by Ariana Zaman
The debut novel Appetite by Bangladeshi-born writer P. Paramita, who currently lives in New Haven in the U.S. state of Connecticut, is set to be released on August 4. In this new novel, the author brings together the traditions of Bangladeshi cuisine, the world of professional wrestling, and the story of identity and struggle of a young immigrant woman.
The central character of the novel is Zarina, a 24-year-old Bangladeshi immigrant. Working as a kitchen assistant in a restaurant in New Haven, Zarina faces various pressures and uncertainties in her life. At work, she deals with a harsh and often humiliating manager, while at the same time she struggles with the expectations of her family. Her life becomes
increasingly complicated as these pressures mount. In particular, her mother had hoped she would pursue a career in medicine or banking, but when Zarina chose to attend culinary school, it created distance between them.
During this difficult period, Zarina develops a deep fascination with the world of wrestling. Through a close connection with a popular professional wrestler, she enters a new social circle. However, this relationship gradually brings new pressures and emotional conflicts into her life. The closeness created through social media, the complexities of fan relationships, and Zarina’s personal uncertainties begin to disrupt the balance of her life.
In the novel, the author portrays Zarina’s inner world with great sensitivity—her lack of confidence, her questions about friendship and identity, and the struggles of immigrant life. At the same time, the story also highlights issues of power, inequality, and social influence
within the world of professional wrestling.
The novel also references various familiar places and elements of local culture in New Haven, making the story feel even more vivid and grounded. According to critics, the book powerfully depicts the journey of a young immigrant woman searching for her identity through the intertwined themes of food, culture, admiration, and power. P. Paramita
currently teaches creative writing at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. Her debut novel has already drawn significant interest from both readers and critics.
