In Jhumpa Lahiri's "Unaccustomed Earth," a young girl expresses her desire to share beloved children's books with a friend who is not yet able to read. She approaches her parents, hoping they will buy these stories for her friend, but they question the rationale behind this request, considering the child's inability to read. Their perspective reflects a common parental concern about practicality and relevance.
Undeterred by her parents' skepticism, she takes matters into her own hands. Instead of giving up, she visits her school library to borrow the books and reads them aloud to Rahul. This act demonstrates her determination to foster a connection through literature, highlighting the importance of sharing stories and the impact of nurturing relationships regardless of the circumstances.