If you're a student in India looking for book recommendations to enjoy during the summer, here are some suggestions that reflect the country's rich culture, history, and diverse literature:
"The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy: This award-winning novel tells the story of an unconventional family in Kerala, exploring themes of love, caste, and societal expectations.
"The White Tiger" by Aravind Adiga: A thought-provoking and darkly humorous novel that provides a glimpse into the socio-economic disparities and the struggle for upward mobility in modern India.
"Train to Pakistan" by Khushwant Singh: Set during the Partition of India in 1947, this novel portrays the turmoil and human tragedy through the lives of individuals in a fictional village.
"Midnight's Children" by Salman Rushdie: A magical realism novel that intertwines the history of India with the lives of children born at the exact moment of the country's independence.
"A Fine Balance" by Rohinton Mistry: This sweeping saga follows the lives of four characters from different backgrounds who are brought together during the tumultuous period of the Emergency in India.
"The Palace of Illusions" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni: A retelling of the Indian epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi, offering a fresh and feminist take on the mythological tale.
"Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri: A collection of short stories that explores the lives of Indian immigrants and their struggles with identity, cultural assimilation, and love.
"The Guide" by R.K. Narayan: Set in the fictional town of Malgudi, this novel tells the story of a tour guide turned spiritual guru and his journey of self-discovery.
"The Discovery of India" by Jawaharlal Nehru: A comprehensive work that provides an overview of India's history, culture, and philosophy, written by India's first Prime Minister.
"The Lowland" by Jhumpa Lahiri: This novel follows the lives of two brothers in Kolkata and the consequences of their choices, spanning multiple decades and exploring themes of family, politics, and personal sacrifice.