Review of That Thing about Bollywood by Anjali Enjeti
You know how in Bollywood movies, people sing and dance on mountaintops when they’re in love? I wonder if they do the same when they’re splitting up? This intriguing premise immediately drew me into That Thing about Bollywood by Anjali Enjeti. As a lifelong fan of both books and Bollywood, I found myself captivated not only by the vibrant culture but also by the heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, friendship, and the struggles of growing up.
At the center of this delightful story is Sonali, a sixth or possibly seventh-grade girl whose world is steeped in the magic of Bollywood—a cherished ritual shared with her late grandfather. Each Sunday, her family gathers around old VHS tapes, but home for Sonali is anything but the joyous escapades you’d expect from their beloved films. Instead, her parents argue constantly, and the unspoken rule that family matters must remain hidden forces Sonali into a suffocating silence. This rich backdrop sets the stage for a deeply relatable journey of a young girl who begins to express her emotions in the most unexpected way: through spontaneous musical numbers that erupt around her, turning her life into a Bollywood film.
What struck me most in this book was how Enjeti delicately balances humor with sincere emotional depth. There are laugh-out-loud moments—like Sonali belting a solo right before a math test—but the narrative resonates with deeper truths about familial love, the awkwardness of adolescence, and the desire for self-expression. Sonali’s struggle to navigate her parents’ separation while holding onto her friendship with Ronak felt incredibly real; the emotional turmoil is palpable. This dichotomy—wanting to support her parents while yearning for her own happiness—creates a beautiful reflection of many young readers’ lives.
Enjeti’s writing is refreshing and vibrant, mirroring the color and emotion found in Bollywood films. The pacing allows readers to immerse themselves in Sonali’s cherished memories and chaotic present, striking a perfect balance. One particularly memorable exchange between Sonali and her mother perfectly encapsulates the novel’s essence: “They were silly, nonsensical songs, but they were an expression of who you were. That’s important. Expressing yourself.” In a world that often tells us to suppress our feelings, this reminder packs a powerful punch.
Themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of expressing oneself resonate throughout the book. Sonali’s experiences mirror the broader struggle many people face: how to be truthful about one’s emotions in the face of family pressure, and how to reconcile the chaos of life with the desire for normalcy. This theme feels especially poignant for young readers grappling with similar situations.
If you’re someone who craves a heartfelt tale filled with humor, relatable struggles, and a sprinkle of Bollywood magic, then That Thing about Bollywood is a must-read. It’s a celebration of the messiness of growing up and the beautiful chaos that comes with it. Anjali Enjeti has created a story that not only entertains but reminds us all of the importance of embracing our true selves. Reading this book left me with a warm glow, and I believe it will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt stuck between worlds—whether it’s family dynamics, friendships, or the ever-complicated teenage landscape.
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