Raju is a splendidly realized character. Not given to thought, drifting in and out of situations, and until the last stage of his life ruled by an individualistic spirit which carries him away from family, friends, and morality, he will ultimately learn what it is to act responsibly. But even when he is selfish and full of guile, he is immensely likable, especially because he wants to please other people as much as he can.

Except for forging Rosie's signature on a truly reprehensible impulse, he never strikes readers as a wicked character.

And although he deludes others as well as himself from time to time, he likes to see things grow and tries to help people achieve their ambitions.

Because Raju narrates most of the novel, readers tend to see the other characters through him. Still, Rosie is another finely wrought portrait of a complex personality. When...