5 compelling books that will leave a lasting impact on readers

This issue, we bring you books that rise above the rest, and are iconic for their powerful narratives, cultural significance, and the indelible mark they leave on the readers.

 

 

Starting the list is Manu Dash’s The Big Book of Odia Literature. This anthology is a careful curation of stories, poems, and plays that capture the essence of Odisha’s people and culture. It features the works of over 100 poets, 30 short story writers, two playwrights, and 23 essayists. The collection also includes poetry in 10 lesser-known languages and Sanskrit poetry written in English by Odia authors, showcasing the state’s rich literary history.

 

 

The next book is Dalit Kitchens of Marathwada by Shahu Patole, originally titled Anna He Apoorna Brahma before its translation. This book is a groundbreaking work to first chronicle the culinary history of Maharashtrian Dalit communities—Mahar and Mang. Combining memoir with recipes, it explores how food enforces social divisions and caste discrimination, categorising dishes as sattvic (pure), rajasic (fit for royalty), or tamasic (sinful). From everyday meals to festive feasts, the book highlights the transformative power of food in connecting communities and preserving cultural identity.

 

 

Tomb of Sand, written by Geetanjali Shree and translated by Daisy Rockwell from her book Ret Samadhi, is a must read. It tells the story of an 80-year-old woman, Ma, who falls into depression after her husband’s death. Instead of writing the story in a serious tone, Shree uses a playful and humorous style that keeps the reader engaged. After her husband's death, Ma decides to travel to Pakistan, facing the unresolved trauma from her teenage years when she survived the Partition riots.

 

 

Written by Vikas Swarup, Q&A  is a story about the inspiration behind the award-winning film Slumdog Millionaire (2008), and tells the story of Ram Mohammad Thomas, an orphan who astonishingly answers every question on India's biggest quiz show. His unexpected win leads to imprisonment, as it’s hard to believe someone so underprivileged could succeed. Through a series of captivating stories, Ram reveals to his lawyer how life’s unique experiences gave him the answers, offering readers a glimpse into his remarkable past.

 

 

The final book on the list is Harper’s Bazaar: 150 Years, Greatest Moments by Glenda Bailey, a tribute to the influential figures who have defined the magazine over the decades. Published to mark the magazine’s 150th anniversary, this collection showcases its most iconic works, featuring over 150 photographs and covers, alongside 50 text excerpts—articles, poems, and fiction— underscoring Harper’s Bazaar’s legacy as more than just a fashion publication.

Compiled by Ria Singh and Jishnu Bandyopadhyay

All images: Courtesy Amazon.in

This article was first published in Harper's Bazaar India, September issue.

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