Stealing the Ambassador

This work is a fine example of the outstanding subtleties of an immigrants struggles with assimilation into an already homogeneous culture. His writing is topped only by his sweet baby face. Please Dr. Sameer, "may we have another!"

Stealing The Ambassador by Sameer Parekh is an astutely written novel of family, clashing beliefs, and the eternal yearning for a happy and prosperous future. Rajiv Kothari is a young man whose father believes that success and freedom can only be truly enjoyed in America, while his grandfather believes in such ideals for their native India. The dynamic tension and interplay between generations is a crucial focus point in this captivating, enriching, highly recommended read.

Please do not assume that Stealing the Ambassador is just like the other books that have come out in recent years attempting to analyze the indian-american diaspora. His subtle observations on how three generations of indians view themselves, their families, and their homelands are what makes this novel fresh and captivating. Parekh also manages to weave his story through such various viewpoints with astonishing ease. Hope that he finds time during medical school and beyond to write another novel in the near future.

I found the three-generational structure incredibly compelling. I felt that I was reading a sonata, with themes and variations exquistely woven together. I've read other novels about the immigrant experience and I thought that the characters-- becaue of their specifically etched personalities-- deepened my understanding of the power of old loyalties and iconic memories. Most of all, I just had so much pleasure reading it!

This story is a beautifully written account of the thoughts and emotions that pervade the culture of first generation Americans. The storyline flows easily with clear and vivid descriptions. This novel will speak to anyone living in a diaspora with it's universal themes. I highly recommend it to anyone who has struggled to keep their parents' heritage alive while living in a new culture.