December is here to bring a (hopefully) cheerful end to a tumultuous year. So why not indulge in some fun holiday traditions?
This year, Bound has decided to participate in the cheerful and literary Icelandic tradition of gifting books to each other on Christmas. It’s called ‘Jolabokaflod’, which loosely translates to ‘Christmas book flood’. Don’t believe us? Look it up!
So whether you are playing Secret Santa this year, looking for a meaningful gift for a loved one or simply want to spread some holiday cheer, here are some great Indian books to gift to book lovers.
For Binge-watchers and Re-readers: ‘A Suitable Boy’ by Vikram Seth
There is nothing more comforting than revisiting our favourite books and movies. If your friend has been binge-watching Mira Nair’s adaptation of ‘A Suitable Boy’ on Netflix, it’s time to gift them the original. Vikram Seth’s novel takes us back to newly independent India and shows everyday people navigating their new reality. You can never go wrong with an Indian classic!
For Poets: ‘Out of Syllabus: Poems’ by Sumana Roy
Published in 2019, Sumana Roy’s debut poetry collection stands out in the sea of contemporary Indian poetry for its intriguing take on relationships. The book divides and analyses relationships based on school subjects like chemistry, biology, history, geography, and, of course, art! With her personal and philosophical take on love, loss and violence, this book will make you feel and think.
For Romantics: ‘A Year Of Wednesdays’ by Sonia Bahl
Two unnamed strangers, a chance meeting on a flight, and a conversation that transforms the way they live their lives. Gift your romance-loving friend some well-deserved holiday indulgence with a book that shows how lifelong connections can be made in a single moment. Additional bonus: This book is a great way to revive your fond memories of international travel!
For Thinkers: ‘Muscular India: Masculinity, Mobility & the New Middle Class’ by Michel Baas
Anthropologist Michel Baas has written this book based on his years of research on the growing obsession with bodybuilding among Indian men and its significance in our society. An insightful book that dissects the middle class and what it means to have an ‘ideal’ male body – perfect for readers who love thoroughly researched non-fiction books!
For Children: ‘The Very, Extremely, Most Naughty Asura Tales for Kids’ by Anand Neelakantan
Aren’t we chubby, aren’t we cute?
Aren’t we lovely, as sweet as fruit?
So begins Anand Neelakantan’s illustrated book, giving a fascinating and humorous twist to age-old Indian myths. Neelkantan says he is often mistaken as an asura since he also has curly hair! With adorable asuras and mischievous pranks, his book is a great introduction to mythology and an entertaining read for children over 8.
