January 30, 2023
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“Tell Me How to Be” by Neel Patel is a touching tale about two individuals on a journey to find themselves. The novel follows the lives of Akash Amin, a gay man struggling with his sexual identity and alcoholism, and his mother Renu, who is grappling with the loss of her husband and the guilt of unfulfilled dreams.
Family Dynamics and Cultural Expectations
One of the strengths of the book is its in-depth examination of family relationships and the impact of cultural expectations on one’s identity. Set in the backdrop of Los Angeles and Illinois, the story delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the effects of shame on the characters’ lives and relationships.
Akash and Renu: Well-Developed and Relatable Characters
The characters of Akash and Renu are finely crafted, and the author does a remarkable job of capturing the subtleties of their emotions and struggles. As they navigate through their personal demons and confront their past, the reader is drawn into their world, making their journey a personal one.
The Power of Reconciliation and Self-Acceptance
As Akash and Renu pack up their family home, they retreat further into the secrets that stand between them. But as they confront their darkest secrets, they must decide between the lives they left behind and the ones they’ve since created. In the end, they must choose between making each other happy and setting themselves free. Through their journey, they discover the power of reconciliation and self-acceptance.
A Must-Read for Those Exploring Family, Love, and Identity Neel Patel’s “Tell Me How to Be” is a poignant and moving story that explores the complexities of family relationships, the struggles of coming out, and the impact of cultural expectations on one’s identity. With well-developed and relatable characters, the author does an excellent job of capturing the nuances of their emotions and struggles. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the themes of family, love, and identity.
