The White Tiger: A Novel (Man Booker Prize) (ISBN 1416562605)

the real story on India:
The events related illustrate and teach much about India that needs to be known by those who do not come from the area. I can see whay many Indians are so upset by the work. They do not claim that what it written is false, mind you, just that Mr. Adiga (a journalist and Native son) should not have told such truths to the world. Much of what is told is truly heart breaking. This is not going to make you feel good about the country--but is does give some insights that may be useful in evaluating some of the pressures and views of the people of the nation that will be the most populous in the world and one of the two world leaders (along with China) sometime in the 21st century.

WHITE TIGER:
I would suggest that if one is even faintly familiar with Indian culture, one's understanding and enjoyment of White Tiger is enhanced. Were I unfamiliar with the culture, I would have enjoyed the book, but with less comprehension of the circumstances of it. Similar to the movie Slumdog Millionaire. A great story, but much better if one has experienced big-city India.

Overdose of reality:
My credentials in reviewing this book are that I grew up in middle class India. The graphic narrative by Balram aka the White Tiger is poignant and provocative and makes it a very lively read. The reason the book is 'unputdownable' is because of the unexpected twists in Balram's life and his unpredictable, almost eccentric behavior. In spite of finishing this book in record time, I was left with a bad after-taste because of the overdose of squalor and scandals that surround the protagonist. It is hard to label this book as a 'pleasant escape'. It in fact takes you on a journey, gripping you by the lapels, to a world that is painted in blood and debauchery.

Captivating book, worthy of the award:
I have been waiting to read this book ever since I heard the Booker buzz and I was not disappointed. Although there are many books written by Indian authors showcasing the great divide that is India, this novel struck a cord like no other. Maybe it was the dark humor or the simplicity of the narration or the undeniable audience the protagonist commands. The chasm in the lives of the rich and the poor not just intrigues and captivates readers of the west but unsettles the heart of those who are from the subcontinent. This is evident in the number of critical reviews this book has received from many Indian readers.

An excellent read!:
I was hesitant to purchase this book at first even with all the good reviews + the fact this book won a prize. Usually books that win prizes are boing(in my opinion). The White Tiger deserved to win a Man Booker prize! What a page turner! I never knew what was going to happen next and I loved the dark humor. Grade A+.