This month, we spotted readers across the city checking out books ranging from Asian literature, to poetry, non-fiction about geopolitics, and queer literature. Here’s what their reading list looked like
Representation Pic/istock
The Remains of the Body
Diya Sengupta, sustainability strategy consultant, Juhu
I am reading this delicious queer book by Saikat Majumdar. It is a novella that brings out the queerness of lives that seem straight from outside. I love its depiction of modern marriage and the slippery zone between the friendly and the erotic. I was blown away by Majumdar’s previous novel The Firebird, and then mesmerised by his novel, The Scent of God, set in a monastic boarding school. So, when this new novella was released, I just knew I had to read it.
Kitchen
Aekta Khubchandani creative writing teacher, Andheri
Banana Yoshimoto’s novel was a gift to me from one of my students, who is also a dear friend now. The book holds a handful of deaths in it, and the writing feels so tender, fresh and accessible that I wanted to read the book all at once, in one sitting. Being translated from Japanese, the texture of the book is appealing and even sorrow felt wondrous to read about.
The Last Nostalgia
Shrishti Khanna educator and counsellor, Juhu
I’m reading Joe Bolton’s collection of poems from the 1980s. The book explores loneliness, love, and grief. I may not always be up for a full book, but good poetry always offers a safe space — something I can hold, and be held by, in the in-between. My partner is a poet, and it was their recommendation that I pick this up. Lately, I haven’t been able to read bigger books, and poetry is a huge solace.
Prisoners of Geography
Prashant Magar private tutor, Bandra
Tim Marshall’s book talks about how countries are subject to considerations of the geographical settings they are based in. Whether it is survival, conflict, strategic advantages or disadvantages, geography plays a vital role in shaping the destiny of a nation. It’s interesting to read the explanation through the examples in the book. One might agree or disagree with Marshall’s views, but it’s thoroughly researched, and the points are well-made.
The Vegetarian
Surbhi Shah lawyer, Ghatkopar
Recently, I read this hugely relevant novel by Han Kang, which is a deeply disturbing account of a Korean woman’s journey against the violence and alienation of patriarchal norms and societal expectations. I came across this book while being a part of a Bandra-based book club, Books and Banter. Prompting a very heated and divisive discussion on the themes and sexual politics of the book, it has been an illuminating and unforgettable read.
Available All titles at leading bookstores and e-stores
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