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A Fine Balanceby Rohintom Mistry |
Judy Stanton: A daunting read at 600+
pages, I found A Fine Balance well worth the time. The book is based
in India in the 1970s, and is a real eye-opener at government gone mad.
For the masses, the "fine balance" was between hope and despair. The book
is a testament to the human ability to find hope in the most desparate
of times. And desperation was everywhere. While it is historical fiction,
after reading about Indira Ghandi's rule -- the abject poverty,
forced sterilization, the caste system, and government
dictatorship -- was unfortunately pretty honestly depicted.
The author did an excellent job of developing the main characters,
going back into each of their lives, telling their stories,
and weaving them together. A deeply disturbing story,
but beautifully written.
Rating: *****
