The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese follows a multi-generational Indian family from 1900 to 1977, centering on Big Ammachi, a child bride turned family matriarch, as they grapple with a hereditary condition causing many of its members to drown. The novel intertwines the story of Scottish surgeon Digby Kilgore, whose life intersects with the family through various tragedies, impacting their fates. The book depicts child marriage, suicidality, drug use, and sexual assault.

Abraham Verghese's The Covenant of Water excels in rich, evocative storytelling akin to his previous works. Readers appreciate the intricate character development and historical depth. However, some critique its length and pacing. Overall, it’s a compelling narrative that intertwines human resilience with cultural heritage.

Readers who enjoy intricate family sagas, rich historical contexts, and evocative prose would be captivated by Abraham Verghese's The Covenant of Water. Fans of Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things and Rohinton Mistry's A Fine Balance will appreciate Verghese's depth of character and culturally nuanced storytelling.

Emotional / Nostalgic / Melancholic / Contemplative / Inspirational

Abraham Verghese

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

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The Covenant of Water Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Covenant of Water Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1 The Covenant of Water Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 The Covenant of Water Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 The Covenant of Water Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4 The Covenant of Water Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 The Covenant of Water Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6 The Covenant of Water Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7 The Covenant of Water Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8 The Covenant of Water Part 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 9 The Covenant of Water Part 9 Summary & Analysis

Part 10 The Covenant of Water Part 10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Covenant of Water Character Analysis

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Themes

The Covenant of Water Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Covenant of Water Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Covenant of Water Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Covenant of Water Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

The Covenant of Water Book Club Questions

The Covenant of Water

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