Books & Looks: Real Books for Real Readers was started as a podcast to supplement Blaine Desantis’ website, ViewsOnBooks.com, and expand into audio interviews with authors.
With Books & Looks, Blaine’s goal is to focus on real books that real people will read. At least half of the books he reviews are either new authors or unknown authors that many in the general public are unaware of. After a segment reviewing books or interviewing authors, Blaine ends each episode with a discussion of the movies and TV shows he is currently watching.
This Week’s Episode
Brace yourselves for a riveting conversation that bends the arc of history, as we explore Brinda Charry‘s groundbreaking novel, The East Indian. Why does Tony, the first Indian immigrant in colonial America, matter today? It’s a tale that navigates the convoluted terrains of marginalization, identity, and the blurred lines of servitude. With a past rooted in India and a PhD from Syracuse University, Charry brings a unique lens to the often oversimplified narratives of colonial America.
We dig into the compelling life of Tony—a young man torn between worlds, who challenges the stereotypical categories of his era. From his initial days as an apprentice to his struggle with cultural identity, this episode offers more than just a character study; it opens a door to the complex racial relationships of colonial times. We also get a glimpse into Charry’s knack for marrying Shakespearean elements with historical fact, a combination that brings vibrant color to her storytelling.
Switching gears, we dive into the stark disparities in the penalties meted out to individuals based on race—a topic Charry handles deftly in her work. Ever wondered how indentured servitude and slavery were practiced side by side, but with contrasting implications for those involved? We shed light on this puzzling dichotomy. As a bonus, we also get a sneak peek into Charry’s upcoming novel, set in early 1800s New England and focused on stage magicians. Get ready to stretch your understanding of history, identity, and the power of storytelling.
Buy “The East Indian” on Amazon
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About Blaine Desantis:
Blaine is an avid lifetime reader, a retired attorney, and has been a book club leader for the past seven years. He is an active teacher in senior education classes at Furman University. Blaine loves fiction, nonfiction, histories, mysteries and almost all genres of books.
