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Critics' Opinion:
Readers' Opinion:
First Published:
Nov 2023, 272 pages
Paperback:
Nov 12, 2024, 272 pages
Book Reviewed by:
Pei Chen
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A child's name is often a blessing from elder relatives for their future. Happy Singh Soni's siblings were all given proper Punjabi names: Fatehpal, "victorious one"; Davinder, "leader of all gods"; Ambika, "moon goddess." Born ten years later than his next youngest sibling, Happy speculates that when his parents chose his name, they were feeling "fancy" and, wanting him to have international success, picked the most international name they could think of. With a name like Happy, how could a child not be destined for greatness and joy on a global scale? Hoping to make that destiny a reality, Happy leaves his rural village and parents' cabbage farm in India to chase his dream of becoming a famous actor known for melancholy, pretty-boy roles. But first, he must pay off his debt to the international syndicate who has arranged his travel to Europe, landing him in Italy. Happy, separated from...
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