Book Review — Sonali Chiler Dana (সোনালী চিলের ডানা) by Moumita De

Sonali Chiler Dana by Moumita De is a historical fiction novel written in Bengali. The title means golden wings. The scaffold of the novel begins from French revolution and the lead character Maria Janet finds herself caught in the storm of moral choices, as she and her close acquaintances could see how the oppression of the king was against the welfare of the society, especially farmers and poor.

The novel is placed against the uprising of 19th century when France and British were constantly bickering for power and resources. Since India was a colony of British, Maria Janet and her crew of closed ones escape to start a new life. However, as they are white and French, challenges are many for them even in India. It is her story of struggle and perseverance, the way she ladders up to a status of eminence is a source of inspiration to women folks.

Historically seen, the premises of the book is riveting, a woman is being uprooted from her native land and wanders abroad with no whereabouts of her past life and people. Though she creates a legacy at new place, she missed her old days with kin and family.

The writing was easy-to-follow and it immediately intrigues readers with proper descriptions of subjects and their objectives. Though there were no short chapters, it ran like a river, yet turned out to be a quick read. The characters etched in the history of time in abroad and India was well-written and intriguing with their peculiar idiosyncrasies. The novel is slightly experimental yet it blends mystery, fantasy, history, and imagination in one. A fast-paced and character driven story…overall!

The book is available to buy from retail stores like Amazon.