If Today Be Sweet (edition 2008)

A well-written book. However, the handwringing that Tehmina does in comparing Bombay/Mumbai to the U.S., an activity she does throughout the book, is overwrought. Yes, it's insightful and most likely mirrors her character and other immigrants. But how many times does the reader have to experience it?! And it goes on, EACH time, for several pages. Eesh. I got the idea of her dilemma or indecisiveness the first three times. ( )

A very engaging read about a recently widowed woman who must choose whether to live in the U.S. with her son and his family or return to the country of her birth and marriage, India. I loved all the characters in this book, especially Tammy, Cookie, Eva, and Rustom. I look forward to reading more by Thrity Umrigar. ( )

I would not have known about this book if it had not been recommended by my book club. I am SO grateful to have been introduced to it and thoroughly enjoyed it. What a lesson in humanity it is. One of my favourite quotes is when she is asked what she likes best about Ohio and she says - Sometimes being able to make rainbows when she waters the plants in the garden. In India this does not happen, they just have to wait for the occasional time when it happens spontaneously. This book is well written in my opinion and I will be recommending it to anyone who will listen. ( )

This book was lovely and the insights into human nature real and touching. The central character was very well developed, her immediate family with who she lives rather less so, and on occasions -- particularly towards the end of the novel -- her son's "transformation" in behavior towards her not entirely convincing. Still, it is a lovely and touching story and very well written. It does not, though, match the touching quality and beauty of the author's more recent book "The Space Between Us". ( )