J. G. Farrell

James Gordon Farrell, known as J. G. Farrell, was a British novelist of Irish descent. He is best known for his historical fiction, particularly the Empire Trilogy, which explores the political and human consequences of British colonialism.

Books

Ranked Books All Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Siege of Krishnapur

    Cover of 'The Siege of Krishnapur' by J. G. Farrell

    Set in India during the period of the British Empire, "The Siege of Krishnapur" is a historical novel that explores the events of the 1857 Sepoy Rebellion. The narrative focuses on the British residents of the fictional town of Krishnapur as they endure a prolonged siege by Indian soldiers. The story delves into the psychological, social, and physical challenges faced by the besieged, and the gradual disintegration of their Victorian-era beliefs and lifestyle. The novel is a commentary on the British Empire, colonialism, and the clash of cultures.

    The 663rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Singapore Grip

    Cover of 'The Singapore Grip' by J. G. Farrell

    "The Singapore Grip" is a satirical historical novel set in Singapore during the Second World War. The story revolves around a British family who owns a successful trading company and their experiences as the Japanese invasion looms. The book explores themes such as colonialism, greed, love, and the fall of the British Empire, providing a critical and humorous commentary on the era's socio-political landscape.

    The 5015th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Troubles

    Cover of 'Troubles' by J. G. Farrell

    Set against the backdrop of the Irish War of Independence, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of Major Brendan Archer, a British veteran who travels to Ireland to reunite with his fiancée, Angela Spencer. Upon arriving at the once-grand Majestic Hotel, he finds it in a state of decay, mirroring the crumbling British Empire. As Archer navigates the eccentricities of the hotel's inhabitants and the escalating political tensions outside, he becomes entangled in a world of absurdity and chaos. The story deftly captures the decline of colonial power and the complexities of personal and national identity during a tumultuous period in history.

    The 14829th Greatest Book of All Time
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