Book Review: ‘Do You Know How Lucky You Are?’ by Rani Neutill

Book Title: Do You Know How Lucky You Are?
Author: Rani Neutill
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Number of Pages: 273
ISBN: 978-9373071039
Date Published: Nov. 29, 2025
Price: INR 401

Book Review

Rani Neutill’s “Do You Know How Lucky You Are?” is a really honest and touching memoir that lays bare the typical, sometimes tense, dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship. This is not some polished, Bollywood-style story where everything works out perfectly; rather, it’s a vulnerable, straight look at the genuine struggle and the deep, deep affection that exists between two people who share a history but often have entirely different viewpoints on how life should be lived. Rani writes with a refreshing lack of drama, simply showing us the constant push-and-pull caused by the generational gap, the weight of cultural expectations, and the simple desire to be properly understood by the one person who thinks she knows you best. It’s a quiet, impactful read about managing to stay connected even when you aren’t on the same page.

The book particularly shines when it focuses on the small, relatable moments of their everyday lives. It thoughtfully digs into the unsaid rules and the emotional baggage that mothers and daughters, especially in our culture, often carry. Rani’s writing voice is gentle but clear—she never points fingers but instead explores the differing realities they inhabit. She handles the idea of “luck” or what truly counts as “success” very honestly, questioning the traditional metrics her mother might value while trying to map out her own unique path. The reader is immediately drawn into the intimacy of their bond, watching them both evolve as individuals, dealing with life’s curveballs and making that difficult effort to reduce the distance created by different expectations and personal choices.

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In sum, “Do You Know How Lucky You Are?” acts as a comforting reminder that love and misunderstanding are often two sides of the same coin within a family. It’s a compelling look at how we pick up certain ways of seeing the world from our parents and how challenging—but ultimately rewarding—it is to forge your own path while still respecting and honouring your background. This memoir is a thoughtful, essential read for anyone who has ever tried hard to fully understand a parent, or felt misunderstood by them. It leaves you with a quiet, profound sense of grace, suggesting that true acceptance comes not from perfect agreement, but from acknowledging the sheer hard work and the lasting ‘mamta’ (maternal affection) that drives family love.

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