by Akhil Sharma
First published 2015
Ajay lives in Delhi with his older brother Birju, playing in the streets while waiting to join their father in America. When the family finally reunites in the United States, they marvel at their new Western life. Birju excels at the prestigious Bronx High School of Science, making his parents proud. Then a devastating accident leaves Birju paralyzed and hospitalized. Ajay finds himself alone with his shattered parents, facing cruel stares from other children. He must navigate this transformed family dynamic while his brilliant brother lies motionless in a hospital bed. The young narrator contemplates whether Birju might die, even wondering if becoming an only child would be exciting. As his parents focus their attention on their injured son, Ajay struggles to find his place in this new reality. The story follows his journey of growing up amid tragedy, learning to move forward while carrying the weight of what his family has lost.
Genres: fiction, family, literary-fiction, coming-of-age
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: coming-of-age, found-family
Setting: Delhi, America, Bronx High School of Science
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
228 pages · Paperback · OLIVIER