For sure, you should read 'Q&A' which was made into the movie 'Slumdog Millionaire'. It tells an interesting story of a young man from the slums. 'The Guide' by R.K. Narayan is also a classic. It's about a tour guide whose life takes many unexpected turns. And 'Interpreter of Maladies' by Jhumpa Lahiri is great as it explores the experiences of Indian - Americans through a collection of short stories.
You could start with 'The Hunger Games' trilogy by Suzanne Collins. It's a very accessible and engaging series that takes place in a post - apocalyptic world. It has strong characters and a fast - paced plot.
You should definitely consider 'The Inheritance of Loss' by Kiran Desai. This novel explores the themes of migration, identity, and the clash between cultures. It won the Man Booker Prize. 'Train to Pakistan' by Khushwant Singh is also a classic. Set during the partition of India, it gives a heart - wrenching account of the violence and upheaval of that time. 'The White Tiger' by Aravind Adiga is a more contemporary take on the Indian experience, looking at issues like class struggle and the dark underbelly of India's economic rise.
One must - have Indian novel is 'The God of Small Things' by Arundhati Roy. It beautifully weaves a story of family, love, and the caste system in Kerala. Another is 'Midnight's Children' by Salman Rushdie. It tells the story of India's transition to independence through the lives of children born at midnight on the day of independence. And 'A Suitable Boy' by Vikram Seth is also great. It's a long and detailed exploration of post - independence India through the search for a suitable boy for a young woman.
Some great must - read 2024 fiction books could be those by well - known authors who are set to release new works. For example, if J.K. Rowling were to come out with a new novel in 2024, it would surely be a must - read. Also, books that explore current social issues in a fictional setting are likely to be popular. Like a story set in a future world dealing with climate change consequences.
One great Indian historical fiction book is 'The Palace of Illusions' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. It retells the Mahabharata from Draupadi's perspective, giving a fresh and female - centered view of the well - known epic.
One must - read contemporary novel is 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini. It's a powerful story about friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's history. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, exploring themes of marriage and identity. 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green is also highly recommended. It's a heart - wrenching love story that deals with illness and mortality in a very poignant way.
One must - read Tamil novel is 'Ponniyin Selvan' by Kalki Krishnamurthy. It's a historical epic that vividly depicts the Chola dynasty. Another great one is 'Sivagamiyin Sabadham' also by Kalki. It has a rich narrative full of love, war, and political intrigue. 'Parthiban Kanavu' is yet another. It tells a story of a king's unfulfilled dream and is a beautiful piece of literature.
You could start with 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes' by Arthur Conan Doyle. It's a classic with brilliant detective work.
One must - read Lovecraft story is 'The Call of Cthulhu'. It's a classic that introduces the terrifying Cthulhu mythos. Another great one is 'At the Mountains of Madness', which takes you on a chilling journey to Antarctica with a scientific expedition that discovers ancient and horrifying secrets. 'The Colour Out of Space' is also a must, with its eerie tale of a strange, otherworldly color that infects a rural area.
One must - read visual novel is 'Clannad'. It has a beautiful story that combines elements of slice - of - life, drama, and a touch of the supernatural. The characters are well - developed and the emotional journey throughout the game is truly engaging.