Shame Paperback – 6 Sept. 2007

I couldn't remember why I bought this book but I know it reviews very well and I love memoirs. The blurb on the book sums up what that author has lived through and points towards a happy ending (although there has to be an assumption that if the author was able to write the book then she has broken away from her oppressive world).This edition is published nearly ten years after the original book and promises an update to reflect the passing of time.The book is just over 300 pages and split into 35 short chapters.I know only a limited amount about the Indian culture in the UK so this book is a real insight. It's written in an easy style, making the story very accessible.Lots of times it seems that Jasvinder's life is heading in the wrong direction with no hope of recovery. Each time some hint of hope comes along to validate Jas's decision to leave her family. It always a comfort as you are reading to reflect that the first part of the book looks back from 2012 and is at a happy event.It's inspiring to watch the author's strength grow as she gradually starts to be able to give back to society and what she manages to achieve by the end of the book is nothing short of incredible.I finished reading this book absolutely full of admiration for what one person can do when they are determined.Jas never shies away from exposing her weaknesses and that make her victories seem so much more important. I felt I was literally cheering out loud for her at some points.This book is a story that not enough people know about. The author has used her experience to share the horrors that are happening all around the world. She makes her writing accessible and creates empathy from the reader.I'm going to recommend this to anyone who will listen as it's important for everyone to be informed about this practice.

This was an absorbing read, even for an Anglo-Saxon. Very well composed, this memoir illuminates the issues arising from arranged marriages for 'westernised' Punjabi girls - not that the West has the laid the path to married bliss. The diligence of the Sikh community defies belief as does their willpower. Sadly, Ms Sanghera misses the real point in all her relationship woes - she does not recognise real love. This was what her first lover unmistakably showed her. To climb from joblessness and a hovel of a home to successful market trader having had no previous experience is a climb to the top of the ladder from the bottom rung. I was struck that when he contacted her years later she didn't realise that this was the real deal. He never ill-treated her, made a home for her and she was attracted physically to him. Perhaps he reminded her of too many sorrows she had to bear from her immediate family while in a relationship with him and so any get-together would bring those flooding back. Good luck to both of them.

I really enjoyed this book and read it in a day. The work Jas does is crucial and she's incredibly brave and hard working. It's a disgrace that so many women still suffer today and talk of honour and shame that have nothing to do with any god or religion. I think her sisters ought to be ashamed of themselves, I think they are jealous of Jas's bravery and the fact that their lives never amounted to much. One sister in particular who seems to crawl back when she needs something I felt a real disliking for.Good luck to Jas and her children. She's changing things for woman and will have undoubtedly saved many lives. I'm sure they are proud of their mother and vice versa.

I do a lot of reading and I can honestly say this is one of the best books I have ever read. Totally gripping and yet terrifying to think what Jas has gone through in her life. I read a review before I began this book which said it should be a mandatory read for all teachers. As a retired teacher I totally agree. All people who are in touch with people in the community should read this book and help to put a stop to the barbaric treatment of some of these 15 year old girls being forced into marriage , abuse and subserviency

What an incredible journey Jasvinder decided to follow. Her self determination, bravery and her will to lead an normal life is wonderful. She showed great character throughout her young years, fought the fight to be free from horrendous traditions, and at the same time lost almost her complete family in the process. What an inspiration this lady is to all of us. Well done, you should be very proud of your achievements. Outstanding.

Every now and again a book comes along that takes your breath away. A well deserved five stars. Before I even finished I bought the next in the series. Shame is life changing, leaving you wanting to do something, anything that will ease the suffering and danger these young people have to endure. I want to know more, only the odd few honour killings are publicised, why is this. I'm left with questions. I always wanted to bring my children up in a street that housed people from all different communities, so they would not grow up ignorant. Sadly this never happened but I did my best to try bring them up knowing everyone is human, not a colour, race or religion like the questionnaire we are often asked to fill in. This is a must read whether in public or in secret. A heartful thanks to the author for putting her words to paper

A truly honest and thought provoking book. Jasvinder has had the guts and courage to speak about her own life experiences and what is really happening in the Asian community. As an Indian woman born into a traditional Sikh family I can fully relate to her difficult experiences with family and the community. She is a great storyteller and gives hope to those who are suffering abuse. I was so impacted by this book that I have ordered her other 2 books. I would highly recommend this book