Namrata Patel is an Indian American writer who resides in Boston. Her writing examines diaspora and dual-cultural identity among Indian Americans and explores this dynamic while also touching on the families we’re born with and those we choose. Namrata has lived in India, New Jersey, Spokane, London, and New York City and has been writing most of her adult life.
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Synopsis:
Meena Dave is a photojournalist and a nomad. She has no family, no permanent address, and no long-term attachments, preferring to observe the world at a distance through the lens of her camera. But Meena’s solitary life is turned upside down when she unexpectedly inherits an apartment in a Victorian brownstone in historic Back Bay, Boston.
Meena Dave is a photojournalist and a nomad. She has no family, no permanent address, and no long-term attachments, preferring to observe the world at a distance through the lens of her camera. But Meena’s solitary life is turned upside down when she unexpectedly inherits an apartment in a Victorian brownstone in historic Back Bay, Boston.
Though Meena’s impulse is to sell it and keep moving, she decides to use her journalistic instinct to follow the story that landed her in the home of a stranger. It’s a mystery that comes with a series of hidden clues, a trio of meddling Indian aunties, and a handsome next-door neighbor. For Meena it’s a chance for newfound friendships, community, and culture she never thought possible. And a window into her past she never expected.
Now as everything unknown to Meena comes into focus, she must reconcile who she wants to be with who she really is. (Courtesy of Amazon.)
“Namrata Patel’s debut is a delightful exploration of identity, community, and growth. I was drawn into Meena Dave’s captivating journey from the first pages and was rooting for her until the end. This poignant and witty story is perfect for book clubs!”
—Saumya Dave, author of Well-Behaved Indian Women
In one sentence, what was the road to publishing like for you?
A testament to practice, patience, and perseverance.
How is Meena similar to or different from you?
There are notes of me in Meena particularly around how she keeps distance between her and others. She also has wanderlust, which is something that's been central to me from a very young age. The differences are stark though. Whereas Meena is alone, I am privileged to have a strong community around me filled with family and friends.
If The Candid Life of Meena Dave were made into a movie, who would you cast in the leading roles?
A testament to practice, patience, and perseverance.
How is Meena similar to or different from you?
There are notes of me in Meena particularly around how she keeps distance between her and others. She also has wanderlust, which is something that's been central to me from a very young age. The differences are stark though. Whereas Meena is alone, I am privileged to have a strong community around me filled with family and friends.
If The Candid Life of Meena Dave were made into a movie, who would you cast in the leading roles?
Sujata Day from Definition Please! She's incredible.
What is your favorite thing to have for dessert?
I don't have a sweet tooth and am not very adventurous in desserts but I do love ice cream. My favorite Indian dessert is Ras Malai, which when done well is just an incredible sensory experience.
What is the strangest dream you remember having recently?
I have very vivid dreams and recently I dreamed that I couldn't see, my contacts were torn, and my vision was blurred so nothing could come into focus. I don't think I need the Dream Dictionary to tell me what that's about.
What TV series are you currently binge watching?
What is your favorite thing to have for dessert?
I don't have a sweet tooth and am not very adventurous in desserts but I do love ice cream. My favorite Indian dessert is Ras Malai, which when done well is just an incredible sensory experience.
What is the strangest dream you remember having recently?
I have very vivid dreams and recently I dreamed that I couldn't see, my contacts were torn, and my vision was blurred so nothing could come into focus. I don't think I need the Dream Dictionary to tell me what that's about.
What TV series are you currently binge watching?
New Girl.
Thanks to Namrata for chatting with us and to Kaye Publicity for coordinating the interview.
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