About the Book

Do you want to delve into the complex landscapes of human emotions and relationships?

From crime to the supernatural, angst of adolescence to marital discord, from unrequited love to divine pardon, from fighting patriarchy to funny wee-wee experiences. Banerjea’s characters are an interesting bunch—from benign spirits, to quirky octogenarians, from adventurous kids to loving reptiles, from lovers seeking second chances to careless parents. Her tales touch on human frailties with amusement. Others deal with sombre social issues, without any moral judgment.

Chowringhee Charms will magically transport you to the country’s East and give you an interesting glimpse of the lifestyle, psyche, strengths, and foibles of the people there.

Sumita Banerjea’s style of writing reflects an ease with words and an elan that arises from the raconteur’s confidence with the subject. Many of her stories transport the reader to the world of the upper middle class Bengali families and we get interesting and insightful glimpses into their world-views, their traditions, and the subtle nuances that distinguish their unique way of life.
—Jawhar Sircar, MP; former Secretary, Govt. of India and ex-CEO, Prasar Bharati

Each story in this book has a different theme and cast of characters, but each creates drama and anticipation and builds up to a carefully-crafted resolution. Sumita Banerjea combines detailed and vivid descriptions that bring people and places alive with a frank but sensitive portrayal of the complex landscapes of human emotions and relationships.
—Upinder Singh, Professor of History at Ashoka University and author

The twist at the end of the stories in this collection is what I enjoyed most. That surprise element makes them special.
—Hima Kohli, Judge, Supreme Court of India