10 Books by Indian Authors that Everyone Must Have on Their TBR List

20-Dec-18 05:16 PM
Pratima Singh

See All Slides

Because sometimes there is nothing more comforting than curling up in bed with a good book, even as the world around you is dressing up, drinking and dancing the weekend away. There are books that we are meaning to start at some point and if you’ve been contemplating reading Indian authors, well then cheers! Take a look at our ‘TBRs’, suitably curated for every one of all ages and preferences.
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
Arundhati Roy’s debut that earned her the Booker prize, this book revolves around childhood experience of fraternal twins. If you want to have an insight into human nature through sensuous prose like readings, then this is the book for you.
Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai
This is a story of joy and despair, stretching from India to New York. It touches lives of people around us and witnesses the downing of a proud man, making it one of the most readable wonders.
The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
This book gives you a sneak peek into urban and rural lives in India with insights on existence of social, political and cultural disparities between the two. Take away? Religion doesn’t guarantee virtue and money doesn’t solve all life problems.
The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor
A hilarious and outrageous satire, Shashi Tharoor as an author has blended history and myth by retelling story of the Mahabharata and drawing parallels with major events in Indian struggle for freedom and independence.
The Ibis Trilogy by Amitav Ghosh
An amazing work of fiction by Amitav Ghosh, the trilogy comprises Sea of Poppies, River of Smoke and Flood of Fire. It gets its name from the ship Ibis, where most of the characters in each stories meet. It is a must read for the variety of characters, simple yet beautiful language and fascinating stories that each one of them has.
Malgudi Days by R K Narayan
Even if you are a bit late for this book, don’t hesitate to pick it. The collection of short, witty stories is perfect for a light read when you just wish to call it a day.
The Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
This book is a compilation of nine mind blowing, yet elegant and touching stories. Each one leaving you nursing a huge hangover of contemplation for days.
Train to Pakistan by Khushwant Singh
This historical novel by Khushwant Singh recounts partition of the country into twins – India and Pakistan. Having a slow beginning, this book speeds up gradually and leaves you in tears by the end.
The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni has beautifully attempted to provide a humanistic touch to the epic Mahabharata making the story more relatable and realistic. The story is told by Panchali, the female protagonist who is powerful, strong and independent, having a voice of her own in the patriarchal ancient India.