Things are as they are, not as they should be!

Cosette’s Tribe

Title: Cosette’s TribeCosette's Tribe
Author: Leah Griffith
Publisher: Nonpareil Press
ISBN-13: 978-0985306625
Number of Pages: 298
Price [INR]: 247 (Kindle Edition)
Genre: Fiction

Inspired by a photograph of a happy tribe of Indians, young Cosette decides to start a tribe of her own by playing matchmaker for her divorced mother. Unaware of the repercussions her meddling will bring, Cosette triggers a series of dark events, which isolate her from her family, forcing her to deal with the life-shattering consequences of her actions on her own. With an unshakable sense of hope and humor, Cosette navigates through the Hippy culture of the mid-1960s, facing off with life and death, while stumbling upon things both terrifying and beautiful.

Nine year-old Cosette lives with her mother and two elder sisters. Even though they live on welfare cheques but life is happy for them. Cosette misses the fatherly presence in their home. One day, she meets Ken, a handsome man who works for the Air Force, at her friend’s house. Ken talks to them like grown-ups and shares some good stories too and that impresses Cosette. She plays cupid for her mother and includes Ken in her tribe. This act of hers alters the course of life for all of them as Ken shows his true dark colors and makes life miserable for all of them and more so for Cosette.

Cosette’s Tribe is a story written from the point of view of little Cosette. It is a sad and heart-breaking journey of a smart, curious, wise girl with a great sense of humour. Circumstances force her to grow up and mature beyond her years. She deals with the trials and tribulations of her life boldly and with grit, even though they scar her soul. This goes on to show that how resilient children can be and how blind we adults can be to the things right under our nose.

I admire Leah’s voice in this book which is powerful enough to make you cry and feel sad and angry for Cosette. While reading the book, I wished that happiness should now come her way and I desperately wanted to hug that little child and shake some of the adults in the book. Yes, the book affected me that deeply.

A remarkably well written story that is a must read for all. Even though Cosette’s Tribe is not a cheery and a happy kind of book, but this is one book that I will definitely re-read again.

Rating : [usr 4.5 text=”false” size=20]

Linking this to 7 Days of Rediscovering Your Blogging GrooveDay 3 : Write a Review!

30 Responses

    1. It is really a great read, the one that will stay with you for a long long time! I love reading, Kathy, so I do reserve a lot of time during the day for my passion 🙂

  1. I’ve heard this is a wonderful book, Shilpa. What a nice choice for a review!
    I remember there was an interview with the author by Corinne on the Write Tribe blog. 🙂 Will add it to my list of must-reads!

    1. It is a fabulous book, Vidya, incredibly moving! Yes, Corinne recommended this book and I am glad that I read it. You must check it out too!!

    1. I know what you mean, Tulika! Sad books linger in your mind for a long time.And this one is a story that you wont forget easily!

  2. Anther amazing review! I’m intrigued by the book. Not a fan of sad stories! But you have made me feel that I should pick it up. 🙂 Thanks for the review, Shilpa.

    1. Do check it out, Shalini. I know, sad stories leave you sad and disturbed long after you have finished reading them. I will not say much about the story, but do read this one, as it is a must read for all parents!

  3. Wonderful review…and a very interesting story…esp since you say it is told from the POV of the child. It’s not a book I’d pick up usually…but your review is tempting me 🙂

  4. Dear Shilpaagarg,
    Thank you for the heart touching review of my novel, Cosette’s Tribe. I’m glad that Corrine recommended it to you and that you were able to connect with young Cosette. Although it’s a sad story, like life, it also brings much joy and light to the reader. I’m glad that you were able to see the incredible strength that Cosette had, and how, despite her troubles, she continued to get back up each time she was knocked down.
    Thank you again sweet, Shilpaagarg, for your lovely review.
    Wishing you the very best,
    Leah Griffith

    1. Hi Leah
      What a pleasure to see you here. Thanks for sharing Cosette’s story with us. She indeed is a strong lil girl. I am glad that I read your book. Looking forward to read more from you! Wishing you the very best. ♥

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