It was so good to immerse myself in another of Jhumpa Lahiri's books. As with her other novels, I felt totally enrapt with the ebb and flow of her narrative. Her writing is lyrical and elegant, yet simple and warmly descriptive.

The focus of the immigration experience is clearly defined. One can easily sense the feelings of alienation of Lahiri's characters. Despite the attempts to become a part of American society, the older generation clings to their ethnic and national practises and shuns newer experiences, including foods and styles of dress. They do not truly feel part of the society around them. Their circle of friends includes mainly others like them, their compatriots. The offspring of these people viewed themselves as being hostage to many of these ideas and venture away from the family, seeking assimilation.

The unusual series of events which have given him his name, cause Gogol, the main character, additional conflicts. Lahiri has clearly developed his feelings and actions as he matures. One can sense his yearning to shed the traditions that have bound his parents. It is easy to view each person as the story evolves.

One minor criticism that I have in each of her books is Lahiri's failure to provide some translation for Indian terminology. Although it is possible to gain understanding through the context of the situation, I often wished for a dictionary of this language.

Many have stated that they thought this was not as good as Interpreter of Maladies , orUnaccustomed Earth ;but I see it as an excellent example of well fleshed-out prose. It is a richly developed novel which stands alone.