'Inscrutable Americans', a book that made waves with
its rip-roaring account of the  travails
of an Indian student in the US, is a must read for all. A book
by Anurag Mathur, set in the 80's, it is funny yet perceptive.
It revolves around Gopal, who is all set to spend a year at
a university in Uncle Sam's land, unaware how enlightening the
experience will really prove to be!
Gopal insinuates himself into all our hearts with effortless
ease. He is someone all of us can relate to, as he blunders
his way through an alien land. His English and understanding
of Americanisms is comical in the extreme, which seems to
fill us with exasperated affection for him.
As Gopal embarks on a journey of self-discovery, taking us
along with him on his escapades, his initial impressions of
America are blown to smithereens. He learns to look beyond
the obvious yet superficial differences of language and culture.
The book thus touches us on various levels and seeks to explore
the differences in psyche of people across cultures, in a
deceptively casual manner.
Gopal finds a staunch friend in 'Randy', the quintessential
American guy, with his happy go lucky attitude, without a
care in the world. A bond develops between these two, as Gopal
is welcomed into the hearts and homes of his new found friends.
Through Gopal's letters home, we are informed about his all-new
identity crisis, a conflict in values and dreams, which were
far removed from his life at 'Jajau'.
The book sensitively deals with many issues of the time. The
apathetical condition of black people, the deep sense of discontent
a few Americans bear towards the influx of foreigners into
their lands, are all touched upon. Gopal strives to retain
his values with the dire predictions of his family ringing
in his ears, and the readers are treated to hilarious accounts
of his encounters in 'sin land'.
As Gopal comes to the end of one of the most momentous years
of his life, he leaves with a heart full of memories, with
fond promises to return…and we too, the readers, promise
to return yet again to re-read, and smile awhile.
The book is available at the following bookstores:
Gangarams Book Bureau, 72, M G Road, Bangalore 560001
Phone: 2558 7277
Premier Book House, 46/1 Church Street, Bangalore
560001
Phone: 2509 1220
Strand Book House, S 113 - 114,
Manipal Centre, 47, Dickenson Road,
Bangalore - 560 042
Phone: 2558 0000
Fax: (080) 2558 2222
Email: strandbk@bgl.vsnl.net.in
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