This month's selection comes to us from Meghan, who received a copy from her mom, Mrs. McInerny, who "swears it's awesome".  The only review we need, please join Meghan and me in reading The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri.

This book follows a family from their tradition-bound life in Calcutta through their transformation into Americans.  The writer takes us through arranged marriages, having children, loyalty, love affairs, and the ways in which we come to define ourselves.  Sounds fantastic (and the cover design is lovely.

Just reading about this month's selection makes me crave Indian food.  And, as you can imagine, Hutchinson isn't the center of multi-cultural cuisine.  I may have to look up some Indian recipes and hope that the grocery store has the necessary ingredients.  That, or satisfy myself with this month's wine pairing - Gewurztraminer.  A spicy white German wine, Gewurztraminer is said to be the perfect match for Indian cuisine, taming the heat found in curry and other traditional Indian spices.

Reviews from strangers:
"I couldn't put this book down! As someone born to SE Asian immigrants, I related to much of Gogol's life experiences. The Namesake also shed light on many of my parents' expectations and perspectives. Lahiri has a beautiful way of writing. The symbolisms and subtle details make the book extremely enjoyable."

"This is a brilliant novel about a family from India and their life in America. The journey that Gogul takes in his life is never predictable. Jhumpa Lahiri writes prose as if it were poetry. The love of Gogul's father for his often distant son is so touching and heartbreaking. I recommend this novel to everyone."