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On the reading list this week is an account of important  women’s rights cases of the past 50 years, the best fiction from India written about animals, and a book that defines the systematic massacre in East Pakistan in 1971 as genocide

HT Picks; New Reads

The Canadian novelist on religion, women, colonialism and empire and his latest book, The Apparition

MG Vassanji: “Writing is a form of resistance”

These 22 stories spanning three decades, several countries, and many faiths, explore the experience of being Tamil

Review: Tamil; The Best Stories Of Our Times edited by Perundevi

Sandip Roy’s biography of Chapal Badhuri, an iconic female impersonator on the Bengali jatra stage, is not only a celebration of his life but also a brief historical overview of the folk theatre form in the 20th century

Review: Chapal Rani, the Last Queen of Bengal by Sandip Roy

During his debut tour, the young Polish musician showed he is equally at ease with original compositions and interpretations of Beethoven and Led Zeppelin

Report: Marcin — Art of Guitar Tour 2026

The film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s book series trades some of the author’s subtlety for a contemporary warning about technology, but retains her idea that childhood needs room for wonderment

Book to Screen: The Magic Faraway Tree

On the ongoing devastation and suffering in Gaza and how people continue to hold on despite hardship, this is a picture of the nothingness that’s now left there

Review: A Historian in Gaza by Jean-Pierre Filiu

The author of Days of Recovery on her debut collection of poems written while she was battling cancer

Nomita Kapur: “Adversity is truly a great teacher”

On Agatha Christie’s 136th birth anniversary, a look at one of her enduring classics, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

The murder mystery that changed the rules of the game

The Dimapur-based writer and filmmaker spoke about centralising women’s voices, preserving oral traditions, and the politics of filmmaking

Anungla Zoe Longkumer: “There’s an effort involved in accepting change”

On the reading list this week is a critical examination of street-based visual and performative practices, a memoir about a family and about the unmooring of Punjab, and a volume that traces the long history of monster-making

The author of Hazrat Mahal; The Rebel Begam of Awadh on Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s wife who remained overlooked despite her political and military leadership during the 1857 uprising

Rosie Llewellyn-Jones: “She was a woman almost without fear”

This collection of 12 short stories shows how women often have to manipulate the patriarchal institution of marriage to make it meet their own needs

Review: The Way Home by Shanta Gokhale

This book on the tribal experience in Jharkhand’s Singbhum adds significantly to the existing knowledge of tribal history in general

Review: Fractured Communities by Umar Khalid

Class, shame, mental health and connection are explored in the Mike Kenny play that’s been performed in major metros across the country

Report: Bag Dancing by Butai

A visit to a small workshop in Sri Lanka prompts a meditation on the future of the still ubiquitous writing material

Of elephant poop and the future of paper

Featuring lonely elephants, smart fish and a host of other animals, this anthology of 25 stories inspired by Indian folktales carries quiet lessons

Review: Animal Tales from India by Chesta Wadhwani

Careening through generations and continents, the novel uses one Irish family to explore famine, memory and migration

Review: Land by Maggie O’Farrell

The author of Sons of Darkness, a reimagining of the Mahabharata, on moral ambiguity, violence, sexual consent, duty and storytelling

Gourav Mohanty: “When we reimagine epics, we become mythological DJs”

The author of The Sky Husband on the influence of the oral storytelling tradition, cultural memory, and the sense of humour of her people

Easterine Kire: “Joy comes naturally to me as a Naga”

This week’s pick of interesting reads includes a tragicomic tale that’s astute in its understanding of human relationships, an account of Mizoram’s political history with its longest-serving chief minister at its heart, and a volume of classic supernatural stories set in colonial India

The author of the Booker longlisted All Them Dogs on pop culture and exploring the spectrum of masculinities in his novel

Djamel White: “The real pain here isn’t bullet wounds”

Translated from the Urdu by A Naseeb Khan, this collection of short fiction is a haunting and intricately layered meditation on inheritance and memory

Review: The Last Rides by Syed Muhammad Ashraf

A graphic novel that recalls many anti caste figures from the past, including Ravidas, Gail Omvedt and Kausalya Baisantri, takes the reader through a long but non-linear history

Review: The Blue Book by Siddhesh Gautam

Delhi Contemporary Art Week showcases six women-led galleries exploring identity, memory, and belonging through diverse artistic practices until September 5.

