The Faith of Ashish

Blessings In India #1

by Kay Marshall Strom

“His name is Ashish. His name is Blessing. The boy is my blessing.” Virat and Latha named their son Ashish, for he is the light and glory of their world. Yet a simple drink of water from the wrong cup changes them forever. Virat, Latha, and Ashish are Untouchables in 1905 India, members of a caste who must never contaminate the world of the other, higher, castes. When Ashish is in desperate need of a doctor, Virat risks everything to save his son and ventures into the dangerous realm of the high caste. There, the strength of a father’s love, the power of a young British nurse, and the faith of a child change the lives around them."Kay Strom has penned a high-powered suspense novel using her extensive overseas research and her experiences in third world countries. A master in creating the unexpected." - DiAnn Mills, Christy Award winner and author of Pursuit of Justice, The Fire in Ember, and Under a Desert Sky"Author Kay Marshall Strom, in her professional yet heart-rending style, has penned another story that will open the eyes and change the lives of her readers. This is an exquisitely written tale of hope and faith in the midst of difficulties born out of superstition and bondage. I am already anxiously awaiting the sequel!"-  Kathi Macias, award-winning author of more than 30 books, including the popular Extreme Devotion series"Do not miss this historical, inspirational novel by Kay Marshall Strom. It will touch your heart."

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Christian Historical Fiction, Ebooks

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2011

About the author

Kay Marshall Strom is the author of forty published books. Her writing credits also include numerous magazine articles, short stories, curriculum, stories for children, two prize-winning screenplays, and booklets for writers. Kay speaks at seminars, retreats, and special events throughout the country. She and her husband Dan Kline love to travel, and more and more Kay’s writing and speaking take her around the word.

Reviews

[Peggy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was basically a story of the Hindu caste system in India, of which Ashish and his patents were Untouchables. When Asaish was beaten and needed medical attention his father was forced to sell himself and his family to a landowner, where they worked as slaves. The landowner was proud to call himself a Christian and did show some kindness towards his workers and Ashish's family, but he also hung on to Hindu ways because the caste system benefitted him.

I thought this was a children's book, but the first 200 pages would be off putting to young readers because there were so many peripheral characters. The characters weren't developed enough nor was the plot interesting enough for an adult book. Either way the ideas were there and this could be a good book, it just needs some editing and a couple of rewrites......straddling both the children's lit. and adult world just didn't work.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really got a feel for the awfulness of the caste system in India, through this book. All the way through the story, my heart went out to Virat and Latha as they struggled to survive and to keep their son Ashish alive. Would there ever be a way for them to better their lives? There was only one ray of hope, near the end of the story, but that ray was wonderful.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel set in India does a good job of explaining the culture, caste system, and religions of India. I felt the pace was a bit slow, but learned a lot about life in India. It also showed how faith in Jesus Christ can give you hope no matter if you are in the lowest caste. In her afterwords, Strom gives an explanation of how the caste system developed and what each caste means.

[A Busscher · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good read, nothing like the other books that I normally read. It does make you wonder how the Indian people live like that, but I guess if it's all you've ever known.... It was slow in some parts and the ending didn't make a lot of sense to me. It felt like she was done writing and just left if so there would be a potential plot for the second book.

[Alida · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not your average Christian novel. The main characters are members of the Untouchable caste in 1905 India.

[Laurel Kehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enlightening about the caste system and particularly the Untouchables (Dahlits.)

[Melissa Herman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read!!

[Marion Granigan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Maybe I just didn't give it enough time, but I couldn't get into it.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

India, 1905 - A belief in not only reincarnation and karma but also in the castes. Castes reflect the social status of the people of India, and there are only 4. Hopefully you are born into the highest class, the Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Sudra. The Untouchables fell outside of the four castes. Everyone knew the outcastes to be impure, subhuman, lower than animals and rodents and insects.

This is the story of one such family born into the outcaste class. They live within a village set aside for their social class. One class can never interact with another, especially the outcastes. When Virat leaves for work each day, removing dead animals from the other areas, he is forced to strap a broom to his back, which he uses when walking the road, bending down and then walking, to sweep away his footprints, evidence that he walked there and was not worthy to walk to ground; a metal cup over his mouth to keep an Untouchable's contaminated breath off roads where high caste feet would tread; and a drum to warn members of pure high castes that a polluted, worthless one was headed their way, calling out "Untouchable coming! Untouchable coming!" This is the only time Untouchables are allowed to enter the other class areas. Their job is to remove the dead.

