Story Circle Network

Austin Chapter
Reader's Guide

December 2004

Monsoon Diary: A Memoir With Recipes
Shoba Narayan


Weaving together stories from her remarkable life with tasty Indian vegetarian recipes, Narayan offers insights into Hindu culture and custom and contrasts her upbringing with life in her adopted America...

  1. A large part of Shoba's story is her description of all the different people in her life, their interactions, their roles. What seems similar and different from your life?

  2. Shoba introduces her culture through food. What's your reaction to this? What else could she have done?

  3. Once Shoba thinks about coming to the United States, she writes about both blending cultures and keeping traditions. In particular, look at two conversations with her brother (pages 104 and 171). What is your reaction to this?

  4. Shoba's direction and focus change after her experience at Memphis State University. What are your thoughts about this?

  5. Do you feel like you really know Shoba? Did you find this a book that looked forward to reading? Would you recommend it to others?


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