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A review by katykelly
Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal
5.0
Sharp and suitable translation of the classic to an entirely new setting.
My favourite book, heroine and hero. A period and setting one would think is entirely separate and distinct from any other. But time and time again I have found in the reimaginings and loose adaptations of Pride and Prejudice that its universal themes, characters and plot does actually move to new spheres satisfyingly and without a hint of improbability.
Austen's plot is quite closely followed by Kamal, which for me is the key to an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, but the acuity shown by the author is in the smooth transition of characters, locations and the Regency society and social expectations to contemporary Pakistan. Every small detail delighted me, I'll admit. From character names to their backstories and even to the use of lines from the source novel, Kamal is clearly a well-read and loving fan and highly adept at seeing the Bennetts and their world as relatable and portable.
Five sisters, a marriage-minded mother and father with inheritance issues. Alys, second daughter is an English teacher aged 30, passing the age of the usual Pakistani bride by quite some way. A wedding and associated customs, "the NadirFiede circus" (Netherfield) brings the Binat (Bennet) family into the vision of two prosperous young men, where interest, potential love, poor first impressions and conflict are first generated.
Shockingly, for Austen fans, there is talk of sex (oh my!), "himbos and bimbos", swearing. Valentine Darsee (Darcy) and Alys (Elizabeth) clash with words just as sparring as their counterparts, but in contemporary language and context:
'Ooh! Pretty Woman'... Val, I love this film.' 'Every woman does,' Darsee said in a not-too-kind tone. 'How presumptuous.' Alys matched the snooty look Darsee gave her. 'I don't. It sets up unrealistic expectations.'
The transposing of English names for Pakistani is cleverly done, and their characters (flaws and failings, as well as strengths) is smooth and fits on every occasion. Alys smokes! And one of her favourite films is The Terminator! Sherry (Charlotte Lucas) talks about wanting sex! They even talk about Pride and Prejudice and that Alys is "that character who says no but ends up falling into a yes despite herself: you are Elizabeth Bennet."
What can I say more? I can't wait for a little time to pass so I've forgotten it enough to read it again and take equal delight in the smart paraphrased lines as I did the first time. Darsee retains his charm and swoon-worthy aloofness. Alys is quirkily adorable and independent. The cast of brilliant comic creations around them each persist with their memorable, entertaining machinations.
Wonderfully smart retelling, this Austen fan was gratified, amused and sated. A reader who isn't familiar with the novel may still enjoy this but will be missing out on so much. Spotting the references and changes made is half the fun, and I applaud Kamal for the efforts taken.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample copy.
My favourite book, heroine and hero. A period and setting one would think is entirely separate and distinct from any other. But time and time again I have found in the reimaginings and loose adaptations of Pride and Prejudice that its universal themes, characters and plot does actually move to new spheres satisfyingly and without a hint of improbability.
Austen's plot is quite closely followed by Kamal, which for me is the key to an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, but the acuity shown by the author is in the smooth transition of characters, locations and the Regency society and social expectations to contemporary Pakistan. Every small detail delighted me, I'll admit. From character names to their backstories and even to the use of lines from the source novel, Kamal is clearly a well-read and loving fan and highly adept at seeing the Bennetts and their world as relatable and portable.
Five sisters, a marriage-minded mother and father with inheritance issues. Alys, second daughter is an English teacher aged 30, passing the age of the usual Pakistani bride by quite some way. A wedding and associated customs, "the NadirFiede circus" (Netherfield) brings the Binat (Bennet) family into the vision of two prosperous young men, where interest, potential love, poor first impressions and conflict are first generated.
Shockingly, for Austen fans, there is talk of sex (oh my!), "himbos and bimbos", swearing. Valentine Darsee (Darcy) and Alys (Elizabeth) clash with words just as sparring as their counterparts, but in contemporary language and context:
'Ooh! Pretty Woman'... Val, I love this film.' 'Every woman does,' Darsee said in a not-too-kind tone. 'How presumptuous.' Alys matched the snooty look Darsee gave her. 'I don't. It sets up unrealistic expectations.'
The transposing of English names for Pakistani is cleverly done, and their characters (flaws and failings, as well as strengths) is smooth and fits on every occasion. Alys smokes! And one of her favourite films is The Terminator! Sherry (Charlotte Lucas) talks about wanting sex! They even talk about Pride and Prejudice and that Alys is "that character who says no but ends up falling into a yes despite herself: you are Elizabeth Bennet."
What can I say more? I can't wait for a little time to pass so I've forgotten it enough to read it again and take equal delight in the smart paraphrased lines as I did the first time. Darsee retains his charm and swoon-worthy aloofness. Alys is quirkily adorable and independent. The cast of brilliant comic creations around them each persist with their memorable, entertaining machinations.
Wonderfully smart retelling, this Austen fan was gratified, amused and sated. A reader who isn't familiar with the novel may still enjoy this but will be missing out on so much. Spotting the references and changes made is half the fun, and I applaud Kamal for the efforts taken.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample copy.