Synopsis
Still in her teenage years, Nazneen finds herself in an arranged marriage with a disappointed man who is twenty years older. Away from the mud and heat of her Bangladeshi village, home is now a cramped flat in a high-rise block in London's East End. Nazneen knows not a word of English, and is forced to depend on her husband. But unlike him she is practical and wise, and befriends a fellow Asian girl Razia, who helps her understand the strange ways of her adopted new British home. Nazneen keeps in touch with her sister Hasina back in the village. But the rebellious Hasina has kicked against cultural tradition and run off in a 'love marriage' with the man of her dreams. When he suddenly turns violent, she is forced into the degrading job of garment girl in a cloth factory. Confined in her flat by tradition and family duty, Nazneen also sews furiously for a living, shut away with her buttons and linings - until the radical Karim steps unexpectedly into her life. On a background of racial conflict and tension, they embark on a love affair that forces Nazneen finally to take control of her fate. Strikingly imagined, gracious and funny, this novel is at once epic and intimate.

Mailing to flashgirl, part of the Reverse Wishlist Relay.
Enjoy

Received today. Whew, that was fast. Thanks so much!

Oh, and how could I forget to mention the beautiful handmade card--it is sitting on my desk at work and I love it! Thank you, redhouse!

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

Left on the bookshelf.

I read about half of this, but I just couldn't get into it. Years later, I am making room for a new baby and I'm setting this book free!