Chandra, the main character, must follow her family's custom of marrying a boy chosen for her by her parents. Her betrothed seems modern and open-minded but her grandmother has misgivings. She warns Chandra that in the small farm community where her future husband lives, "it's like a hundred years ago". They are very traditional and follow ancient customs faithfully. Chandra is content to abide by her parents decision and marries Joop in a traditional wedding ceremony. She is 11 years old.
Due to her age, Chandra remains with her family after the wedding. She is set to visit her husband's parents for the Diwali festival in October. She travels alone. Upon arriving, the greeting she receives from her husband's parents and family is one she never expected. Her husband has died of a fever and now custom dictates that she must remain with his family and serve them for the rest of her life.
Does Chandra have the courage to escape from the restrictions of tradition or must she live here forever as a widow in her husband's family?
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