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runningdobe's review
3.0
A Very Moving Story
I enjoyed the book. Emotionally difficult. It's a gripping story, written in the same form of Khaled Hosseini's A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS. I feel Ms Trasi may have *borrowed* a few other themes from THE KITE RUNNER as well. Unfortunately, it also reinforces my negative stereotypes of India and its culture. Having said all that, I really did like the book and recommend it to others.
I enjoyed the book. Emotionally difficult. It's a gripping story, written in the same form of Khaled Hosseini's A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS. I feel Ms Trasi may have *borrowed* a few other themes from THE KITE RUNNER as well. Unfortunately, it also reinforces my negative stereotypes of India and its culture. Having said all that, I really did like the book and recommend it to others.
suvata's review
4.0
#OUABC Once Upon A Book Club Adult April 2017 selection • 3.5 Stars
The Color of Our Sky is a novel by Amita Trasi that tells the story of two childhood friends from India, Tara and Mukta, who are separated by a tragic event and reunited years later. The book explores the themes of friendship, family, culture, identity, and human trafficking.
#Bookstagram #TheColorOfOurSky #AmitaTrasi
The Color of Our Sky is a novel by Amita Trasi that tells the story of two childhood friends from India, Tara and Mukta, who are separated by a tragic event and reunited years later. The book explores the themes of friendship, family, culture, identity, and human trafficking.
#Bookstagram #TheColorOfOurSky #AmitaTrasi
cymshady's review
3.0
Book 20/100 for the 2023 Goodreads Reading Challenge.
Firstly, thank you Rosh for taking the time to converse with me about the caste-based system in India!
Firstly, thank you Rosh for taking the time to converse with me about the caste-based system in India!
eusteph's review against another edition
4.0
Wow...I just. How do I even begin writing this review?
When I first requested this book on NetGalley I had no idea I would have been so emotionally impacted by this story. I have stated this before, and I'll say it again, stories of abused children always hit a nerve in my heart. With this one it wasn't different. As I read the synopsis, I expected it to be some sort of coming of age story involving the strong bond of a friendship between two girls. It was so much more than that. I felt deeply connected to both protagonists for different reasons. Tara's unconditional admiration for her father reminded me of how naïve I was as a little girl, thinking my own father was the most righteous man on Earth and a true hero. Mukta's selflessness reminded me of people in my life who I am sure would not hesitate to sacrifice themselves for others. Although it is a fictional story, knowing that things like what happened to Mukta and the women in her family still happen around the world enfuriates me. I cannot fathom how someone would do such atrocious things to another human being, let alone a woman to other women and their children. I try my best to respect other cultures, as I would expect people to respect mine, but judging a person by whatever society 'labels' them as just sounds plain stupid to me. Realizing many people go hungry, are mistreated and abused daily, and those in power do not even bat a lash also sounds absurd to me. The worst part is realizing that corruption seals the fate of families all around the world even nowadays.
This book is definitely not for those faint of heart. I would not recommend reading this if you can't deal with graphic descriptions of child abuse. Hell, even I don't know how I got through all of it. At times it just seemed like there was no hope for either of the characters. The ending, although not exactly what I hoped for, was satisfying enough. The narrative was a bit slow at times, and there were minor editing errors. Overall, it was a tragically beautiful story. I would have given it five stars, but I can't seem to do so with stories about abuse. 4/5.
When I first requested this book on NetGalley I had no idea I would have been so emotionally impacted by this story. I have stated this before, and I'll say it again, stories of abused children always hit a nerve in my heart. With this one it wasn't different. As I read the synopsis, I expected it to be some sort of coming of age story involving the strong bond of a friendship between two girls. It was so much more than that. I felt deeply connected to both protagonists for different reasons. Tara's unconditional admiration for her father reminded me of how naïve I was as a little girl, thinking my own father was the most righteous man on Earth and a true hero. Mukta's selflessness reminded me of people in my life who I am sure would not hesitate to sacrifice themselves for others. Although it is a fictional story, knowing that things like what happened to Mukta and the women in her family still happen around the world enfuriates me. I cannot fathom how someone would do such atrocious things to another human being, let alone a woman to other women and their children. I try my best to respect other cultures, as I would expect people to respect mine, but judging a person by whatever society 'labels' them as just sounds plain stupid to me. Realizing many people go hungry, are mistreated and abused daily, and those in power do not even bat a lash also sounds absurd to me. The worst part is realizing that corruption seals the fate of families all around the world even nowadays.
