A debut novel by the New York Times journalist about how a discovered box in the attic leads one Bengali American family down a path toward understanding the importance of family, even when splintered.
Deb's empathic affinity ensures an exquisite first novel ... Deb writes with effortless openness, even as he confronts what are certainly many of life's deepest tragedies: the loss of a child, the breaking of bonds, the betrayal of trust. He transfers his journalism prowess into clear, crisp sentences. His reporter's skills transform small but distinctive details into presenting an impressive cast of indelible characters ... Insightful, resonating, surprisingly funny, Deb's own second act could earn him a standing ovation.
Full of regret, mistakes, love, redemption, and second chances, New York Times reporter Deb’s first novel is a painfully beautiful story that gives hope to all who have lost a loved one and wished for a second act of their own.
... charming if not always credible ... A melodramatic subplot involving Mitali’s mildly unhinged drummer boyfriend, complete with cocaine addiction and underworld chicanery, threatens to derail the novel, but Deb packs in plenty of well-observed domestic details. Though it’s mixed bag, Deb knows how to craft a family narrative.
