4 out of 4 stars
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This book requires a clear warning: there are many parts of this story that depict horrendous abuse, torture and rape. I do not recommend this book for readers who are easily triggered by these topics.
After turning eighteen, Sunny, or Sunita formally, was viciously pursued by Khan, an unstable con artist and predator, and ultimately brainwashed to believe that she was his wife. Although a tight-knit family, Sunny’s parents and brothers refuse to acknowledge her relationship with Khan as abusive and forcefully believe Sunny suffers because of her own willingness, perhaps aided by the use of drugs or black magic. Wings by Sunny Angel bluntly reveals the story of Sunny’s life with Khan and her subsequent escape only to find herself trapped in a different kind of abusive relationship. Familial relationships, personal and familial degradation, cultural characteristics, survival, and self-discovery are all themes discussed throughout Sunny’s tale.
Wings is written in the first person narrative, and Sunny’s voice is distinct and personal throughout. Many of her life events are described in the present tense, and in some instances, the author reflects on certain situations via asides to the narrative. I found the use of past and present voice incredibly moving. Understanding Sunny’s feelings during the events of her past abuse is important, but gaining insight about the author’s future understanding of her past naivety and the other events that led her on such a path gave the story apparent depth and understanding. Reading about any type of abuse is difficult, but the author’s injection of consideration and her conviction about past events help make the narrative informative and digestible so the reader is not constantly burdened down by the overwhelming telling of physical and mental abuse the author suffered.
Overall, the narrative is honest and genuine, the author clearly meant for Wings to contain all aspects of her story during this specific period of her life. As a Hindu Punjabi Indian, Sunny’s culture plays a significant role in understanding her position in life as well as her relationships, especially her relationship with her family. The author expertly includes explanations of cultural references and rituals so readers can understand her story in the appropriate context. I learned a great deal about various Indian cultures and their differences, yet I was never under the impression that the author was mindlessly spewing information about these topics. The integration of Sunny’s culture within the narrative of her story was seamless and only helped bolster understanding of her environment and mental state throughout the book.
My only criticism is in regards to the prologue. The book begins with a very moving scene taking place after the death of Sunny’s third husband, Ray. However, Ray’s presence in the book is minimal, and her marriage to Ray takes place after the focal events described in Wings when Sunny has seemingly evolved into a different person. Although the prologue worked to introduce Sunny and her plight, a concrete connection back to this scene is never developed in the narrative. If Sunny’s later transformation and her life with Ray had been given more consideration in the narrative, the prologue would have felt more appropriate.
Despite my minor grievance, I found myself captivated by Sunny’s story. The natural, candid narration of this book and the raw, emotional reflection the author provides make Wings worthy of attention. Wings deserves nothing less than 4 out of 4 stars and should be read by audiences looking to understand the emotional perspective of a victim while also learning about the impact of different cultures on these situations. As previously stated, this book contains graphic abuse, rape and torture and should only be read by appropriate audiences.
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Wings
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