Both the novel and movie adaptation of Jhumpa Lahiri's first full-length novel, "The Namesake," touched me tremendously. Having won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2000, I knew I had to give Lahiri's critically acclaimed debut, "Interpreter of Maladies," a go.

After reading these 9 tour de force short stories, it becomes obvious that "The Namesake" is an expansion on some of the themes found in these short stories - culture, traditions, family, upbringing, love, betrayal, redemption.

Lahiri's writings evoke not just the feelings of uncertainty and inner turmoil of every immigrant as they set out on a new journey, but of hope and fulfillment too. I could easily relate to the characters - aliens in a new surrounding, trying to get a foothold in an unknown land, eventually taking root and propagating generations with differing outlooks. The voice she gives to them all makes her truly an interpreter of maladies of their hearts.

While not typically a fan of short stories, the lyric writing style of this book, and the insights into her characters make it a favorite. Highly recommended.

I picked up Interpreter of Maladies after having fallen in love with Lahiri's writing style in The Namesake . I normally am not a fan of short stories, as I find they lack the depth that comes with getting to know characters over the course of a longer novel. However, I must say Lahiri manages to capture her readers' feelings and captivates their senses through her short stories in very much the same way she does in The Namesake . Her short stories may give those of us who aren't fans of this style of writing a new appreciation of the art that of luring & engaging readers over the course of only a few pages.

At long last a book of engaging short stories which is a pleasure to read minus convoluted hidden meanings - everything up front here. These intelligently written heartfelt stories are as refreshing as the first spring rain. Each one drew me in and carried me along, learning about Indian culture, eavesdropping on curious situations, while feeling the emotions of these believable characters. A great gift book - even for die-hard novel-only readers or those who don't read much and should. Everyone on my Christmas list and throughout the year will be receiving one of these!