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A review by caseys_chapters
Mother Ocean Father Nation by Nishant Batsha
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
The story takes place in 1985 on an unnamed Pacific island experiencing a coup and racial tensions, causing immense fear in the local Indian community. Siblings Jaipal and Bhumi are separated due to the unrest - one left behind and one forced to leave. The book alternates POVs following their experiences.
It took a while for the story to warm up and grab my attention, but I became more invested as it progressed. The complicated family relationships plus themes of identity and belonging tugged at my heartstrings.
I wish a few of the many layers were further developed, but I thought one component was really well done. Even without directly showing all of the political turmoil and working in the construct of a fictional country, Batsha definitely makes you feel the personal impact on Jaipal’s and Bhumi’s lives.
Overall, Mother Ocean Father Nation is a touching portrait of colonialism, family, and the meaning of home.
It took a while for the story to warm up and grab my attention, but I became more invested as it progressed. The complicated family relationships plus themes of identity and belonging tugged at my heartstrings.
I wish a few of the many layers were further developed, but I thought one component was really well done. Even without directly showing all of the political turmoil and working in the construct of a fictional country, Batsha definitely makes you feel the personal impact on Jaipal’s and Bhumi’s lives.
Overall, Mother Ocean Father Nation is a touching portrait of colonialism, family, and the meaning of home.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism