40 pages 1 hour read

Alka Joshi

The Henna Artist

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi follows Lakshmi, a skilled henna artist and healer in 1955 Jaipur, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of her estranged sister, Radha. As they navigate their interconnected journeys, the novel explores themes of personal choice, cultural clashes, and the struggle for identity amid traditional and modern pressures in post-independence India. Note: The book deals with themes of abuse and unwanted pregnancy.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi is widely appreciated for its vivid depiction of 1950s India and the intricate art of henna. Reviewers praise the rich, immersive storytelling and the protagonist's resilience. Some critiques mention predictable plot elements and occasional pacing issues. Overall, it's a compelling read enriched with cultural insights.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Henna Artist?

Readers who enjoy immersive, character-driven stories with rich cultural settings will be captivated by Alka Joshi's The Henna Artist. It's ideal for fans of Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns or Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. This novel offers a vivid exploration of Indian traditions and the resilience of women.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Indian Literature

Themes

Society: Colonialism

Identity: Gender

Identity: Femininity

Topics

History: World

Arts / Culture