Synopses & Reviews
Review
'A collection of new stories from \"a superb observer of the human race.\"'
Review
A collection of new stories from "a superb observer of the human race." The New York Times
"Desai's books are illuminated by the author's perceptiveness, delicacy of language, and sharp wit." -- Salman Rushdie
Synopsis
Upon the recent publication of Fasting, Feasting, critics raved about Anita Desai: "Desai is more than smart; she's an undeniable genius" (Washington Post Book World). The Wall Street Journal called Fasting, Feasting "poignant, penetrating . . . a splendid novel, " while the Boston Globe celebrated Desai's "beautiful literary universe." Now, in this richly diverse collection, Desai trains her luminous spotlight on private universes, stretching from India to New England, from Cornwall to Mexico. Skillfully navigating the fault lines between social obligation and personal loyalties, the men and women in these nine tales set out on journeys that suddenly go beyond the pale -- or surprisingly lead them back to where they started from. In the mischievous title story, a beloved dog brings nothing but disaster to his obsessed master; in other tales, old friendships and family ties stir up buried feelings, demanding either renewed commitment or escape. And in the final exquisite story, a young woman discovers a new kind of freedom in Delhi's rooftop community.
With her trademark "perceptiveness, delicacy of language, and sharp wit" (Salman Rushdie) in full evidence here, Anita Desai once again gloriously confirms that she is "India's finest writer in English" (Independent).
About the Author
ANITA DESAI is the author of Fasting, Feasting, Baumgartners Bombay, Clear Light of Day, and Diamond Dust, among other works. Three of her books have been shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Desai was born and educated in India and now lives in the New York City area.
Table of Contents
CONTENTS Royalty 1 Winterscape 24 Diamond Dust, a Tragedy 50 Underground 64 The Man Who Saw Himself Drown 83 The Artist's Life 100 Five Hours to Simla or Faisla 115 Tepoztlan Tomorrow 130 The Rooftop Dwellers 158