THE ASPIRANT: Memoirs of a Monk Turned Civil Servant

A highly enjoyable and spirited read from the start there’s a lot for readers to like about The Aspirant. A memoir underpinned by a fluid narrative as author Mathew Joseph paints realistic pictures of India’s geographical cultural and political landscapes from bygone eras. With far too many memoirs the reader is left feeling like an outsider looking in but Joseph has the enviable ability to place us in the centre of his life story with the elegance of his writing conveying a refreshing degree of warmth and candour. This is no mean feat considering the decades his memoir spans. From humble beginnings in the service of God as an Aspirant in the order of the Carmelites to his role as Joint Secretary in The Department of Space Joseph combines astute observation and crystal clear descriptions that not only chronicle an extraordinary journey but explores the many challenges and injustices of Indian society. Bestselling memoirs embrace a universality that readers can relate to and learn from and this is certainly true of The Aspirant. Joseph doesn’t simply journal his life he doesn’t vent anger or air wounds which have become only too common in lesser memoirs. The Aspirant is a journey story a story from a remarkable life a story with an identifiable shape from beginning to end with a universality that is truthfully original and makes for a remarkable read. Beautifully written heartwarming and engaging The Aspirant is a must-read for fans of the memoir genre and is recommended without reservation. - Review by BookViral