Book review: ‘Almo’ explores the realities of love, marriage, and societal expectations

Almo by Parizad Shaikh is a reflective narrative on the modern-day pursuit of companionship, and the cultural weight that often accompanies it.

At its heart, the book tells the story of Pal, a woman navigating the complex terrain of finding a partner, with the unwavering support of her friend, the narrator. What makes this account stand apart is not the end result of the search, but the layered experiences that emerge along the way. For some, marriage remains a thrilling journey of discovery; for others, it is fraught with reality checks, shaped by societal pressures and cultural norms.

Parizad offers readers a candid look at how expectations differ depending on circumstances. The book shifts between perspectives: how a single woman approaching what society considers the ideal marriage age is perceived, versus how society treats a divorcee beginning anew. These contrasts, though familiar in everyday discourse, gain sharp clarity through Pal’s lived experiences, which are presented without embellishment.

Written in a conversational tone, Almo reads like a journey shared between friends rather than a formal chronicle. Its strength lies in this intimacy: the reader is drawn into not only Pal’s dilemmas but also the narrator’s reflections on what it means to seek “the perfect partner” in a society where marriage is often regarded less as a choice and more as an obligation.

Though not sprawling in scale, the book is layered with relatable vignettes and quiet observations that resonate with anyone who has felt the tug of cultural expectations in personal decisions. It is less about answers and more about honest explorations of questions: How do women navigate the labels attached to their status? How does friendship sustain one through these journeys?

Almo is not a conventional love story, nor is it a manual for navigating relationships. Instead, it is a nuanced portrait of companionship, selfhood, and resilience in the face of social scrutiny. In doing so, Parizad provides a voice to many who find themselves caught between personal choice and cultural definition.

This book will appeal to readers interested in contemporary narratives on relationships, identity, and the subtle negotiations women make in a society that still measures them by marital milestones.

About the author

Parizad Shaikh is a counsellor and life coach who helps individuals navigate relationships and personal growth. Born in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, she now resides in Australia. She is known for her books Kimaya (2023) and Almo (2024). Her writing explores themes of spirituality, personal transformation, and the social experiences of South Asian women.

Parizad married her college partner in 2012; the marriage ended in divorce in 2013. Shortly after the divorce, she experienced a miscarriage, naming her lost child Kimaya—a name she later gave to her first book. She divides her time between Australia and India.