Report: Delhi Contemporary Art Week

The graphic novelist Appupen and the publisher Biswadip Chakraborty talk about a forthcoming anthology of graphic short fiction

Drawing stories from the land

The Booker longlisted novel, which follows two friends leaning on each other, is a story of love without romantic ideals or sexual tensions

Review: The Palm House by Gwendoline Riley

The bestselling Japanese novelist’s latest work – her first serious plunge into noir – is unsettling from beginning to end

Review: Sisters in Yellow by Mieko Kawakami

The Malayalam novelist on translation, colonial hangovers, and his relationship with his home town and with the national capital where he spent his working life

M Mukundan: “I was born in Mahé, but I’m a product of Delhi”

The author of Good News, Bad News, who has covered every general election since 1989, on the tension between truth and TRPs

Maya Sharma: “TV newsrooms are staffed by people from privileged backgrounds”

Latest Books - Find the detailed information about Books and their Author name. Also find Most Popular Books in India and the World at Hindustan times.

The article underscores the evolution of women's rights in India over the past 50 years, highlighting key court cases that challenged societal norms and propelled the movement towards equality. Lawyer Mihira Sood's compelling narrative illustrates the role of judicial intervention within a fraught social and political context, demonstrating both the law’s transformative potential and its inherent limitations.

The novel's protagonist, Amir Hassan, confronts colonialism's entrenched hierarchies through a speculative lens, examining the human response to alien presence and cultural anxiety. The Avians exploit caste divisions reminiscent of historical colonial tactics. Although pessimistic about resistance's efficacy, the narrative underscores the importance of writing as a form of resistance against cultural erasure. Historical cycles of domination raise questions about hope and identity.

A new anthology edited by Perundevi showcases 22 diverse Tamil short stories from various authors, exploring identity and experience across continents. Highlighting themes of caste, gender, and migration, the collection includes vibrant narratives that confront life’s complexities. With strong translations, it expands the understanding of Tamil literature beyond stereotypes, capturing both emotional depth and cultural richness.

"Chapal Rani, the Last Queen of Bengal" explores the complex life of Chapal Bhaduri, an iconic jatra performer who defied traditional gender roles and challenged societal norms. Sandip Roy weaves a historical narrative within this creative non-fiction, revealing Bhaduri’s journey from a marginalized youth to a celebrated figure, while highlighting the nuances of identity, performance, and queerness. The book serves as a cultural document of 20th-century Bengali theater, making Bhaduri's legacy resonate beyond labels.

Polish guitarist Marcin Patrzalek captivated audiences during his debut performance in India at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre on August 7, blending classical and contemporary music. Known for innovative acoustic techniques, he humorously engaged the audience while showcasing his repertoire. Patrzalek's international journey includes collaborations and a commitment to nurturing local talent, enhancing his popularity in India.

In "The Magic Faraway Tree," director Ben Gregor updates Enid Blyton's classic tales by contrasting a tech-obsessed influencer with a whimsical fairyland, critiquing modern technology's influence on childhood wonder. The film emphasizes moral lessons and family bonds while addressing themes of self-acceptance and female solidarity, suggesting that true magic lies in nurturing one’s imagination beyond screens.

Jean-Pierre Filiu's "A Historian in Gaza" captures the dire state of the region, revealing its devastation through his experiences with Doctors Without Borders. He highlights the lasting impact of failed peace agreements, the dire humanitarian situation, and even the politics of water. The book serves as a poignant account of Gaza's realities that demands global attention.

