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God of Small Things

Arundhati Roy

2 Chapters
Bought by 0 people
3 Readers
Completed on 23 May 2022
ISBN : 9789794614020

Booker Prize winner ?God of Small Things? is a story about two children, Esthappen and Rahel. This was Arundhati Roy's debut novel, in which she throws light on certain facets of life in Kerala, highlighting issues of caste system, Keralite Syrian Christian lifestyle and communism. Esthappen and Rahel at a very young age come to learn about horrifying truth of life, as they are being tortured and blamed for every misfortune. Their less than perfect life gets infected by unexpected events. through the novel begins with Esthappen and Rahel, most of its part holds wider stories of the political events shaping the state, their parents and relatives. The darker undertones in the life of twins get more evident, as secrets, bitterness and lies destroy their world. The heat-aching story of two innocent young children will surely keep you hooked till the end and leave you searching for more. 

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God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy is a beautifully written novel that explores the themes of love, loss, and betrayal. Set in the southern Indian state of Kerala, the story revolves around the lives of two fraternal twins, Estha and Rahel, and their family. The book is narrated from the perspective of several characters, including Estha and Rahel, their mother Ammu, and their cousin Sophie Mol. The story jumps back and forth in time, exploring the events that lead up to Sophie Mol's tragic death and the aftermath that follows. One of the things that makes this book so special is the way it captures the essence of Kerala. The author does an excellent job of describing the lush landscapes, the vibrant culture, and the unique dialects of the region. This adds an extra layer of depth to the story and makes it feel more authentic. Another thing I loved about this book is the way it explores the complex relationships between family members. The characters are flawed and relatable, and their struggles with love, loyalty, and betrayal are all too real. To conclude, God of Small Things is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys literary fiction or wants to learn more about life in India. I would love to recommend this book.


Incredible book and loved it, would recommend to everyone. God of Small Things, which won the Booker Prize, is a tale about Esthappen and Rahel. This was Arundhati Roy's first book, and it sheds light on several aspects of Keralan culture while bringing up difficulties with the caste system, the way of life of Keralite Syrian Christians, and communism. As they are tortured and held responsible for all of their misfortunes, Esthappen and Rahel discover the horrible truths of life at a very young age. Unexpected things enter their imperfect lives and spread it. While the narrative starts with Esthappen and Rahel, the majority of its chapters contain bigger stories of the political events defining the state, their parents, and their relatives.


"The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy is a literary masterpiece that captures the essence of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. With her lyrical prose and intricate storytelling, Roy weaves a compelling narrative set in the backdrop of Kerala, India, immersing readers in a world filled with forbidden love, societal constraints, and the tragic consequences of defying societal norms. At the heart of the novel are the lives of two fraternal twins, Rahel and Estha, who are bound by an unbreakable bond. Roy expertly crafts their story, delving into their childhood experiences, their innocent secrets, and the societal forces that ultimately tear them apart. The vivid descriptions and evocative imagery bring the characters and the setting to life, transporting readers to the lush landscapes of Kerala. One of the remarkable aspects of "The God of Small Things" is Roy's ability to tackle weighty themes with grace and subtlety. She explores the rigid caste system, the oppressive social hierarchy, and the complex dynamics of power and privilege. Through her narrative, Roy exposes the dark underbelly of society while also highlighting the resilience and indomitable spirit of her characters.


