A Golden Age

By: Tahmima Anam

Narrated by: Madhur Jaffrey

As young widow Rehana Haque awakes one March morning, she might be forgiven for feeling happy. Her children are almost grown, the city is buzzing with excitement after recent elections. Change is in the air.

But no one can foresee what will happen in the days and months that follow. For this is East Pakistan in 1971, a country on the brink of war. And this family's life is about to change forever.

Set against the backdrop of the Bangladesh War of Independence, A Golden Age is a story of passion and revolution, of hope, faith, and unexpected heroism. In the chaos of this era, everyone must make choices. And as she struggles to keep her family safe, Rehana will be forced to face a heartbreaking dilemma.

©2008 Tahmima Anam; (P)2008 HarperCollins Publishers

History and family drama

Where does A Golden Age rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

It was my first, so I can't compare it to anything else.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Tough choice. Mrs. Chowdhury? She seemed the most colourful.

What about Madhur Jaffrey’s performance did you like?

Terrific narration without exaggeration. She's the reason I signed up for Audible. I really hope she narrates The Good Muslim as well.

Any additional comments?

I was surprised how much I enjoyed the story. I knew very little about the war in Bangladesh before listening to this audiobook.

sad, poignant, thought-provoking, beautiful

Excellent narration! Difficult situations occur throughout this story, but the descriptions are not overly drawn out or exhausting. Throughout the tale one hears understanding, compassion and faith. This is a compelling peak into the turmoil Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis have endured in recent times. Wonderful character development.

The narrator was spell binding. I loved the reading of this book !

I loved the story. Not filled with lame cliches and expected scenarios. I loved being gently introduced to Bangladesh through the eyes of an average woman. Loved the ending so much!

A Beautiful Heart Wrenching Story

A beautiful moving novel by Tahmima Anam. Every mother reading this novel will feel a tug at her heartstrings.

Madhur Jaffery couldn't be more perfect as the narrator. Bravo for taking the time to find someone as elegant and believable as this narrator.

This is a trilogy, which I discovered through the interview at the end of the novel. I look forward to reading about Rehana's father.

I love Pakistan most of all, but it is always important to feel both sides. Especially when it deals with children, family, and the human touch.

A Golden Age

I was listening to the BBC Bookclub and Harriet Gilbert was interviewing Tahmina Anam. I enjoyed the show and ordered A Golden Age on Audible. It takes place before and during the War of Independence of East Pakistan, the current day Bangladesh. I loved the character of the mother, wise beyond her years. I found her struggles and how she overcame them, inspiring. I learned a lot about a culture, that I was unfamiliar with. She is an excellent writer and story teller. The book did not disappoint. I would strongly recommend it. At the end, of the book, the publisher, conducted a short interview with the author, which I found fascinating. 👍 RJS