Reviews

I read this novel some years ago when my son was reading it for school. I don't think I was as struck by it as I am this time around. The writing, the vivid description in particular, is engrossing and delightful. The story is hilarious and gives a real feel if small town Indian life. The novel also has a character with the best name ever: Kulfi.

book_concierge's review against another edition

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3.0

Entertaining fable of modern-day India. Sampath, who has never amounted to anything, runs away and climbs the guava tree where he becomes known as the Monkey Baba - an esteemed holy man revered by his village and other pilgrims.

brusboks's review against another edition

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funny reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

laurarosessupposes's review against another edition

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4.0

Charming and amusing.

boxcar's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Fun read. Calvino-esque, and I don't say that just because of the tree-dwelling similarity to the Baron in the Trees. A fairy tale, ridiculous yet reflective of the workings of society. The dream to disengage from the mechanisms of capitalism, once realized, entangles one further within its reach. The rigid familial structure and patriarchy is obviously absurd against the lunacy of the situation. At once a silly story that can't be taken seriously and a critique of our priorities.

7se's review against another edition

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4.0

kiran desai, in her writing of this book, proves her mastery of the ijbol genre of fiction.

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