A review by moh
Aru Shah and the Song of Death by Roshani Chokshi

4.0

This second book is funny and charming, and Aru is such a fabulous main character. I did miss the chemistry of the original crew, even though new character Brynne is a delight, and I look forward to seeing more of her.

Spoiler

But I wish Mini had been around more, and Aiden was NOT an acceptable Boo substitute IMHO. More grumpy Boo, please.

Why don't I see more love for the glossaries in this series? They are such an absolute gift. I saved them, respectively, for early morning or last thing at night because I really needed to start or end my day with wandering through Roshani Chokshi's glorious definitions. Here's a sample:

Ekalavya (eh-KUH-lav-yah) A skilled warrior who trained himself in the art of archery after he was rejected by the legendary teacher Drona on account of his lower status. Drona’s favorite student just so happened to be Arjuna. One day, Arjuna saw Ekalavya perform an incredible feat of archery and got distressed that someone was actually better than him (cue hair flip). This made Drona nervous, because he had promised Arjuna that he would be the best archer who ever lived. Drona demanded to know who Ekalavya’s teacher (guru) was. Ekalavya said, “You.” As it turned out, the archer had made a symbolic statue of Drona and meditated on it to guide him in his self-teaching. When Ekalavya offered Drona guru daksina, an act of respect to teachers, Drona responded with “Give me your right thumb.” At this point of the story, I just get angry. Why should Ekalavya be punished for achieving something on his own merits? GRUMP. But respect, especially to one’s elders, is critical in many Hindu legends. And so Ekalavya cut off his thumb and was no longer better than Arjuna.

Gali (GAH-lee) Air or wind in Telugu.

Gandharva (gun-DAR-ruh-vuh) A semidivine race of heavenly beings known for their cosmic musical skills.

Ghee (GHEE) Clarified butter, often used in Hindu rituals

Gulab jamun (GOO-lab jah-MOON) A delicious dessert made with milk, dripping in warm syrup. Most commonly found in my belly.