Falling in Love with Life: A Review of Six Days in Bombay
Alka Joshi’s novels have a way of pulling readers into vibrant worlds, and her latest work, Six Days in Bombay, is no exception. As a huge fan of Joshi’s early books—The Henna Artist series—I was thrilled to dive into this new narrative that promises both historical depth and a poignant coming-of-age story. With its release set for April 15, 2025, I found myself captivated on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2025, reflecting on the themes of love and self-discovery that permeate Sona’s journey.
Set in the bustling backdrop of 1930s Bombay, Six Days in Bombay introduces us to Sona, a young woman living a life marked by the constraints of her modest upbringing and gender expectations. Raised by her seamstress mother, Sona has a sheltered existence, caring for patients in a hospital, yet she harbors dreams of a greater life. It is during a transformative six-day period caring for a captivating artist named Mira that Sona begins to break free from her confines. This friendship is beautifully rendered, with Mira serving as both a window into a more worldly existence and a catalyst for Sona’s own growth.
Joshi’s portrayal of Sona struck a chord with me; she embodies the struggle of many women who yearn for independence yet are held back by societal norms. The juxtaposition of Sona’s sheltered life against the vibrant, often chaotic life of Bombay creates a compelling tension that pulls the reader in. Sona’s “half/half” identity—caught between her Indian heritage and a British lineage—adds an enriched layer to her character, highlighting the complexities of belonging and the quest for self-acceptance.
The pacing of the novel flows smoothly, with the first half dedicated to establishing Sona’s relationships and challenges, while the latter half takes us on a more adventurous journey, driven by a special request from Mira. What I loved about this structure is how Joshi slowly unveils the potential of her characters, allowing readers to feel Sona’s awakening alongside her. Throughout the book, Sona’s relationships with both "good" and suspicious characters serve as a microcosm of the broader societal dynamics, teaching her, and us, that people are seldom simply good or bad.
Joshi’s writing resonates through her vivid descriptions of Bombay; I could almost hear the bustling streets and feel the warm sun on my skin. One line that particularly struck me encapsulated Sona’s emerging realization: "In the depths of uncertainty lies the seed of opportunity." It’s a reminder that often, the most significant moments in life require us to step outside our comfort zones.
While the romance elements are delicately woven into Sona’s narrative, they don’t overshadow her journey of self-discovery—something I greatly appreciated. However, one scene felt a bit more graphic than the rest of the narrative, which threw me off slightly given the context of the era Joshi portrays. Similarly, I found the book cover leaned too heavily into the romantic theme; a more nuanced representation of Sona in her nursing uniform could have captured her professional aspirations and resilience better.
Overall, Six Days in Bombay is a beautifully crafted historical fiction that not only tells Sona’s coming-of-age story but also prompts readers to reflect on societal roles and the complexities of human relationships. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a rich narrative steeped in cultural history, as well as to those looking for characters who grapple with identity and independence. For me, this reading experience was a delightful journey—not just through the streets of Bombay but also into the heart of a young woman finding her way in a world that often seeks to confine her.
In conclusion, Alka Joshi has once again captivated my heart and my imagination. I can’t wait for readers everywhere to embark on this journey with Sona—prepare to fall in love with life, just as she does. 💖