When his only son, Ashish follows him to work one day, he makes the mistake of crossing over the bridge to the pure high caste, the Brahmin, and though the day is hot, Ashish grows thirsty and reaches for a cup at the well. Before he finishes the cup, he is beaten within an inch of death and left at the well, punishment for polluting the water supply.

When Virat finds his son, he is moved to find help, especially when his efforts and his wife, Latha, do nothing to bring Ashish back to health. Fearing he will die, Virat makes a plea to the landowner, Mammen Samuel, whose land the well was on, to help heal his son. Since Virat doesn't have money to pay for medicine or doctors to help Ashish, Mammen Samuel is only to happy to help as long as Virat is willing to pay his debt. What he fails to realize is that debt will never be able to be paid off. Now Virat, Latha and Ashish belong as property to the landowner, who believes that what he is doing is being a great Christian man.

Ashish finds help with the English doctors at a clinic, and even though they aren't sure that they can save Ashish, the order Mammen Samuel to leave the boy in his care. Something he isn't at all willing to do. Not only that but Dr. Moore, won't release Ashish to Mammen Samuel without his parents being there. Even though Dr. Moore believes he is helping all he did, was increase the debt the family now owest to Mammen Samuel by four times the original amount. Now what will they do to save their family and be able to pay off the debt?

In the latest novel by Kay Marshall Strom, The Faith of Ashish, is heart-breaking and shocking. When you see how people were treated back in the early 1900's in India, it leaves you angry and compassionate to help those that these people believe deserve nothing except death. Death in hopes that they can come back into a higher class or at least as an animal.

I received this book compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review and was riveted because even though I knew from history about this classes of people in the Hindu religion, reading about a life affected by this made it hard to endure, yet you have to. You, as the reader, as drawn in to know how this family will endure this situation and how it will affect the life of Ashish in the process. An unconditional love by a mother and father willing to do whatever it takes to save the life of their only remaining child and to provide a life for him. Hands down, you can not be affected and moved by this story and for that I award this novel a 5 out of 5 stars. This is one book, you won't want to miss out on!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best recently written books I've read for years. A must read for anyone interested not only in India, but in any place with slavery, historical or contemporary. Although the caste system is naturally extremely prominent in this book, it is really a story about slavery. I recommend this to anyone sentimental enough to talk about " happy slaves" in the American Deep South.
The story centers on an Untouchable couple and their intelligent child, Ashish. They are forced to be slaves on a plantation for a supposedly Christian master. The end will make you cry.
But don't get me wrong. This isn't a sappy, melodramatic read like Les Mis or the inferior work of Dickens. This isn't cheesy fantasy for comfortable teens like The Hunger Games.
This is the real deal.
In some ways, Kay Marshall Strom reminds me of Thomas Hardy or George Eliot--and the better parts of Catherine Marshall's Christy. She has an ability that I rarely see in writers to examine events objectively, characterizing all people involved with honesty and fairness. The main couple-- Virat and Lartha-- are noble people and good parents, but other Untouchable characters are shown as selfish and hard-hearted. The supposedly Christian slave owner has constant friction with a Brahmin neighbor, and he is no better morally than his heathen enemy---because God looks at the the heart, not the outside. The overall picture of the grim life among the Untouchables is balanced, including the wretched Pooni and her cruel husband, along with the sons who had the dignity to stand up for their mom and sister and left their father's house permanently. And the beautiful English woman who shares God's love with a bewildered Ashish is admitted to be reckless and naive, while her pessimistic doctor friend is not really as mean as he pretends to be...
Because who you are is not based on your station in life, or your race, or even the religion you were born believing--it's based on your personal moral decisions. Ultimately, we end up being who we chose to be. And Jesus knows all about it.
Kay Marshall Strom has also done a series on black slaves in North America. I cannot wait to try that one out. Her stuff is like solid food that's nutritious and good for you---if you keep all your reading tastes to ice cream and Dr Pepper, you'll hate these books. But if you want to improve your mind, check her out.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going into this book I wasn't sure how I was going to like it. When I pick up fiction I'll admit that I'm a romance junkie so a book set in India focused on the struggles of an Untouchable family and their young son was definitely a change for me but I am very glad that I read it. Right from the first page I knew I was going to be hooked and I knew that it was going to be a thought-provoking read. I'm warning you now you will need tissues within the first few pages.

