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sidreviews's review
4.0
The plot of the book has been well thought with details about Arzu’s life, justifying her actions. The story is quite interesting as it traces Arzu’s journey as she finds her identity through the course of one year. I loved the fact how Riva has equated the growth in the Indian economy in 1991 with that of the protagonist, and the milestones coincide more than once. Another thing that is interesting about story is the manner in which it told, and how Arzu was shown to be living in a cocoon and how she emerges as a butterfly, which also jumps out from the cover once you finish the book. Riva has captured the essence of the superfluous nature of the people from the upper echelons, and how appearances are more important to them, as compared to actual comfort and emotions, which is evident in more ways than one. The language of the book is easy to comprehend, and paints a wonderful picture of the events as they occur. The climax of the story was quite interesting, and while one aspect of it was expected, the other was not, and I think this was the best thing about the entire story.
Coming to the characters, Arzu Meera Agarwal impressed me because of the confidence she exuded from the very first time we meet, and her clarity on what she wanted from life. She was crafted as a woman who was self-sufficient, and wanted a partner who was an equal, and not just a companion. Even in her pursuit of the same, we see she leaves no stone unturned, and this is what makes her Arzu achievable. Another character who stood out for me was Siddhant because he complimented Arzu in many ways, and added a flavor to the story that made it enjoyable. His presence was quite fleeting as compared to other characters like Parul Bua, or Rohit, but he managed to stand out because of his simplicity, and the emotion of being there for Arzu, without asking for anything else. As for the other characters, Ajit was also impressive, and the scene from the wedding was truly inspired.
Overall, Arzu is a refreshing coming-of-age story that takes an interesting idea and explores an aspect of the namesake that will not just entertain the reader, but might just inspire them to take a step towards their dream, and grab them.
Coming to the characters, Arzu Meera Agarwal impressed me because of the confidence she exuded from the very first time we meet, and her clarity on what she wanted from life. She was crafted as a woman who was self-sufficient, and wanted a partner who was an equal, and not just a companion. Even in her pursuit of the same, we see she leaves no stone unturned, and this is what makes her Arzu achievable. Another character who stood out for me was Siddhant because he complimented Arzu in many ways, and added a flavor to the story that made it enjoyable. His presence was quite fleeting as compared to other characters like Parul Bua, or Rohit, but he managed to stand out because of his simplicity, and the emotion of being there for Arzu, without asking for anything else. As for the other characters, Ajit was also impressive, and the scene from the wedding was truly inspired.
Overall, Arzu is a refreshing coming-of-age story that takes an interesting idea and explores an aspect of the namesake that will not just entertain the reader, but might just inspire them to take a step towards their dream, and grab them.
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