Books Like...

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.

'Train to Pakistan' by Khushwant Singh is a historical fiction novel set during the Partition of India in 1947. The story takes place in a small village called Mano Majra, where Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims have coexisted peacefully for generations. However, as the political situation escalates and the subcontinent is divided into India and Pakistan, the village is torn apart by violence, looting, and murder. The novel portrays the impact of the Partition on the villagers, the horrors they face, and the relationships that are tested during this tumultuous time. The writing style is described as masterful, emotional, and haunting, depicting the stark realities faced by the common folk amidst the chaos created by the leaders of the day.

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri is a poignant and sweeping tale that follows the lives of two brothers, Subhash and Udayan, born and raised in Calcutta during turbulent times. The story moves between India and Rhode Island, exploring themes of family ties, political unrest, and the immigrant experience. Lahiri's writing effortlessly weaves together historical events, personal struggles, and emotional depth, creating a narrative that spans generations and continents.

'The Immortals of Meluha' by Amish Tripathi is the first in the Shiva trilogy, loosely based on Lord Shiva from Indian Mythology. The plot revolves around Shiva, Chief of the Gunas tribe, who is persuaded to bring his tribe to Meluha, promising peace and beauty. Upon arrival, Shiva's destiny as the Neelkanth, destined to rid the world of evil, emerges. mixes science with superstition, highlighting Indian culture in 1900 BC and the development of the caste system. The writing style is a blend of modern concepts on an ancient society, with a narrative that balances weighty philosophies with light dialogue.

'The Far Field' by Madhuri Vijay is a novel that follows the journey of Shalini as she travels to Kashmir in search of answers about her mother's past. The story explores the complexities of relationships, the impact of political conflicts in Kashmir, and the personal growth of the protagonist as she navigates through different cultures and experiences. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, the author delves into themes of privilege, naivety, and the search for understanding in a world filled with violence and uncertainty.

The narrative weaves between Shalini's childhood memories in Bangalore and her present-day quest in Kashmir, painting a picture of a young woman grappling with her own identity while uncovering the truths hidden in her family's past. The author's writing style captures the beauty of the Kashmiri landscape, the struggles of its people, and the emotional journey of the protagonist as she confronts the harsh realities of life and the impact of her actions on those around her.

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 Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a retelling of the Indian epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi, also known as Panchaali. The book delves into Panchaali's life, her unique position as the wife of five Pandava brothers, and her pivotal role in the war that changed ancient India. Divakaruni's writing style weaves together mythology, history, and universal themes of duty versus desire, creating a spellbinding narrative that offers a fresh and magical atmosphere.

The story follows Panchaali's journey from her birth from fire to her interactions with gods, prophecies, and the complexities of her relationships with her husbands and other characters. Through Panchaali's eyes, the reader experiences the grandeur of the Mahabharata, exploring themes of love, war, divine intervention, and the intricate web of human emotions and decisions that shape destiny.

'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 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.

Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel is a refreshing novel that delves into the character of Kaikeyi from Hindu mythology. The book focuses on portraying Kaikeyi in a new light, challenging the traditional narrative and exploring her complexities and conflicts. Through a feminist lens, the author celebrates the strength and resilience of Kaikeyi, presenting her as a multifaceted character who navigates the challenges of being a sister, daughter, wife, and mother in a patriarchal society. The narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, immersing the reader in a lush setting filled with supernatural elements like red-skinned monsters and talking birds, creating a delightful world to explore.

The story of Kaikeyi is a clever twist on perspective, offering readers a feminist manifesto intertwined with adventure and drama. The book provides a unique insight into the mythology of Rama and Sita from a whole new angle, inviting readers to question their preconceived notions and view the characters in a more nuanced light. Through rich cultural references and vivid storytelling, Vaishnavi Patel weaves a tale that not only entertains but also sparks interest in Indian culture and mythology, making it a compelling read for those looking for a fresh take on traditional stories.