Looking for some fresh and captivating reads to add to your collection? Look no further than the latest books by talented Malayali authors! These authors offer a unique perspective and storytelling traditions with thought-provoking novels that are sure to captivate and inspire. So why not curl up with one of these literary gems and lose yourself in a world of wonder and imagination? Happy reading!
The Stolen Necklace – Shevlin Sebastian
Prepare to be moved, enraged, and captivated by “The Stolen Necklace” penned by the seasoned journalist Shevlin Sebastian. In this deeply personal account, Sebastian chronicles the heart-wrenching saga of VK Thajudheen, a Kannur native who was wrongfully accused of stealing a gold necklace, imprisoned, and left to endure 54 days of police harassment. Published by HarperCollins, this book uncovers the tragic story that gripped Kerala’s attention in 2018, shedding light on the victim’s perspective and unmasking the complexities surrounding the case.
Buy it here.
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The Covenant of Water- Abraham Varghese
The book recounts the summer vacation experiences of Abraham Varghese, a physician turned writer, in Kerala. It is set in Parambil and follows the journey of an Indian Christian family spanning three generations who face a tragedy in each generation when a family member dies due to “The Condition”. This affliction is explored in the story and is revealed to be a fate that leads to drowning and death. The characters navigate love and loss through their relationships with each other and ‘the water body’. The story is set in 1900 and depicts Kerala as our grandparents remembered it.
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Teen couple have fun outdoors – Aravind Jayan
Teen couple have fun outdoors, written by Aravind Jayan, is a clever satire that matches the novel’s overall tone. The central plot revolves around a private video of a couple that is filmed and released without their knowledge. Set in Thiruvananthapuram, the story is narrated by the husband’s brother, Sreenath, who humorously observes the reactions of those around them. As the story progresses, the couple’s conservative parents are forced to confront the chaos, and the characters’ dynamics are contrasted in an effort to mitigate the situation.
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The Dreams of a Mappila Girl — A Memoir- B.M Zuhra
In her memoir, B.M. Zuhra beautifully recounts her childhood memories and provides an insightful portrayal of Malayali Muslims during the 1950s. The ancestral home holds significant importance in the story, and the author shares a deep emotional connection with it despite its absence today. Zuhra delves into her relationships with her parents, family, and neighbors, comprehensively exploring her perspectives. In a time when it was uncommon, Zuhra’s passion for reading paved the way for her to become the first Muslim Malayali writer, though she encountered a backlash as a result. Her memoir is captivating, depicting a bygone era where the lines between fiction and reality are blurred.
Buy it here.
Paachakam: Heritage Cuisine of Kerala- Sabita Radhakrisha
Sabita, who is 80 years old, has pursued various professions and is actively engaged in charitable activities. Her latest book not only presents recipes from Kerala but also delves into their history and provides a detailed analysis of the communities they originate from. The book includes recipes from all the communities in Kerala, such as Nairs, Christians, Moplahs, Jews, Namboodris, and more. Sabita begins by exploring the spices and their significance in the recipe, followed by cooking techniques and their combination to create the final dish. She famously stated, “The hallmark of Kerala cuisine is its simplicity and rich flavor.”
Buy it here.
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God’s Own Entrepreneurs: The Success Secrets of 21 Entrepreneurs from Kerala – R. Roshan
The state of Kerala boasts of the highest literacy rates and has birthed many entrepreneurs whose innovative business ideas have left a mark on the world. The book delves into the lives of 21 such entrepreneurs, including illustrious names such as Yusuf Ali, Joy Alukkas, and Byju Raveendran. A skilled journalist, Roshan has brought to light the lesser-known stories of these pioneers, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit and shared identity as Malayalis.
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God’s Own Office: How One Man Worked- James Joseph
The novel is set in the beautiful backwaters of Kerala and tells the story of an IT professional navigating the challenges of work while trying to find success from the comfort of his village. He eventually achieves his goals while working from home in America and shares a captivating tale of the joys and frustrations of remote work and city life. This memoir serves as a guide for anyone wanting to set up a home office and is a reminder that a fulfilling career doesn’t have to come at the expense of personal life. It’s an inspiring read for young people struggling with the pressures of a hustle culture.
Buy it here.
Feeling Kerala – J Devika
Kerala is a vibrant and evolving place that embraces diversity and welcomes new communities. “Feeling Kerala” is a collection of modern Malayalam stories that are rich in vivid imagery and captivating plotlines. The anthology has been thoughtfully put together for English readers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the essence of Kerala both literally and figuratively. The tales take place in the 20th century and cover everything from stories of communism to those highlighting matrilineal traditions, all woven together with a backdrop of migration and globalization. Through the narratives, readers will encounter the landscapes, people, customs, and myths that make Kerala unique.
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Qabar- KR Meera and Nisha Susan
K.R. Meera’s Qabar is a fascinating blend of realism and magical realism. The novella features an intriguing conversation between a district judge and a respondent in a political narrative set in modern-day India. The story emphasizes the idea that verdicts do not always provide solutions. Meera portrays the intertwined communities of Muslims and Hindus, delving into their histories and their relationships with each other and between men and women. The characters in the story are memorable and linger in one’s thoughts long after finishing the book.
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Pranayajinnukal – Riyan Rashid
Jinns are mythological spirits and are often feared for their powers of assuming various identities while being unseen to humans. Pranayajinnukal can be translated to the jinns of love and speaks of a story of loss and lamentation. Compared to a ghost town that can’t be forgotten because its memories linger, the dirges of the departed echo from the pages. The love story unfolds through the layers of fear. The story brings together two different feelings, longing, and paranoia, with melancholy and mystery.
Buy it here.
Malayali authors have a rich and diverse literary tradition that offers a unique perspective on the world. Their works are thought-provoking, captivating, and inspiring, making them a must-read for anyone looking for fresh and exciting narratives. So why not dive into the world of Malayali literature and discover the beauty and wonder that awaits?
