The book centers around Jagan, a sweet vendor in India who lives by the principles of Gandhi, and his relationship with his westernized son, Mali. Despite Jagan's efforts to provide a traditional upbringing, Mali rejects his father's values and moves to America to pursue a career in writing. The novel explores the generational and cultural clashes between father and son, as Jagan struggles to understand his son's choices and the tension between tradition and modernity in post-colonial India.

This novel is set in the bustling streets of Malgudi, India, and follows the life of Raman, a meticulous sign painter who prides himself on his dedication to his craft. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Daisy, a strong-willed and independent woman working on a family planning project. As Raman falls deeply in love with Daisy, his previously uncomplicated life becomes entangled with conflicting emotions and the challenges of adapting to someone with a radically different outlook on life. The story beautifully explores themes of love, tradition, and the clash between old and new societal values, all while painting a vivid picture of life in a small Indian town.

Set against the backdrop of the Emergency in 1970s India, the novel weaves together the lives of two women from different social strata: an affluent London-born woman who marries an Indian businessman and a senior bureaucrat's daughter who becomes a political activist. As the political climate in India grows increasingly oppressive, their stories intersect, exploring themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for democracy. Through their personal and political journeys, the narrative delves into the complexities of wealth, class, and the impact of colonialism, while critiquing the authoritarian regime that threatens the moral fabric of Indian society.

"On The Golden Porch" is a collection of short stories that delve into the lives of various characters in Soviet Russia, exploring themes of memory, history, and the complexities of human experience. The narrative weaves through the mundane and the extraordinary, painting vivid portraits of individuals as they navigate the peculiarities of their existence. With a blend of magical realism and sharp social observation, the stories capture the essence of Russian culture and psyche during a time of great change, revealing the resilience and richness of the human spirit in the face of the absurdities of life.

"Nampally Road" is a poignant narrative set against the backdrop of political turbulence in India. The story follows Mira Kannadical, a young woman who returns to Hyderabad after studying in England, only to find herself amidst a society rife with corruption, poverty, and political unrest. As she takes up a teaching position and begins to build a life, Mira's journey is interwoven with her personal quest for identity and her engagement with the struggles of the people around her. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, social injustice, and the complexities of postcolonial India, all while painting a vivid portrait of the city of Hyderabad and the titular Nampally Road, which becomes a symbol of the country's chaotic and vibrant life.

"Incantations And Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the lives of Indian women, exploring themes of tradition, modernity, and identity. The narratives often focus on the personal struggles and inner lives of these women as they navigate societal expectations and their own desires. Set against the backdrop of Indian culture, the stories blend the real with the surreal, weaving together the everyday with the magical through the use of incantations and folklore. The book offers a poignant look at the complexities of life and the power of storytelling in shaping one's reality and sense of self.

The novel delves into the tumultuous period of India's transition from British colonial rule to independence, focusing on the decline of a fictional princely state. The protagonist, a deposed Indian prince, grapples with the loss of his power and identity in the wake of the country's political upheaval. As he struggles to come to terms with his diminished status and the changing social order, the prince's personal turmoil reflects the broader existential crisis faced by Indian royalty during this era of monumental change. The narrative explores themes of tradition versus modernity, the impact of colonialism, and the search for self in a rapidly evolving world.

The novel follows the life of Margayya, a shrewd and ambitious financial advisor in a small South Indian town, who starts his career under a banyan tree offering advice to the local people on financial matters. With his cunning mind and understanding of the banking system, he rises to wealth and prominence, helping people with loans and investment schemes. However, his success is marred by his morally questionable methods and the eventual downfall that results from his hubris and detachment from traditional values. The story is a reflection on the complexities of financial dealings and the impact of modern capitalism on traditional Indian society, exploring themes of ambition, greed, and the consequences of a life devoted to the pursuit of money.

The novel explores the life of Deven Sharma, a Hindi literature professor in the small town of Mirpore, India, who finds himself entangled in the complexities of cultural preservation and personal ambition. Tasked with interviewing and recording the works of Nur, a fading Urdu poet, Deven confronts the decline of the Urdu language and the poet's own waning relevance. As he navigates the chaotic and often comical world of Nur's entourage, Deven grapples with his own unfulfilled dreams, a strained marriage, and the stark realities of academic life. The story delves into themes of linguistic heritage, the burdens of tradition, and the search for identity amidst the changing cultural landscape of India.

"The Good Life Elsewhere" is a darkly humorous and satirical novel that follows a group of Moldovan villagers who embark on a chaotic journey to Italy in search of a better life. Through their misadventures, the author exposes the harsh realities of poverty, corruption, and the desperate measures people are willing to take in pursuit of a brighter future. With a blend of absurdity and poignant social commentary, the novel offers a compelling exploration of the human condition and the universal desire for a better life.

"Waiting for the Mahatma" is a novel set against the backdrop of the Indian Independence movement. The story revolves around a young, carefree boy named Sriram who falls in love with a devoted disciple of Mahatma Gandhi, Bharati. His love for Bharati leads him to join the freedom struggle, despite his lack of political interest. The narrative explores his transformation from a reckless youth to a mature individual committed to the cause, under the influence of Bharati and the Mahatma. Despite the challenges and personal sacrifices, Sriram remains steadfast in his commitment to the freedom movement, showcasing the impact of love and ideology on personal growth.

