One-line Summary:
Dial A for Aunties is a hilarious and heartwarming novel that follows a Chinese-Indonesian wedding photographer who accidentally kills her blind date and enlists the help of her mother and three aunties to dispose of the body.
Family Ties and Cultural Expectations
In Dial A for Aunties, author Jesse Q. Sutanto weaves a delightful tale that explores the complexities of family dynamics and cultural expectations. The story revolves around Meddelin Chan, a Chinese-Indonesian woman who works as a wedding photographer with her mother and three aunties. Meddy, as she is affectionately called, is a relatable and endearing protagonist who finds herself caught between her own desires and the traditional values of her family.
As a member of a close-knit Chinese-Indonesian family, Meddy feels the weight of her family’s expectations on her shoulders. She struggles to balance her own dreams of pursuing a career in photography with her mother’s hopes for her to settle down and get married. This conflict between personal aspirations and familial obligations is a central theme throughout the book, resonating with readers who have experienced similar pressures.
A Hilarious and Unpredictable Adventure
When Meddy’s blind date goes horribly wrong and she accidentally kills him, she turns to her mother and aunties for help. What follows is a series of outrageous and comedic events as the family attempts to dispose of the body without arousing suspicion. From stuffing the corpse into a cooler to transporting it to a wedding venue, the Chan women find themselves in one absurd situation after another.
Sutanto’s writing is filled with witty dialogue and laugh-out-loud moments that keep readers entertained from start to finish. The author expertly blends humor with heartfelt moments, creating a story that is both light-hearted and emotionally resonant. The characters, particularly Meddy’s aunties, are vibrant and memorable, each bringing their own quirks and personalities to the narrative.
Love, Romance, and Second Chances
Amidst the chaos of disposing of a dead body, Dial A for Aunties also explores themes of love, romance, and second chances. Meddy finds herself reconnecting with an old flame, Nathan, who happens to be the wedding venue owner. Their rekindled romance adds a touch of sweetness to the story, reminding readers that love can bloom even in the most unexpected circumstances.
As the Chan women navigate their way through the challenges they face, they learn valuable lessons about forgiveness, acceptance, and the importance of family bonds. The story ultimately emphasizes the power of love and the strength that comes from standing together as a family.
- Family ties: The novel highlights the complexities of family relationships and the cultural expectations that can shape them.
- Humor and heart: Dial A for Aunties strikes a perfect balance between laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt emotions.
- Love and second chances: The book explores the themes of love, romance, and the possibility of finding happiness in unexpected places.
“Family is the most important thing in the world, but sometimes, you have to break the rules to protect it.”
Dial A for Aunties is a delightful and entertaining read that combines humor, romance, and family dynamics in a unique and captivating way. With its lovable characters, hilarious situations, and heartfelt moments, this novel is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a light-hearted and heartwarming story. So, pick up the phone and dial A for Aunties!
