3 Review(s)

The coasts of India have two very popular things in common: fish and fishing. Both are very crucial to the people of the coast and have even found their place in culture, food, sport, society, history and commerce. To separate the coast from fish and fishing is unimaginable as they go hand in hand. Following Fish is a book that calls out to the lovers of the sea and discusses the rich resources that it has provided us. Summary of the Book The book is a collection of nine essays that sum up the author’s rich journalistic investigations on the benefits and impact of the coastal areas. Fishermen have contributed to economy, health and society in many ways. Some of them are: the famous fish treatment for asthmatic patients, the preparation and process of eating West Bengal’s hilsa, the ancient art of building fishing boats in Gujarat, the delicious cuisine and toddy shops of Kerala, the food and lives of the people who first came to Mumbai, the interesting history of the age old Catholic fishing community in Tamil Nadu, and the hunt for the fastest fish near Goa. During his travels, Subramanian has seen how Indian coastal societies have accepted and been influenced by cosmopolitan and modern qualities. He has observed as fishermen have left their traditional duties and turned the craft of fishing into something that is only done for business. He has also noticed the deteriorating condition of the waters and beaches due to excessive fishing. This book is about adventure and discovery as much as it is about nostalgia and loss. About Samanth Subramanian Samanth Subramanian is a journalist by circumstance and choice. He obtained an undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University and a Masters in International Relations from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.