50 pages 1 hour read

Arundhati Roy

The God of Small Things

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, published in 1997, is set in Ayemenem, Kerala and unfolds the relationship between fraternal twins Rahel and Estha Ipe. The narrative alternates between their childhood in 1969, when they are involved in their cousin Sophie's accidental drowning, and their reunion as emotionally scarred adults over 25 years later, capturing family and societal tensions. Sensitive topics include abuse and tragic deaths.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things dazzles with its rich prose and intricate narrative, capturing the essence of Kerala's lush landscape and complex social dynamics. Praised for its evocative language and emotional depth, the novel's non-linear structure can be challenging for some readers. Despite this, it remains a vivid exploration of human relationships and societal constraints.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The God of Small Things?

A reader captivated by rich prose, intricate family dynamics, and the socio-political landscape of India would enjoy Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things. Fans of Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children and Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake will appreciate Roy's deft storytelling and vibrant depiction of cultural nuances.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

840L

Book Details

Genre

Asian Literature

Historical Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Relationships: Family

Values/Ideas: Loyalty & Betrayal

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Period

Asian Literature