Seven by Farzana Doctor

Mar 06, 2020 Fanna rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: 2020-releases, mental-health-undertone, author-is-ownvoices, indian-mc, read-an-early-version, review-copy-arc-provided, set-in-india, south-asian-author, timely-philosophical-edgy, wishlist

December 09, 2020: A Manhattan-based school teacher—Sharifa—is stultified in her work and marriage so a quick trip to Mumbai, a city in India, for eight months is planned to possibly resuscitate the loosening bonds; plus, Sharifa can finally research about her great, great-grandfather who was once an immensely rich philanthropist. But landing in this new city that the main character does have cultural ties to, her family's history doesn't seem to just be an impressive leap of faith landing them December 09, 2020: A Manhattan-based school teacher—Sharifa—is stultified in her work and marriage so a quick trip to Mumbai, a city in India, for eight months is planned to possibly resuscitate the loosening bonds; plus, Sharifa can finally research about her great, great-grandfather who was once an immensely rich philanthropist. But landing in this new city that the main character does have cultural ties to, her family's history doesn't seem to just be an impressive leap of faith landing them huge wealth. Climbing up a tree of family secrets that include, but aren't limited to, the enigma surrounding four women who were once wives of this great, great-grandfather but have been missing from the ancestral lore, the story becomes engrossing in all its sense.

Spotlighting a practice observed, but not limited to, in India and unfortunately ritualistic as well as controversial, Seven dives into laying down a custom called 'khatna' that is—in all its basic meaning yet complex connotations—an act of female genital mutilation. Highlighting a tradition so absurd yet prevalent, the simple writing but careful sequences successfully project varied views yet smoothly disseminate awareness through a sensitive discussion around such a realistic issue. A subtle, tension-filled tone of placing old traditions in a scale of relevance sits well with a narrative voice that isn't accusatory and in fact, understanding of the difficulty in untangling the complexities flowing through centuries.

Complemented with themes like strict gender roles established within the south asian culture, discovering oneself without the stature of a marriage, and authentic, unfiltered reactions to changing antiquated rituals, makes this literary fiction uniquely tender and resilient as well as surprisingly delicate and urgent.

♥ an absolute favorite. ⇷

➼ an early digital copy received via netgalley but review would remain uninfluenced. ↤

March 7, 2020: "balance between modern and traditional customs" I'm so ready to read this women's fiction that gives a spotlight to feminists.

...more

flag 16 likes · Like · see review

Jun 23, 2020 Jade @theelderbooks rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Seven is an important book. It deals with a traditional, yet very contemporary topic : Female Genital Mutilation. I'll shorten it to FGM throughout this review.

Sharifa goes to India to explore her heritage, and create a genealogy tree around Abdoolally (hoping I'm spelling it right, I'm horrible at this), as she gets curious about the various wives he had, that aren't really included in the family history. However, she ends up doing way more than this, and she uncovers the truth about the FGM's Seven is an important book. It deals with a traditional, yet very contemporary topic : Female Genital Mutilation. I'll shorten it to FGM throughout this review.

Sharifa goes to India to explore her heritage, and create a genealogy tree around Abdoolally (hoping I'm spelling it right, I'm horrible at this), as she gets curious about the various wives he had, that aren't really included in the family history. However, she ends up doing way more than this, and she uncovers the truth about the FGM's importance in India, and Indian culture.

FGM is not a topic I'm familiar with, and I discovered a lot about it in this book. It educated me more than a non-fiction book could have, as the characters involved in all this are very likeable, and talk about it with their emotions instead of complicated words. I especially liked to see how the author was not patronizing or vindicative while writing about FGM. We don't only get angry people saying FGM is BS etc... We also have more moderate reactions, and more interestingly, we get to have an insight from other women in Sharifa's family, who are in favor of FGM, and understand a little why they think it's an ok tradition.

The author was very careful in her writing, and I thought she was brilliantly exposed a topic, that is probably close to her heart. She didn't overdo or underdo it. She found the right tone to bring attention to it, without trying to force the reader to have a strong opinion on it, even though of course the narration is a little oriented against FGM. That was brilliantly executed. Period.

Sharifa and her whole family were such realistic characters it was quite easy to connect with them. I loved that we had both Sharifa's POV regarding everything happening. She uncovered things about her childhood, dealing with her own trauma, all while doing everything in her power to protect her daughter from their family.

