Book Review #55 : Now You See Us by Balli Kaur Jaswal

-

 



Balli Kaur Jaswal's "Now You See Us" delves into the intricate lives of Cora, Angel, and Donita, three Filipina domestic workers in Singapore. The author skillfully navigates the complex tapestry of their experiences, revealing the harsh realities and social injustices these women face. Cora's sorrow over her nephew's death, Angel's turmoil after a breakup, and Donita's resilience despite abusive employment showcase a powerful narrative that tugs at the heartstrings.

Jaswal masterfully weaves a tale that goes beyond a simple murder mystery, tackling broader issues of classism, exploitation, and the maltreatment of migrant workers. The book doesn't shy away from revealing the cruelty these women endure at the hands of their employers, emphasizing the stark imbalance of power and privilege. The vivid portrayal of Singapore's diverse landscapes and societal challenges adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

What stands out is the author's ability to blend serious societal commentary with a touch of humor, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. From excerpts of employers' chats to the characters' interactions, the book doesn't just tell a story; it paints a vivid picture of the struggles and triumphs of these resilient women.

While the mystery element might not be the book's primary focus, the real strength lies in the author's poignant message about the plight of marginalized individuals and the systemic injustices they face. Jaswal crafts characters that are flawed yet relatable, echoing the struggles of real people in a world fraught with inequality.

"Now You See Us" is a compelling, emotional journey that not only entertains but also educates, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of societal disparities and a call for empathy and change. It's a must-read for those seeking a heartfelt, eye-opening experience that challenges perspectives and stirs the soul.

This summarized review aims to capture the essence of the book, focusing on the author's adept storytelling and the impactful message conveyed through the characters' lives. It invites readers to explore a narrative that goes beyond entertainment, offering a glimpse into the lives and struggles of individuals often overlooked in society.


This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program.

Click here to buy this book on Amazon.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What does FREEDOM mean to me?

-
Image
Freedom is a very sawn-off word for this world I think. Everyone has their own booklet of terms and conditions, when it comes to feeling free. For a farmer, freedom might be his/her desire to expand his/her land to neighboring regions. For a street dancer, freedom might be a desire to present art freely without any judgment of gossiping eyes. For a high school student, freedom might be a pathway to choose the right future without any family pressure. So, when someone is asking what freedom means to me, I also have my brief dictionary, which carries all my past experiences and visionary approaches that created a whole differently contextual definition of this seven-letter-word! I always adored my grandfather, not because he loved me more than all my siblings(don’t tell them!!), but for his lessons of freedom. He taught me how to be free and independent for taking my own decisions. And his formulation was not textual. Not at all. He just pretended to be a part of the lesson. Back then, I
Read more

The importance of mentorship in the next generation’s lives

-
Image
  There’s a famous book “Tuesday with Morrie” , written by Mitch Albom in which the character Morrie quotes “The most important thing I can say to you is, 'Teach.' You want to know what's wrong with the world? Ask yourself what's right with it. When you get the answer to that, go out and teach somebody.” This line made an outstanding mark on my beliefs, when I first read the book. Giving you a short glimpse, this is a heartwarming story of a dying professor imparting life lessons to his former student, showcasing the transformative power of mentorship and wisdom it can offer.  There are innumerable facts and real life examples where we can clearly see the importance of mentorship in any generation, whether it be the age of Chanakya’s authority or the digital era of Physics Wala, Khan Sir and many more . At every step of doubt, one looks forward to the resolution suggested by their mentor. And it’s not necessary that the guidance should be in academics only. Life is its
Read more

Navratri Bloghop

-
Image
  I don’t have any specific opinion on feminism. Neither do I like to differentiate anything that is beyond the reach of gender neutrality. But I know for a fact that women are the most powerful creatures on this planet. They have the power to create a new life, suffer with blood every month and balance the mundane life with utmost pride all the time. They not only bloom but also spread the fragrance around them. I am also surrounded with such a wonderful community of women, who always support me in my lows and cheer for me in my highs.  @Unicorn and @Authoropod have collaborated this time on the special occasion of Navratri, and I am so happy to contribute my flavor of colors in 9 different ways. I want to dedicate the essence of these shades to the strong women pillars of my life. Orange : Warmth and energy There’s no one more deserving than my grandmother and mother for this impregnable title. Both of them have always given me warmth so that I always feel secure. They protected m
Read more