Title: The Covenant of Water
Author: Abraham Verghese
Publisher: Grove Atlantic
Genre: Historical Fiction, Family Saga
Year of Publication: 2023
Date of Publication: May 2023
Pages: 736
ISBN-10: 0802162177
ISBN-13: 978-0802162175
Summary
Main Plot & Characters
The Covenant of Water spans the years 1900 to 1977 and centers around a Malayali family in Kerala, India, led by a 12-year-old bride who later becomes known as Big Ammachi.
The family suffers from a hereditary condition that leads members to drown, a curse that impacts each generation.
The narrative follows Big Ammachi’s life, her marriage, and her children’s paths, including Philipose, who pursues writing despite the family’s wish for a cure.
The lives of the family intersect with those of a Scottish doctor named Digby, who brings his own struggles and secrets.
Together, these stories depict the hardships, resilience, and connections that shape each generation.
Key Themes
- Family and Legacy: The novel explores how family histories and legacies are carried through generations, with Big Ammachi’s family bound by tradition and tragedy.
- Faith and Science: Characters grapple with the tension between faith and science, as they seek answers to the “Condition” impacting their lives.
- Identity and Belonging: Through their relationships, the characters explore themes of cultural identity, acceptance, and the importance of community.
Writing Style
Verghese’s writing is descriptive. The author blends historical and cultural details. His narratives captures the essence of the Indian landscape and the characters’ inner lives.
Impact of The Covenant of Water
The Covenant of Water highlights themes like love, resilience, and interconnectedness.
The novel’s portrayal of 20th-century India and family dynamics earned it critical acclaim.
The book has become a bestseller, resonating with readers for its rich historical context and Verghese’s compassionate character portrayals. Source: Portobello Book Blog
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