This book is definitely not for those faint of heart. I would not recommend reading this if you can't deal with graphic descriptions of child abuse. Hell, even I don't know how I got through all of it. At times it just seemed like there was no hope for either of the characters. The ending, although not exactly what I hoped for, was satisfying enough. The narrative was a bit slow at times, and there were minor editing errors. Overall, it was a tragically beautiful story. I would have given it five stars, but I can't seem to do so with stories about abuse. 4/5.
justicepirate's review against another edition
4.0
This is a beautiful tale about two young girls who live in India who meet one another while they are young while sharing an intense bond that lasts for 11 years after they are separated. The book has a lot of sex trafficking involved in it (and information about the Devadasi/temple prostitutes), but it has no graphic sex at all in it (I'd let my 12 year old read this if he wanted to).
One girl named Tara is raised in a higher caste to loving parents. She never had a need for anything. Throughout her story we learn about the changes she goes through in learning about her family and seeking out her childhood friend.
Mukta is born within a brothel but has hopes of meeting her loving father her Amma Maa talks nonstop about. Her mother is very sick and has high hopes for her daughter. An opportunity of rescue takes place for Mukta where she lives with Tara for a few years before they are separated.
The entire story goes through each of the girls' timelines. It is really good (and definitely has many sad situations). I really enjoyed it.
One girl named Tara is raised in a higher caste to loving parents. She never had a need for anything. Throughout her story we learn about the changes she goes through in learning about her family and seeking out her childhood friend.
Mukta is born within a brothel but has hopes of meeting her loving father her Amma Maa talks nonstop about. Her mother is very sick and has high hopes for her daughter. An opportunity of rescue takes place for Mukta where she lives with Tara for a few years before they are separated.
The entire story goes through each of the girls' timelines. It is really good (and definitely has many sad situations). I really enjoyed it.
bobbykarmakar's review
5.0
Consider this to be a detailed description of why this is like a Staff Pick sticker you would see in store, which I don’t work in and never have in any bookstore. This story absorbed me, scared me, but most of all gave me an awareness of something I was sure of existed and the tragic reality.
Two girls in India are the centre of this story, both of their views are shared. One, Mukta, is born in the human trafficking trade as by what her grandmother insists, however, her mother is trying to not have her involved. Mukta is also hopeful that her father, whom she never met, will one day come back for her. The other, Tara, is privileged and finds herself to grow very fondly of her, almost as if they were sisters. However, at times, Tara wishes that Mukta never entered her life, but Tara’s father was the one who brought Mukta in hopes of a better life. I would argue that he could have done more, but there’s a spoiler in that. One night, Mukta is then kidnapped and unfortunately taken to once again be found back to where she supposedly belongs.
Years later, Tara is on a mission to find her after moving to America after the night of Mukta’s kidnapping and wants to search for her. Challenging it is to find Mukta, she perseveres and unveils more hidden secrets that she either has to accept and move forward or continue to grieve. Both views of Mukta and Tara are day and night, yet they both think of each other often and hope that one day they can be together again.
The thing I love most about reading is that I seek a good story. And when there’s the added bonus of learning about something, whether it’d be emotional or not, is when I know the book is one that deservedly needs to be in the hands of people to be read, especially The Colour of our Sky. This is also arguably my favourite book of the year. I, myself, am Indian and though being born and raised in Canada, I am not very aware nor knowledgeable about what happens in India. Though I am sometimes certain issues like human trafficking still persists, it’s the practice and supposed fate that is tied into some cases I was not aware of; sadly true especially to young girls.
When I am able to learn something from a piece of fiction, especially one that still occurs in the world, is when I know I need to make more action. One beginning step for anyone is to ensure those reading this review will pick up this book as well, discuss it, and pass it on to someone else. An absolute must read and one that I am going to pass on to others as well.
Two girls in India are the centre of this story, both of their views are shared. One, Mukta, is born in the human trafficking trade as by what her grandmother insists, however, her mother is trying to not have her involved. Mukta is also hopeful that her father, whom she never met, will one day come back for her. The other, Tara, is privileged and finds herself to grow very fondly of her, almost as if they were sisters. However, at times, Tara wishes that Mukta never entered her life, but Tara’s father was the one who brought Mukta in hopes of a better life. I would argue that he could have done more, but there’s a spoiler in that. One night, Mukta is then kidnapped and unfortunately taken to once again be found back to where she supposedly belongs.