In battling cancer, a writer found that both good and bad days shaped their poetry, reflecting emotional phases from unease to recovery. Their creative process embraced these experiences, revealing insights about life's frenetic pace. Ultimately, they emphasize that recovery involves patience and self-discovery, echoing the significance of inner awareness amid external chaos. Chittajit Mitra contributes deeply personal reflections after this transformative journey.

Agatha Christie's 1926 novel, *The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,* revolutionized detective fiction by challenging established narrative conventions. Set in King’s Abbot, it introduces an unreliable narrator whose insights mislead readers. This clever manipulation sparked controversy and debate, ultimately cementing its status as a classic. Christie’s innovative approach continues to influence contemporary thrillers today, blending deception with reader involvement.

The anthology *The Many That I Am: Writings from Nagaland* was a collaborative effort with Zubaan, emphasizing authentic voices from the region. Curator Saurabh Sharma balanced well-known authors and emerging writers to reflect diverse narratives, often centered on pain but ending in hope. Art serves as a vital medium for self-expression in Naga culture, especially for women.

Indian streets are vibrant visual landscapes, hosting festivals, protests, and art that reflect collective memory and socio-political sentiments. These spaces, shaped by neoliberal forces, facilitate expressions of identity and resistance, blending public and private realms. Such visual culture plays a vital role in civic engagement, challenging narratives of normalcy in urban life and societal structures.

Begum Hazrat Mahal, a key figure in the 1857 uprising against British rule, remains overshadowed due to historical narratives largely shaped by the British. Her leadership and the fragmented opposition she faced highlight complex societal tensions, including class struggles and a significant African presence in Lucknow. Unlike her more celebrated counterparts, Mahal's legacy was eclipsed by her less prominent background.

Shanta Gokhale's *The Way Home* explores marriage from women's perspectives, highlighting their agency within patriarchal structures. Through everyday narratives, characters navigate relationships, societal expectations, and personal desires. Gokhale's empathetic storytelling reveals the complexities of love and commitment, reflecting both women's struggles and men's roles, ultimately offering insights into family dynamics and individual identities entwined in ordinary life.

Umar Khalid’s "Fractured Communities" examines the political history of the Ho tribals in Jharkhand's Singbhum district from colonial to post-colonial times. Adapted from his PhD thesis, the book reveals how colonial powers manipulated tribal leadership for control, highlighting tensions between traditional governance and emerging democratic systems, underscoring the enduring struggles of tribal peoples against state and corporate advances. Khalid critiques the homogenized portrayal of tribal societies, revealing complex dynamics that challenge mainstream narratives.

Mike Kenny's play *Bag Dancing* tells the poignant story of Imelda, a homeless woman, and Neville, a shelter worker, exploring their complex friendship through themes of loss and healing. Produced by Bengaluru's Butai theatre group, the play reflects on war's impact, resonating with audiences across India through its emotional depth and relatable characters. Set against historical backdrop, it highlights the struggles of working-class lives.

A workshop near Sri Lanka's Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage transforms elephant dung into paper products, demonstrating an innovative recycling process. The dung, rich in fiber, undergoes sun drying, boiling, and blending before becoming usable paper. While not a complete replacement for wood, this process offers environmental benefits, addressing waste while generating income through unique products cherished by consumers.

Anthropomorphic animals in children’s literature, as highlighted by Chengcheng You, foster kinship with real creatures and raise environmental awareness. Chesta Wadhwani’s anthology, Animal Tales from India, intertwines adventure and moral lessons, exemplified by tales of cooperation and resilience among animals. The book emphasizes themes of friendship and protection, appealing to contemporary readers while drawing on cultural storytelling traditions.

Maggie O’Farrell’s ambitious novel *Land* explores the complexities of mapping Ireland post-Great Famine through Tomás, a surveyor grappling with his role in a colonial endeavor while trying to preserve a fragmented history. The narrative unfolds across generations, revealing the family’s struggles with loss, migration, and identity, illustrating how maps obscure the lived experiences that define them.