A special shoutout needs to be given to Sharifa's husband, Murtuza. He was so gentle and understanding with his wife while she dealt with her sexuality, her sexual and mental health, and everything else ! What a man ! He never pushes Sharifa too far, listens to her, and tries to help her in any way he can, while also giving her the space she needs. We stan !

Honestly, there is only one aspect of the story I didn't like : The Abdoolally POVs and his story. I know his story is partially the reason Sharifa goes to India, but I just couldn't care for him, or his wives, or anything. I felt these parts could have completely left out. Actually, Abdoolally could not exist, and it wouldn't change much. The rest is pure gold, maturity (but in a good way), and well-done education about a topic often left in the dark. ...more

flag 3 likes · Like · see review

Jul 31, 2020 Michelle Jacobsen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

"... while the men might have made the rules, it is the women, women I've loved, who've enforced them."

Since finishing Seven last night I haven’t been able to stop thinking about this line and the way the book ended. Doctor has written a powerhouse novel about the Dawoodi-Bohra community, a community that I was previously was not familiar with. The way the characters were portrayed and especially the way that Khatna (female genital mutilation) was discussed will resonate with the reader long af ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Nov 23, 2020 Jen Bober rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This book was beautifully written and just so enlightening. I was deeply moved by the story of Sharifia as she embarks on a family trip to India to visit relatives and to try and save her marriage. What she ends up finding is something more. A story of culture beliefs, love, betrayal and standing up for female rights. This book looks at khatna which is a controversial topic. It explores why khatna is part of the Indian culture and more importantly explores the risks and trauma victims of this fa ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Mar 16, 2020 Surbhi Sinha rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: netgalley

"... while the men might have made the rules, it is the women, women I've loved, who've enforced them."

When I read the synopsis of the book, I was a bit hesitant about reading the book as I felt it might be a very heavy read but as I made my way through Sharifa's life, I couldn't get myself to put the book down!

Sharifa is a school teacher in Manhattan who lives with her husband - Murtuza and her 7 year old daughter - Zeenat. While life for her is passing by fairly well she seems to be bored of h "... while the men might have made the rules, it is the women, women I've loved, who've enforced them."

When I read the synopsis of the book, I was a bit hesitant about reading the book as I felt it might be a very heavy read but as I made my way through Sharifa's life, I couldn't get myself to put the book down!

Sharifa is a school teacher in Manhattan who lives with her husband - Murtuza and her 7 year old daughter - Zeenat. While life for her is passing by fairly well she seems to be bored of her job and possibly even her marriage. The family decides to move to Mumbai for eight months where Murtuza has a teaching gig and Sharifa takes this opportunity to research about her great great-grandfather Abdoolally.

The story is a whirlwind after they reach Mumbai and one of Sharifa's cousins - Fatema starts talking to her about khatna - Female Genital Mutilation, i.e. removal of the prepuce tissue off the clitoris also called "haraam ki boti" - which is practiced in India, mostly by the Dawoodi Bohra community which Sharifa and her family are a part of.

The story takes a complex route from here as Sharifa goes on to learn about multiple family secrets and how she and her favorite cousins decide to fight against this practice. It depicts the struggle of the women of this community from generations. This book while talking about khatna with urgency flows smoothly to educate and spread awareness.

The book is quite predictable to me on various occasions but this predictability helps me to realize the sad and horrid truth of human behavior when it comes kinship and community. But on finding out the reason for naming the book Seven, it left me terrified!

Seven is an inspiring, igniting and borderline soul-crushing story about many Dawoodi Bohra women who have had to go through the horrid practice of khatna. It is a story of love for family, self discovery and sadly betrayal.

I will be honest in telling you that I was not aware of this practice until I read this book. As an Indian woman, I know of many ill practices against women in the country, I also know of multiple laws which have helped curb these practices but Khatna is one practice I was oblivious to. This is a terrific book for which I only have praises on how it has subtly addressed this issue.

I would highly recommend you all to read Seven. I feel more educated and informed as a reader and as a feminist. I rate this book 5 out of 5 bookmarks.

I am also adding this link for you to gain more info on khatna and to learn about how you can play a part in khatna khatma!

I'd like to thank NetGalley and Dundurn Publishers for providing me with a copy in lieu of an honest review. I'd also like to congratulate the author Farzana Doctor for taking up this initiative and writing such a sensitive yet soulful book!