Arundhati Roy's debut novel, "The God of Small Things," is a spellbinding masterpiece that immerses readers in a poignant and evocative world. Published in 1997, this Booker Prize-winning novel takes us on a deeply emotional journey through the lives of the unconventional twins, Rahel and Estha, and their tumultuous family in the fictional town of Ayemenem, Kerala. Set against the backdrop of India's rigid caste system and social conventions, Roy weaves a complex and lyrical narrative that explores themes of love, loss, caste oppression, forbidden relationships, and the devastating consequences of societal boundaries. Her poetic prose dances off the page, capturing the essence of the characters and the lush Kerala landscape. The story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, shifting between past and present, as well as different perspectives, creating a mosaic of memories and events. Roy's non-traditional narrative style mirrors the fragmented lives of her characters, enhancing the reader's understanding of their multifaceted personalities and the intricate connections that bind them. The characters in "The God of Small Things" are vividly drawn and unforgettable. Rahel and Estha, the twins at the heart of the story, are portrayed with sensitivity and depth, allowing readers to witness their innocence, struggles, and the tragic event that shapes their lives forever. Other characters, such as their mother Ammu, their untamed cousin Sophie Mol, and the enigmatic Velutha, add layers of complexity to the narrative, exploring themes of forbidden love, societal prejudice, and the consequences of breaking the rules. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the caste system and its impact on individuals' lives. Roy skillfully exposes the hypocrisy, discrimination, and power dynamics inherent in the system, highlighting the tragic consequences it has on the characters' relationships and choices. Through her vivid storytelling, she invites readers to examine the deep-rooted inequalities that persist in society. "The God of Small Things" is a profound exploration of the human experience, delving into the profound and poignant moments that shape our lives. Roy's prose is rich in metaphor, creating a tapestry of emotions that lingers long after the final page is turned. However, the novel's intricate narrative structure and the occasional shifts in perspective may pose a challenge for some readers who prefer a more linear storytelling style. In conclusion, "The God of Small Things" is a stunning work of literature that showcases Arundhati Roy's immense talent as a writer. It is a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, societal constraints, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through her vivid characters and poetic prose, Roy invites readers into a world that is at once familiar and foreign, touching upon universal themes while shedding light on the specific struggles faced by individuals in post-colonial India. This novel is a must-read for those seeking an immersive and emotionally charged literary experience.


Arundhati Roy's masterpiece, "The God of Small Things," is a mesmerizing literary gem that transcends boundaries and leaves an indelible mark on its readers. With its intricate storytelling, poignant themes, and richly developed characters, this Booker Prize-winning novel is an absolute tour de force. Set in the quaint town of Ayemenem in Kerala, India, Roy weaves together a tapestry of events that span generations, exploring the lives of the dysfunctional Ipe family and their entwined fate with the larger social and political landscape of post-colonial India. At the heart of the narrative are fraternal twins Rahel and Estha, whose lives are forever altered by a series of tragic events. Roy's writing is a masterclass in evocative storytelling. She effortlessly transports the reader to the humid and lush atmosphere of Ayemenem, engaging all senses with vivid descriptions of sights, sounds, and scents. Her prose is lyrical, poetic, and imbued with a profound sensitivity that captures the essence of the characters' emotions and experiences. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of themes such as love, loss, societal hierarchy, and the shackles of tradition. Roy delves into the complex dynamics of family, illuminating the dark corners of relationships, and the tragic consequences of breaking societal norms. Through the lens of her characters, she exposes the rigid caste system, the harsh realities of post-colonialism, and the unforgiving consequences of crossing boundaries. The characters in "The God of Small Things" are beautifully fleshed out and deeply flawed, making them all the more human and relatable. Rahel and Estha, with their innocent bond and devastating secrets, leave an indelible mark on the reader's heart. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic matriarch Ammu, the boisterous Chacko, and the haunting Velutha, add depth and complexity to the narrative, each bearing their own burdens and desires. Roy's non-linear narrative structure is both challenging and rewarding. By weaving back and forth between different time periods, she constructs a fragmented mosaic of the story, gradually revealing its secrets. It requires the reader's full attention and patience, but the pay-off is well worth the effort. The puzzle-like structure adds layers of suspense, enhancing the emotional impact of the climactic moments. "The God of Small Things" is a thought-provoking novel that lingers long after the final page is turned. It challenges societal norms, exposes the wounds of history, and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. Arundhati Roy's unparalleled storytelling prowess and profound exploration of the human condition make this a literary masterpiece that deserves a place on every book lover's shelf. In conclusion, "The God of Small Things" is an unforgettable journey of heartbreak, redemption, and the power of the small moments that shape our lives. Arundhati Roy's debut novel is a triumph of storytelling, and its impact on the literary world is undeniable. It is a book that demands to be read, cherished, and revisited time and time again.

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