Well-behaved Indian Women - Book Review

Thank you Netgalley and Berkeley Pub for an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

'Well-Behaved Indian Women' is a mother-daughter story about three generations of women who strive to distinguish themselves as they pursue their dreams. Mimi, Nandini and Simran - three generations and they believe they have been judged wrongly by each other. There are a lot of misconceptions and prejudices in patriarchial Indian society which have always made the women in the family to step back and let the men take charge of their lives. It is going to change when all three of them start opening up to each other and challenge the norm.

The characters have never felt so realistic and relatable to me as those in 'Well-behand Indian Women'. Saumya Dave pens the patriarchial elephant in the room expertly using her characters. All three main characters are multi-dimensional. They share a fascinating relationship and cope with their inner conflicts. All the men in this women-centred book provide depth and support the main characters well.

Well-paced plot with non-complex writing, 'Well-behaved Indian Women' is told from alternating perspectives of Simran and Nandita. The writer is a mental health advocate who does not surprise when you find so many inspiring quotes in the book to underline and highlight.

'Well-behaved Indian Women' is about family, friends, relationships, breakups, careers, immigrants, prejudices, xenophobia, diversity, own voices and dreams.

I'd recommend this book to all the readers who enjoy reading stories about immigrants, 'own voices', diversity and love Michelle Obama's 'Becoming'.