I received an ARC ebook which I believe had some chapter's missing which talked about the story of Abdoolally - Sharifa's great great-grandfather or maybe they were intentionally removed from the ARC, hence this review is solely based on Sharifa's narrative. ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Mar 15, 2020 Zainub Reads rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sharifa, a teacher by profession takes a hiatus from work and accompanies her husband, Murtuza, a professor, on a work trip of eight months to Mumbai, India along with their seven year old daughter.

They belong to the Dawoodi-Bohra community which is a lesser know sub-sect of the Shias.

While on her vacation Sharifa is intrigued by the life and times of her great-great-grandfather who was known Patriarch and she sets on about uncovering his past and rediscovering her own roots in the process.

The B ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Sep 05, 2020 Toronto Bibliophile rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Just finished reading SEVEN by Farzana Doctor, a new to me Canadian author. Official publication date was yesterday September 5th, 2020.

Sharifa and her seven year old daughter Zee are joining her husband Murtuza on a work trip to India. Sharifa plans to research her great-great-grandfather Abdoolally, a wealthy and generous business man while she is there. But what actually captures her attention is not his story, but rather the story of his four wives.

Sharifa's trip also happens during a time o ...more

flag 3 likes · Like · see review

Nov 18, 2020 Catherine Hernandez rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Seven by Farzana Doctor explores the emotional truths behind the practice of female genital mutilation while compassionately teasing out the complexities of kinship, feminism and marriage. It is a brilliant read that urges readers to move past the headlines and into the mind of one woman as she reconnects with her body, her past.

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Sep 11, 2020 Laura rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This was a page turner! I started reading and could not sleep - As with all really good books, I rushed to the end and now I am sad it is over.

I found myself very involved with, because I identified a lot with the main character of the book. Specifically, I found her struggle for balance, comprehension, peace and doing the right thing in untenable circumstances to be completely believable. This need for balance struck a personal cord with me.
I also identified with her quest to find the story of ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Aug 28, 2020 Mridula rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2020

*Spoilers ahead*

I picked up this book to prepare a bit for our local online literary festival expected this fall. I didn't quite know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. The tale focuses on Sharifa, her family (both nuclear and extended), and friends as they negotiate the terrain of khatna (female genital cutting) as it was/is practiced in India.

Doctor uses a thoughtful feminist gaze with engaging characters and we're given the full spectrum of of how women respond to this practice. I l ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Dec 19, 2020 Gaele rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: dundurn-press, diversity, reviewed, 2020-diverse-reads, diverse-2020, independent-review, net-galley, chick-lit, diverse-reading-challenge

The story follows Sharifa, her husband Murtuza and their seven-year-old daughter Zeenat. Sharifa and her husband are both educators, she’s also American-born, and they are members of the Dawoodi-Bohra community, a sect that I had never heard of, but is related to the Shia. More conservative and traditional, the opportunity while Murtuza is teaching in Mumbai gives Sharifa the opportunity to research her great grandfather, while connecting with her extended family and reconnecting with her husba
The story follows Sharifa, her husband Murtuza and their seven-year-old daughter Zeenat. Sharifa and her husband are both educators, she’s also American-born, and they are members of the Dawoodi-Bohra community, a sect that I had never heard of, but is related to the Shia. More conservative and traditional, the opportunity while Murtuza is teaching in Mumbai gives Sharifa the opportunity to research her great grandfather, while connecting with her extended family and reconnecting with her husband.

While in India, Sharifa is confronted with many questions, and fewer answers that satisfy, about her great grandfather, and has her own exposure to the practice of khatna or female genital mutilation. This practice is prevalent in her own family tree, and the questions, horrors, and the disconnect between her westernized values of women, feminism and self-determination are brought into the mix as the author seeks to give us the story from those tied to traditions and those seeing these horrors for what they are. Many others have written about the conflicts and conundrums posed, but I found the novel so much more powerful for the writing.

Providing a history of both her family and their traditional practices, along with two sides to the argument for and against khatna (and yes, she handles this masterfully and thoughtfully) provide readers with a fuller understanding beyond the knee-jerk “OMG” that is sitting in your head as you read on. Additionally, these conflicts between tradition (and the familiarity and acceptance gained with the adherence to those principles to not ‘make waves’) brings Sharifa into several of her own questions and worries, and for this, we have her husband who is very supportive, perhaps a bit too much for what is expected of a traditional leaning man. As I have zero experience with the practices, but can easily imagine (and empathize with) Sharifa’s questions, upsets, and reactions, the story allows readers to see perspectives not necessarily available in non-fiction, nor ones that cross / confront the family and their separation / conflict about the traditions. A wonderful read that isn’t for everyone –but is handled so beautifully and gently that Doctor brings us all into a little-known religious group and family and see where modern and traditional conflict and coexist, not easily but with a sense of ‘continuity’ that leaves everyone with a better understanding.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at I am, Indeed ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 28, 2020 Grand Admiral Tofu King rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: south-asian-lit

