Western Lane

Shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2023
Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2024
Longlisted for the William Hill Award 2023

The Plot

In Western Lane, Chetna Maroo presents a poignant coming-of-age story through the eyes of Gopi, an eleven-year-old girl who has devoted herself to the sport of squash since childhood. Following the devastating loss of her mother, Gopi's world is turned upside down as her father imposes a strict training regimen, pushing her to excel in the sport while inadvertently deepening the rift between her and her sisters.

As Gopi becomes increasingly absorbed in her training, she struggles to navigate her grief and redefine her identity amidst the pressures of familial expectations. The narrative explores themes of loss, resilience, and the quest for belonging, all framed within the vibrant backdrop of the squash courts. Maroo's lyrical prose captures Gopi's inner turmoil and triumphs, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of growing up and the sacrifices made in pursuit of one's passion.

Themes

• Grief and Loss
• Family Dynamics
• Identity and Self-Discovery
• Passion and Dedication

“A beautifully crafted exploration of the ties that bind and the paths we choose.”

Fans of coming-of-age novels and stories that delve into the intricacies of familial relationships may find themselves drawn to Maroo's evocative storytelling. Western Lane stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, echoing the themes found in works by authors such as Zadie Smith and Jhumpa Lahiri.