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A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel set in 1970s India, exploring the lives of four individuals from different backgrounds and castes whose paths intertwine during a tumultuous period in the country's history. The book delves deep into the stark realities of poverty, caste system, communal violence, and corruption, painting a vivid picture of the fine balance between hope and despair, justice and injustice, and humanity and cruelty. Through masterful storytelling, Mistry weaves a tale of friendship, resilience, and tragedy as the characters navigate through the challenges and tragedies that life throws at them.

The writing style of A Fine Balance has been praised for its beauty, sensitivity, and ingenuity in portraying the harsh realities of life in India during that era. Mistry's prose is described as clever, well thought out, and evocative, providing insight into the social, political, and economic landscape of 1970s India. The novel captures the reader's attention with its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and poignant depiction of human struggles, making it a compelling and unforgettable read that explores themes of resilience, compassion, and the indomitable human spirit.

If you liked A Fine Balance, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
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    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.

    May in Ayemenem is a hot, brooding month. The days are long and humid. The river shrinks and black crows gorge on bright mangoes in still, dustgreen trees. Red bananas ripen. Jackfruits burst. Dissolu...

  2. #2

    A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
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    A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini is a heart-wrenching tale that follows the intertwined lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, who find themselves married to the same abusive man, Rasheed. Set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan from the 1970s to the 2000s, the book delves into the struggles and sacrifices these women endure, shedding light on the harsh realities of life in a male-dominated society. The narrative captures the strength, resilience, and unlikely friendship that blossoms between the two women amidst the turmoil they face, painting a vivid picture of the oppressive conditions and violence experienced by women in the region.

    Hosseini's storytelling in A Thousand Splendid Suns is described as captivating, moving, and powerful, as he skillfully weaves a narrative that explores themes of love, friendship, sacrifice, and resilience. Through the eyes of Mariam and Laila, the reader gains insight into the plight of women in Afghanistan, the impact of war and political unrest on ordinary people, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The book offers a poignant and emotional portrayal of the struggles faced by its characters, providing a window into the complexities of life in Afghanistan during tumultuous times.

    It happened on a Thursday. It must have, because Mariam remembered that she had been restless and preoccupied that day, the way she was only on Thursdays, the day when Jalil visited her at the kolba. ...

  3. #3

    A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
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    "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara is a novel that delves into the lives of four men and their enduring friendship, with a focus on the character Jude who has survived significant abuse in his past. The book intricately portrays the struggles and relationships of the characters over time, leading readers through a rollercoaster of emotions from happiness to utter sadness. The author's writing style is described as immersive, intense, and at times, graphic, as it explores themes of love, trauma, and resilience in the face of adversity.

    THE ELEVENTH APARTMENT had only one closet, but it did have a sliding glass door that opened onto a small balcony, from which he could see a man sitting across the way, outdoors in only a T-shirt and ...

  4. #4

    The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
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    The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a poignant tale that follows the lives of two boys, Amir and Hassan, who grow up in war-torn Afghanistan. The narrative explores themes of friendship, loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and the impact of historical events on personal lives. The story delves into the struggles of immigrant life, the complexities of cultural identity, and the enduring consequences of past actions. Through vivid storytelling, the author provides insight into Afghan culture and societal issues, offering a compelling portrayal of human emotions and relationships.

    The writing style in The Kite Runner is described as beautiful, raw, and emotional, with each word carrying deep meaning. The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that immerses readers in the setting of Afghanistan, capturing the country's beauty, conflicts, and people with evocative prose. The novel presents a gripping and dramatic exploration of the characters' lives, highlighting the dichotomy between good and evil, love and betrayal, and the quest for redemption amidst personal and societal turmoil.

    I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975. I remember the precise moment, crouching behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the fro...

  5. #5
    A Suitable Boy
    Book 1 in the series:A Bridge of Leaves

    A Suitable Boy - A Bridge of Leaves by Vikram Seth
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    '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.

