My first thought regarding Bombay Blues had to do with the alliteration of the title itself. Geeky, I know, but in my defense, it’s some pretty wicked alliteration! Bombay Blues is the sequel to acclaimed Born Confused, a novel about identity, culture, adolescence, friendship, and romance. Over ten years after the publication of Born Confused, Bombay Blues continues Dimple’s story a few years from where we left off. Note: don’t even try to read this review if you haven’t read Born Confused! I repeat, do not read this review!
Dimple Lala is now in college. And even though that change seems all high and mighty, Dimple still doesn’t feel high or mighty. In fact, she’s still struggling with many aspects of her life. Sure, she’s got a boyfriend, but even awesome boyfriends have their faults. However, as Dimple travels to India and London and back to her beloved New York, she learns just who she is and who she wants to be. Add in adventures with new boys and family to get the full Bombay Blues experience! Warning: book reviewer is not responsible for swoons, heart attacks, or any other actions that might occur during the reading process.
To be completely honest, I almost wish I hadn’t read Bombay Blues. Born Confused ended beautifully. Dimple ended up with the guy, opened up to her parents, and grew so much in the time of the book. However, in Bombay Blues, Dimple throws away all the growing she did and annoyed the hell out of me. Honestly, I just want to shake her right now. The Bombay Blues Dimple disappointed me on countless levels. I disagreed with many of her choices, and I couldn’t do a thing about it.
I did, however, admire the author’s ability to depict a battle between cultures. The conflict is brilliantly addressed. Tanuja Hidier manages to realistically show the effect of a changing society on Dimple’s family. The fact that the author can make the situation both funny and insightful shows her belief in the message she preaches. If you’re wondering what those messages are, I’m afraid you’re out of luck. Pick up Bombay Blues for yourself to find out.
There you have it. Although I was disappointed in Dimple as a character, the rest of Bombay Blues more than makes up for it. Hidier addresses topics many other authors don’t, and she manages to do so in a touching, entertaining way. Here’s to you, Tanuja Hidier, and your understanding of what it’s truly like to be a teen.
Rating: 5 out of 10
Publisher: Push (August 26, 2014)
Source: Netgalley
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ISBN #: 9780545384780
Length: 560 pages (Hardcover)
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