The Sleeping Dictionary

As an Indian living away from home, I yearned for a book that would transport me back to the familiar landscapes of my homeland. When I read the blurb of Sujata Massey's “A Sleeping Dictionary,” I knew I had found what I was looking for.

Massey's writing is stunning, particularly in her depiction of pre-Independent India. I thought I was aware of the independence struggle; but there is so much more that I am yet to know and this book nudged me towards learning about it more. The journey of Kamala, the protagonist, is one that every reader should experience. This book beautifully balances India's struggle for freedom with the turmoil of the characters' lives.

However, I do wish the book had a better editor, as I noticed a few odd sentences and grammatical errors. Nevertheless, this is one of the best books I read in 2024.

If you're interested in historical fiction set in India, “A Sleeping Dictionary” is a must-read.