Seven by Farzana Doctor is an #OwnVoices Indian fiction literature novel about a woman named Sharifa who travels to India with her husband with the hopes of learning more about her great-great-grandfather who was an immensely successful businessman and a philanthropist. During her research, however, instead of discovering a tale of rags-to-riches, Sharifa learns that her grandfather had four wives, all of whom had been omitted from the family’s lore. As she becomes more and more engrossed in the Seven by Farzana Doctor is an #OwnVoices Indian fiction literature novel about a woman named Sharifa who travels to India with her husband with the hopes of learning more about her great-great-grandfather who was an immensely successful businessman and a philanthropist. During her research, however, instead of discovering a tale of rags-to-riches, Sharifa learns that her grandfather had four wives, all of whom had been omitted from the family’s lore. As she becomes more and more engrossed in the enigma surrounding these women, Sharifa also becomes entangled in a powerful familial debate regarding khatna—an age-old ritual of female genital cutting, one that shall force her to face her own reality and choose a side.

One of the most intriguing characteristics about Seven is the subject matter of female genital cutting (FGC) as it is one that I have never seen discussed in literature before. My own personal knowledge of this ritual is extremely limited and for all intents and purposes, it has always been a topic that has existed within my own cultural circles, but one that is never openly discussed. While I was curious to learn more about FGC, I was wary of the sensitivity with which it would be broached in the book. Ms Doctor not only discusses this vital issue with accessibility and evocativeness, she also does so with great care and consideration, which is what truly makes Seven such an incredible title.

The writing style is simple and rather straight-forward, making it easy to get utterly consumed within the pages, more so when the emotions surrounding the subject matter are portrayed with authenticity and thoughtfulness. Each side of the debate is given attention and respect, and provides an insightful, educative, and captivating reading experience. The tone while discussing the roots of these rituals and why some family members still believe in the practise is never spiteful or accusatory, which is an incredibly challenging feat given the nature of this matter. Her exposition is careful and considerate from beginning to end, even when it leans a bit more towards one side versus the other.

The superb use of emotions to illustrate the tensions within Sharifa’s family as they discuss this practise draws the reader further into the complexities of olden traditional Indian culture that most would consider to be highly outdated. There are layers of complexities that go beyond simple right and wrong that create a plethora of reactions and responses as the story unfolds, making the book practically impossible to put down.

The focus on FGC plays parallel to some of the other issues that Sharifa is battling in Seven and that helps to formulate an even more elaborate narrative filled with multi-dimensional themes on gender roles (particularly where sex is concerned), self-acceptance, the intricacies of cultural identity, marriage, female relationships, and much more. Sharifa’s husband, Murtuza, was a pleasant surprise whilst reading. He was a compassionate and understanding man who always valued his wife’s thoughts and feelings, highlighting an equity in their marriage that is rarely depicted in books showcasing more culturally inflexible gender-centric functions in South Asian communities, especially with respect to her inner turmoil regarding her sexuality and mental fortitude.

While Seven is not an easy book to read, it is vastly important, and I highly recommend it to readers that are searching for a unique story with fallibly relatable characters. With writing that is supported via excellent research, a respectful approach to an intensely delicate subject matter, a sensitive exhibition of sex and romance amid rigid Indian traditions and gender roles, and beautifully sincere use of emotions, there is very little within these pages that shall disappoint.

Please note that I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review, courtesy of Dundurn Press.

For more diverse book reviews, please visit my blog: The Djinn Reader

...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 08, 2020 Enid Wray rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Wow! And this is why I so love Farzana Doctor. As with her prior novels, she writes beautifully, creating complex and conflicted characters who struggle to be true to themselves while challenging social taboos and deeply held beliefs which are engrained within their communities… whether they intend to or because it is the only way they can be true to themselves.

I’ve been teaching about FGM for almost 30 years, and I have to say that this is the first time I can recall coming across it being tack ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 06, 2020 Penn Kemp rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Loved the magnificent Seven by Farzana Doctor (Dundurn Press). Beautiful, essential writing, so fully realized and evocative (characters/issues/sites)! As uplifting and affirming as it is a horrific portrayal of #fgm. Captivating and heart-rending. Farzana transports you to Mumbai & Gujarat. Puris galore:).

