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3.73 AVERAGE
3.73 AVERAGE
Solid story, unexpected but also expected ending that left me wanting more interaction between the characters. Would have given it a higher railing if the relationship between the characters were stronger. While it has compelling characters, the book felt like three separate narratives. I wanted more body to it. Quick and fun read overall enjoyable
challenging
dark
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A really electrifying exploration of class and corruption within contemporary India. Though A Burning is not without its flaws, I'm compelled to give it 5 stars anyways because of what an absorbing, unique read it was. I'm especially impressed considering this is Majumdar's debut novel. Her three main characters—Jivan, PT Sir, and Lovely—each possess their own distinct voice and style. The way some rose to power at the expense of others, selling their morality in exchange for a better life, felt like a bitter but honest portrait of human nature and how the elite slowly and subtly manipulates the powerless for their own advantage.
I won't say I liked the ending, but I did think it was the necessary ending for this particular book. Choosing to end with sunshine and rainbows just wouldn't have fit what feels like a very fitting examination of our current moment. Our systems are broken. Our days are plagued with ceaseless violence, poverty, and injustice. More often than not, those charged with protecting us are easily swayed towards the opposite. In sum, A Burning demonstrates the everyday banality of evil, and the terrible consequences it holds for the innocent. Definitely a great read for anyone as deeply unsettled by our current climate—it's like holding a mirror up to society.
I won't say I liked the ending, but I did think it was the necessary ending for this particular book. Choosing to end with sunshine and rainbows just wouldn't have fit what feels like a very fitting examination of our current moment. Our systems are broken. Our days are plagued with ceaseless violence, poverty, and injustice. More often than not, those charged with protecting us are easily swayed towards the opposite. In sum, A Burning demonstrates the everyday banality of evil, and the terrible consequences it holds for the innocent. Definitely a great read for anyone as deeply unsettled by our current climate—it's like holding a mirror up to society.
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Complicated
The book lacked emotional depth for me. However, it's a fine debut and I look forward to seeing how the author writing grows.
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
dark
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes