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8 must-read books by Indian-American authors this Independence Day
These works provide valuable insights into the Indian experience, both within the subcontinent and across the diaspora.
8 diverse authors who have written extensively about the Indian experience. / X, Facebook, Official websites
As India celebrates its 77th year of freedom, delve into these insightful works by Indian-American authors, that explore the Indian experience, making use of both fiction and non-fiction narratives to reflect on colonialism, independence, and identity.
Here’s what we recommend:
1. “Raj” by Gita Mehta
Book Cover / Simon & SchusterRaj by Gita Mehta is a historical novel that explores the life of a princess from a fictional Indian princely state during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through the protagonist's journey, Mehta delves into the complexities of British colonialism, the Indian independence movement, and the societal transformations of the time. The novel is a detailed portrayal of India's history, making it both a personal and national story that resonates with the themes of independence and identity.
2. "Loot" by Tania James
Book Cover / Tania James website
A masterfully crafted historical novel set in the 18th century, "Loot" follows a young Indian carpenter apprenticed to a Frenchman, tasked with creating an automaton for a Sultan. This sweeping narrative is more than just a hero’s quest; it’s an examination of colonialism's bloody legacy, played out across continents over fifty years. James’ masterful storytelling captures the complexity of history and the pursuit of a plundered artifact, making "Loot" an irresistible read. It was also longlisted for the National Book Award in 2023 for fiction.
3. "The Lucky Ones" by Zara Chowdhary
Book Cover / X/@zarachowdharyIn this moving memoir, Zara Chowdhary, a survivor of anti-Muslim violence in contemporary India, intertwines political and family histories, creating a poignant tribute to India’s unique Islamic heritage. The memoir is a powerful ode to the rebellion of a young woman who strives to belong to her land, family, and faith on her own terms. "The Lucky Ones" offers a deeply personal perspective on India’s modern challenges.
4. "A Thousand Times Before" by Asha Thanki
Book Cover / X/@AshathankiThis heartrending family saga spans three generations of women, connected by a fantastic tapestry through which they inherit the experiences of their ancestors. From Partition-era India to modern-day Brooklyn, "A Thousand Times Before" is a compelling exploration of legacy, memory, and the enduring impact of historical events on personal lives.
5. "The Covenant of Water" by Abraham Verghese
Book Cover / X/@abrahamVergheseAbraham Verghese’s "The Covenant of Water" is a sweeping epic that transports readers to Kerala on India’s Malabar Coast. Spanning nearly eight decades, the novel traces the lives of three generations of a family plagued by a mysterious affliction—each generation loses at least one member to drowning. Against the backdrop of a richly depicted India at the turn of the century, Verghese weaves a tale that is both a tribute to the progress of medicine and a reflection on the enduring human spirit. This novel offers a deep, resonant connection to the past and a vivid portrayal of the cultural and social landscapes of India.
6. "This Land Is Our Land: An Immigrant's Manifesto" by Suketu Mehta
Book Cover / X/@suketumehtaIn "This Land Is Our Land," Suketu Mehta tackles the controversial issue of immigration with clarity and passion. Drawing on his experiences as an Indian-born teenager in New York and years of global reporting, Mehta scrutinizes the worldwide anti-immigrant backlash. He connects the legacy of colonialism and global inequality to today’s migration crises, offering a critical perspective that resonates deeply in the context of India’s history and its diaspora.
7. “The Glass Palace” by Amitav Ghosh
Book Cover / Facebook/Amitav GhoshThe Glass Palace is a sweeping historical novel that spans over a century, beginning with the British invasion of Burma in 1885. Amitav Ghosh intricately weaves together the stories of Indian, Burmese, and British families, exploring themes of colonialism, migration, and identity. The novel offers a vivid portrayal of the impact of British rule in South Asia and Southeast Asia, making it a significant read for those interested in understanding the historical forces that have shaped the region.
8. "Missed Translations: Meeting the Immigrant Parents Who Raised Me" by Sopan Deb
Book Cover / X/@sopandebSopan Deb’s memoir is a heartfelt exploration of identity and family. As he approached his 30th birthday, Deb, a New York Times writer and comedian, realized that his South Asian culture had been a source of both pride and insecurity. Through the lens of his parents’ immigrant journey and their troubled marriage, Deb examines the complexities of his upbringing in suburban New Jersey. This book offers a poignant reflection on the immigrant experience and the often-overlooked challenges of cultural assimilation and family dynamics.
These works provide valuable insights into the Indian experience, both within the subcontinent and across the diaspora. These powerful narratives help deepen the understanding of India’s past, present, and the enduring legacy of its independence.
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