"Sons of Darkness" reinterprets the Mahabharata, emphasizing moral ambiguity and flawed characters rather than conventional heroes and villains, as the author,Rutvik Bhandari, explores perspectives of traditionally vilified figures like Shakuni. This novel blends Indian epic narratives with global epic fantasy influences, challenging readers to question established morals and societal issues like consent and duty.

At The White Owl Literature and Book Fair, a Naga writer emphasized the importance of joy, even in pain, using humor as a survival tool. Rooted in oral traditions, storytelling reflects collective wisdom and cultural memory. They encourage the younger generation to listen and enjoy stories to preserve their legacy without feeling burdened by duty.

Joachim Coutinho leaves Mangalore for a challenging life in Bahrain, hoping to escape poverty and pursue his dreams of acting, but faces loneliness and inadequacy instead. His nephew, Darrel Serrao, envies his uncle’s seemingly successful life abroad. This narrative of family, ambition, and disillusionment reflects the deeper themes of migration and human relationships.

**All Them Dogs** explores gang violence and familial relationships through Tony, who seeks acceptance and navigates shame and identity. His struggles resonate with readers as they reveal deeper themes of belonging. Inspired by pop culture, the author emphasizes character complexity and emotional realism while challenging the glorification of violence and presenting a nuanced portrayal of masculinity.

Syed Muhammad Ashraf, a contemporary Urdu novelist, transcends social realism with his unique blend of memory, history, and metaphysics in works like *The Last Rides*. This novel, rich in emotional depth, explores themes of inheritance and loss while resisting simplistic oppositions. Ashraf's synthesis of narrative artistry and philosophical reflection ensures his significant place in Urdu literature.

Siddesh Gautam's graphic novel, *The Blue Book*, revitalizes Shraman-Bahujan history through poetic storytelling, presenting figures like Ambedkar and Meerabai. The narrative tackles identity and loneliness, showcasing the struggle for connection across lives. While critiquing gender roles, some viewpoints may oversimplify complex issues. Gautam's work resonates with a generation seeking roots amidst modern existential challenges.

Delhi Contemporary Art Week, ongoing until September 5, features six women-led galleries at Bikaner House showcasing diverse artistic practices addressing urgent themes like memory, belonging, and climate change impacts. The event fosters intimate dialogues among artists and audiences, highlighting both individual experiences and broader social contexts. This year's edition prioritizes closer connections over scale, enhancing the art experience.

Antonym Collections is developing an anthology of graphic short fiction, focusing on transforming regional literary texts into graphic form to reach a broader audience. Featuring local Indian stories like Poonachi, the project fosters collaboration between emerging creators and established mentor Appupen through a residency program. This initiative responds to growing global interest in translated literature and aims to highlight diverse cultural narratives.

Gwendoline Riley’s *The Palm House*, part of the 2026 Booker longlist, explores the complexities of friendship between freelance writers Edmund and Laura. Set against contemporary challenges, the narrative unfolds through dialogue, revealing their intertwined lives and pasts. With echoes of late 20th-century prose, Riley artfully examines companionship, assault's normalization, and the quiet turbulence of everyday existence.

Mieko Kawakami's **Sisters in Yellow** evokes a persistent unease through Hana's journey from a troubled youth to adulthood marked by crime and betrayal. The novel explores themes of abandonment, illustrating how societal failures affect vulnerable women. Kawakami masterfully crafts complex characters, like Kimiko, who embody both warmth and self-interest, offering a nuanced look at difficult choices.

M Mukundan's novel *On the Banks of Mayyazhi*, inspired by his experiences as cultural attaché at the French embassy in Delhi, explores Mahé's unique colonial past, where French rule coexisted with the Indian independence struggle. Despite criticisms of being "pro-colonial," the narrative reflects diverse perspectives on colonialism while intertwining myth and history. Mukundan emphasizes that fiction reveals deeper truths about cultural legacies and migration.

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