Family Matters
| Published: 4th June 2008 16:28 |
This is a story of old age and the associated problems, told in an amusing ad moving way. It is set in Bombay where family obligations and responsibility are taken seriously.
Nariman, about to celebrate this 80th birthday, already suffering from the onset of Parkinson's disease has a fall and when his leg is set in plaster he has to reluctantly depend on his children. The two step children he is living with have had enough and they deliver him unceremoniously to his only daughter Roxanne and her family.
Much as they love and respect him their already limited resources are stretched beyond endurance and the ramifications are numerous.
It sets in motion a series of events with often surprising consequences. There is a kaleidoscope of colourful characters as the story unfolds. It is a tale of nostalgia, unfulfilled love, hardship and bigotry.
The many characters are carefully and sympathetically drawn; some may be a little incredulous but generally you find yourself intrigued and care what happens to them.
This is the first book I have read by Rohinton Mistry but I shall certainly look for more.
Reviewed by: W.I. Soar
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