Description

SHORTLISTED FOR THE MAN BOOKER PRIZE 2013
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEYS WOMEN’S PRIZE FOR FICTION 2014
SHORTLISTED FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD 2013

From Subhash’s earliest memories, at every point, his brother was there. In the suburban streets of Calcutta where they wandered before dusk and in the hyacinth-strewn ponds where they played for hours on end, Udayan was always in his older brother’s sight. So close in age, they were inseparable in childhood and yet, as the years pass – as U.S tanks roll into Vietnam and riots sweep across India – their brotherly bond can do nothing to forestall the tragedy that will upend their lives. Udayan – charismatic and impulsive – finds himself drawn to the Naxalite movement, a rebellion waged to eradicate inequity and poverty. He will give everything, risk all, for what he believes, and in doing so will transform the futures of those dearest to him.

Publisher Review

Sweeping, ambitious ... Confirms Lahiri as a writer of formidable powers and great depth of feeling, who makes the business of conjuring a story from the chaos of human lives seem quite effortless * Observer * This tale of family ties, the bond of brothers and the breaking of traditions is moving, surprising and utterly compelling ... It's as beautiful as anything you will ever read - it touches your soul * Stylist * Devastating * Independent * A compelling novel that lingers long in the mind -- Books of the Year * Financial Times * A sad, haunting story, which resonates long after the last page has been turned * Evening Standard *