Secret Keeper
Secret Keeper by Mitali Perkins, published by Random House Children’s Books on April 27, 2010, is a young adult fiction that explores the complexities of a displaced Indian family during the 1970s. The story follows Asha Gupta, who, along with her mother and older sister Reet, navigates life in Calcutta while waiting for her father to send for them after losing his job. As they live with relatives, Asha grapples with family dynamics, societal expectations, and her own desires, all while maintaining a diary that serves as her refuge.
Readers will find a narrative rich in themes of family, coming of age, and the challenges faced by women in a traditional society. Asha’s journey is marked by her impulsive decisions and a budding friendship with Jay Sen, the boy next door, which complicates her already strained circumstances. The book delves into the emotional struggles of its characters, particularly Asha’s mother, who battles sadness, and Reet, who faces societal pressures regarding marriage. With 240 pages, this edition presents a poignant tale of resilience and self-discovery amidst cultural constraints.
Official synopsis Publisher
From National Book Award finalist, Mitali Perkins, comes a dramatic tale about a displaced Indian family in the 1970s.
When Asha’s father loses his job and leaves India to look for work in America, Asha Gupta, her older sister, Reet, and their mother must wait with Baba’s brother and his family, as well as their grandmother, in Calcutta. Uncle is welcoming, but in a country steeped in tradition, the three women must abide by his decisions. Asha knows this is temporary—just until Baba sends for them.
But with scant savings and time passing, the tension builds: Ma, prone to spells of sadness, finds it hard to submit to her mother- and sister-in-law; Reet’s beauty attracts unwanted marriage proposals; and Asha’s promise to take care of Ma and Reet leads to impulsive behavior.
Asha’s only solace is her rooftop hideaway, where she pours her heart out in her diary, and where she begins a clandestine friendship with Jay Sen, the boy next door—against the rules of the house. Asha can hardly believe that she, and not Reet, is the object of Jay’s attention.
But when tragedy strikes, Asha must make a painful choice that will change their lives forever
“Well-developed characters, funny dialogue, and the authentic depiction of spunky Asha’s longing for romance and female self-determination, set in a culture that restrains women’s choices, make this book an attractive pick.”—School Library Journal
“Achingly realistic.”—Kirkus
“An intimate and absorbing drama.”—Publisher’s Weekly
“Heartbreaking and hopeful.” —ALA Booklist
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Secret Keeper” about?
Who is the author of “Secret Keeper”?
When was “Secret Keeper” published?
What is the ISBN for “Secret Keeper”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
