Julian Shaw

★★★★☆

Loved the quote “the secret of the Great Stories is that they have no secrets.” An amazing opportunity to see the world through another’s eyes, but the haunting trauma will stay with you.

In “The God of Small Things,” Arundhati Roy weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of love, loss, and the haunting aftermath of experiences. With an evocative writing style, Roy captivates readers from the very first page. As the story unfolds in 1969 Kerala, India, we meet Rahel and Esthappen, two-egg twins who navigate the complexities of their family’s wrecked dynamics.

One of the standout elements of the book is the quote, “the secret of the Great Stories is that they have no secrets.” It perfectly encapsulates Roy’s narrative approach, as she fearlessly delves into the lives of her characters, exposing their secrets and vulnerabilities. This exploration of the human condition is deeply poignant and thought-provoking.

Reading this book is an extraordinary opportunity to experience the world through another’s eyes. However, be warned that the trauma depicted throughout the narrative lingers long after the final page. Roy’s ability to evoke emotions and confront societal issues is reminiscent of Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple.”

I highly recommend “The God of Small Things” to all those who cherish integrity in storytelling. Arundhati Roy’s novel is a masterpiece that challenges conventional norms, presenting a language that is simultaneously classic and unprecedented. Anchored in anguish yet infused with wit and magic, this book will leave an indelible mark on your literary journey.