The Museum of Failures

Remy Wadia has returned to his childhood home in Bombay after living in the United States with his wife for over a decade. The couple plans to adopt an Indian baby, and Remy has gone to meet the birth mother. There, he also visits his aging mother, Shirin, with whom he has a strained relationship. Instead, Remy was incredibly close with his late father. However, as Remy’s stay is extended, he realizes that he never really knew his mother and their relationship changes after she admits long-held family secrets.

Thrity Umrigar’s novels are immersive, and I felt transported to Bombay throughout the novel. Her vivid descriptions of the city and its inhabitants brought the setting to life. I couldn’t connect with Remy during the early chapters; he was so hard on his mother and seemed too good for his heritage. Some of the depictions of adoption appeared too transactional, and like Remy and Kathy would be satisfied with any child that was offered to them.

However, once the big secret was revealed, I couldn’t stop reading. I adored the change in Remy and Shirin’s relationship, and was shocked at what Shirin had endured. This novel emphasizes the importance of love, acceptance and sacrifice. A very heartfelt read!