Book Review - True Treasure by Sudha Vishwanathan

This is a story of four people hailing from different walks of life. 

There is Mrityunjay whose destiny foretells a lonely life.

There is Suman, the only girl born in a family of four boys. 

There is Ratna, unwelcome in her own home for having born as a girl. 

There is Trishna loved and pampered by all in her family. 

Although hailing from different places, these four cross paths in life, united in struggle, grief and a willingness to prove themselves to the world. 

The author has woven a fantastic narrative around the four main characters. The plot is gripping and keeps you hooked on to the story. The characters have unique identities of their own and stand out brilliantly. Their struggles are those of millions of people and feel extremely relatable. 

The story discusses many societal evils - be it lamenting over the birth of a girl child, keeping her education as optional, preparing her for marriage right from a young age and using her as a pawn for one's own standing in the society. There is also the very crucial yet extremely ignored topic of gender dysphoria that lends a unique touch to this story. Not just the main characters but every character in the plot has their own role and makes a lasting impression. 

The book doesn't feel like a debut work. This is a story from someone who has seen a lot of life. Definitely recommending this to everyone. A must-read!