Kitty S. (kittynewengland) reviewed on 1/8/2013 + 116 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

I have no connection to infertility, adoption or India--major topics in the novel--yet that didn't preclude me from loving The Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda. As the book jacket reveals, Asha is born in India and adopted by an American woman and her husband. The book follows what happens to both women after the adoption. Kavita's decision to bring Asha to the orphanage saves her daughter's life, but it is something that deeply affects Kavita her whole life. Asha grows up with devoted and loving parents, but with a mother so protective and fearful of loss that she prevents Asha from learning about her homeland/heritage.The novel works because it depicts a universal story about mothers and daughters, including sacrifice, love, gratitude and learning to let go. The parts of the novel set in Mumbai--Kavita's time in the slums and Asha's experience with her dad's extended family, especially her grandmother--were the best parts of the novel. Great pick for a book club!

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