I am Big. So What! By Shuchi Singh Kalra is a book that blends the insecurities of a fat girl with the romance of a Mills & Boons variety. Did I enjoy reading it – Oh Yes!
Let me share a bit of background on this book, as this is not the book I would usually pick to read. I met the author Shuchi Singh Kalra in Singapore where we were both a part of the same event. We followed each other on Twitter. And since then I have been enjoying her witty and hilarious tweets that are not really frivolous. It is these tweets that prompted me to read her book. And I am happy I did. The book I am Big. So What! is not hilarious as her tweets. But then you can’t maintain a level of wit in 200 pages that you do in 140 characters.
It is the story of a fat girl – which most fat girls would relate to. I can understand a lot of it as I am blissfully healthy now. Though growing up and during my younger day, I was as skinny as one can hope for. It puts light on the complexes that parents give them, the school gives them and society at large gives them. I guess parents are worried, but most other people are just having a good time at someone’s cost without realizing the hurt they may be causing in the process. So Shuchi’s story takes you through the journey of this girl getting bullied and getting rejected, but who comes to terms with who she is and is happy being that.
Hurt returns to her when she meets an ex-bully as her prospective groom, and the rest of the story begins. What author has done to this ordinary ‘girl next door’ story is added the spicy Tadka of romance. Reading the romantic parts of the book reminded me of teenage days when we used to sneak in borrowed Mills & Boons books into our rooms and read them with dreamy eyes. They are probably the most romantic moment a lot of women have to themselves. Reading this book was re-living those moments – a lot of scenes from old romantic stories popped out of my memory – I was not even aware they still existed in some corner. So, girls, you would enjoy reading this book. That reminds me that I have never asked my male readers if they like
So, girls, you would enjoy reading this book. That reminds me that I have never asked my male readers if they like chick-lit – I do not recall anyone mentioning reading chick-lit – so no idea if they would like it or not.
The narrative goes back and forth and the story begins somewhere in the middle. Doing a story in a narrative that goes into the past while moving the present needs some skills on the part of the author and the editor. Language is very conversational – something that you can hear the Gen X and Gen Y speaking.
Over a happy ending book, that leaves you with a sweet taste that would linger for a while.
Take your call.
You may buy this book – I am Big. So What! By Shuchi Singh Kalra at Amazon.
I saw your introduction and came to know that you have been reviewing for more than 10 years! I am a beginner and would learn write a review as neat and clean as you. This book looks interesting. So would look upon reading it 🙂
Wish you all the best Pooja. Do stay connected.
Thank you!
the book and the review makes me think about my daughter who is in this age of thrilling uncertainty inspite of a good job and education.
Gift it to her Dr Karthik.