Last collection of books

A Golden Age

2007, Tahmima Anam

Set against the backdrop of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, the story follows Rehana Haque, a widow and mother, as she navigates the tumultuous political landscape while trying to protect her children. As the conflict intensifies, Rehana's home becomes a sanctuary for freedom fighters, and sh

The Blue Bedspread

1999, Raj Kamal Jha

Set in the bustling city of Calcutta, the story unfolds over a single night as a man reflects on his family's turbulent past while caring for his deceased sister's newborn baby. Through a series of poignant and fragmented memories, he reveals the complex and often painful relationships that have sha

The Adoption Papers

1991, Jackie Kay

The book is a poignant collection of poems that explores themes of identity, race, and family through the lens of an adopted child. It delves into the complex emotions and experiences of the adopted daughter, her adoptive mother, and her birth mother, offering multiple perspectives on the adoption p

The Whale Rider

1987, Witi Ihimaera

The story revolves around Kahu, a young Maori girl who is determined to prove her worth and fulfill her destiny despite the traditional gender roles of her community. Her great-grandfather, Koro Apirana, is the chief of their tribe and believes that leadership should be passed down to a male heir. H

Summer Lightning

1986, Olive Senior

The book is a collection of short stories set in Jamaica, capturing the essence of rural life through the eyes of children and adults alike. Each story delves into themes of family, community, and the complexities of human relationships, often highlighting the innocence and curiosity of youth. The n

Tsotsi

1980, Athol Fugard

The story revolves around a young gang leader in apartheid-era South Africa who undergoes a profound transformation after a series of life-altering events. Initially hardened and ruthless, he is forced to confront his own humanity and past when he unexpectedly becomes responsible for an infant. This

The Crow Eaters

1978, Bapsi Sidhwa

Set in the early 20th century, this novel follows the life of Faredoon Junglewalla, a Parsi man who moves his family from their ancestral village to the bustling city of Lahore. Through his entrepreneurial spirit and determination, Faredoon, also known as Freddy, navigates the challenges of colonial

Picnic At Hanging Rock

1967, Joan Lindsay

Set in 1900, the story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of three schoolgirls and their teacher during a Valentine's Day picnic at Hanging Rock in Australia. The event sends shockwaves through their community, leading to a series of investigations and personal upheavals as those left behi

Death Of A Naturalist

1966, Seamus Heaney

This collection of poems explores themes of nature, childhood, and the passage of time, reflecting on the poet's rural upbringing in Northern Ireland. Through vivid imagery and rich language, the poems capture the innocence and curiosity of youth, as well as the inevitable loss of that innocence. Th

Sunlight On A Broken Column

1961, Attia Hosain

Set against the backdrop of pre- and post-partition India, this novel follows the life of Laila, a young orphaned girl from an aristocratic Muslim family. As she navigates the complexities of tradition, family loyalty, and personal freedom, Laila's journey reflects the broader societal upheavals of

One Moonlit Night

1961, Caradog Prichard

Set in a small Welsh village during the early 20th century, the story follows a young boy as he navigates the complexities of his impoverished life amidst a backdrop of local folklore, mental illness, and community struggles. Through his eyes, we witness the harsh realities and fleeting moments of b

To Sir, With Love

1959, E. R. Braithwaite

The story follows an idealistic black engineer who, unable to find work in his field due to racial prejudice, takes a job as a teacher in a tough East End London school. Initially met with hostility and indifference from his unruly students, he gradually earns their respect and transforms their atti

My Bones And My Flute

1955, Edgar Mittelholzer

A gripping tale set in the dense, mysterious jungles of British Guiana, this novel follows the harrowing journey of a group of individuals who are drawn into a supernatural quest after discovering an eerie, ancient flute. As they delve deeper into the jungle, they encounter a series of inexplicable

In The Castle Of My Skin

1953, George Lamming

The novel is a coming-of-age story set in a small village in Barbados, chronicling the life of a young boy named G. as he navigates the complexities of colonial society. Through G.'s eyes, the narrative explores themes of identity, community, and change, capturing the struggles and resilience of the

The Hills Were Joyful Together

1953, Roger Mais

Set in the slums of Kingston, Jamaica, this novel explores the harsh realities of poverty, crime, and social injustice through the interconnected lives of its characters. The story delves into the struggles and resilience of individuals facing systemic oppression, highlighting their moments of despa

