Since so many posted reviews have already given a synopsis of this novel I will spare you having to read it again. I will start with the reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5. It has to do with a few very distasteful scenes that were unnecessary to the characters involved. With that comment out of the way, let us move on.

Other reviewers mentioned that the author used different writing styles and techniques and it distracted from the story, chopped it up a bit, but that didn't bother me at all. In fact, I liked the way it kept my brain shifting gears and it also offered a unique take on the typical historical family saga. Others also commented about how long the story was but for me it was just about right for developing all the characters and taking them through all the timelines. I would definitely recommend this book for a change of pace in your reading selections but with reservations for some of the distasteful scenes.

A good thriller that is part coming-of-age story, part women's rights (Me Too Movement), and part pathways to overcoming adversity through correcting or lessening wrongs. At times predictable but otherwise a good plot with interesting characters. I did however find it puzzling that in the Acknowledgements section the author said he most of all wanted to thank his wife and daughter for opening his eyes to the omnipresence of male violence toward women and the harmful effect it casts over all our lives. I would have thought that by now, in these times, he would have been aware of those facts on his own. In the end, I would recommend this novel because of the unique and quirky characters and a plot that keeps you wondering what is going to happen next.

When I start reading a new book if the words flow smoothly and the author captures my attention then there is a good chance the rest of the book will follow suit. This book does not disappoint. Louise Callaghan did her homework and pieced together a true story that reads like a novel. I encourage any reader, no matter how they feel about zoos in general (pro or con) to read this story because it about so much more. There was one part in the story where the reader is introduced to Dr. Amir, the vet who plays a vital role in animal rescues. The essence of the book is captured in the thoughts of Dr. Amir when he thought that if people cared for animals, they should care for humans, and if they cared for humans, they should care for animals. Kindness should not be divided. Too often we chose one side and neglect the other.

Make room on your bookshelf because this first book by Louise Callaghan is a must-read.

It had been a long time since I read anyone's collection of short stories. I didn't have any expectations of this book, nor did I read any reviews prior, other than the ones printed on the book jacket. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed all the stories (well, except maybe the bowling one). Some stories took me back in time, forward to the future, and remained in the present. I laughed, pondered, and was touched differently by each of them. I found it amazing how a single object, the typewriter, inspired Mr. Hanks to create such interesting tales. Well done.

I have read novels in the past that were about India, it's people, and all it's complexity, but never have I read one that touched my heart as much as this debut novel by Shobha Rao. Girls Burn Brighter is a tragic story that pulls at your heart-strings, hard. The love and strength of the two main characters is what keeps you reading to the very end. My only disappointment was the abrupt ending. I wanted more! Maybe a sequel in the future?

Golden Child is one of those books that draws you in and doesn't let you go until the very last page. Every character is richly developed and realistic which made it a joy to read. I found myself wanting to know more about life in Trinidad. The urban slang words used in the book also enriched the story and I found myself looking some of them up to understand the meaning better. It also touched on so many aspects of human nature both good and bad. I highly recommend Golden Child for book clubs because of the wide variety of subjects that could be discussed. I hope everyone enjoys the book as much as I did.