Em and The Big Hoom

to: my reddit secret santa, you are the best because this book is <3

Do you know what I really love? Heung-Min Son, yes but also well written contemporary Indian authors. As someone who reads a lot of non-Indian nonfiction, I often feel guilty for not consuming more domestic pieces of literature. This is a reminder that my common excuse of “most mainstream Indian literature feels trash” is BS.

Em and the big Hoom somehow made it to my TBR list but I didn't seriously pursue it. Not until a softcover copy of the book mysteriously turned up at my doorstep, quite literally. On a whim, I once picked it up during my lunch break and the next thing I know I am 40 pages in and don't want to stop.

There isn't much of a “twisty” story-telling in this book. It feels more like a diary entry jig-saw puzzle spread over a few decades. Its appeal is being able to be humorous and witty while being heartbreaking sad and bleak. The book's pacing is very persuasive - much like real-life, all the highs come with annoying pit-in-you-stomach anticipation of the lows. The madness and sorrow in this book is written with such grace. Endearing and eccentric characters make you want to read more. Also, the main hero - city of Bombay - just shinesss in this book. I don't know much about the city but I felt what Maahim would be like. The revisit to Goan culture in flashbacks was also brilliant.

Much like the edges of the book, the writing is vivid and colourful - a bizarre adventure into two strangers and their love and life. All the while not knowing anyone's name. Stranger, crazy book finished it in two sittings.

What an emotional rollercoaster, I can't even write a review for this property. Just read it, you won't regret it.

Jerry Pinto, I wonder how much you suffered to create this masterpiece. Wow.
Shoutout to my Reddit secret Santa for sending me this wonderful book, I am ded - thanks.