Books by Jhumpa Lahiri that you should read
What's the story
Jhumpa Lahiri is a popular Indian-American author known for her interesting essays, stories, and non-fiction literature. Her writing style is simple, which is why several readers are able to connect with her. Additionally, her works often showcase immigrant and Indian-American experiences, which has gotten her to win several reputed accolades. With that said, read these five books by her.
#1
'The Namesake'
The most celebrated work of Lahiri, The Namesake, was published in 2003 and was awarded several accolades, including the New Yorker Debut of the Year. The story is about an Indian couple settled in the United States. It is about the trials and tribulations they face as immigrants to blend into the American culture. It also highlights the cultural conflicts that their children face.
#2
'Interpreter of Maladies'
Published in 1999, Interpreter of Maladies is a collection of nine short stories and Lahiri's debut book. In 2000, it won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. The story explores the emotional tales of Indians living in Boston and how they reveal perspectives on their relationship. The novel explores their lives that are caught between their roots and the new world.
#3
'The Lowland'
Published in 2013, The Lowland won the DSC Prize, was shortlisted for Man Booker Prize, and was longlisted for the National Book Award. The story is about two brothers, Udayan and Subhash, born and brought up in Kolkata. After they grow up, Subhash travels to America while Udayan joins the Naxalite movement. Years later, Subhash visits India to look for his shattered family.
#4
'Unaccustomed Earth'
Published in 2008, Unaccustomed Earth is a collection of short stories that explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions. It revolves around the lives of Indian Americans and how they struggle to mix into both cultures. The story is told from both the viewpoint of the older generation immigrating to America and of their children burdened by the cultural past of India.
#5
'Whereabouts'
Whereabouts was originally written by Lahiri in 2018 in Italian. Later, it was translated into English and was published again in 2021. The novel has 46 chapters, and each chapter depicts the thoughts and day-to-day life of a middle-aged and single Italian woman who lives a lonely life. The unnamed woman is a professor-writer by profession and is attracted to her married friend.