisited the first few pages to savour the intricacies again. The story has a certain vagueness as the author chooses a nonlinear narrative style. Events from Maria’s life are presented as flashes, moving seamlessly between the past and the present.

The title itself encapsulates the essence of the story – it’s all about Maria. Maria is a lovable character, a vibrant and fun-loving girl, who stands apart from her siblings. She prefers the company of her Ammachi (grandmother) and Appachan (grandfather) at Kottarathil Veedu. One of the most delightful characters is Chandipatti, the fabulistic dog with a philosophical outlook. This anthropomorphic dog, which speaks only to Maria, is a show-stealer. I found myself wishing for more of Chandipatti’s musings. Maria also converses regularly with Karthav (God) and accompanies her Appachan to the toddy shop. At the novel's outset, we find Maria in a mental asylum, where she recounts how Appachan’s death led to her current state.

The book has a few anecdotes, including references to the Mahabharata. Malayalam words are scattered throughout, enriching the reading experience. Words like Karthav, appachan, and occha etc. bring authenticity, while charming poems, such as

Onnanam kunninmel oraadi kunninmel
Orayiramkili kooduvechu,

add to the cultural flavour.

A must-read section is the insightful discussion between the author and the translator at the end of the book. It deepens the reader's understanding of the story and its themes.

This book leaves an indelible impression and is a powerful narrative about identity, mental health, and individuality. I really enjoy the books translated by @jayasree_kalathil. Earlier I loved reading Valli, which was also translated by her.

I sincerely hope it wins the prestigious @thejcbprize.

THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLE, MATT HAIG

The Sanskrit phrase Aham Brahmasmi, meaning "I am the infinity" or "the ultimate reality," is a concept from Advaita Vedanta. This idea of infinity resonates within The Life Impossible, reminding me of this phrase.

The Life Impossible is a magical-mystery novel in which the author explores the interconnectedness of all life on Earth, emphasizing how deeply people need one another. Despite the losses we face in our journey through life, there are others who, knowingly or unknowingly, support us and walk beside us, helping us realize essential truths.

Sometimes, a simple act of love and kindness toward a stranger yields unexpected rewards. A quote from the Bhagavad Gita advises, “Keep doing your work/duties without any expectations.” This is exactly what the protagonist, Grace Winters, does. She comforts a lonely colleague by keeping her company and listening to her. In a surprising twist, this friend leaves Grace a house in Ibiza upon her death. Drawn by this mysterious turn of events, Grace leaves her home in Lincolnshire and travels to Ibiza.

The death of loved ones can leave us in limbo, feeling lost and dwelling on regrets. In The Life Impossible, these emotions are woven into a beautiful story about a 72-year-old retired mathematics teacher who, amidst songs, books, and mathematical concepts, rediscovers herself.

This novel is both powerful and poignant, addressing loneliness, magic, endangered species, pollution, and the challenges of urbanization. It prompts readers to consider modern conveniences: How much is enough, and where should we draw the line? How can humans live on this "pale blue dot" without destroying its flora and fauna, preserving the planet for future generations?

Having read The Midnight Library by the same author, which I thoroughly enjoyed, I found myself even more captivated by this book. Its magical simplicity, its purpose, its approach, and its message make it a must-read!

 

THE PUMPKIN SPICE CAFÉ, LAURIE GILMORE

Laurie Gilmore is the pen name of author Melissa McTernan.

This small-town novel is reminiscent of The Gilmore Girls. The story features town meetings, gossip, and fairs similar to those in the show. A group of nosy book club ladies adds to the charm. The protagonist, Jeanie, takes over the café from her Aunt Dot and soon meets a handsome farmer, Logan, which leads to an interesting turn of events.

I enjoyed this book because I love Gilmore Girls, and the setup felt familiar—small town, close-knit community, and a sweet love story. The author has beautifully crafted this romance, and the small-town setting only made it more enjoyable. If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, this book is a great pick.

I don’t usually read this genre, but the Hyggelig (from the Danish and Norwegian word Hygge, which describes a cozy, contented mood brought on by comfort and conviviality) setting and the inviting title drew me in. To my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed it! This is the first part of the Dream Harbour series.


TW:There are some steamy scenes in the book that you can skip or enjoy, depending on your preference.

Overall, it's a light read, perfect for slipping between heavier books. Give it a try!