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 07, 2020 Katie rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: read-2020

Powerful book dealing with tradition, belonging, secrets, and the power of trust.

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 14, 2020 Jane Mulkewich rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This is Farzana's fourth book, and I have read and loved them all! This is the story of a woman who starts out on a genealogical history research project while in India for eight months, and she finds out much more about herself and her family and her community than she ever bargained for. I knew before reading it that it was about FGM (female genital mutilation), but in Farzana Doctor's skilful hands this is a complex story about so much more. ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 02, 2020 Katrina Feraco rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fiction, audiobooks

Wow. A powerful piece of literature about the many ways those we love us can hurt us, the ways we come to terms with and move through trauma, and the legacies our families leave, even the family members we don’t know. I loved this book.

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Oct 13, 2020 Kristi rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: favourites

Blown away by this book. Absolutely in my top reads of 2020. Sharifa's struggle to reconcile her memories of her past, and her love for her country and family with the realities she discovers as an adult is incredibly moving. If you loved The Break by Katherena Vermette or Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda add this novel to the top of your list ASAP. ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Mar 15, 2020 Zainub Reads rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sharifa, a teacher by profession takes a hiatus from work and accompanies her husband, Murtuza, a professor, on a work trip of eight months to Mumbai, India along with their seven year old daughter.

They belong to the Dawoodi-Bohra community which is a lesser know sub-sect of the Shias.

While on her vacation Sharifa is intrigued by the life and times of her great-great-grandfather who was known Patriarch and she sets on about uncovering his past and rediscovering her own roots in the process.

The B ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Mar 28, 2020 mango_vodka rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Farzana Doctor's Seven follows Sharifa, an American-born member of the Dawoodi Bohra religious sect, through a journey of self-discovery as she comes to terms with issues related to religion, family, tradition, and sexuality. This incredible story has a lot to offer, and I really struggle to come up with a single criticism.

Sharifa and her family, including husband Murtuza and seven year old daughter Zee, travel to their ancestral home of India - Murtuza to teach at a university, and Sharifa to ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Nov 17, 2020 Fiona rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: canadian-content, south-asia-south-asian-diaspora, social-but-distancing-book-club

Activist fiction that is nuanced, intimate and always believable in the psychology of its characters. Seven is an insightful lens on trauma and the shifting relationships between generations: all the ways communities and families can love us, sustain us, and make us feel a part of something bigger, but also the singular betrayal of being hurt by those you trust most. Would absolutely recommend this book!

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Oct 18, 2020 Sharon Reiner rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

An important, powerful book illuminating a topic that needs more exposure. Beautifully written by one of Canada’s most brilliant and insightful authors. Thank you for this gift.

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Aug 25, 2020 Shae rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Synopsis:

A rich, soulfully written novel about inheritance and resistance that tests the balance between modern and traditional customs.

When Sharifa accompanies her husband on a marriage-saving trip to India, she thinks that she’s going to research her great-great-grandfather, a wealthy business leader and philanthropist. What captures her imagination is not his rags-to-riches story, but the mystery of his four wives, missing from the family lore. She ends up excavating much more than she had im Synopsis:

A rich, soulfully written novel about inheritance and resistance that tests the balance between modern and traditional customs.

When Sharifa accompanies her husband on a marriage-saving trip to India, she thinks that she’s going to research her great-great-grandfather, a wealthy business leader and philanthropist. What captures her imagination is not his rags-to-riches story, but the mystery of his four wives, missing from the family lore. She ends up excavating much more than she had imagined.

Sharifa’s trip coincides with a time of unrest within her insular and conservative religious community, and there is no escaping its politics. A group of feminists is speaking out against khatna, an age-old ritual they insist is female genital cutting. Sharifa’s two favourite cousins are on opposite sides of the debate and she seeks a middle ground. As the issue heats up, Sharifa discovers an unexpected truth and is forced to take a position.

Review: *Trigger warning for the following topics: sexual abuse, female genital mutilation, trauma, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, and infidelity*

This is one of the most incredible books I’ve ever read, and one of my top 10 reads for 2020. I’d live to give away as little as possible from this review so others can experience the book as I did.

