Akhil Sharma

Akhil Sharma is an American author known for his novels and short stories. His notable works include 'An Obedient Father' and 'Family Life', the latter of which won the 2015 Folio Prize.

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. Family Life

    Family Life is a poignant, semi-autobiographical novel that follows the experiences of an Indian family that immigrates to America in the late 1970s. Their dream of a better life is shattered when the older son suffers a terrible accident that leaves him brain-damaged. The story is narrated by the younger son, who struggles with the pressures of his parents' expectations, the trauma of his brother's condition, and the cultural dislocation of being an immigrant in America. The novel explores themes of family, love, loss, and the immigrant experience.

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  2. 2. An Obedient Father

    Set against the backdrop of post-Independence India, this poignant narrative delves into the life of Ram Karan, a corrupt government official burdened by guilt and shame. As he grapples with the consequences of his past actions, particularly the abuse of his daughter, the story explores themes of redemption, familial bonds, and the complexities of human morality. Through a lens of cultural and political change, the novel paints a vivid picture of a man caught between his desires and the harsh realities of his choices, ultimately questioning the possibility of forgiveness and the weight of obedience.

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