The description of making a shoe, that occurs about half way through this novel, is typical of the meticulous detail provided by Seth in his recreation of life in India not that long ago. I stumbled on this book - gave up for a while - and then returned when someone reading it on a train assured me it was worth the effort. They were right and I am so glad I read it through. There is much to delight and the story and characters do come to really matter to you. finishing this book was like losing track of a family you know really well.