This was the first I’d ever learnt about khatna, and I honestly feel like there is a part of me that wished I knew sooner so that I can help to advocate against it. It is a horrific, and terrible tradition amongst communities in India dating back hundreds of years. Doctor has written not only an incredible story of discovery, but intricately and delicately informed the reader of an incredibly sensitive topic. I am already far more educated on the issue of khatna than I was prior to reading this book.

I have so much praise for this book I don’t know where to start. I was hooked from beginning to end. Doctor’s writing had me completely engrossed. The story is descriptive, engaging and informative. For mothers of young girls, aged around seven years, I believe will find this book relatable, particularly the thoughts and feelings of the main character, Shari. Not only is this woman returning to India and on a journey of self discovery whilst learning about the truth of khatna, she is also raising her seven year old daughter. This becomes a particularly scary fact as a reader later on in the book as you empathise with Shari to protect her child from the dangers of khatna while on their trip to India. In the interest of honest and transparency, the only time I was able to put this book down was when the discussions surrounding khatna became too overwhelming for me and I needed a break. However my personal experiences will differ greatly from others so I suspect not everybody will need to take as many breaks as I did. And this was in no way whatsoever a reflection of Doctor’s writing or how she has addressed the sensitive topic. It was for my own personal reasons.

Many of my friends and followers are actively feminist, anti-racist and advocates for equality. This book is one for all of my followers that considers themselves one or all of the aforementioned, as this is not only an incredible book, but an educational tool. I believe all women should read this book eventually during their lifetime. It is phenomenal

Many thanks to Dundurn Press and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.

5/5 stars ...more

flag Like · see review

Apr 07, 2020 catherine ♡ rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: cultural

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!*

Actual Rating: 3.75

I knew this was going to be a harrowing book just based off of the topic of khatna, the tradition of female genital cutting in India. But I didn't expect the story to go into such depth about the mental and family consequences as well, and those turned out to be my favorite parts.

The book follows Sharifa, who heads to India for two reasons: to research her philanthropist and business l *Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!*

Actual Rating: 3.75

I knew this was going to be a harrowing book just based off of the topic of khatna, the tradition of female genital cutting in India. But I didn't expect the story to go into such depth about the mental and family consequences as well, and those turned out to be my favorite parts.

The book follows Sharifa, who heads to India for two reasons: to research her philanthropist and business leader great-great-grandfather, and to save her marriage. In India, however, the topic of khatna has come to the forefront, and it pits traditional religious groups against protestors in the name of human rights. Sharifa's own family is split on the issue, and as the issue inches closer to home, it is no longer possible for Sharifa to ignore the debate, and she discovers an uncomfortable truth as she looks further and further into her own and her family past.

The plot was interesting, for sure, but I was more interested in one side than the other. Sharifa's research into her great-great-grandfather Abdoolally was more engaging when it began tying more into Sharifa's research into khatna, but prior to that, I felt very disconnected from the passages about him. It was the characters as well — I've always had an issue with large casts and I often forgot who was who.

I cared less for the characters as individuals and more for the relationships between them. The most beautiful one was Sharifa and Zee; the type of mother-daughter dynamic they had made me nostalgic, and yet Sharifa's terror and fear of letting Zee outside of her sight for fear she'd be taken to do a khatna procedure was palpable. The relationship between Sharifa and Murtaza was intriguing as well; the book started off describing what felt like a dead-end marriage, but the way their sexual lives ended up tying into khatna was written beautiful. Even so, I have to admit that something about Murtaza never sat right with me. And lastly, the relationship between Sharifa and Maasi — most of the development took place inside our main character's head, but the way it played out was heart-wrenching; I felt every single ounce of betrayal Sharifa did.

The writing style was good, and in terms of pacing I would have liked a little less time on Abdoolally and a little more on Sharifa's self-discovery and the family repercussions of their anti-khatna activism. I did like the epilogue though — it definitely sent chills down my spine and for such a heavy book, it was extremely hopeful. Ultimately, I would definitely still recommend this book to readers of historical/cultural genres, and honestly anyone who's interested in learning about human rights around the world. ...more

flag Like · see review

Sep 26, 2020 MiA rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: central-south-southeast-asia

I know that this book will prove difficult to read to many, but if you are willing to give it a little time and effort to understand the huge issue that lies at its core it will be very much worth your sweat.

