This is the story about a struggling family. Divorced, Hardev Dange lives in a house that he can not afford and is very close to filing for bankruptcy to make ends meet. He is quadriplegic and has very little use of one arm only. He relies on constant help and support from his son, Emile, an his caregiver, Rodriguez.

Emile is the second oldest of Hardev’s three children. He studies curses and anthropology at university and has no other interests. He, like so many others, is struggling to find himself.

Birendra is the eldest daughter. She is engaged to Victor and other than the wedding and her future marriage, there is not much else going on with her. She’s described as slightly careless and unaware of her surroundings. I would describe her more as the type of person who knows what she wants and goes for it.

Dorothy is the youngest child at age 17. She’s deaf and attends a school for the handicapped. She’s an apprentice at a tattoo parlour and is very artistic. She is also by far, my favourite character in the entire novel as she shows the most growth.

Though the family members lead very separate lives and have many secrets, they are all very alike. Each of them struggle to define the word ‘family’ and see themselves as a bundle of flaws and imperfections rather than for the unique individuals that they are.

Hardev wants nothing more than to keep his home and keep his family in the dark on his financial struggles. Birendra wants to move away with her husband to be and start her own ‘family’ though to her, ‘family’ is just her and Victor. Emile discovers who he is but does not know how to adapt, and Dorothy lives her life vicariously through the stories of others.

Priscila Uppal writes ‘To Whom It May Concern’ with a series of letters, texts, and emails amongst the novel itself. It’s a great way to spice up the story and keep the reader on his toes.

I really enjoyed this book as it’s filled with so much struggle, stress, heartache, and discovery. It’s a true testament to life.

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