Book Review- Machher Jhol

By Richa Jha

Illustrated by Sumanta Dey

One of the finest books we’ve read in a long time—deceptively simple yet richly evocative—Machher Jhol is nothing short of a masterpiece. At its heart is Gopu, a determined young boy who sets out alone, convinced that his ailing father needs his favorite fish curry to recover.

Undeterred, he navigates the bustling lanes of Calcutta, seemingly during Pujo, in search of the freshest ingredients. His journey leads him from the bustling market to his grandmother’s house, where he hopes to create the perfect dish. Initially, details like Gopu counting his steps may seem incidental, but as the story unfolds, they come together in a brilliantly unexpected way. In hindsight, what seemed trivial transforms into a moment of nail-biting suspense—leaving us marvelling at how easily things could have gone awry.

While the story itself is beautifully simple, the book’s true magic lies in its illustrations. Sumanta Dey turns every page into a cinematic spectacle—not in a way that diminishes the power of books, but in a way that rivals the immersive grandeur of film. His artwork is anything but simple; it is intricate, evocative, and a pure joy to behold. More than just illustrations, they are a love letter to Calcutta, making us yearn for more from this incredibly talented artist—a loss that feels almost personal.

Books that celebrate food and culture always hold a special place, and Machher Jhol is a heartfelt ode to family, love, and the unifying power of food.

Ideal for children aged 5+ years.