Books Like...

'The White Tiger' by Aravind Adiga is a modern and eye-opening novel that delves into the harsh realities of Indian society. The story is narrated by Balram Halwai, a former servant turned entrepreneur, who writes a series of letters to the Premier of China detailing his rise from poverty to wealth through acts of violence and corruption. The book provides a satirical and candid look at the deep-rooted issues of poverty, corruption, and social injustice in India, while also exploring themes of power struggles, oppression, and the impact of globalization on the caste system.

Adiga's writing style in 'The White Tiger' is raw, honest, and darkly humorous, capturing the complexities of Balram's character and the stark realities of Indian society. The narrative unfolds through Balram's distinctive voice, portraying a vivid picture of a country grappling with economic growth, inequality, and moral decay. The book weaves together elements of satire, social commentary, and personal reflection to offer a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by individuals striving for success in a corrupt and oppressive system.

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy is a dark and sad story set in 1969 in the southernmost tip of India, focusing on the lives of two innocent twins, Rahel and Esthappen, who are deeply affected by the adults around them. The novel explores themes of tragedy, family dynamics, societal expectations, and forbidden relationships, all woven together in a rich and complex narrative style that jumps around in time, place, and character.

'Mr. Loverman' by Bernardine Evaristo follows the story of Barrington Walker, a 75-year-old closeted gay man living in London who is contemplating leaving his wife of 50 years for his lifelong lover, Morris. Set against the backdrop of Barry's past in Antigua and his present struggles with identity and relationships, the novel weaves together themes of love, family dynamics, and societal expectations. Evaristo's writing style skillfully captures the complexities of Barry's character, blending humor, empathy, and poignant storytelling to offer a unique perspective on love and self-discovery.

'The Book of Gold Leaves' by Mirza Waheed is a poignant love story set against the backdrop of the political strife and rebellion in Kashmir during the 1990s. The novel follows the journey of two lovers, Roohi and Faiz, who are brought together amidst the chaos and violence engulfing the city of Srinagar. The author intricately weaves a tale of forbidden love, spiritual oneness, and the complexities of the Kashmir conflict, providing readers with a deep insight into the lives of Kashmiri people during a tumultuous period in history. Mirza Waheed's writing style is described as lyrical, evocative, and emotionally charged, capturing the essence of Kashmir's landscape and the struggles faced by its inhabitants with vivid details and engaging narratives.

'The Reluctant Fundamentalist' by Mohsin Hamid follows the story of Changez, a young Pakistani man who recounts his life to an American stranger in Lahore. Changez's narrative dives into his experiences living in the US, falling in love with an American girl, navigating the aftermath of 9/11, and ultimately grappling with his identity and beliefs. The novel is presented as a monologue, creating a unique and engaging storytelling style that delves into themes of cultural clash, personal growth, and societal commentary.

explores Changez's internal struggle as he transitions from embracing the American Dream to questioning his place in a post-9/11 world. Through the protagonist's reflections, the author weaves a narrative that touches on themes of biculturalism, identity crisis, emotional turmoil, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. The story unfolds through a conversation between Changez and the American, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of complex emotions and conflicting loyalties.

Ghachar Ghochar by Vivek Shanbhag is a novella that delves into the complexities of a family in India as they transition from poverty to riches due to sudden business success. The story explores how money can complicate family dynamics, leading to changes in individual characters and relationships. The narrative, set in Bangalore, portrays the impact of newfound wealth on the family's unity and values, with dark undertones and comparisons to Chekov's short stories. The book is praised for its concise storytelling, intricate portrayal of everyday life, and the nuanced exploration of how money can control people and relationships.

'Em and The Big Hoom' by Jerry Pinto is a poignant and vivid novel that delves into the life of a Roman Catholic middle-class family living in Bombay in the 70s. The story is narrated by the son of the couple, providing insights into the struggles and challenges faced by the family as the mother, Em, battles with bipolar disorder. The novel beautifully portrays the dynamics between the family members, the highs and lows they experience, and the unconditional love that binds them together despite the mental illness affecting their lives.

The book captures the emotional journey of living with a mentally ill parent, showcasing moments of sadness, happiness, and humor through anecdotes shared by the narrator. Through the son's perspective, readers witness the complexities of familial relationships, the impact of mental health issues on individuals and their loved ones, and the resilience required to navigate through the trials and tribulations of dealing with a family member's mental illness.

'A Suitable Boy' by Vikram Seth is a monumental saga set in post-colonial India, revolving around the efforts of Mrs. Mehra to find a suitable husband for her daughter, Lata, amid the backdrop of 1950s India. The story follows the intertwined lives of multiple families, exploring themes of family dynamics, love, duty, and societal expectations. Despite its length, the book delves into the intricacies of Indian culture and history, offering a detailed and immersive portrayal of the characters and their experiences.

The narrative weaves together various subplots, ranging from political intrigue to personal relationships, providing a rich tapestry of human experiences against the backdrop of a changing nation. Vikram Seth's writing style is praised for its detailed characterizations, epic scope, and ability to draw readers in with its lush prose and engaging storytelling.

The Shadow Lines is a novel that intricately weaves together the memories and relationships of an Indian and an English family, spanning across different time periods and locations. The narrative follows a young boy who lives vicariously through the stories shared by his cousin Tridib, and explores themes of nostalgia, identity, and the impact of historical events like the Partition of India.

'East West Street: On the Origins of "Genocide" and "Crimes Against Humanity"' by Philippe Sands delves into the intertwining lives of three key figures - Hersch Lauterpacht, Rafael Lemkin, and the author's own family, exploring how they shaped the concepts of crimes against humanity and genocide. Sands expertly weaves together personal histories with the complexities of international law, shedding light on the origins of these crucial legal terms and their impact on global justice. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Sands navigates the reader through the Nuremberg trials and the profound implications of these legal developments on human rights and historical events.