The Konkans

by: Tony D'Souza

Published by: Harcourt Books

Reviewed by Kim Bagato

Tony D’Souza produced a mosaic of moods and expectations in this novel about a family that seems too real to be fictional. The characters and scenes reflect life on both sides of the globe, from the dusty streets of India across the ocean to the Chicago cityscape.

D’Souza clearly and simply conveys the story through Francisco, a boy who grows up in America with his Detroit-born mother and his Konkan father, along with two uncles who arrive from India entirely reliant upon Francisco’s family.

His father Lawrence works hard to provide and strives to climb the corporate ladder. Trials and temptations reveal the battle between devotion to tradition and thirsty desire. Francisco grows up to learn the importance of being the “firstborn son of a firstborn son of a firstborn son.” Dialog between relatives is honest and heartfelt and paints a family portrait accented by brilliant highlights and deep shadows.

At times, I forgot the words I read described events born in the author’s mind. This is not in any way a biographical work, but is so true to life, I felt that I knew these people as I walked with them in foreign lands.

D’Souza maintained interest with his captivating storytelling, which made this book much like a sunset walk on the beach. Words in his hands blended the verdant colors of India with well-sewn threads of suburbia into an enduring tapestry of diversity and familial love.

Armchair Interviews says: A fictional family you’ll be glad to know.

Author’s Web site: http://www.TonyDSouza.com