Summary and Reviews of A Great Country by Shilpi Gowda

Excerpt
A Great Country

Saturday

5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

While twelve-year-old Ajay sat trembling in a jail cell, his parents were enjoying themselves at a dinner party. The tony coastal enclave of Southern California was situated only hours, but worlds, away from the bustle of Los Angeles and the grit of Tijuana, and not far from the happiest place on earth. Rolling hills through the exclusive neighborhood showcased sprawling estates, bordered by expansive lawns and gated driveways. On one of these properties, perched high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, cocktails were being served and all still seemed well.

"Congratulations, my friend. You have officially arrived," Vikram said, raising his tumbler of single malt toward Ashok. The thick crystal glasses made a satisfying baritone clink as they met. "Welcome to the jewel of Orange County."

Ashok couldn't keep the smile from edging onto his face, even as he shook his head modestly. "Ah, we still have a long way to go before ...

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. Consider the title and how it works with the story. Why do you think the author, Shilpi Somaya Gowda, chose it?
2. Did you find yourself torn about how to feel about any of the characters' reactions or decisions? What moments were particularly controversial to you, and how did they challenge your perceptions? Were there parts of A Great Country that made you uncomfortable? Why?
3. Did the alternating perspectives of each character highlight any important similarities or differences about their experiences and how they move through the world? Did you come away with a better understanding of any one character in particular?
4. Vikram says: "No one willingly gives up their place of privilege for someone new." How is this statement proven or ...

Please be aware that this discussion may contain spoilers!

Here are some of the comments posted about A Great Country in our legacy forum.
You can see the full discussion here.


Compare Deepa's friendship with Paco to Maya's with Ashley. Where does each friendship stand by the end of the novel?
Deepa and Paco had a mature teenager relationship, built on trust and acceptance. Maya and Ashley, on the other hand, had an immature, early teen friendship, based on superficial items like looks, status, weath. It is interesting, though, that while ... - A.T.

Did the alternating perspectives of each character highlight any important similarities or differences about their experiences and how they move through the world?
The alternating perspectives were effective in providing a glimpse into each character's unique point of view. I agree with Angela and find alternative perspectives of the same event crucial in reducing polarization in our highly polarized ... - K Bosman

Did you find yourself torn about how to feel about any of the characters' reactions or decisions?
One of the things that struck me in the book is how human the author portrayed her characters to be. In terms of being clueless for example, Deepa clearly didn't understand the danger she put Paco in by insisting he ... - Lyris

Early on, Vikram suggests that money and assets are as effective as weapons for protection. Do you agree with this philosophy?
Rather than write a repetitious post, I too agree with Marcia and Patricia Ann. - rebeccar

How do Jonathan Stern's and Helen Wu's family stories of immigration compare to the Shahs' story?
This section of the story is important as it provides an opportunity to reflect on the broader picture. The notion of a varied immigrant community is significant in the narrative because it reminds (and exposes) readers of the diverse range... - K Bosman