Susan - The Indian Homemaker: An Epitome of Motherhood and Woman Empowerment

The author unwraps a silent but challenging journey of a woman through different phases of her life as a daughter, a wife, a daughter-in-law, a sister-in-law, a mother and a widow. Susan, the central character in the story, goes through these phases and faces every challenge that comes her way. Like stable water in a river, problems come her way in the form of stones, generating waves of replications of sorrow. She, however, deals with all the problems, including her husband's mental health and life-threatening ailment like HIV infection, family issues, financial difficulties, job problems, compromising on her dreams and the list goes on. She, through her insightful outlook and typical nature, like an Indian homemaker, sets an example of women's empowerment and

liberty. The book depicts many scenes that look quite familiar to everyone.

The novel is set in West Bengal, India, and continues its journey with the characters as they progress from one generation to another. Reading this book is getting to understand the hidden and silent revolution that takes place in a common woman's heart with personal sacrifice, compromises and tolerance. The book, however, does not stick to the dark side of life but, in the end, shows a brighter side of life too. Susan's husband puts a full stop to his life quite early.

However, Susan does not give up. She continues to look at the brighter side of life and sees her dreams come true through the achievements of her daughter and looks forward to continuing to be an asset to society.