by Padma Viswanathan (2014)
In 2004, almost 20 years after the fatal bombing of an Air India flight from Vancouver, 2 suspects--finally--are on trial for the crime. Ashwin Rao, an Indian psychologist trained in Canada, comes back to do a "study of comparative grief," interviewing people who lost loved one in the attack. What he neglects to mention is that he, too, had family members who died on the plane. Then, to his delight and fear, he becomes embroiled in the lives of one family caught in the undertow of the tragedy, and privy to their secrets. This surprising emotional connection sparks him to confront his own losses. The Ever After of Ashwin Rao imagines the lasting emotional and political consequences of a real-life act of terror, confronting what we might learn to live with and what we can live without.
David Bezmozgis
Escaping his political opponents in a Crimean resort town, disgraced Israeli politician Baruch Kotler runs into a former friend who had him sent to the gulag forty years prior and must reconcile with his betrayer and his own poor choices.
Salman Rushdie
Knife is a celebrated work by Salman Rushdie (Booker of Bookers Winner), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.
Kurt Vonnegut
If This Isnt Nice What Is Advice To The Young The Graduation Speeches is a celebrated work by Kurt Vonnegut (American Master), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.
Thomas Keneally
Night with Connected Readings is a celebrated work by Thomas Keneally (Booker Prize Winner), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.