What a superb novel. Divakaruni is one of the first Indian authors I ever read...and she is still one of the most talented I have found. This book is a fascinating introduction into the genre of Indian fiction. The two main characters are cousins (close as sisters, hence the title) Sudha and Anju. The story unfolds in Calcutta and bridges to America. You learn so much about culture, society, and expectations placed on girls...even at a very young age. Divakaruni's "Vine of Desire" continues the saga...and, trust me, you will want to read that one too once you've finished this one.

Released on Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at Starbucks, 300 S. Main St. in Royal Oak, Michigan USA.

To be released at meetup this evening. Enjoy and pass it on!

Thank you, ironickarma!! I just love multicultural novels... must be the repressed anthropologist in my brain! I will journal when I am done and keep this one moving (Betsy-STL may be interested in this one if she hasn't read!)...