Sharifa takes a hiatus to join her husband, an academic, who is offered an opportunity to teach a course in India. Returning to their ancestral land brings Sharifa back to her extended family and her two cousins, one of whom is an outspoken feminist and the other is more of a non-questioning I know that this book will prove difficult to read to many, but if you are willing to give it a little time and effort to understand the huge issue that lies at its core it will be very much worth your sweat.

Sharifa takes a hiatus to join her husband, an academic, who is offered an opportunity to teach a course in India. Returning to their ancestral land brings Sharifa back to her extended family and her two cousins, one of whom is an outspoken feminist and the other is more of a non-questioning traditionalist.

The subject that stirs up trouble when Sharifa gets together with her cousins is the long standing tradition of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). FGM, or Khatna as it is referred to here, is traumatic; it affects women both physically and psychologically. How FGM is tangled with Sharifa's life, and that of her cousins, is a huge spoiler. However, one of the most important issues about FGM, I found, is that it is a cultural tradition that is practiced religiously among some groups, often with the blessing of a dominant patriarchal figure. It is not religion that prerequisite this practice among its followers, but those who want to dominate a particular group sow the tradition as "religious". There are no Islamic texts that back up or even alludes to the practice of FGM as part of its teachings. But the tradition that has been long practiced since pre-Islamic era in African/Asian tribes has sprouted in some sects and groups and found some "holy men" to provide it with a "religious" cover.

But why is the differentiation important between what is religion and what is culture?
Because mistaking what is cultural for what is religious does not help the cause of promoting women's welfare and is used, sometimes deliberately, to promote hate for specific sects and religious groups. Even Sharifa herself is not buying the issue as part of her religion that she likes to maintain its traditions but also maintain her liberal views.

"Like most of our customs, we don't really know why we do things anymore. We just continue them, on and on. Like sheep."

Only that this particular custom is exceptionally harmful. And I liked the way Farzana Doctor explored it through the narrative.

My only problem was that the e-galley I received. seemed to have missing parts. Something about one of Sharifa's ancestors, the one whose story she busies herself with its unearthing while staying in India. I did not really understand how his story is tied down to Sharifa and the whole FGM debate. I don't know if I was missing something because there were "Mumbai, 1900" subtitles throughout the galley and incomplete sentences below the subtitles. It made me feel like I'm missing something.

Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for my e-copy of this book. ...more

flag Like · see review

Oct 25, 2020 PhebeAnn rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Content note: child sexual assault (female genital mutilation)
It took this one a while to grow on me. At first I felt like it was lacking in the plot department. The plot is, in short: a first generation Indian-American woman, Sharifa, goes on a trip to India with her husband, Murtuza, also first generation Indian-American, and university professor who will be a visiting scholar there for a year, and their daughter. During this year off of work, Sharifa seeks to learn more about her family's his Content note: child sexual assault (female genital mutilation)
It took this one a while to grow on me. At first I felt like it was lacking in the plot department. The plot is, in short: a first generation Indian-American woman, Sharifa, goes on a trip to India with her husband, Murtuza, also first generation Indian-American, and university professor who will be a visiting scholar there for a year, and their daughter. During this year off of work, Sharifa seeks to learn more about her family's history.

We learn really early on in the novel that Sharifa has had an emotional affair over facebook with an old lover, and that the rift it caused with Murtuza is still healing. It felt like this plot element was introduced too early in the story, when I didn't have enough context about them and their relationship, and didn't feel invested. The trip to India also seemed very rushed. I wanted more time in America to see them and their life before the story took off. This context develops over the course of the story, however; I should have been more patient. The relationship portrayed between Murtuza and Sharifa is quite sweet and I found myself getting invested in it despite the abrupt start. I also was touched by Sharifa's relationships with her mother and cousins, which unfold gradually.

More of a plot does emerge in the novel, as Sharifa becomes caught up in political debates in her family and community around khatna, the Muslim cultural practice of cutting the clitoral hood when a child is seven years old. I was a bit wary when I realized this was going to be a pivotal topic of the novel, as the only other novel I'd read on this topic, Walker's Possessing the Secret of Joy, was pretty problematic. But this novel dealt with the topic in a more nuanced and sensitive way.

Most of the elements of the plot that were "big reveals" were pretty predictable - Doctor's "clues" are super heavy handed. I was a little disappointed by the epilogue - was hoping that that would not be the reveal though I suspected it - but at least it is a feel good ending despite the heavy topic.

