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THE MAHABHARATA
Ved Vyas
Mahabharata offers a rich and diverse exploration of human nature, presenting complex characters and ethical dilemmas that are still relevant to this day. The epic delves into themes such as love, power, duty, honor, and morality, providing a thought- provoking reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the consequences of our choices.
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THE BOOK OF LAUGHTER AND FORGETTING
Milan Kundera
This book is composed of seven parts with a polyphonic structure, according to the author. Each part presents a distinct story, seemingly unconnected to the others. However, repetition of characters, themes, and events serves to shape the novel’s overall form. Memories, both cherished and unwanted, are a recurring theme throughout the book, as is laughter – which is as likely to be ironic as it is to be joyful.
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ARTHASHASTRA
Kautilya
Kautilya’s Arthashastra provides valuable insights into ancient Indian economic, political, and social systems, as well as philosophy and ethics. It examines governance, diplomacy, and warcraft, and explores the practical aspects of running a successful kingdom or empire. Additionally, the treatise allows readers to understand the historical context and cultural perspectives that shaped these ideas, and consider their relevance to contemporary issues in politics and economics.
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THE BEST OF WODEHOUSE
P. G. Wodehouse
This book features features Bertie Wooster and Jeeves stealing a cream jug and Uncle Fred trying to ruin the Duke of Blandings while he is preoccupied with his favorite pig. The collection includes 14 stories with memorable characters and three revealing autobiographical pieces. Wodehouse’s signature humor and human tone make the work feel lively and engaging.
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ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF SOLITUDE
Gabriel García Márquez
In this magnificent and acclaimed novel, the Buendia family’s story unfolds, portraying the challenging struggle between the yearning for seclusion and the necessity for affection in a richly imaginative manner. The epic tale traverses seven generations of the Buendía clan, encompassing a tumultuous century of Latin American history, from the postcolonial 1820s to the 1920s. The family’s patriarch, José Arcadio Buendía, sets out to construct a utopian city called Macondo, located amidst a swamp.
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LEGENDS OF KHASAK
O.V. Vijayan
The novel follows a young university student who leaves a promising future, and becomes a primary school teacher in the remote village of Khasak. As the village gradually reveals its secrets, the protagonist becomes captivated by its blend of dreams and legends from ancient times.
