ABOUT THE AUTHOR & TRANSLATOR
Geetanjali Shree, a renowned Indian writer and novelist, was born in New Delhi in 1957. She pursued her education in English literature at Delhi University.
Geetanjali Shree made significant contributions to contemporary Hindi literature. Her novel, Mai, gained recognition through its English translation, marking her initial breakthrough. Her subsequent works include Hamara Shahar Us Baras and Khali Jagah.
Geetanjali is recognized for her thought-provoking style, delving into the intricacies of human relationships, societal norms, and the evolving dynamics of Indian society.
Her novel Ret Samadhi, translated as Tomb of Sand in English, received the prestigious International Booker Prize in 2022.
Daisy Rockwell, born in 1969, is a talented American artist, writer, and translator.
She holds a PhD in Hindi literature from the University of Chicago and has translated numerous Hindi and Urdu works into English. As a translator, Rockwell has played a pivotal role in making South Asian literary works accessible to a global audience. Some of her notable translations include Tamas by Bhisham Saini, The Women’s Courtyard by Khadija Mastur, A Gujarat Here, A Gujarat There by Krishna Sobti, and Tomb of Sand by Geetanjali Shree. Rockwell is also an accomplished painter.
SYNOPSIS
Table of Contents
Tomb of Sand narrates the tale of two women—a mother and her daughter.
After her husband’s demise, the mother succumbs to depression and eventually moves in with her bohemian daughter.
This change brings about a transformation in the mother. Her personality undergoes a shift, and she befriends a transgender individual named Rosie. She undergoes a metamorphosis into a feminist. Her altered social circles and personality changes bewilder her daughter.
To the astonishment of her family, she decides to visit Pakistan and confront her past. This journey becomes an adventure for the mother-daughter duo.
WHAT WE APPRECIATE ABOUT TOMB OF SAND
In Tomb of Sand, Geetanjali Shree presents an absolute masterpiece. The story and its characters are captivating, offering a reflection on love, courage, and resilience. The book possesses an almost poetic and melodious quality. The narrative flows effortlessly, capturing nostalgia flawlessly. It also sensitively explores the trauma of Partition.
An excerpt from Tomb of Sand
Retaining the soul and beauty of the original Hindi novel, the English translation of Ret Samadhi has been skillfully executed.
ASPECTS THAT COULD BE IMPROVED IN TOMB OF SAND
Far from a lighthearted read, Tomb of Sand is an extensive work. The book tackles complex themes, demanding patience from its readers.