If you really want to delve into the events that led this Himalayan kingdom to Indian state, then this book is the right choice for you. It starts with the year 1942 and walks you through 4 decades. Andrew’s efforts are clearly seen in each chapter; with the collection of letters he has nicely embedded between the events. Thondup Namgyal, the last king and how the world politics takes a big toll on him and his personal life can be experienced by a reader. Although the book cover shows Hope Cook, his young wife and him in a sweet manner, I did not feel like much has been covered about them (may be there was not much about their relationship). A lot of events are stuffed in 300+ pages, so at times it becomes overwhelming to keep track of names.
As the worst befell him, which happened quite often during these 40 years, you pity him. Though he supported monarchy which is quite obvious, given he was non supportive of democracy, a reader can hardy be angry on him and his decisions, because it seems, all he wanted was to preserve Sikkim’s identity. During the last chapters, his loneliness can be felt. Once living in the prime of life to the point where he has to knock doors of Indian Government for the financial security of his children is quite harsh to read.
In between there is a lot of description about Indira Gandhi’s work. Her decisions are constantly being judged in the book. So someone who is quite new to history topic per se can get easily carried away by it. So my suggestion would be to read this book as-is.
What else to look for in this book?
India after independence, world politics and its effects on India and eventually on Sikkim, brief description about Thondup and Hope’s relationship, how the relationship between India – Pakistan – China – America took shape in years 1942-82, little bit about UN and it’s role. Basically many aspects that affected Sikkim’s position from Himalayan Kingdom to protectorate of India to permanent state of India.
I recommend this book to all those who are keen to know more about Sikkim and how it became Indian state in 1975.
Trail2Happiness 