Sonal Singh On Sonal's Table
With this book, Anupama Jain once again proves her mastery of tongue-in-cheek humour and sharp characterisation. The long-awaited sequel to When Padma Bani Paula follows our beloved Padma as she navigates the challenges of balancing her ambitious, rebellious persona with the realities of married life. With her tantrums, her husband’s quirks, her daughter’s cuteness, and her house-help’s chaotic concoctions, Padma’s household is a perfect stage for daily drama, mischief, and laughter.
Anupama Jain deftly captures the trials and tribulations of Padma adjusting to the next phase of her life, with her signature witty and acerbic style on full display. Every page leaves readers smiling, if not outright snorting, at the relatable chaos of domestic life.
What works exceptionally well in this sequel is the author’s seamless blend of humour and sarcasm, her smooth narrative style, and the use of rich yet accessible vocabulary that never disrupts the story’s flow. Introducing Kanakkam, the standout new character with her obsessive love for brinjal and hilarious kitchen misadventures, is a delightful addition. Amma, Nanna, Bhama, and Ditto, the secondary characters, do not remain merely in the shadows. They each stand out.
Anupama also presents a very realistic portrayal of a marriage stagnating, all while giving Padma a strong, unapologetic female voice that refuses to compromise on her choices.
This book is an easy, breezy and enjoyable read that makes you chuckle, snort, and reflect on the fallacy of the ‘happily ever after’ we all grew up believing in. Fans of the first book will find themselves happily immersed in this one as well.
