Go-Between Girl

The under-told legacy of indentured servitude runs through the blood of countless descendants in the diaspora. In this deeply felt collection of essays, Andrea Gunraj explores the impact of her family’s history on her sense of self.
Uncover a deeply moving exploration of identity, legacy, and self-determination through the lens of one woman's history in this inspiring collection of essays. Andrea Gunraj invites readers on an evocative journey marked by poignant reflections and cultural critique. In Go-Between Girl, Gunraj delves into the under-told legacy of indentured servitude and its lasting impacts on descendants across the diaspora. As a second-generation Indo-Caribbean woman, she intimately captures the complexities of belonging and the challenges of navigating cultural dichotomies. Through the concept of "go-betweenness," Gunraj illustrates her path from the intersections of race, class, and cultural identity to a broader understanding of colonial histories. This profound collection encompasses personal narratives highlighting the struggles and resilience of ancestors subjected to indentured servitude, reflective essays on the reclaiming of derogatory terms within cultural communities, insightful critiques on societal expectations and the model minority stereotype, challenges faced in interracial relationships and the quest for genuine feminist solidarity, and celebrations of heritage through cultural practices, food, and community connections.
At once intimate and political, Gunraj presents an enlightening perspective that prompts a reconsideration of heritage and shared histories. Her essays are a touching testament to the enduring quest for justice and identity, offering a powerful contribution to discussions of race, feminism, and the modern-day consequences of colonialism. A gripping read that fosters deep conversations, Go-Between Girl is a valuable asset for anyone interested in memoir, cultural studies, and social justice. Gunraj's writing is both accessible and profound, making it suitable for a wide audience eager for powerful insights and emotional depth.

Andrea Gunraj is an essayist and author of The Lost Sister (Vagrant Press) and The Sudden Disappearance of Seetha (Knopf Canada). Her forthcoming title,Go-Between Girl: My Indentured Roots as Reclaimed Present, will be published by McClelland & Stewart in Spring 2026. Andrea loves stories about racialized people and families making unexpected connections. She lives in Toronto and, beyond writing, she’s passionate about non-profit leadership and communication for social change. Visit andreagunraj.ca for more information.