...more

flag Like · see review

Jan 04, 2021 Andrea Spagnuolo rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

After reading, "Finding Nasreen," by this author, I could not wait to read more by her. Luckily for me, "Seven" was just released and I quickly put it on hold at my library without even reading what the storyline was. All I knew was that it is about female genital mutilation which is a very important topic yet not well known or understood here in the West. Having an appreciation for this topic and already falling in love with the author's writing I figured I didn't even need to know more until I After reading, "Finding Nasreen," by this author, I could not wait to read more by her. Luckily for me, "Seven" was just released and I quickly put it on hold at my library without even reading what the storyline was. All I knew was that it is about female genital mutilation which is a very important topic yet not well known or understood here in the West. Having an appreciation for this topic and already falling in love with the author's writing I figured I didn't even need to know more until I actually read it.

Wow. I knew I would love it but that is an understatement really. I can only imagine how hard it must be to write about this topic in a way that makes people genuinely interested to read and learn more, but leave it to the superbly gifted Farzana Doctor to be the one to create that book.

Weaving together a family saga that goes back and forth in time, she brings an old practice into the modern day for the world to see. It is easy to assume that we don't know or associate with people who would do such a thing, but this story proves otherwise. As humans we all want to belong, this is the basis of religious communities no doubt, and this longing to belong can cause even the most "intellectual" or "cosmopolitan" of believers to participate in outdated traditions simply because "it's just how it is, we are supposed to."

All of the characters are so endearing and feel so real. I appreciate as well how they represented many diverse perspectives, yet each character was given the same depth and consideration in the unraveling of this story.

This book is a must read for everyone this year! Even if the subject matter makes you a little uncomfortable, it is worth trying to push past that discomfort to be able to see this topic from each perspective. On a random note, Murtaza makes for an incredibly supportive husband and is so well written I feel like he could be used as a case study in how men can and should behave in the modern world lol!

Sidenote: if you would like to learn more about FGM, there is a great documentary by filmmaker Giselle Portenier worth watching called, "In the Name of Your Daughter." ...more

flag Like · see review

Aug 24, 2020 Stacey Caldarone rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Seven
“A brave, soulfully written feminist novel about inheritance and resistance that tests the balance between kinship and the fight against customs that harm us.”

I have to admit, I felt emotionally saddened after reading this book. It was so empowering, but it was also so unsettling. This book touches on topics I’ve never read about before in a book and touched on serious topics I didn’t realize were still culture. Thank you so much to Dundurn books for this opportunity.

This books follows a fa ...more

flag Like · see review

Aug 01, 2020 Liza rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This story shook me. It is powerful, gripping, and intimate on a level I’ve never experienced before. As a woman/feminist, I was thrilled to read about Sharifa, an imperfect wife and mother learning to take control of her sexuality, galvanized by an emotionally intelligent male figure (her husband). As a reader, I was equally pleased to meet a character so multifaceted, dynamic, and real. I was hooked from the beginning--Sharifa, an Indian-American woman, travels to India, embarks on a genealogi ...more

flag Like · see review

Aug 31, 2020 A.L. Goulden rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This is an amazing book that gives me chills thinking about it. I knew so little about Female Genital Mutilation but this book presents the tradition from a traditional and modern perspective and allows the reader to feel their way through the process of acceptance or rejection. The writing is beautiful and tasteful. For such a heavy subject I wasn't expecting to feel a sense of wonder and feathery flow that had me reluctant to put the book down. I was actually worried that the book may be heavy ...more

flag Like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
Amnesty Internati...: November/December 2020- Seven by Farzana Doctor	4	32	Jan 17, 2021 01:24PM
Advanced Copies f...: Give-away for SEVEN	1	32	Jul 06, 2020 06:09PM
Goodreads Authors...: Goodreads Giveaway for SEVEN	1	15	Jun 30, 2020 06:40AM
Indian Literature...: Win a copy of Seven	1	8	Jun 30, 2020 06:35AM
Seven Giveaway!	1	1	Jun 26, 2020 05:57AM

See a Problem?

Preview — Seven by Farzana Doctor

Seven

Get A Copy

Friend Reviews

Reader Q&A

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

Readers also enjoyed

Genres

About Farzana Doctor

Books by Farzana Doctor

News & Interviews

Trivia About Seven

See a Problem?

Preview — Seven by Farzana Doctor

Seven

Get A Copy

Friend Reviews

Reader Q&A

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topicDiscuss This Book

Readers also enjoyed

Genres

About Farzana Doctor

Books by Farzana Doctor

News & Interviews

Trivia About Seven

new topic
Discuss This Book