It is hoped that readers will respect this author by taking thoughtful, unhurried reading sessions of his dissertations (my word) in this biographical-like literary offering. Authors are often vulnerable to critics and skeptics so I feel this author has bravely stated many issues dealing with multicultural interest, syncretism, assimilation, acceptance of immigrants (even of those born in the adopted country and have become citizens thereof) by those who are the supposed, 'real' citizens of the 'new' chosen country.

In my opinion, M. G. Vassanji, the author, doesn't mince his words and cuts straight to the core issues. He deals with the good, the bad and the ugly; the frustrations and the bittersweet joys. So much of what he has had to say resonated with me and I could really relate with what this Indian-African author has had to share. However, I did get bogged down some by, ironically he proves his point, some topics he chose to tackle but I was able to understand the general idea.

It shocked me some as to what he had to say about such household names as David Livingstone and even Mahatma Gandi. I feel it's good for an author to stir up a reader, so any reader who has courage and integrity, should read this book. It has been good and even healing in some ways to read of others' similar struggles in view of tyring to 'fit in' while still maintaining ones own original heritage. The book title is so, so appropo!!!

Thank-you, M. G. Vassanji!
5-Star rating from me.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

February 2024

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

I enjoyed this read. It was from a different perspective than I am used to. It is not often that I am able to read about the process and struggle of finding and claiming identity as an immigrant of somewhere other than the United States. Definitely worth a re-read as it is jam packed with information and history.


https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6285061874

Reviewing a memoir or personal essay collection, particularly one delving into themes of identity and belongingness, is daunting to me. It's certainly not due to a lack of opinions, but how do you even begin to maintain objectivity?

Did I learn things? Certainly. Should "learning" influence my assessment? I'm not sure.

Eventually, I just feel like this particular collection was just not for me. Was it important? Yes! But some of the chapters, like the chapter on Gandhi, felt more like ramblings, rather than a discussion. Other chapters, where he talks about the lack of bookstores/libraries and then sudden exposure to them was pretty relatable.
I personally would have liked some deeper editing because this collection is good.

I don't think the writing style of this collection was for me, but I greatly enjoyed the content of the essays within it nonetheless. 3.5/5 stars.