A review by paperindy
The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
The White Tiger was an enjoyable and engaging read but it didn’t grab me as much as I’d hoped. I did really enjoy the insights this novel has to offer on class and caste, wealth, corruption, democracy and can really see how and why it made waves in 2008.
I thought the author does a fantastic job of creating India, and placing you there amidst the smells and the chaos and the life. But it was a bit hard to get around the androcentric focus of discussion and pretty crap attitude towards women throughout the whole thing, which I understood as a reflection of the culture but left me feeling pretty yuck.
My experience was also likely influenced by my recent read of 2021 novel ‘How To Kidnap the Rich’, an Indian satire with similar tone and commentary (which has clearly been inspired by this novel). Reading these two novels close together somewhat diminished the otherwise refreshing style of writing and description The White Tiger would have to offer.
Overall this is a fast paced and engaging read, compelling in its premise and descriptions. If you think you wouldn’t be bothered by my above gripes, I’d definitely recommend this for anyone wanting a gripping and insightful novel full of fury and energy.
I thought the author does a fantastic job of creating India, and placing you there amidst the smells and the chaos and the life. But it was a bit hard to get around the androcentric focus of discussion and pretty crap attitude towards women throughout the whole thing, which I understood as a reflection of the culture but left me feeling pretty yuck.
My experience was also likely influenced by my recent read of 2021 novel ‘How To Kidnap the Rich’, an Indian satire with similar tone and commentary (which has clearly been inspired by this novel). Reading these two novels close together somewhat diminished the otherwise refreshing style of writing and description The White Tiger would have to offer.
Overall this is a fast paced and engaging read, compelling in its premise and descriptions. If you think you wouldn’t be bothered by my above gripes, I’d definitely recommend this for anyone wanting a gripping and insightful novel full of fury and energy.