Gypsy Masala - Softcover

Nair, Preethi

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0007143478 ISBN 13: 9780007143474

Publisher: HarperCollins, 2004

Synopsis

Stunning novel in which a young Indian woman, raised in London to fulfil her parents’ dreams of respectability, sets off in search of her own dreams – and disrupts the whole family.

‘Tell me about your dreams, and if you have dared to follow them.’ This is the challenge for three members of the Vishavan family.

Evita (real name Molu, but she’s always had a tendency towards the theatrical) is stuck in a 9-to-5 job until she hears the irresistible beat of a drum, summoning her to follow her dream. It takes her to faraway places and people, but the rhythm of change is also to be found closer to home.

Sheila and Bali have raised Evita as their own child. Yet their sadness has kept them apart; holding on to their separate secrets, they have rejected the possibility of following any dreams. Neither expects the disruption that follows Evita’s return...

From remote villages in Kerala to the heart of contemporary London, this is a story of discovery, love and what might happen if you dare to live your dream.

About this title

Review

The subtitle of Gypsy Masala, "a book of dreams", encapsulates Preethi Nair's first novel. In a slimly elegant volume, the author manages to capture the soaring hopes and paralysing fears of human emotion. Resonant with the visceral anticipation of dread and excitement, this book appeals to the spirit of adventure.

Gypsy Masala follows the lives of 3 people--Sheila, Bali and their foster daughter, Evita. Each has their own crippling aspect. British-born Evita is stuck in a job and love life that don't inspire. Sheila, frozen by her experience of being torn from warm, passionate India to grey England. Bali, having lost not only his first child but also the woman he adored and risked everything for.

The catalyst of hope and confidence to change the character's circumstances comes in the form of the African dancer--an apparition that appears accompanied by the thumping, vital music of beating hearts. He is every aspect of being--to follow him is to follow your heart.

This is a book which at times makes you want to run out and follow your dreams, yet in the next chapter makes you realise why you haven't. Preethi Nair combines elements of the surreal and the prosaic as she details the intricate family dynamics and stomach-wrenching losses experienced by those who leap into a new world. Her idea of a gypsy masala--toss your dreams into the pan and savour the result--is a fatalistic yet exhilarating view of the world which leaves a spicy, yet sweet, aftertaste. --Sue Owen

Review

‘A witty, evocative read that’ll keep you gripped’ Company

‘She is dynamite.’ Bookseller

‘A little gem..a mystic and beautifully lyrical book’ New Woman

ACCLAIM FOR ONE HUNDRED SHADES OF WHITE:

‘An absorbing novel about mothers, daughters, food and truth.’ Closer

‘A rich, evocative tale.’ Company

"A heart-warming read about families, forgiveness, carving futures and filtering truth." Guardian

‘A great read. Fast, funny and full of life’ Shyama Perera, author of I Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet

‘A genuinely moving novel...like the bottled spices that play such a role in the story, this has all its ingredients in just the right quantities to spirit away all negative emotions.’ Daily Express

‘She writes evocatively about childhood and there are passages of tight and lyrical immediacy...Moving description packs a powerful punch in this book about family, forgiveness and the power of truth.’ Guardian

MORE PRAISE FOR ONE HUNDRED SHADES OF WHITE

‘A carefully woven tale that’s exceedingly good’ Company

‘A luscious book, made lush with spices. Kindnesses and friendships abound, but so do hardships and hard knocks’ Oxford Times

‘A dynamic author.’ Good Housekeeping

‘A sensuous and poignant novel...enchanting.’ Sainsbury’s magazine

About this edition

• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0007143478
• ISBN 13: 9780007143474
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 256