In a society like ours where everyone is treated equally (or at least supposed to be) it's hard to imagine a caste system where the wrong move by a lower class citizen, something as simple as breathing the same air as an upper caste, could result in death, and it was acceptable. Kay Marshall Strom has brought the pain and suffering of the poor of India in the early 1900s to life in The Faith of Ashish. Ashish is one little boy with a boatload of spirit. He is beaten to within an inch of his life, heals with the help of a kindly British nurse only to go on to serve an abusive young master. His story is also uplifting as he and his family learns that he is, after all a true blessing as his name indicates.

Judging by the title you might expect this book to be simply about Ashish and his journey to God but it's not. It's mostly about life, hardships and finding hope where there doesn't seem to be any. This is not an easy story to read but Ms. Strom definitely seems to know her stuff and I learned a lot that I didn't know about 20th century India. If you're interested in missions or other culture's religious views this is definitely a book to read.

*I received my copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest review.*

[Mandie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I have read a couple of non-fiction books that have dealt with specific atrocities in world history and this book is on par with them, even though it's a work of fiction. As I read it, I could imagine the scenes actually happening. When I began the book, I knew a little about the caste system in India, that some people are considered higher than others, that they believe in reincarnation and don't kill animals as a general rule and that kind of thing. What I did not understand was the life of the Dalits, or "Untouchables." The author did an excellent job explaining the different castes, what was required of the the two top castes and the Untouchables, what life was like for the Untouchables, and the Indian religion that makes such mistreatment possible (Hinduism.) Since I didn't know much about the Indian way of life, I had not given much thought to what this kind of belief system could lead to. It seems ridiculous to me that one person could declare another person's shadow "unclean," especially in the 20th century. It seemed so superstitious and backwards. And it also seemed unreal to me that anyone would think the way the Untouchables were treated was acceptable, or that the Untouchables would allow it, but there was some history given at the end of why that was so.

The book really gave me a lot to think about, and I enjoy reading things that challenge me to use my head. I think the author wanted her readers to think. It is obvious she has a heart for the plight of the Dalits. A very good book, I would definately recommend it to a friend and will read it again in the future. Now, I am off to read the sequal, "The Hope of Shridula."

[CassieV · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book, I really did, I just couldn't get there.

Pros- This book did a great job of helping you to feel how hopeless Hinduism can be for the lower castes, especially the untouchables. It was probably very realistic in the personal growth of the characters (I think the book only covered a year), in that their spiritual awakenings didn't happen immeadiately, and for some are still hazy even at the end.

Cons- Possibly because the book was so realistic it felt very slow. Not much seemed to happen, and when it did it it only lead in a circle, much like hinduism itself. Perhaps this was the author's goal, I don't know. I can respect that, but for me personally I would have liked to see the characters grow and develop a bit more. Especially since there are so many of them. I got lost from time to time on who was related to whom and how everything connected. :) Maybe a family tree/social outline would have helped me.

I will still read the next one and possibly the third, so I wouldn't say I'm totally turned off to this series, I'm simply not as in love with this book as I had hoped to be.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book, part of a series, was free from Amazon. The mechanics of good writing were excellent. The book was easy to read, not too long and not wordy. I gave it three stars because the author failed to lay the rich subject matter foundation within the book proper. Why has the caste system endured for so many years in India? How do Hinduism and Christianity cohabit within the same person? Are the Untouchables still complacent with their slavery to the caste system?

The little boy, Ashish, and his parents are Untouchables--the lowest form of humanity in early twentieth century India. They submit themselves to their betters without question. Ashish is loved by his parents, but they are helpless to prevent the brutality practiced upon Ashish, or upon themselves. An English doctor and missionary are a safe haven for Ashish. Ashish believes in their God and Jesus Christ to keep him safe when he says ‘no' to more torment. The author's characters are well defined and most are endearing. I liked this book and will read more from this author. India is a most exciting country.

Thank you, Ms. Strom, for a good read.

