Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal

Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows

by Balli Kaur Jaswal

Reese Witherspoon’s March Book Club Pick!

‘Big-hearted, earthy and funny… A rattlingly good story’ Deborah Moggach, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Every woman has a secret life…

When Nikki takes a creative writing job at her local temple, with visions of emancipating the women of the community she left behind as a self-important teenager, she’s shocked to discover a group of barely literate women who have no interest in her ideals.

Yet to her surprise, the white dupatta of the widow hides more than just their modesty – these are women who have spent their lives in the shadows of fathers, brothers and husbands; being dutiful, raising children and going to temple, but whose inner lives are as rich and fruitful as their untold stories. But as they begin to open up to each other about womanhood, sexuality, and the dark secrets within the community, Nikki realises that the illicit nature of the class may place them all in danger.

East meets west and tradition clashes with modernity in a thought-provoking cross-cultural novel that might make you look again at the women in your life…

Reviewed by Martha G on

4 of 5 stars

Share
I have to be honest and tell you I was not interested in it because of the title. I didn't think it would be my kind of book but I'm so glad my book club chose to read it because I really enjoyed the story. It's a story about culture, honor and how it conflicts with other more "modern day" culture. I really enjoyed the family and community dynamics along with an interesting little twist regarding a crime that takes place. This was a very fast read and so glad I looked past the title. The "erotic" stories are really more about these women gaining confidence and being more vocal about their needs.

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 13 April, 2018: Finished reading
  • 13 April, 2018: Reviewed
  • Started reading
  • Finished reading
  • 13 April, 2018: Reviewed