A NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER A REESE WITHERSPOON x HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK“Eloquent and moving…Joshi masterfully balances a yearning for self-discovery with the need for familial love.”—Publishers WeeklyVivid and compelling in its portrait of one woman’s struggle for fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is … fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is at once lush and fascinating, stark and cruel.
Escaping from an abusive marriage, seventeen-year-old Lakshmi makes her way alone to the vibrant 1950s pink city of Jaipur. There she becomes the most highly requested henna artist—and confidante—to the wealthy women of the upper class. But trusted with the secrets of the wealthy, she can never reveal her own…
Known for her original designs and sage advice, Lakshmi must tread carefully to avoid the jealous gossips who could ruin her reputation and her livelihood. As she pursues her dream of an independent life, she is startled one day when she is confronted by her husband, who has tracked her down these many years later with a high-spirited young girl in tow—a sister Lakshmi never knew she had. Suddenly the caution that she has carefully cultivated as protection is threatened. Still she perseveres, applying her talents and lifting up those that surround her as she does.
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This is a very good description of life in India and the different classes in their society. It is well written and keeps your interest.
I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t enjoy this book. It’s filled with interesting characters and the sights and sounds of life in India. I could almost smell the food stalls. A brilliant first novel. If I could give it 10 stars, I would.
The Henna Artist explores gendered roles and privilege in Indian society. The characters are multidimensional and complex giving the norms and expectations for females in a male-dominated culture.
If you love India you will love this book
Wonderful story. I loved learning about another culture. Characters well developed and sympathetic. Very well written. A story that I couldn’t wait to get back to.
Good story. Interesting interaction between different castes. It was a little predictable but overall I liked it
This is an inspiring story that talks to the choices that women are faced with and sometimes allowed to —or forced to make. Lakshmi’s story takes place in 1950s Jaipur but her challenges are no different than what many women today continue to face. Will women ever be free to choose their destiny?
Loved it! so interesting.
A look at India that is rarely discussed in novels.
I loved the setting. It was wonderful to feel a new country and customs.
I loved this book about a henna artist in the 1950s in India and the life of her family and the women she serviced with her designs and her medicinal herb treatments.
This book beautifully describes India and the troubles of the caste system, the poverty compared to the wealth, and how people judge others due to gossip. It is a book about strength and resilience, and about family.
Wonderful!!
#TheHennaArtist #AlkaJoshi
Loved it’s depiction of India and the resourceful main character.
Such a compelling story! I could almost smell and taste Chai as I read. The author provides a helpful summary of characters that was easy to refer to while reading. The glossary of terms was also helpful as I have limited knowledge of the language.
Lovely, evocative, and the second half had me on the edge of my seat as the character arc really developed!
Henna Artist opens new avenues to the culture of India. I have been to India, but was open to learning more about the culture. As a reader, I appreciated the reference list of characters in the story at the beginning of the book. Equally, the glossary at the conclusion of the book was a necessary reference if the reader is not aquainted with the Indian culture. The story peaked my interest from the very beginning. . . a book I could not put down.
Easy to read, I was hooked from the beginning!
Enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
I could not put this book down. It was fascinating to learn about life in India in the 50’s. Not so very long ago.
Very enjoyable
An immersive read that flooded the sense and touches the heart