Plot Summary

Family Matters

Rohinton Mistry
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Family Matters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

Book Brief

Rohinton Mistry

Family Matters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mumbai, India • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Family Matters by Rohinton Mistry portrays the personal struggles of a Parsi family in Mumbai, India, focusing on the patriarch Nariman Vakeel and the challenges his family faces due to his deteriorating health. Nariman's care falls to his daughter Roxana, resulting in financial strain and ethical dilemmas, while the story also explores broader issues faced by the Parsi community. The book addresses the impact of chronic illness and financial instability on family dynamics and individual well-being.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Emotional

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

25,162 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rohinton Mistry's Family Matters is widely praised for its intricate portrayal of familial bonds and the complexities of aging, set against the backdrop of Mumbai. Reviewers commend Mistry's rich character development and evocative storytelling. However, some criticize the novel for its slow pacing and occasional verbosity. Overall, it is a compelling, deeply human narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Family Matters?

Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives set in India, exploring themes of family, illness, and generational conflict, will find Family Matters compelling. Comparable to Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance or Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake, it appeals to fans of rich, emotional storytelling with cultural depth.

4.2

25,162 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mumbai, India • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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