Description

Book Synopsis
The story of Saloma, a minority in Singapore and her struggle to succeed in life and marriage, shaped by her upbringing and relationship with her race

This novel asks the questions about the role of women in marriage, the burden of cultural inheritance, the oppression inherent in being a minority and ultimately, the costs of not being true to oneself. Set in the 2010s of Singapore, the story begins with protagonist, Saloma Salem, an entrepreneur who believes that her ethnicity has impeded her success in life. As a result, she steadfastly rejects her race and culture.

This strains her relationship with her mother who still lives alone in their small family flat. Determined to be independent, she leads a simple life despite Saloma’s generous allowance. Their fractious relationship breaks down when she forces her antiquated beliefs about a wife’s role on Saloma. The story tells how far Saloma would go to deny her culture, the efforts she takes to save her marriage and to maintain the image of a perfect life. But her plans go awry, forcing her to confront her own demons.

If Only They Knew

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    Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Wed 1 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback by Anita Othman

    15 in stock


      View other formats and editions of If Only They Knew by Anita Othman

      Publisher: Penguin Random House SEA
      Publication Date: 29/02/2024
      ISBN13: 9789815058086, 978-9815058086
      ISBN10:

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      The story of Saloma, a minority in Singapore and her struggle to succeed in life and marriage, shaped by her upbringing and relationship with her race

      This novel asks the questions about the role of women in marriage, the burden of cultural inheritance, the oppression inherent in being a minority and ultimately, the costs of not being true to oneself. Set in the 2010s of Singapore, the story begins with protagonist, Saloma Salem, an entrepreneur who believes that her ethnicity has impeded her success in life. As a result, she steadfastly rejects her race and culture.

      This strains her relationship with her mother who still lives alone in their small family flat. Determined to be independent, she leads a simple life despite Saloma’s generous allowance. Their fractious relationship breaks down when she forces her antiquated beliefs about a wife’s role on Saloma. The story tells how far Saloma would go to deny her culture, the efforts she takes to save her marriage and to maintain the image of a perfect life. But her plans go awry, forcing her to confront her own demons.

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