49 pages 1 hour read

Mulk Raj Anand

Coolie

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1936

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Coolie by Mulk Raj Anand follows the life of Munoo, a 14-year-old orphan from northern India who is forced to leave his village to work in various harsh and degrading conditions across the country, including as a servant, factory worker, and rickshaw puller. The novel portrays Munoo's relentless struggle for dignity and survival amidst extreme poverty, exploitation, and systemic injustice. Contains depictions of physical abuse and exploitative labor conditions.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Mulk Raj Anand's Coolie receives praise for its raw depiction of the exploitation of Indian laborers, highlighting systemic social injustices. Critics commend Anand's narrative for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of the protagonist's struggles. However, some note that the novel's bleak outlook and intense narrative may be overwhelming for readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Coolie?

A reader who would enjoy Coolie by Mulk Raj Anand likely appreciates social realism and narratives focused on the plight of the underprivileged. Similar readers might enjoy John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath or Upton Sinclair's The Jungle for their themes of economic hardship and social injustice.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Poverty

Class

History: World

Genre

Indian Literature

Drama / Tragedy

Historical Fiction

Period

Realism

Asian Literature

Themes

Society: Class

Values/Ideas: Fate

Life/Time: Coming of Age