Pakistan is a country with a rich literary tradition, producing many talented writers over the years. From classic works to contemporary novels, there is no shortage of excellent books to read from Pakistani authors. Here are ten Pakistani books to add to your reading list:
- “A Case of Exploding Mangoes” by Mohammed Hanif
This satirical novel explores the events leading up to the assassination of Pakistani dictator General Zia ul-Haq in 1988. Mohammed Hanif’s darkly humorous writing style makes for an engaging read that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
- “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” by Mohsin Hamid
This novel tells the story of a Pakistani man named Changez who travels to the United States to study and eventually work on Wall Street. However, after the events of 9/11, Changez’s life is turned upside down, and he is forced to question his identity and place in the world.
- “In Other Rooms, Other Wonders” by Daniyal Mueenuddin
This collection of interconnected short stories provides a glimpse into the lives of Pakistani landowners and their servants. Daniyal Mueenuddin’s writing is vivid and evocative, and the stories offer a unique perspective on class and power in Pakistan.
- “The Wandering Falcon” by Jamil Ahmad
This novel is a beautifully written tale of a young boy’s journey through the tribal areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Wandering Falcon offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that is rarely seen in Western literature.
- “The Crow Eaters” by Bapsi Sidhwa
Set in colonial India, this novel tells the story of a Parsi family living in Lahore. Bapsi Sidhwa’s writing is both witty and insightful, and The Crow Eaters offers a fascinating perspective on the history of Pakistan and India.
- “My Feudal Lord” by Tehmina Durrani
This memoir by Tehmina Durrani is a powerful account of her life with her ex-husband, a powerful feudal lord in Pakistan. My Feudal Lord is a frank and honest exploration of the oppressive gender roles and cultural traditions that continue to shape Pakistani society.
- “Kartography” by Kamila Shamsie
Set in Karachi in the 1990s, this novel explores the complicated relationships between friends and family members. Kamila Shamsie’s writing is lyrical and nuanced, and Kartography is a beautifully crafted meditation on love, loss, and identity.
- “The Dancing Girls of Lahore” by Louise Brown
This non-fiction book provides an in-depth look at the lives of the women who work in the brothels of Lahore. Louise Brown’s writing is sensitive and insightful, and The Dancing Girls of Lahore is a compelling and thought-provoking read.
- “The Blind Man’s Garden” by Nadeem Aslam
This novel tells the story of two brothers who leave Pakistan to fight in Afghanistan after the events of 9/11. Nadeem Aslam’s writing is poetic and powerful, and The Blind Man’s Garden is a poignant exploration of the human cost of war.
- “Salt and Saffron” by Kamila Shamsie
This novel tells the story of a young woman named Aliya who returns to Pakistan to attend her cousin’s wedding. Kamila Shamsie’s writing is witty and engaging, and Salt and Saffron offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of Pakistani culture.
Topics #featured #Pakistan
