Marriage Material by Sathnam Sanghera

This is the latest read for those that want to lose themselves in a book. Un-put-down-able, touching and hilarious. Set in Wolverhampton and spanning three generations of a Sikh family, this is a tale of family, culture, politics and love.

The plot is actually a rework of Arnold Bennett's, The Old Wives' Tale, but Sanghera cleverly uses the plot to bring to light themes closer to his own heart. It is told in a narrator’s voice and switches viewpoint throughout, giving readers the opportunity to see events through the different characters. There are also many plot twists that will leave you on the edge of your seat, especially as the narration then switches.

This is Sanghera’s second book, after his first, The Boy with a Topknot.  Readers of the first novel will appreciate the familiar themes and enjoy Sanghera’s newer style of writing. What I most enjoy about Sanghera’s works, is his ability to write with such insight. He describes the feelings of being brought up in a mixed culture with clarity and warmth as well as a touch of satire; a real talent. Another admirable trait is the ability to write about the characters so that they are alive and bouncing off the pages whilst also growing on the reader.

An engaging and poignant story, it will keep you guessing throughout and make you laugh. A perfect book club read.