Book Title: 17, Morris Road
Author: Parul Sharma
Format: Paperback
Print Length: 320 pages
Buy:- Here
Book Blurb:
Sometimes, home is a place between a longing for the past and the allure of the future…
Soon-to-be empty-nester Gayatri Trivedi has found herself at a crossroads: her only son is off to the land of excessive pizza and cola, her husband remains indifferent to her feelings, and the object of her teenage affection is inviting her to Dehradun. But Dehradun has changed a lot, and so has Arbour House, the colonial-era bungalow that still has a piece of her heart. Now as she returns, she also returns in time, reminiscing about the memories she made with people who changed her life when she was sixteen.
As the cloud of nostalgia clears and her future comes into view, Gayatri must decide if she is ready to let go of what-ifs. Equal parts charming and delightful 17, Morris Road weaves together a heartfelt story of times past and emotions buried, and most of all, of eventually finding one’s place in an ever-changing world.
Review:
Parul Sharma’s “17, Morris Road” is a beautifully crafted novel that delicately balances the pull of nostalgia with the emotional journey of self-discovery. Set in the picturesque town of Dehradun during the 1980s, the story revolves around Gayatri Trivedi, a woman at a crossroads in her life. As her son prepares to leave for college in the United States, Gayatri receives a surprise invitation from her childhood friend, Koko Rawat, to visit their hometown for one final, reflective trip back in time.
What makes Sharma’s storytelling truly engaging is her rich portrayal of Dehradun in its simpler days. The novel has a way of stirring a deep sense of nostalgia, especially for those who lived through or know of that era. For readers unfamiliar with the time period, Sharma’s vivid descriptions allow them to experience the essence of Dehradun through Gayatri’s memories. The central setting, Arbour House, where Gayatri spent her teenage years, plays a key role in anchoring the story. This colonial bungalow becomes a metaphor for the lasting connections between the past and present, even as life moves forward and things inevitably change.
The heart of the story lies in Gayatri’s reconnections with people from her past, including her first love, Koko, and her close friend, Sukh. These encounters force her to reflect on the passage of time and the ways in which memories, relationships, and her own identity have evolved. Sharma thoughtfully explores the themes of friendship, love, and how the decisions we make throughout life shape who we become. Gayatri’s youthful experiences are juxtaposed with her adult perspective, creating a nuanced portrayal of the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
What stands out in Sharma’s writing is her attention to detail. She captures the sights, sounds, and smells of Dehradun with such precision that the reader feels immersed in the town’s atmosphere. The fragrance of Raat Ki Rani flowers, the taste of local sweets like Bal Mithai, and the quiet charm of the town come alive on the page, grounding the reader in the time and place of Gayatri’s memories.
“17, Morris Road” is much more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It is a deeply introspective story about how our past shapes us, even as we move forward in life. Sharma’s ability to intertwine the past and present in a way that feels both seamless and natural keeps the reader engaged. The novel leaves us pondering how much of who we are is defined by where we come from and the relationships we’ve built along the way.
In conclusion, “17, Morris Road” is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of memory, identity, and growth. Parul Sharma’s evocative writing and relatable characters make this novel a touching and thought-provoking read for anyone who has ever looked back on their past and wondered how much of it still lingers within them.
Ratings
Read:- 3.5/5
Language:- 3.5/5
Overall Experience:- 3/5