Zen

Zen is a sweeping historical novel that follows two remarkable Zainabs across generations, weaving together 1935 Mumbai’s world of longing for freedom with 2019 teenage life, all set against the evolving tapestry of modern India. This historical fiction invites adults and older teens who love strong female leads, city stories, and multi-generational sagas to dive in. The emotional heartbeat of the book is hopeful and reflective, balancing adventure with empathy as it asks what it means to belong across different eras. Written in interwoven timelines, Zen follows Zainab Essanji in 1935 as she navigates societal expectations while dreaming of joining the independence movement, and Zainab Currimji in 2019 as she faces the tug between tradition and the noise of contemporary debates. Shabnam Minwalla crafts a richly drawn Mumbai, where streets, families, and traditions pulse with life, letting readers feel the city as a character in its own right. The narrative balance of history and personal growth makes the experience genuinely immersive—fast enough to feel page-turning, with moments of quiet reflection that linger. The book is written with warmth and clarity, offering a story that moves through vivid scenes, intimate portraits, and carefully drawn supporting characters. It blends personal stakes with historical context, giving readers approachable glimpses of key moments in Indian history without losing sight of heart and humanity. If you’re drawn to fiction, Zen invites you on a journey through time that reveals shared human concerns—courage, love, and the desire to shape one’s story—even as the world changes around you. Two generations of Zainabs across 1935 and 2019 Interwoven timelines tracing Mumbai’s evolution and modern India Strong, relatable female leads and rich character development Vivid setting and cultural detail that bring history to life Thoughtful exploration of freedom, identity, tradition, and resilience Accessible, page-turning storytelling with a warm narrative voice In Zen, readers gain a deeper understanding of how women’s lives intersect with history, plus a sense of continuity between past and present. The book invites reflection on who we are and where we’re headed, leaving a lasting impression of empathy, hope, and a renewed curiosity about our shared story.