Fasting, Feasting Summary and Reviews

Fasting, Feasting
by Anita Desai

Fasting, Feasting
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Book Summary Information

Author: Anita Desai
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2000-01-03
ISBN: 0618065822
Number of pages: 228
Publisher: Mariner Books

Book Reviews of Fasting, Feasting

Book Review: A Dual and Honest View
Summary: 4 Stars

I must say, I find some of the negative comments of others surprising since I felt this to be the most compelling of Desai's books. I think that it is deceptively simple and quite profound in parts. I have read it twice and upon the first the reading I admit that I did not think that I stumbled on to something special. But something told me I should consider it further, because like an unexpected feast, it was memorable. I felt so pulled by it that I actually decided it would be a book worth sharing with my students. They are currently in the process of reading it and enjoying her prose while considering the novel's subtle undertones. Unlike many other novels, this one does not gloss over or pretend to hide the obvious flaws and irrationality of either the Indian or American culture. Instead, it delivers a poignant, often startling, and ultimately, I think, positive view of acceptance--of one's life, of one's family and of one's culture. As far as the ending is concerned, it is wholly truthful. What aspect of life ends with any real sense of closure? Like Desai's characters, we only move and meander along, unsure of our footing at times. Her ability to draw out richness from the limited simplicity of her characters lives is quite remarkable. The more I reflect on the novel, the more I am impressed with her insight and intelligence.

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