[Naomi Bodway · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book club selection...set in India in 1905, it is a rambling story of a variety of lives, and at the heart of the story is Ashish, a young boy born to "untouchables" in the lowest of all castes. The story gives us a view of the unbelieveable conditions under which they lived and helped the reader to understand the view of human life that is pervasive in a pure caste society. I found the story a bit hard to follow and the development of the characters a bit weak. I believe the author was attempting to intwine the value of Christian missionary work into the story, but I think she struggled to develop the story beyond a fairly simple tale of a people living under the inhumane and cruel leadership of those with means. Some of the contrasts of religious beliefs was interesting. This book again pointed to a willingness among humans to watch others in suffereing that I find so hard to sort out.

[Rebecca LuElla · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an outstanding book. I love the realism, the characters. In parts it was so sad and so bleak, but not without hope. I was reading another story at the same time and marveled at how the one left me thinking dark thoughts and this one, though a story about true suffering, abuse, mistreatment, slavery, still managed to show God's power and sovereignty. Hence the hope infused into the story. I highly recommend this one. I was fortunate enough to snatch it up when it was offered free on the Kindle, but it's a book that deserves to be read whatever the price, especially by American Christians. It's good for us to see the world as it is, and this book cracks open that door

[Pattyrflg · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of a young boy who is part of the untouchable caste in 1905 India. Knowing no better, he drinks from a well belonging to an upper caste. For his transgression, this 5 year old boy is almost beaten to death. His father goes to the rich landowner to borrow money in order to take Ashsish to the clinic run by the white doctor. Ashish's encounter with the British, white nurse will change his life forever. A story that taught me something about India and the cruel caste system. Well researched and an easy, but informative read.

[Desarae · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a great difference in reading facts about the culture and relgions of India and actually 'experiencing' them as they are lived out day to day in the lives of the characters in this book.

The author paints a saddning picture of the poverty and fierce spiritual oppression as a result of the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and caste system. This is a story that moves you beyond head knowledge to an understanding emotional connection with the struggles and bondages of the people in the land of India.

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

A family of the untouchable caste in Indian society struggle through their lives under deplorable conditions. Spotlighting the complicated caste system and Hindu beliefs the author weaves a tale that is both interesting and uncomfortable to read. That is a good combination, though, as it brings out points of differences in religions, the duality of the human spirit for good and evil and the affect adversity has on various temperaments. There is certainly much to think about and discuss from this excellent story.

[Susan Sevcik · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hoping for a tale along the line of The Kite Runner, but this fell short. That being said, the book did open my eyes to the caste system, which is still in effect today. Ashish and his family were grateful for what they had, and that was humbling, for I have so much more. A short read, but it will stay with you for a long time.

[Martha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story about the caste system in India and a family of "untouchables". The story is fairly gripping and written in a way that makes you want to find out what happens next. However, I was very disappointed at the ending, which was abrupt and left you wondering, hoping that this family had a happy ending.

[Dee Renee Chesnut · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was free when I downloaded it to my Nook library in 2012. This is Christian fiction even though it is written about the Hindus and the caste system as it was 110 years ago. It is also about the lives of people who unwittingly or desparetely sell themselves and their families into slavery.
Sometimes the pace of the story bogs down; but I can still recommend this for all readers.

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure that I was going to like this book at first, but it drew me in. It put me into the lives of the people of India and what their daily lives are like. It also showed what a challenge it is to reach a people that already has so many gods. Other than this book, I don't know of any other way I could have come to an understanding of their way of life. It was well worth the read.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, but I didn't love it. I typically love books that take me to a different culture and immerse me in a different world. But for some reason I just wasn't as enthralled by or attached to the characters in this book. It was an interesting read and well written, just not my favorite. Someone else may find it completely captivating.

[Marti Wade · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the author did a great deal of research for this series, I found it hard to believe the characters in such a different time and place would profess such contemporary American attitudes about caste, fate, etc. Not going to give up though; will look at other books by this profilic and local (to me) author.

[sidewalk · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am not a Christian, so parts of it were boring to read through. Other parts were awesome. I really like the style of writing the author has and wish it would not rely quite so heavily on the God theme. It could be an awesome book....

[Lindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Families must sacrifice for what they believe is the best for their children. Some cultures treat women and children severely and it can be impossible to break free with out the generous help of others.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars. Very well-written and I learned a lot about the caste system but make no mistake, this story seemed to be propaganda for the Christian faith. That being said, it was a very good read with great characters.

[SusanwithaGoodBook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Parts of this were interesting, parts were slow. The story doesn't have a satisfying conclusion, but I don't care to read any more. I did learn more about India. And now I never want to visit.

[Pinky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!