The Bones of Grace by Tahmima Anam

The Bones of Grace

Tahmima Anam

Although themes common to many family sagas - identity, duty and love - are woven into this intricate story, it still took me by surprise. Zubaida is a young woman caught between two cultures. Initially I found her self-absorption irritating, but I was soon completely engrossed. This is the final part of the Bengal trilogy, but works well as a stand alone read.

Extract
I hailed a rickshaw, too impatient now to wait for Abboo, and pointed in the direction of Nanu's house in Dhanmondi. As we crossed Mirpur Road I took out my phone and sent a text message to my parents. I have to know the truth, it said. Otherwise I am leaving home and never coming back. I couldn't help sounding hysterical, suddenly all the years I had not known clambering on top of me. I peeled back the rickshaw's sunshade, trapped in my own chest, unable to fill my lungs with enough air.
Parallels
  • The Geometry of God by Uzma Aslam Khan
  • Tiger's Daughter by Bharati Mukherjee