About the Book
This survivor's memoir of the Gujarat pogrom of 2002 is a deeply affecting, necessary read. At just sixteen years old, Zara Chowdhary finds herself living in Ahmedabad, anxiously preparing for her board exams when chaos erupts around her. As her family and neighbors endure a three-month siege, the story unfolds, revealing the harrowing realities they face.
Journey Through History
The Lucky Ones traces the roots of Zara's multigenerational Muslim family back to India's brave yet bloody origins. It delves into the ancient past of a segregated city, exploring the longstanding wounds that have led to bloodshed on the streets. With each page, readers are invited to experience the lives of ordinary Muslims living in a crumbling apartment building within the city's old quarters. The narrative beautifully captures their resilience, showcasing their ability to forgive and find laughter even as the world around them crumbles.
A Reflection on Heritage and Resilience
The Lucky Ones entwines lost histories across a subcontinent, examining forgotten myths and unearthing family secrets. It gazes unflinchingly back at a country determined to move past one of its most significant pogroms. Written as a warning to democracies that fail to protect the vulnerable, this memoir speaks volumes to homes that refuse to listen to their daughters.
An Ode to Identity
At its core, this memoir is an ode to India's unique Islamic heritage and the defiance of a young woman who is determined to belong to her land, family, and faith on her own terms. Through Zara's journey, readers will not only witness the struggle for survival but also the strength of identity and the power of voice.
About the Author
Zara Chowdhary is a writer and lecturer at the University of Wisconsin. With an MFA in creative writing and environment from Iowa State University and a master’s in writing for performance from the University of Leeds, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her storytelling. Having previously worked in documentary television, advertising, and film, she now resides in Wisconsin, USA, with her partner, child, and two cats.
Discover the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit in The Lucky Ones. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable memoir that challenges us to listen, reflect, and engage with the world around us.