My Year Abroad

2021, Chang-rae Lee

The novel follows Tiller, a disaffected American college student, who embarks on a transformative journey across Asia with the enigmatic entrepreneur Pong Lou. As Tiller becomes entangled in Pong's complex world of business and personal intrigue, he experiences a whirlwind of cultural immersion, mor

The Truth, The Whole Truth & Nothing But The Truth

2010, Barry Zalma

The book delves into the intricate world of insurance fraud, exploring the various tactics used by fraudsters and the impact of these deceptive practices on the industry. Through a series of real-life case studies and expert analysis, it provides a comprehensive look at how insurance companies inves

Barracoon

2018, Zora Neale Hurston

The book presents the poignant and powerful account of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade. Through a series of interviews conducted in the late 1920s, it captures his harrowing journey from his homeland in West Africa to his enslavement in America, and his subse

Two Cures For Love

2008, Wendy Cope

This book is a collection of witty and insightful poems that explore the complexities of love and relationships. The author uses humor and keen observation to delve into the joys and sorrows of romantic entanglements, offering both solace and sharp commentary. The poems range from light-hearted and

Songs Of Kabir

2011, Arvind Krishna Mehrotra

This book is a collection of mystical poems that capture the spiritual and philosophical musings of the 15th-century Indian poet Kabir. Through vivid imagery and profound simplicity, the poems explore themes of divine love, the nature of existence, and the quest for inner truth. The verses challenge

I Have Not Seen Mandu

2003, Swadesh Deepak

The book is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's harrowing experiences with mental illness. It captures the raw and unfiltered emotions of living with schizophrenia, chronicling the author's journey through episodes of delusion, despair, and moments of clarity. The narrative is interspers

Terra Nullius

2007, Sven Lindqvist

The book explores the brutal history of European colonialism in Australia, delving into the concept of "terra nullius," or "nobody's land," which was used to justify the dispossession and genocide of Indigenous peoples. Through a blend of historical analysis, personal reflection, and travel narrativ

The Lost Pianos Of Siberia

2020, Sophy Roberts

The book explores the vast and remote landscapes of Siberia through the lens of its forgotten pianos, uncovering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and resilience. The author embarks on a journey to trace the origins and stories of these pianos, which were brought to Siberia by exiles, adventurers

Latitudes Of Longing

2018, Shubhangi Swarup

The book weaves together interconnected stories set across the diverse landscapes of the Indian subcontinent, exploring themes of love, loss, and the profound connections between humans and nature. Through its richly detailed narrative, it delves into the lives of a scientist, a clairvoyant, a geolo

India After Gandhi

2007, Ramachandra Guha

This comprehensive historical account delves into the political, social, and economic evolution of India from the moment it gained independence in 1947 up to the early 21st century. It explores the challenges and triumphs faced by the nation as it navigated its way through partition, the integration

Farthest Field

2015, Raghu Karnad

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the narrative follows the lives of three young men from a single family in South India who join the British Indian Army. Through their personal journeys, the book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of colonial rule. It delves into the

Indica

2016, Pranay Lal

The book provides a comprehensive and vivid exploration of India's natural history, tracing the geological and biological evolution of the subcontinent over billions of years. It delves into the formation of the landmass, the rich diversity of flora and fauna, and the intricate interplay between nat

Poonachi

2016, Perumal Murugan

The story follows the life of a frail, black goat named Poonachi, who is given to an elderly couple by a mysterious stranger. As she grows up, Poonachi navigates the challenges of survival in a harsh and unforgiving world, facing both human and animal adversities. Through her journey, the narrative

Natasha’s Dance

2002, Orlando Figes

The book explores the rich and complex cultural history of Russia, tracing its evolution from the 18th century to the present day. It delves into the interplay between Russian art, literature, music, and society, highlighting how these elements have been influenced by and have influenced the nation'

The Lonely City

2016, Olivia Laing

The book explores the profound sense of isolation experienced by individuals in urban environments, weaving together personal reflections with the lives and works of various artists who grappled with loneliness. Through a blend of memoir, biography, and cultural criticism, it delves into the emotion