Years later, Tara is on a mission to find her after moving to America after the night of Mukta’s kidnapping and wants to search for her. Challenging it is to find Mukta, she perseveres and unveils more hidden secrets that she either has to accept and move forward or continue to grieve. Both views of Mukta and Tara are day and night, yet they both think of each other often and hope that one day they can be together again.
The thing I love most about reading is that I seek a good story. And when there’s the added bonus of learning about something, whether it’d be emotional or not, is when I know the book is one that deservedly needs to be in the hands of people to be read, especially The Colour of our Sky. This is also arguably my favourite book of the year. I, myself, am Indian and though being born and raised in Canada, I am not very aware nor knowledgeable about what happens in India. Though I am sometimes certain issues like human trafficking still persists, it’s the practice and supposed fate that is tied into some cases I was not aware of; sadly true especially to young girls.
When I am able to learn something from a piece of fiction, especially one that still occurs in the world, is when I know I need to make more action. One beginning step for anyone is to ensure those reading this review will pick up this book as well, discuss it, and pass it on to someone else. An absolute must read and one that I am going to pass on to others as well.
literarylover37's review against another edition
4.0
I received an advanced copy of this book from Bloomhill Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for a review.
This story alternates from the points of view of Mukta and Tara, two young girls from different backgrounds whose lives converge as children. The moment they diverge though is a scarring experience for both and Tara is forever haunted by her hand in it. Years later, after the death of her father, Tara returns to her former home in India to find her long lost friend and to seek redemption.
This is a beautifully written debut book. It is incredibly moving, even more so because it based on fact and the terrible things experience by Mukta as a child and adult are still happening daily to many other young girls. The hope that is woven throughout this story though is wonderful and keeps the tale from becoming too bleak. Each of the characters is able to redefine themselves and create a future out of a dark past. If you are looking for a story where you might need some tissues, this is it!
This story alternates from the points of view of Mukta and Tara, two young girls from different backgrounds whose lives converge as children. The moment they diverge though is a scarring experience for both and Tara is forever haunted by her hand in it. Years later, after the death of her father, Tara returns to her former home in India to find her long lost friend and to seek redemption.
This is a beautifully written debut book. It is incredibly moving, even more so because it based on fact and the terrible things experience by Mukta as a child and adult are still happening daily to many other young girls. The hope that is woven throughout this story though is wonderful and keeps the tale from becoming too bleak. Each of the characters is able to redefine themselves and create a future out of a dark past. If you are looking for a story where you might need some tissues, this is it!
hoserlauren's review
4.0
As a ten year old in Mumbai, Tara's life is pretty normal. She lives with her mom and dad, but her father is known for helping out children less fortunate. One day, Tara's dad brings home Mukta, a young child from his home village whose mother is a prostitute. Mukta would have been destined for that life had she stayed in her village but maybe now she can know a more regular life. Her and Tara become quick friends, until disaster strikes the family. Tara blames Mukta and plans for her kidnapping.
As an adult, Tara is in the USA and wonders what happened to Mukta. She never got over the guilt from what she was responsible for. Heading back to India, she hopes that she can find her childhood friend.
Right from the beginning, all the way to the end, I was completely engaged by this story. The writing flows very well, despite there being shifts in time. I wouldn't have guessed that this was Trasi's debut novel.
Tara feel guilt her whole life on what she did to Mukta and this guilt shapes who she becomes as an adult. She makes decisions based on this guilt and to further punish herself. I thought this was a very genuine portrayal of a woman wracked with guilt.
This was a simple but wonderful book. I recommend it!
As an adult, Tara is in the USA and wonders what happened to Mukta. She never got over the guilt from what she was responsible for. Heading back to India, she hopes that she can find her childhood friend.
Right from the beginning, all the way to the end, I was completely engaged by this story. The writing flows very well, despite there being shifts in time. I wouldn't have guessed that this was Trasi's debut novel.
Tara feel guilt her whole life on what she did to Mukta and this guilt shapes who she becomes as an adult. She makes decisions based on this guilt and to further punish herself. I thought this was a very genuine portrayal of a woman wracked with guilt.
This was a simple but wonderful book. I recommend it!