Books Like...

'English, August: An Indian Story' by Upamanyu Chatterjee is a humorous and satirical novel that follows the journey of Agastya Sen, a member of the Indian elite, who is sent to a rural town for a government job he is not interested in. The book explores the clash between urban and rural lifestyles, the bureaucracy of government offices in India, and Agastya's self-discovery journey filled with ennui and humor. The narrative is filled with witty observations, relatable characters, and a genuine portrayal of life in rural India in the 1980s.

'My Sweet Girl' by Amanda Jayatissa is a psychological suspense novel that follows the story of Paloma, a young woman adopted from Sri Lanka by a couple in the USA. The narrative unfolds in dual timelines, alternating between the present mystery surrounding Paloma and her time at the orphanage in Sri Lanka. As Paloma navigates her past and present, she grapples with haunting memories from the orphanage, a ghostly presence, and a mysterious secret that threatens to unravel her life. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and surprises, culminating in a jaw-dropping ending that ties together the complexities of Paloma's character and her journey to find her identity.

Murder in Mahim by Jerry Pinto unfolds a gripping murder mystery within the vibrant yet gritty backdrop of Mumbai. The story centers on the murder of Proxy, a young gay sex worker found in the men’s toilet of a railway station, leading to deep investigations by retired journalist Peter Fernandes and Inspector Jende. As the narrative progresses, it deftly intertwines the complexities of identity, societal expectations, and the harsh realities faced by the LGBTQIA community in India, particularly highlighting issues related to section 377 and the vulnerabilities within the gay scene. This poignant setting enhances the emotional weight of the plot, offering readers a deeper understanding of the characters and their struggles beyond the surface of the murder investigation.

Pinto’s writing style is unique and engaging, marked by a blend of sensitivity and observational accuracy. He skillfully captures Mumbai’s essence through richly drawn characters and local vernacular, creating a narrative that feels both authentic and relatable. The prose is peppered with a mix of English and local languages, adding depth to the storytelling. While some readers may find the pacing slow or the plot complexities overwhelming, it’s clear that Pinto’s true strength lies in portraying human relationships and societal issues with empathy and respect, making this book a significant addition to contemporary Indian queer literature.

One Part Woman by Perumal Murugan is a poignant tale set in a village in Tamil Nadu, focusing on the struggles faced by a childless couple, Kali and Ponna. The story delves into the societal pressures, cultural norms, and religious beliefs that impact their lives, leading to a drastic decision during a festival where any man and woman can consensually join for a night. The writing style is described as rich, coherent, and emotional, with deep layers that allow readers to visualize the scenes vividly.

'Age of Vice' by Deepti Kapoor is a compelling novel set in India, exploring the dark and corrupt underbelly of the country through the lens of Delhi-style gangsters. The story follows the character Sunny, a complex figure reminiscent of iconic film characters, as he navigates a world of wealth, cruelty, and suffering. The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives and intertwining fates, showcasing the disparity between the powerful and the powerless in Indian society. The book covers decades of lives, illustrating how individuals can become enmeshed in a criminal world and struggle to find happiness amidst brutality and corruption.

The writing style of 'Age of Vice' is described as explosive and immersive, with a sprawling narrative that captivates readers from the beginning. The prose, while at times violent and visceral, effectively portrays the extreme wealth and moral complexities of the characters. The book is praised for its cinematic quality, with each scene unfolding like a movie, evoking a vivid depiction of modern India and its societal challenges.

In a crumbling, isolated house at the foot of Mount Kanchenjunga in the Himalayas lives an embittered judge who wants only to retire in peace, when his orphaned granddaughter, Sai, arrives on his doorstep. The judge's cook watches over her distractedly, for his thoughts are often on his son, Biju, who is in New York working in one gritty restaurant after another. Kiran Desai's brilliant novel, published to huge acclaim, is a story of joy and despair. Her characters face numerous choices that majestically illuminate the consequences of colonialism as it collides with the modern world. The novel is set in a crumbling grand house in the hills below Kangchenjunga, covering poverty, wealth, and inequality in both India and the US, where the cook's son emigrates illegally to and has exploitative jobs, illustrating constant loss of dignity, love, possessions, and freedom in India.

'The Downstairs Girl' by Stacey Lee is a historical fiction novel set in late 1800's post Civil War Atlanta, focusing on the life of Jo Kuan, a Chinese American teenager facing issues of racism, discrimination, and gender inequality. Jo, living with her adopted father, Old Gin, navigates through a society filled with suffragists, racial tensions, and societal expectations. The story unfolds as Jo works as a maid for a wealthy family while secretly writing an advice column, addressing the injustices and inequities of Atlanta society. The narrative delves into themes of identity, prejudice, and empowerment, offering a glimpse into the Chinese American experience during that era.

"The Hungry Tide" by Amitav Ghosh is a novel set in the Sundarbans mangrove forests, exploring the lives of various characters including an Indian American marine biologist studying river dolphins, a well-to-do Indian city man, and villagers living simple lives. The book weaves together themes of human history, environmentalism, and complex relationships against the backdrop of the exotic Sundarbans, providing a vivid portrayal of the region and its people.

The narrative unfolds through the intertwined journeys of an American marine biologist and a Delhi businessman as they navigate the remote Sundarban islands, delving into themes of love, jealousy, trust, and the clash between foreign and domestic concerns. Through rich descriptions and multiple storylines, the novel captures the essence of life in modern India, offering insights into the cultural nuances, historical events, and environmental challenges faced by the characters.

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi is a captivating story set in 1950s India, following the life of Lakshmi, a talented henna artist who escapes an abusive marriage to build a successful business in Jaipur. The novel delves into the complexities of Indian culture, family dynamics, and societal expectations, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of women in a closed and oppressive society. Through vivid descriptions and well-developed characters, the author paints a rich picture of Lakshmi's journey, her relationships with her sister Radha, young Malik, and other essential characters, all against the backdrop of a post-independence India.

'Sea of Poppies' by Amitav Ghosh is a historical fiction novel set in the 19th century, revolving around a diverse cast of characters whose lives intertwine aboard a ship called the Ibis. The story explores themes of adventure, opium trade, cultural diversity, and the impact of historical events such as the Opium Wars, all depicted through a richly detailed narrative with complex characters and intricate plotlines.