On The Move

2015, Oliver Sacks

The book is a memoir that delves into the life and experiences of a renowned neurologist, exploring his personal and professional journey. It recounts his early years, his passion for motorcycles, his struggles with identity and relationships, and his profound dedication to understanding the human b

The Dream Life Of Sukhanov

2005, Olga Grushin

The novel tells the story of Anatoly Sukhanov, a former avant-garde artist who abandoned his dreams for a secure life as an art critic under the Soviet regime. As the Soviet Union begins to collapse, Sukhanov's carefully constructed world unravels, forcing him to confront his past choices and the co

Seeing Like A Feminist

2012, Nivedita Menon

The book explores the complexities and nuances of feminism in the Indian context, challenging conventional narratives and advocating for a more inclusive and intersectional approach. It delves into various social, political, and cultural issues, examining how gender intersects with caste, class, and

The Shallows

2010, Nicolas Carr

The book explores how the internet is reshaping our brains and altering the way we think, read, and remember. It delves into the cognitive and cultural consequences of our increasing reliance on digital media, arguing that the constant distractions and interruptions of online life are eroding our ca

Doppelganger

2023, Naomi Klein

The book explores the unsettling phenomenon of doppelgängers in the modern world, delving into how individuals and their public personas can be manipulated and distorted in the age of social media and digital surveillance. It examines the impact of these duplications on personal identity, politics,

A Case Of Exploding Mangoes

2008, Mohammed Hanif

The novel is a darkly comic tale that intertwines the lives of various characters against the backdrop of General Zia-ul-Haq's military dictatorship in Pakistan. It follows the story of Ali Shigri, a junior officer in the Pakistani Air Force, who is seeking revenge for his father's mysterious death.

Breasts And Eggs

2008, Mieko Kawakami

The novel explores the lives of three women grappling with their identities, bodies, and societal expectations in contemporary Japan. The story is divided into two parts, focusing initially on Natsu, a struggling writer, her sister Makiko, who is obsessed with getting breast implants, and Makiko's d

Cooked

2013, Michael Pollan

The book explores the transformative power of cooking and its profound impact on our lives, health, and culture. It delves into the four classical elements—fire, water, air, and earth—as they relate to different cooking techniques: grilling with fire, braising with water, baking with air, and fermen

Ants Among Elephants

2017, Sujatha Gidla

The book is a poignant memoir that delves into the lives of an untouchable family in India, exploring the intersection of caste, class, and politics. Through the narrative of her own family, the author vividly portrays the struggles and resilience of the Dalit community, highlighting the systemic op

In Memory Of Memory

2017, Maria Stepanova

The book is a reflective exploration of memory, history, and identity, as the narrator delves into her family's past through letters, photographs, and personal artifacts. It weaves together personal anecdotes with broader historical events, creating a tapestry that examines the nature of memory and

Munnu

2015, Malik Sajad

The graphic novel tells the poignant story of a young boy growing up in the conflict-ridden region of Kashmir. Through the eyes of the protagonist, the narrative explores the impact of political turmoil on everyday life, capturing the struggles, hopes, and resilience of the Kashmiri people. The artw

The Shadow King

2019, Maaza Mengiste

Set against the backdrop of Mussolini's 1935 invasion of Ethiopia, this novel weaves a powerful tale of resistance and resilience through the lives of its characters, particularly focusing on the experiences of women who played crucial roles in the fight against the Italian forces. The story delves

Hellfire

2019, Leesa Gazi

In this gripping novel, the lives of two sisters, Lovely and Beauty, unfold within the confines of their Dhaka home, where they have been sheltered and controlled by their domineering mother for over four decades. As the story progresses, the sisters grapple with their suppressed desires and the hau

The Vanishing Man

2016, Laura Cumming

The book delves into the mysterious disappearance of a portrait believed to be by the renowned artist Diego Velázquez, intertwining the story of a Victorian bookseller named John Snare who stumbles upon the painting and becomes obsessed with proving its authenticity. As Snare's life unravels due to

Until The Lions

2015, Karthika Nair

The book is a reimagining of the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, told through the perspectives of its lesser-known female characters and marginalized voices. It delves into themes of love, power, betrayal, and revenge, offering a fresh and poignant exploration of the epic's events and its impact on