"Klotsvog" is a poignant and introspective novel that follows the life of Maya Abramovna Klotsvog, a Jewish woman living in Soviet Russia during the 20th century. Through Maya's perspective, the book explores themes of identity, love, and the struggles faced by Jews in a society plagued by anti-Semitism. With a blend of humor and tragedy, the story delves into Maya's personal relationships, her experiences as a mother and wife, and her resilience in the face of adversity. Ultimately, "Klotsvog" is a profound exploration of one woman's journey through life and her unwavering spirit in the midst of societal challenges.

"Unaccustomed Earth" is a collection of short stories by Jhumpa Lahiri that explores the lives of Bengali immigrants and their children in the United States. The stories focus on themes of family, love, loss, and cultural identity as characters navigate the challenges of assimilation and the tensions between their American and Bengali identities. The collection is divided into two parts, with the first featuring interconnected stories about the experiences of two generations of a Bengali family, and the second featuring standalone stories that explore similar themes. Overall, the book offers a nuanced and poignant portrayal of the immigrant experience and the complexities of cultural identity.

"Sea of Poppies" is a historical novel set in the 1830s, just before the Opium Wars. It traces the intertwined lives of a diverse group of characters, from a raja turned convict, a widowed poppy grower, a French orphan, to a mulatto American freedman, all of whom are brought together on the Ibis, a former slave ship now used for transporting opium. The story explores the social and economic impact of the opium trade, colonialism, and the caste system, while also delving into the personal histories, relationships, and struggles of the characters.

"The Mountain and the Wall" is a thought-provoking novel set in a fictional region of Russia, where a massive wall is being constructed to separate the Muslim population from the rest of the country. Through the eyes of various characters, the book explores the impact of this division on individuals and communities, delving into themes of identity, religion, and the struggle for freedom. As tensions rise and conflicts erupt, the story highlights the complexities of human relationships in a divided society.

"Out of India" is a collection of stories and essays that provide a rich and evocative portrayal of Indian society and the complexities of its cultural and social tapestry. The author, born in Germany and having spent a significant part of her life in India, uses her unique perspective to explore themes of identity, displacement, and the nuances of East-West encounters. Through vivid characterizations and keen observations, the book captures the essence of India, from its bustling cities to its rural landscapes, offering insights into both the beauty and the contradictions of the country. The work is a reflection on the author's experiences and observations during her time in India, making it both a personal and deeply insightful read.

"Rock, Paper, Scissors And Other Stories" is a collection of captivating short stories that delve into the lives of ordinary people in a small Russian town. Through these interconnected tales, the author explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition, the stories in this book offer a poignant and thought-provoking glimpse into the lives of individuals navigating the challenges of modern-day Russia.

"The Association of Small Bombs" by Karan Mahajan is a novel that explores the aftermath of a bomb blast in Delhi, India. The story follows the lives of two families affected by the tragedy, as well as the bomber himself. Through their perspectives, the novel delves into themes of grief, revenge, and the complexities of terrorism. Mahajan's writing is both intimate and expansive, offering a nuanced portrayal of the human impact of violence.

"Tales From Firozhsha Baug" is a collection of interconnected stories set in a Mumbai apartment complex. Through the lives of its diverse residents, the book explores themes of family, identity, and the complexities of urban life in India. With a blend of humor, compassion, and keen observation, the stories shed light on the struggles, dreams, and resilience of ordinary people, capturing the essence of a vibrant community in a rapidly changing city.

In "Baumgartner's Bombay" by Anita Desai, the story revolves around Hugo Baumgartner, a German Jew who fled to India during World War II. Set in Bombay, the novel explores the themes of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging. As the narrative unfolds, Hugo's life becomes entwined with that of the city's street children, leading to a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human connections.

This book presents a collection of interconnected stories set in the 22nd century, a time when humanity has made significant advances in technology, society, and ethics. The narrative explores various facets of this utopian future, from space exploration and colonization of other planets to the profound changes in human relationships, work, and leisure. Through the eyes of its diverse characters, the book delves into the complexities and nuances of a world where humanity strives to balance technological progress with ecological sustainability and social harmony, offering a hopeful yet reflective vision of the future.

In this thought-provoking novel, a woman named Jaya struggles to find her identity and voice in a patriarchal society. Through introspection and reflection on her past, she grapples with the expectations placed upon her as a wife, mother, and daughter-in-law. As she navigates the complexities of her relationships and confronts societal norms, Jaya embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation, ultimately finding the courage to break her long silence and assert her individuality.

"Love And Longing In Bombay" is a collection of five interconnected stories set in the bustling city of Bombay. Each story explores themes of love, loss, and longing, as characters navigate their way through the complexities of relationships and the challenges of modern life. From a detective investigating a mysterious disappearance to a struggling actor caught in a web of deceit, these stories offer a glimpse into the diverse lives and emotions of Bombay's inhabitants. With richly drawn characters and evocative descriptions of the city, the book captures the essence of Bombay and delves into the universal experiences of love and longing.

"The Glass Palace" is a sweeping historical epic that spans over a century, tracing the tumultuous events of the British invasion of Burma and its aftermath. The story follows the life of Rajkumar, an Indian orphan, who rises from the depths of poverty to become a wealthy businessman. His journey is intricately linked with the fates of those around him, including Dolly, a maid in the royal palace, and a host of other characters whose lives intersect across the landscapes of Burma, India, and Malaya. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the impacts of colonialism, while providing a deep insight into the historical and political complexities of the Southeast Asian region.