    ‘I know what your hmms mean, young lady, and I can tell you I will not stand for hmms in this matter. I do know what is best. I am doing it all for you. Do you think it is easy for me, trying to arran...

  6. #6

    Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie
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    'Midnight's Children' by Salman Rushdie is a monumental piece of fiction that intertwines the life of Saleem Sinai with the development of India after British rule. Born on the stroke of midnight as India gains independence, Saleem's destiny is tied up with that of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The narrative follows Saleem and the other children born at the same time, whose lives mirror the struggles and triumphs of the nations they are part of. The book delves deep into India's abundant mythology, blending magical realism with historical events to create a captivating and poignant tale.

    The writing style in 'Midnight's Children' is described as dense, challenging, and at times surreal. Rushdie's use of language and metaphor is praised for its beauty and depth, making him one of the most literary authors of our time. The plot is ambitious in scope, weaving together magical elements, historical facts, and internal dialogues to create a rich and immersive reading experience that requires devotion and perseverance to fully appreciate.

    I was born in the city of Bombay … once upon a time. No, that won’t do, there’s no getting away from the date: I was born in Doctor Narlikar’s Nursing Home on August 15th, 1947. And the time? The time...

  7. #7

    Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
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    'Shantaram' by Gregory David Roberts is a gripping and epic adventure story that follows Lin, an escaped Australian convict, as he flees to Bombay, India. The novel delves into Lin's various lives in Bombay, from being a slum doctor to a member of the local mafia, while exploring themes of love, philosophy, and self-discovery. The writing style is described as vivid, detailed, and captivating, providing a rich glimpse into the ghettos of Bombay and capturing the essence of the city through concise yet immersive descriptions.

    IT TOOK ME a long time and most of the world to learn what I know about love and fate and the choices we make, but the heart of it came to me in an instant, while I was chained to a wall and being tor...

  8. #8

    The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
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    '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.

    My ex-employer the late Mr. Ashok’s ex-wife, Pinky Madam, taught me one of these things; and at 11:32 p.m. today, which was about ten minutes ago, when the lady on All India Radio announced, “Premier ...

  9. #9

    Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
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    Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a multi-generational family saga that follows a Korean family's struggles and hardships from the early 20th century in Korea to their migration to Japan and eventually the United States. The story delves into the historical context of the Japanese occupation of Korea, discrimination against Koreans in Japan, and the challenges faced by the family through wars, poverty, and cultural clashes. The narrative spans several generations, portraying the characters' resilience, sacrifices, and the impact of world events on their lives. The writing style is straightforward, with a focus on character development and exploring themes of identity, belonging, and survival.

    At the turn of the century, an aging fisherman and his wife decided to take in lodgers for extra money. Both were born and raised in the fishing village of Yeongdo—a five-mile-wide islet beside the po...

  10. #10

    Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
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    In "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro, readers are taken on a haunting journey through the lives of Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, who were students at the enigmatic Hailsham School. Set in a darkly skewed version of contemporary England, the story delves into the characters' attempts to come to terms with their childhood at Hailsham and the inevitable fate that awaits them as clones raised for organ donation. The narrative, narrated by Kathy at the age of 31, unfolds slowly, revealing the fragility of life and exploring themes of love, friendship, memory, and the eerie reality of their existence.

    The book masterfully weaves together themes of identity, purpose, and the inevitability of mortality, all set within an unsettling alternative reality where the characters grapple with their predetermined destinies. Ishiguro's writing style is described as quiet, foreboding, and painterly, with a patient reveal of the narrative that evokes deep emotions and contemplation. Through a conversational form of storytelling, the novel raises ethical questions and leaves readers pondering the characters' lives and the haunting concept of never being able to escape their fate.

    My name is Kathy H. I’m thirty-one years old, and I’ve been a carer now for over eleven years. That sounds long enough, I know, but actually they want me to go on for another eight months, until the e...

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