What to know before you open Lake Oswego Reads novel

Editor's note: This story appears in the March issue of LO Monthly.

The Lake Oswego Reads’ 2024 book selection “Honor” by Thrity Umrigar is an engrossing page-turner that is at times heart-wrenching, library special events coordinator Nancy Niland said.

Still, she recommends readers persist — because hope is just around the corner.

“I think people will get through the heartbreak parts and enjoy the ending, and the writing is so good,” Niland said.

With the community recently receiving free books through the program’s book giveaway event, Niland chatted with LO Monthly about the themes and ideas that readers should ponder as they make their way through “Honor.”

The book depicts a journalist returning to her home country of India to document a story centering on a Hindu woman who was attacked by members of her village and family for marrying a Muslim man. It involves multiple love stories and details challenges of bridging cultural divides.

First off, Niland said the ethics of journalism and how to remain objective are central to the story. She said that the journalist has to weigh their own moral instincts around being a good person with her professional imperative to remain objective.

“An average citizen, when they see someone in need they want to give them something. The role as a journalist, (you have to consider), are you giving food or water in trade for a story or for more information? There are points in the story where Smita (the journalist) … there is a line she doesn’t feel comfortable crossing because she needs to remain objective.”

Niland also said the Indian power structure and patriarchal society are key elements of the book.

“For some readers that’s going to be jarring because it is so patriarchal and there is a stigma against going outside of your religion. That is a huge element,” she said.

Further, Niland said that the book shows the dangers of extremism and automatically rejecting countervailing ideas.

“I think the main take-home is the danger of absolutism — the danger of not being open to other ideas. Absolutism is an extremely destructive force in the book,” she said.

But Niland emphasized that the book is also fun. The plot involves romance and the exploration of relationships, and readers will also get a sense of what life is like in India.

“It’s enjoyable, engaging and it feels like a quick read,” Niland said.

The library will host events centered around the book throughout April and will visit local community spots to discuss it with people. The program for the month will include a presentation with leaders at the Lake Oswego Review on the ethics of journalism, artists unveiling their work based on the book, an author talk and much more but has yet to be released. For more information, visit www.ci.oswego.or.us/loreads.

“People will enjoy the book. I’m really excited to hear their thoughts. We have a lot of great book groups and book discussions. We’re doing much more outreach at the library in general,” Niland said.