HALF GODS

Families are central to our lives and to the linked stories in this collection. Together they provide a rich representation of several generations of an Indian family whose members are searching to make meaning out of life's vagaries. Vikas Adam delivers his portion of the narratives in a somber, steady style that highlights the tragedy of lives cut short by ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. In contrast, Priya Ayyar uses a jaunty, energetic tone that makes her stories speed by. Their pairing reflects the emotional journey of the characters as they travel from India to Sri Lanka to the United States. These are evocative, tender stories that mourn personal loss and celebrate the possibilities of hope in immigrant life. M.R. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2018]