This book has been on my shelf for almost twenty years. I had heard so many things about it and finally I took the time to read its 800+ pages. Don't let the number of pages deter you. This Giller prize winner is worth the read.
This book takes place in the 1970's in an unnamed city in India, during the Indian Emergency. We meet four main characters. An uprooted student named Maneck Kohlah, Dina Dalal, a resourceful widow, and an uncle and nephew who are two tailors. All of them are trying to survive.
Through their stories and the stories of several secondary characters, we learn of the poverty, the caste system and corruption that existed. In a time when trusting others is difficult, these four learn to lean on each other and unlikely friendships develop. We also learn of the will to survive and what people will do to overcome adversity.
This a heartbreaking story. It's powerful and the writing is spectacular. Be prepared to have all the emotions.
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