Set against the emergency measures imposed by Indira Gandhi in the mid-1970s, "A Fine Balance" follows the lives of four unlikely people as they struggle "to maintain a fine balance between hope and despair." Originally published in 1995, "A Fine Balance" is both a warning about the human terrors that await a society without compassion and a testimony to the enduring greatness of the human spirit.
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Set against the emergency measures imposed by Indira Gandhi in the mid-1970s, "A Fine Balance" follows the lives of four unlikely people as they struggle "to maintain a fine balance between hope and despair." Originally published in 1995, "A Fine Balance" is both a warning about the human terrors that await a society without compassion and a testimony to the enduring greatness of the human spirit.
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This book is fantastic. Definitely a book to read if you plan on traveling to India or even if you don't.
Stirring, magnifying, disturbing and heartfelt all at the same time.
fiddler
Aug 17, 2008
A Dive into the Indian Culture
I have never read a more recent book that can so accurately, subtly, and naturally portray a certain culture while still maintaining a universal appeal. Excellent! It's a long read, yes, but it is long and sweet.
The characters are memorable and the way Mistry has with words is welcoming. It's the simple details the book will add constantly that allows readers to empathize and actually live alongside the characters. Love, hate, injustice, spirituality, deep-rooted tradition, loss, gain, joy-- it has it all.
I heard about it from a friend who had seen it on Oprah's book club, and gave it a chance. It's definitely a good book to discuss, but it is also just as good to read on your own quietly while you absorb the culture. No regrets.
readtome
Apr 3, 2007
Elegant prose & Insightul storytelling
This wonderfully written novel is a triumph for author Rohinton Mistry - most certainly his best book. His characters are beautifully developed and will remain in your consciousness for years after you've read the last page. This story will open your heart and mind to the terrible and awesome mosaic of love and hatred in India, where Hindu and Moslem, rich and desperately poor must co-exist and in the end. It leaves you wondering what has prevailed... hope or despair, love or apathy. I highly recommend this very long, but remarkably relevant story.
