A review by _beccareads
A People's History of Heaven by Mathangi Subramanian

inspiring slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

In this captivating and empowering book, Mathangi Subramanian explores the themes of women, friendship, and resilience with a poignant touch.

A People's History of Heaven weaves together the narratives of a diverse group of girls who are determined to survive and protect their home, the slum known as Heaven. Each girl faces her own unique struggles, yet their unwavering determination shines through in their beautifully portrayed stories. The profound bond between the girls, their mothers, and their grandmothers is nothing short of breathtaking, serving as a powerful representation of the challenges that women encounter.

The reason I didn’t enjoy this more is because I found it challenging to fully immerse myself in the story due to the frequent shifts in timelines. The fragmented structure made it difficult for me to establish a strong connection to the story, or any one of the many characters.

Nevertheless, A People's History of Heaven remains a stunning exploration of a diverse group of women's indomitable spirit and their relentless pursuit of fulfillment in a world that is stacked against them.