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Indian-immigrant story takes center stage in professor's debut novel
Through this narrative, Shah pays tribute to the generations of immigrants who toiled in motels, gas stations, and convenience stores, working tirelessly so their children could aspire to higher achievements.
Grishma Shah is a Professor at Manhattan University / Facebook/Grishma Shah
Grishma Shah, a professor and director of Global Business at a private college in New York City, has published her debut novel, Anagram Destiny, released in Sept. 2024 by Spark Press/Simon & Schuster.
The novel explores the Indian immigrant experience in America, providing a nuanced examination of cultural identity, sacrifice, and the American dream.
In a context where immigrant narratives, such as those of Vice President Kamala Harris, resonate widely, Shah’s work underscores the resilience and determination that immigrants contribute to the fabric of American society. Anagram Destiny chronicles the journey of an Indian immigrant family that, after achieving success, confronts the challenges posed by globalization.
Through this narrative, Shah pays tribute to generations of immigrants who have labored in motels, gas stations, and convenience stores, striving to create opportunities for their children. “I was inspired to write this story not only as the daughter of Indian immigrants who spent part of her childhood in motels and convenience stores but also as an expert in culture and globalization,” Shah stated. “After decades as an academic, I’ve learned that nothing educates or enlightens us like a good story.”
Drawing from her academic background, Shah emphasized the depth of understanding that stories can provide compared to data or statistics. “My students rarely remember the numbers or graphs, but they remember the stories I use to bring that knowledge to life,” she remarked.
As the United States approaches another significant election cycle, Shah reflected on storytelling's role in fostering empathy and understanding. In the wake of the divisive 2016 election, she recognized that traditional educational methods were inadequate for bridging societal divides. This realization prompted her to explore fiction, a medium she believes cultivates empathy by immersing readers in the personal experiences of characters.
“When readers spend hours with a character, experiencing their hardships and triumphs, they build empathy and compassion—core elements needed to move forward as a society,” Shah explained. “Fiction can reach a broader audience than non-fiction often can.”
Shah’s novel also addresses broader themes of globalization, immigration, and terrorism, humanizing complex global issues that can often seem abstract. “I would love to discuss how my research on India, globalization, and culture led me to write this novel,” she expressed, highlighting how her transition from academic writing to storytelling enables her to engage with readers more profoundly.
As she embarks on her journey in fiction, Shah hopes that Anagram Destiny will entertain while provoking thought, fostering empathy, and encouraging meaningful dialogue about the immigrant experience and its influence on America’s evolving identity.
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