In the current climate we live in, this is a must read although perhaps rather a difficult one, as it follows migrants arriving illegally from India in the UK and trying to make their way against exploitation from ruthless employers, landlords and fellow migrants in Sheffield.

 

But aside from the obvious political connotations, the beauty of the book lies in the unease of the relationships between the very different characters who just because they are forced together in a difficult situation don’t have to be friends or support each other and the lengths well educated people will go to for a better life. 

 

Gradually we learn about their past in India and the characters are so real you feel intense frustration and heartbreak that you can only observe and not do anything to help.  When you finish this book you feel uncomfortable, probably because you know things are still the same now.

 

No happy ending here. But please don’t be deterred, it is definitely a gripping read and gave us plenty to talk about in the den.

​

- for people who love books -