BOOK#13 WANDERING STARS BY TOMMY ORANGE, LONGLISTED FOR #BOOKERPRIZE2024

The author continues to mesmerize readers with his magical writing, shedding light on the ongoing struggles and historical difficulties faced by Native Americans. The story opens with Jude Star, a survivor of the Sand Creek Massacre—a brutal and devastating attack on the Cheyenne and Arapaho people by the U.S. Army in 1864. From the very first chapter, the reader is pulled into the weight of generational trauma, as Jude Star’s descendants bear the scars of this massacre through the decades.
Several characters from Tommy Orange's previous novel, There There, reappear in Wandering Stars, which offers a continuity that fans of his earlier work will appreciate. While this book could be read as a stand-alone, having the context of There There allows for a richer, more nuanced understanding of the recurring characters and themes. It’s clear that Orange continues to explore the idea of identity, displacement, and the ongoing effects of colonization on Indigenous communities.

The book is divided into three parts, with Part 1 steeped in historical detail, focusing primarily on Jude Star and his descendants as they navigate the trauma passed down through generations. Parts 2 and 3 shift toward more contemporary struggles, showing how the descendants of survivors continue to grapple with the legacies of violence and oppression in today’s world.

One of the most compelling themes in the novel is the way Orange addresses historical trauma. The book poignantly illustrates how trauma is not just an event in the past, but a living, breathing force that shapes the present. Generations inherit the pain and damage of their ancestors, not just psychologically, but in the form of cultural loss, discrimination, and poverty. While the characters in Wandering Stars continue to battle the effects of genocide, torture, rape, and other atrocities faced by their ancestors, they also face modern-day challenges like substance abuse, broken families, and systemic prejudice. The weight of history and the present collide, making the reader acutely aware of the enduring effects of colonization.


Orange does a brilliant job portraying the plight of newer generations, many of whom find themselves in the grip of substance abuse, poverty, and fractured identities. The way he handles these complex issues is both sensitive and brutally honest, showing how survival often means more than just overcoming personal hardship—it’s about carrying the burden of a painful legacy while also confronting the harsh realities of the present.
One of my favourite aspects of the book is the portrayal of the grandmother-grandson relationship. Their bond feels authentic and raw, bringing warmth and tenderness to an otherwise heavy narrative. 
Another standout moment is the sudden shift to a second-person narrative in the chapter on Victoria. This stylistic change felt deliberate, almost as if the author was trying to break the fourth wall and speak directly to the reader. The use of the second person gave the chapter a prophetic tone, almost like an oral history being passed down—a voice from the past speaking to the present, urging the reader to pay attention. It was a bold narrative choice that added a mystical, almost spiritual dimension to the story.

In Wandering Stars, Tommy Orange once again proves his ability to weave together history, culture, and the contemporary Indigenous experience with profound insight. The novel captures the weight of generational trauma while also illuminating the strength, resilience, and identity that endure in the face of such overwhelming odds.
 

THERE, THERE BY TOMMY ORANGE 

WHENEVER YOU GET THERE, THERE IS NO THERE THERE.

 – GERTRUDE STEIN

The title of the book is from this quote by Gertrude Stein. Additionally, the book mentions Radiohead’s song ‘There There’.

Do the newer generations know their history well? How much of their culture and customs do they follow?

It is an account of a group of Native Americans discussing the discrimination and oppression of their forefathers, their current lives, and their convergence at a powwow.

The setting is rather modern, yet it addresses customs, family, beliefs, violence, 'the barbarous years', torture, discrimination, and the ongoing struggle.

A diverse array of characters narrates their stories. Every chapter is narrated by a different character, talking about their own family or problems they face in life. It takes some time to adjust to the different people narrating their stories. All the characters are connected by the dance powwow. Some parts were surreal; like:  Are there aliens called tall whites, or how do you pull spider legs from your skin? It’s probably just symbolic!


Male writers usually give prime importance to only males, talking about their relevance historically, but it was nice to note that the author included some female characters and spoke about the hardships they faced. I particularly liked the characters Jacquie and Blue. I also enjoyed reading about the character Tony Loneman, who was born with foetal alcohol syndrome.

The book also mentions that Tommy Orange was born and raised in Oakland, California. He is an enrolled member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes in Oklahoma. 

It’s a poignant yet powerful tale.

This is an important read that I recommend to one and all.

This book’s follow-up is the book Wandering Stars. So now you know my next read!

BOOK#12 "PLAYGROUND” BY RICHARD POWERS FROM THE LONGLIST #BOOKERPRIZE2024

Before the earth,
before the moon,
before the stars,
before the sun,
before the sky,
even before the sea,
there was only time and Ta’aroa.

The book opens with these lines. These lines reminded me of the opening lines of the serial Bharat Ek Khoj, based on The Discovery of India (by Jawaharlal Nehru).


This book is a complex yet well-connected narrative about friends, the vast ocean, and life.


