Het huis van de blauwe mango's

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A memorable experience awaits readers in David Davidar's novel, which intricately weaves multiple stories set in the oceanside village of Chevathar, India. The narrative spans three generations of a family, led by patriarch Solomon, who struggles to maintain balance amidst rising caste conflicts. His sons navigate triumph and disaster during India's fight for independence, while his grandson embarks on his own quest for freedom. Each character is vividly drawn, reflecting a Tolstoyan grasp of the broader human experience, encompassing heroes and rogues alike. The story alternates between measured and frenetic pacing, intertwining themes of assassination, passionate affairs, exorcisms, and beggars' banquets. Influenced by India's great epics, the narrative also captures the charm of everyday life, from crafting the perfect cup of tea to preparing a flavorful biryani. Alongside the protagonists' challenges, we witness the strategies employed by Mahatma Gandhi and Winston Churchill in their respective battles, as well as the role of English memsahibs in the decline of the Raj. The mangoes of India serve as a key symbol, embodying the rich, ripe essence of this engrossing and unique tale.