Heart-wrenching historical fiction with some incredible leading characters
Reviewed by Toni Woodruff
Shivali is married to a monster: a man with iron fists, an impenetrably cruel heart. But we dont start with him. We start with her, the real hero of this story, Shivali, who has already killed him.
Shes washing him away, releasing all traces of her marriage to himfrom the sindoor in her hair to the bangles on her wrist and heart. Outside of the temple, waiting for her to finish, are the two children who are glad she killed him.
Soon after, the temple priest finds them there along with the traces of the truth. Despite being caught, this isnt the end of their story. The priest tells them of a place in South Africa that offers an indentureship: food, clothing, and shelter in exchange for hard work in sugarcane fields. A chance to start over, to be with her children, to let go of what shes done.
But this, it turns out, isnt the perfect chance to get out. Indentured in a form of near slavery, Shivali is worked to the brink; the people around her are being destroyed emotionally, physically, and sometimes killed. Is this really better than what she left behind?
Shivalis two childrenUma, 6 at the start of the story, and Harry, 4also play pivotal roles in the telling of this story. Among the three points-of-view, theres no drop-off in engagement. Shivali is the strongest shadow youll ever meet; Uma is responsible, courageous, and loving; and Hari is the heart and soul of the novels redemption. These characters are written with such care. They are strong and brave shells on the outside with soft, caring hearts on the inside. I couldnt be happier with the characterization of these three protagonists.
Its weird to say this: But I sure am glad Shivali killed that man. Having been a shadow for too longand having borne the brunt of so many bruisesshe deserves a life free from his wrath. Enjoying this aspect of the book also comes from the story angle. For the rest of the book, Shivali is a ghostly characterone that works tirelessly and would do anything she could to make a better life for her little people. Shes an amazing mom and a murderer at the same time. The moment in the temple is handled with grace and strewn with haira great way to start.
Its clear early on that Uma has grown up too fast. Shes a loving mom to Hari too, always holding his hand, fussing, but making him feel safe and cared for in whichever setting they occupy. Youre going to love Uma. Also, there are a few moments of a forbidden, touching romance in her story that lovers of love will be glad to have read.
This is a heavy, sad, important book. In relaying parts of the true story of many people in the Indian diaspora during the 1800s and early 1900s, its bound to include some heartbreak. But do expect heartbreak, reader. This is one that puts priority on truthand the truth is painful.
The Story I Told Myself is a powerful account that youre not going to forget.