Border

2017, Kapka Kassabova

The book explores the complex and multifaceted nature of borders, focusing on the region where Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey converge. Through a blend of travelogue, history, and personal narrative, it delves into the lives of people who inhabit these borderlands, revealing their stories of displacem

Em And The Big Hoom

2012, Jerry Pinto

The story revolves around a Goan Catholic family living in a one-bedroom apartment in Bombay, focusing on the complex dynamics between the narrator, his mother Em, who suffers from bipolar disorder, and the rest of the family. Through a series of poignant and often darkly humorous vignettes, the nar

How To Do Nothing

2019, Jenny Odell

The book explores the concept of resisting the relentless demands of productivity and the attention economy by embracing the art of doing nothing. It advocates for reclaiming our time and attention from the clutches of digital distractions and societal pressures, encouraging readers to engage more d

Go Went Gone

2015, Jenny Erpenbeck

The novel follows Richard, a recently retired classics professor in Berlin, as he becomes increasingly involved with a group of African refugees protesting their treatment and seeking asylum in Germany. Through his interactions with the refugees, Richard confronts his own past and the complexities o

The Wandering Falcon

2011, Jamil Ahmed

Set in the rugged borderlands of Pakistan and Afghanistan, the story follows Tor Baz, a boy who becomes an enigmatic wanderer after the tragic death of his parents. As he traverses the harsh, unforgiving terrain, he encounters various tribes and communities, each grappling with their own struggles a

A Dictator Calls

1978, Ismail Kadare

The novel explores the psychological and political tensions within a totalitarian regime as it follows the story of a dictator who becomes increasingly paranoid and isolated. Through a series of phone calls, the dictator's interactions reveal his deepening mistrust of those around him, including his

Enter Ghost

2023, Isabella Hammad

The novel follows Sonia, a British-Palestinian actress, as she returns to the West Bank after years away and becomes involved in a production of "Hamlet" directed by her sister. As she navigates the complexities of her identity and the political tensions of the region, Sonia grapples with personal a

Cry, Heart, But Never Break

2001, Glenn Ringtved

The story is a poignant and tender tale about four children who live with their grandmother and encounter Death when he comes to take her away. Through a heartfelt conversation, Death explains the natural balance of life and the necessity of sorrow to appreciate joy. The children learn to accept los

Yoga For People Who Can’t Be Bothered To Do It

2003, Geoff Dyer

The book is a collection of essays that blend travel writing, memoir, and philosophical musings, capturing the author's experiences and reflections as he journeys through various locations around the world. Each essay delves into themes of existential angst, the search for meaning, and the often hum

Beauty Is A Wound

2002, Eka Kurniawan

Set in the fictional Indonesian town of Halimunda, the story weaves together elements of history, folklore, and magical realism to explore the tumultuous life of Dewi Ayu, a beautiful prostitute who rises from her grave after twenty-one years. Through her and her descendants, the narrative delves in

Mirrors

2008, Eduardo Galeano

The book is a sweeping historical narrative that explores the interconnectedness of human experiences across time and geography. Through a series of vignettes, it delves into the lives of both famous and obscure figures, shedding light on the shared struggles, triumphs, and injustices that have shap

Bhimayana

2011, S. Anand

This graphic novel vividly portrays the life and struggles of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, a key figure in the fight against caste discrimination in India. Through a blend of traditional Gond art and contemporary storytelling, the book highlights pivotal moments in Ambedkar's journey, from his experience

The Dawn Of Everything

2021, David Wengrow

The book challenges conventional narratives about human history, arguing that early societies were far more diverse and complex than traditionally portrayed. It explores how humans have experimented with various forms of social organization, governance, and economic systems throughout history. By ex

In A Strange Room

2010, Damon Galgut

The book follows a solitary traveler named Damon as he embarks on three distinct journeys across different countries, each marked by encounters with various companions. These travels, set in Greece, Africa, and India, explore themes of identity, connection, and the elusive nature of belonging. Throu

The Literary Conference

1997, César Aira

The story revolves around a mad scientist and writer who attends a literary conference with a hidden agenda to clone a famous Mexican author as part of his grandiose plan for world domination. Amidst the backdrop of the conference, the protagonist's eccentric experiments and surreal encounters unfol