The narrative goes back and forth. The book is braided out of four strands: one being an oceanographer, Evie; one, a Black book lover, Rafi; another, a digital whizkid, Todd, who is also enamored by the ocean; and the fourth, the island of Makatea. It is a progressive novel portraying the life struggles of these characters.

The titular Playground is a game created by Todd, which brings him acclaim and wealth. Through Todd, we see the evolution of AI.
Through the eyes of Evie, we swim through the ocean, where one can vividly visualize the vibrant, colourful sea creatures, their twirling movements, and their lives as she plays with them or observes them. The character I enjoyed reading about the most was Evie, who was a deep-sea diver, and she excelled at it, yet she struggles to carve a niche for herself. Her love for the ocean and its creatures is commendable, and the fact that she is an unparalleled diver was fantastic.
I also enjoyed the friendship between Todd and Rafi, their chess games, and the Chinese board game Go. Their cryptic chess moves were all fun to read about.

A part of the book talks about a woman who creates a huge monstrosity of a sculpture out of discarded plastic and trash. I think if we were to collect all the plastic in the world, it might even reach the moon — an eyesore on the face of this beautiful planet.

The island of Makatea undergoes changes, and change is difficult. Do they face it, overcome it, or oppose it? This is what we witness.
The author weaves heartrending tales about the difficulties faced by sea creatures battered by nets or plastic. It is an eye-opener to the rising pollution, plastic poisoning, and its effect on the ocean, land, and creatures on earth.

It is a novel that makes us question how we take the "blue dot," the oceans, and their creatures for granted. The author, a conjurer of words, has brilliantly put together this story to make people contemplate and reflect on how human activities are defacing our planet.


Overall, it was a tough but insightful read and a must-read.

BOOK#11 (FROM THE LONGLIST) "STONE YARD DEVOTIONAL" BY CHARLOTTE BROWN, SHORTLISTED FOR THE #BOOKERPRIZE2024

Charlotte Brown has previously won the Stellar Prize and the Prime Minister’s Literary Award.

“ARRIVE FINALLY AT ABOUT THREE. THE PLACE HAS THE FEEL OF A 1970S HEALTH RESORT OR ECO-COMMUNE BUT IS NOT WELCOMING.”
The book opens with these lines, and it is divided into three parts. The first part reads like diary entries.

The story unfolds as if the narrator were telling us about her stay at a particular convent. Stone Yard Devotional is a narrative about a few days spent in a dormitory next to a chapel by an unnamed woman. She helps the nuns with cooking, cleaning, and gardening. The book doesn’t explain why the woman is there, how she feels, or anything about her immediate past, except that she is present in this environment. The protagonist reflects on the lives of the sisters at the convent and their daily tasks. She contemplates religious thoughts, the contrast between life and death, good and evil, and other moral dilemmas.

A significant portion of the book is devoted to the problem caused by grotesque, fluffy, grey, smelly mice. These mice gnaw at electrical wires, insulation, and food, even plastic. One part of the book delves into the cannibalistic nature of these mice. The characters struggle to rid themselves of the infestation, trying every possible method to eliminate the plague. The mice occupy much of the narrative - Are they symbolic? Do they represent the troubles that plague our lives, gnawing at our minds and souls day by day?

What touched me the most was the section about her mother being in palliative care, an episode still fresh in my mind. I lost my mother a year ago. She had breast cancer, and it metastasized. Coming to terms with loss is deeply personal, and everyone deals with it differently. Some express their grief, while others bottle it up. Emotions build and resurface unexpectedly—sometimes in unrelenting, sudden downpours, and sometimes not at all.


Another aspect of the book that I found endearing was the protagonist’s encounters with people from her childhood. Whether these were people she liked or disliked, it evoked a sense of warmth and familiarity.

The book is not about glamorous dresses or lavish lifestyles, nor does it promise a happily-ever-after. Sometimes, stepping away from everything familiar and embracing dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing—can answer the questions we carry within.

As I read this book, I couldn’t help but wonder why the author chose to write it. How did she come up with the idea? Was she going through something similar, or had she witnessed someone else experiencing it? My curiosity led me to research the author, and I found an article that stated, “THE PSYCHIC CALAMITY OF WOODS' CANCER EXPERIENCE FOUND ITS WAY INTO STONE YARD DEVOTIONAL.”

The meditative journey undertaken by this unnamed woman, leaving behind her friends and husband, seemed rather questionable. Perhaps it was meant to provide answers to the questions troubling her.

This book may not have a conventional plot, but it is beautifully written biographical fiction. One must immerse themselves in its pages to grasp how the experience of "being nothing" can, in fact, mean everything. This could very well be the one!