The In-Between World of Vikram Lall by M. G. Vassanji

Yes, I have finally finished The In-Between World of Vikram Lall - it only took six weeks to do so. Before I go any further, and people begin making assumptions about why the book took forever, I must clarify: I really enjoyed Vik Lall. Truly. The characters were fully fleshed out and very relatable (for me, especially, I clicked with Deepa); the plot was altogether gripping; the pseudo-biographical setting and tone were fascinating.

So what is it? I have a few theories:

Theory #1: the book was too heavy. - Has some merit. Full of violence, racism, prejudices, and casual death - it's not light Sunday morning read, that for sure. And while i would often find myself finishing whole swaths of pages, I had to put it down in order to not get sucked into a pit of empathetic despair which pulls you in with the book's inherent gravitas.

Theory #2: too many distractions. - Also has merit. While I was at home, there were blogs to write and bags to pack, granite to choose and books to catalogue; at work, every lunch hour was booked by work-friend; at play, there were movies and video games and kicking certain people's asses in Catan. Of course, being on vacation provided no less distractions with VIA buddies and prairies and Rockies and seasickness. It's a testament to the lasting impact Vik Lall has, when I pick up the book four or five days after putting it down and still remember all the characters' names, the context of their conversation and the very moment that's unfolding. Something about the story stays with you, even when there's so much more to which you're paying attention.

Theory #3: it is a boring book, but I'm lying to myself because I think I should like it. - I really thought about this. I'm as susceptible as the next person to peer pressure and if this book won a Giller, it surely must be good, yes? But no, no... I don't think so. I did like it: I liked Deepa and Njoroge, Vikram and Seema; I liked the delicious disappointments that are peppered throughout; I really enjoyed Mwangi and his many many facets.

Yes, I have some complaints: when you read it (and I certainly hope that really is a "when"), perhaps you will be able to explain why Vassanji chose that last paragraph as his last. I felt it out of place and not in sync with the rest of the narrative. I'm sure smarter people than I will have an answer for me.

So, indeed, six weeks to read a book that I, a self-styled voracious devourer of books, should have only taken at most two to complete. And it was totally worth it.