Review of As fathers go

[Catherine Sweet]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "As fathers go" by Anand nair.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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As Fathers Go by Anandavalli Nair is a memoir about growing up in India and a special father and daughter relationship. Nair has written three other books.

Nair narrates her life story from her childhood to her arranged marriage and early married life. She grew up in a small coastal town in Kerala, India. Her mother died when she was young, and she lived with her father and extended family, consisting of three children and four adults. They often had other family members to stay, sometimes for long periods. They had no electricity and collected water from a well in the house. Their home had cow-dung floors that were redone twice a month.

Nair’s father had fought hard to get an education and become a lawyer. He ensured his daughter was well educated, teaching her to speak publicly in her first language and English, read widely and memorise poetry. The children played games using natural objects, such as making a ball by plaiting coconut leaf fronds around a stone. The narrator talks about the plight of the untouchables. The family struggles when her father is imprisoned for two years because he disapproves of the British Government and wants them to leave India. The book describes the changes in society leading to Indian independence.

Nair has an eloquent writing style which flows and is a pleasure to read. Lots of Indian words are used in the book, and this adds to the cultural atmosphere. The narrator’s voice is appealing and authentic. The particular childhood Nair had gave her an inquiring mind and a non-judgemental attitude. Nair’s father was an extraordinary man. He was ahead of his time in his attitude towards his daughter. When an older woman in the family told him his daughter couldn’t even make a cup of tea and wasn’t obedient, he replied, “Obedience is not a good thing. Especially for girls. No – obedience is not to be promoted.”

I liked the last words of the book being from Nair’s father but I felt the book ended a bit suddenly. I think an epilogue would have worked well.

I like the title of this book. As Fathers Go would appeal to readers who would enjoy a well-told story of growing up in India and a special father and daughter relationship. I have taken one star off for editing errors. I award this book 4 out of 5 stars.

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As fathers go
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[Shaniz Tobiaz]

Very interesting review there, The book is a must read for me.

[George Bastem]

What a touching and beautifully told story! The father’s progressive mindset and deep bond with his daughter make it even more special. Growing up in India during such a transformative time must have been fascinating, and it’s great to see that reflected so well.

[Louis Donald]

As Fathers Go seems like a heartfelt memoir with a strong father-daughter bond and a vivid look at life in India. The cultural details sound especially engaging.