Books Like...

'How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia' by Mohsin Hamid is a novel written in a unique second-person narrative style. The story follows the rise and fall of an unnamed boy in a fast-changing metropolis, exploring themes of materialism, personal growth, and societal barriers. The book cleverly uses a modern self-help book format to deliver a narrative that delves into the effects of postcolonialism and capitalism on a developing country, showcasing the protagonist's journey from poverty to wealth through love, business, and personal ambitions.

The writing style of the book is quick, smart, and funny, with each chapter dedicated to a step toward getting rich. The characters remain nameless, identified in relation to the main character, creating a sense of intimacy and engagement with the reader. Through witty commentary and clever turns of phrases, Mohsin Hamid provides a humorous yet poignant depiction of societal issues like corruption, lack of basic services, and the pursuit of success in a challenging environment.

The Calcutta Chromosome by Amitav Ghosh is a blend of mystery, science fiction, and thriller genres, delving into the history of malaria research in British Colonial India. The plot follows Antar, a computer operator, as he uncovers a conspiracy theory surrounding the discovery of the malaria bug's life cycle by Dr. Ronald Ross in 1898. The narrative spans different timelines and locations, including New York City and Calcutta, weaving together elements of science, mythology, and Indian traditions.

The book is praised for its intricate plot, unique storytelling approach, and the author's ability to merge science with thriller elements seamlessly. Readers are taken on a captivating journey through time and space, exploring themes of science vs. counterscience, mystery, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.

"Tomb of Sand" by Geetanjali Shree is a complex narrative that weaves together themes of Indian culture, magical realism, and family relationships. The story follows Ma, an octogenarian woman, as she embarks on a journey to Pakistan to reunite with her first love, Anwar, with the help of her daughter and a hijra named Rosie. Set against the backdrop of partition, the novel explores themes of love, loss, survival, and the impact of historical events on personal lives. The writing style is described as original, imaginative, and full of wordplay, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences for the reader.

A Passage North by Anuk Arudpragasam is a deeply moving and introspective novel that follows the protagonist, Krishan, on a journey to the North of Sri Lanka for a funeral. The book delves into Krishan's introspection, his struggles with grief, alienation, and longing, as well as his attempts to come to terms with the aftermath of war. The writing style is characterized by detailed historical anecdotes, interior monologues, and the absence of dialogue, creating a rich tapestry of personal loss intertwined with the country's tragic past.

'The Forest of Enchantments' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a retelling of the epic Ramayana from the perspective of Sita. The book delves into Sita's life, struggles, and emotions, presenting her as a strong and independent woman who faces various challenges with courage and resilience. Divakaruni's writing style is described as personal, engaging, and emotionally vibrant, offering readers a fresh and captivating portrayal of the well-known mythological characters.

The narrative follows Sita's journey from her birth to her marriage with Rama, through their exile, her kidnapping by Ravana, and her time in Ashok Vanam and Valmiki's ashram. The author skillfully weaves together elements of love, duty, sacrifice, and strength, providing a new perspective on the age-old tale of the Ramayana through the eyes of its female protagonist.

Cherry by Nico Walker is a dark and gritty novel that follows the life of a young American who descends into drug addiction and crime. The story starts with the protagonist robbing a bank and then delves into his past, exploring his experiences in the army, his struggles with heroin addiction, and his involvement in criminal activities. The writing style is raw and honest, providing a glimpse into the mind of a damaged and flawed addict, capturing the bleakness and struggles of his existence.

The narrative of Cherry is a mix of bleakness and dark humor, portraying the emptiness and aimlessness of young Americans' lives, the harsh realities of war, and the destructive nature of addiction. The book offers a candid reflection on the protagonist's turbulent past, showcasing his struggles with addiction, his inability to integrate into society, and the consequences of his choices. The novel provides a micro-focused approach, highlighting the daily grind, the suffering, and the coping mechanisms of soldiers dealing with trauma and addiction.

The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh is a sweeping saga spanning three generations across India, Burma, and Malaya, from the early 19th century to the 1990s. The story follows interconnected families through tough times, successful business ventures, and devastation caused by the Second World War. The book delves into themes of colonialism, the road to independence, and cultural nuances, capturing the lives and interrelationships of the characters over a century full of adventure, romance, and drama.

"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.

"A Burning" by Megha Majumdar is a riveting debut novel set in present-day India, focusing on the intertwined lives of three characters: Jivan, a young Muslim woman falsely accused of terrorism after a train bombing; Lovely, a hijra aspiring actress; and PT Sir, a gym teacher entangled in right-wing politics. The story delves into themes of class, corruption, justice, and sacrifice, showcasing the harsh realities of modern Indian society through deep character analysis and powerful narratives. Majumdar's writing style is described as hauntingly painful, deceptively simple, and thought-provoking, offering a poignant reflection on the consequences of social judgments and political mishaps.