Book Review: ’17, Morris Road’ by Parul Sharma

Book Title: 17, Morris Road
Author: Parul Sharma
Publisher: Hachette India
Number of Pages: 320
ISBN: 978-9357313292
Date Published: May. 24, 2024
Price: INR 322

Book Review

“17, Morris Road” by Parul Sharma is a captivating novel that seamlessly intertwines memories with present choices. Set against the enchanting backdrop of 1980s Dehradun, India, the story revolves around Gayatri Trivedi, a woman standing at a crossroads in life. As her son prepares to depart for the US, Gayatri receives an unexpected invitation from Koko Rawat, her childhood friend and former crush, urging her to revisit her cherished hometown for a final nostalgic journey. This invitation triggers a poignant reflection on her past and prompts Gayatri to confront lingering questions about her choices and the paths not taken.

Parul Sharma’s narrative is praise-worthy for its evocative portrayal of 1980s Dehradun, capturing a powerful sense of nostalgia that resonates deeply with readers who experienced that era. The novel delicately explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery through Gayatri’s journey, both during her teenage years at Arbour House—a beloved colonial-era bungalow—and in her reflective return to a transformed Dehradun. Reconnecting with figures from her past, like her teenage love interest Koko and her steadfast friend Sukh, Gayatri grapples with nostalgia and the inevitability of change. Through vivid flashbacks, readers are immersed in Gayatri’s formative years, filled with poignant moments and heartfelt connections that shape her understanding of herself and her place in the world.

The colonial-era setting of Arbour House in “17, Morris Road” transcends mere backdrop; it becomes a character symbolizing stability amidst change, prompting Gayatri to reconcile past desires with present realities. Sharma’s evocative prose is infused with nostalgic details like the fragrance of Raat Ki Rani and the taste of Bal Mithai, vividly capturing childhood memories intertwined with adult complexities. The novel is a poignant exploration of longing, adaptation, and profound self-discovery, making it essential reading for those nostalgic for a past era or contemplating their life’s path.

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“17, Morris Road” by Parul Sharma is a heartfelt narrative that seamlessly intertwines past and present, inviting readers to ponder life-shaping choices. Praised for its engaging storytelling and relatable characters navigating themes of love, friendship, and personal growth, Sharma’s novel delves deep into Gayatri’s introspective journey. It not only transports readers to a nostalgic era but also prompts contemplation on the timeless quest for identity and fulfillment. For those who appreciate reminiscence and the complexities of life’s transitions, “17, Morris Road” offers a compelling narrative that resonates beyond its final pages.

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