Step into the enchanting world of Goa through the eyes of Michelle Mendonça Bambawale as she unveils a compelling narrative in her memoir. With a deep connection to her Goan ancestry and a vivid portrayal of her experiences, Michelle shares her journey of self-discovery and belonging.
Moving to her inherited 160-year-old house in Siolim during a transformative time, she grapples with her identity and the complexities of her Goan Catholic heritage. This memoir dives into themes of culture, migration, and the labels that often define us. You'll find yourself immersed in her reflection on the past, enriched by the tales of St. Anthony and the Snake, Sao Joao, and even the curious statue of Beethoven.
Michelle takes you back to the nostalgic days of her childhood vacations in Siolim, where life was simple and unruffled by modernity. Rediscover the Goan way of life in the 1970s and 1980s, complete with unpaved roads and water drawn from a well. Today’s reality sharply contrasts this idyllic past, with pollution and development creeping in as she navigates her walks with her beloved Labrador, Haruki.
Becoming Goan is not just a memoir; it's a heartfelt tribute to Michelle's love for the land her grandparents cherished. Her passion for Goa's biodiversity shines through as she raises her concerns about the environmental consequences brought on by tourism, construction, and mining. As she delves deeper into her roots, her connection to Mother Earth flourishes, inviting readers to contemplate their relationship with nature and identity.
This is a story that resonates, inviting you to explore themes of belonging and the beauty of rediscovery. Don't miss out on this captivating memoir that blends personal history with a love letter to Goa.
