Kunal Basu

In the late 1800s, the slave trade was in operation, Darwin was about to publish his theory of evolution and there were many ideas about race. Scientists disagreed about whether human beings were all the same species, whether people of different races were equally intelligent and moral etc. In this novel, two scientists devise an experiment: take two newborns, one white and one black, and raise them on a deserted island to see which becomes superior. For six years, the children are raised by show more a mute nurse who is to keep them alive, but not civilize them in any way. The scientists visit twice yearly to conduct experiments and observe the children.

This book offers a good story and an overview of historic views about racial differences. It is interesting, albeit disturbing, to see how the children develop. I didn't like the ending....no spoilers here,but it resolved things in a way that removed some of the biggest challenges the protagonists would otherwise have had to face. show less

First book of 2012. Imagine my huge disappointment when I saw the index itself! Its a collection of short-stories. I love short stories. Tagore's Tales inspired and mesmerized me. So did O.Henry. I built up a giant empire of goodness over them.
The cover art(photograph) of the book is beautiful. The Japanese wife promised a lot and delivered too little. The title story enthralled me with the husband and wife's letter writing scenes and the little gifts she sents him. The writing is magical. show more It possessed me and then the story abruptly came to an end. It could have been more. I am so curious to see the movie now.
And the other stories, Long Live Imelda Marcos- what's with the title? Just something that would entice the reader in going through the story first. I am so very disappointed. It could have been pleasant- all the stories- everything fell flat though. All the titles are so beautiful- Lenin's cafe, Snake charmer, Lotus Dragon- i wish the content lived up to its hype! Grateful Ganga- oh, it evoked all memories and images of the Ganges in my mind and where did it fit ultimately? The author could have easily used a better editor and being a much better narrator in the first place.

Mr. Basu! Why did you do this? You made my mind and heart fly high and then cut the strings so brutally! All bengali writers that i've read of, except Gurudev Tagore and Amartya Sen, have so far disappointed me! *Sighs* show less

An interesting, albeit disturbing, idea - a racial experiment in the 19th century - but the book is very disappointing. I don't think the author really knew what to do with the topic. The ending is certainly unexpected but for me it doesn't work and seems like a cop out.

The author has a nice way with words and, with the Chinese Boxer Rebellion of 1905, he has picked a potentially fascinating context for his novel. But those advantages are counterbalanced by a poor plot and an apparent lack of storyteller's flair, which renders this book little more than readable. Somewhere in here there is a gripping story, but sadly it hasn't been told.