My Family and Other Saints

The book "My Family & Other Saints" by Kirin Narayan is a spellbinding memoir that provides a glimpse into the life of a middle-class girl growing up in a small village near Bombay in the 1970s and 1980s. The author, through profound personal honesty, narrates her experiences of being part of a cross-cultural family that bridges the East and West. Narayan's narrative offers great insight into Hindu customs and traditions, as well as the clash between traditional Indian values and modern Western influences. The book explores the author's struggle to uphold traditional Indian values while being surrounded by an untraditional and dysfunctional family that welcomes American tourists seeking spiritual enlightenment in India. Readers found the story captivating and praised Narayan's authentic voice, which shines through the book. However, some reviewers mentioned that the novel can be hard to follow at times due to the jumping time frames and numerous names introduced. They also highlighted the lack of a Hindu/Sanskrit glossary to aid in understanding certain customs and terminologies mentioned in the book. In conclusion, "My Family & Other Saints" is a rare gem of a book that offers a unique perspective on the intersection of cultures and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom. Despite its complexity, the memoir resonates with readers through its heartfelt storytelling and poignant reflections on familial relationships and cultural identity. **