In this raw memoir, the author explores the shame she felt at her mother’s difference; her perceived inability to become fluent in Brina’s world. Now as an adult, Brina expresses shame for having denied her mother’s experience, and the history and culture of Okinawa which is weaved artfully throughout the book. Literary types will laugh in recognition as the novel overflows with pithy observations about the book world. You rarely stop to draw breath, but this is what gives Namita Gokhale’s novel its warmth, charm and vivacity. They target higher electronic branches too: government defence, weapons systems, power grids, water supplies, hospital networks, chemical factories, aeroplanes, elections; all susceptible.

Source: The Irish Times June 11, 2021 22:52 UTC