Shantaram

by Gregory David Roberts
Shantaram cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Adventure
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 559
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781405516976
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-06-28
  • Formats: 26
  • Reviews: 4

Shantaram is a novel that blends high adventure, moral introspection, and rich storytelling, drawing from the author's own experiences. Gregory David Roberts, an escaped convict and former heroin addict, finds himself in the bustling slums of Bombay, where he establishes a free health clinic and becomes entangled with the local mafia. His journey is one of transformation, as he learns new languages, falls in love, and even fights with the Mujahedeen in Afghanistan. The novel is a profound exploration of human resilience and the search for meaning, written with gritty authenticity and lyrical beauty. The book is not just an adventure story but also a deep dive into the complexities of human nature and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. Roberts' firsthand account of life in Bombay's underworld, combined with his personal growth and the vivid descriptions of the city's culture, make Shantaram a compelling and unforgettable read.

Reviews
Owlcation · 2023-11-13
brilliant 4.50

The novel is brilliantly written and beautifully poetic, making it a page-turner. It offers a vivid depiction of Bombay's underworld through the eyes of an escaped convict.

This reviewer found Shantaram to be a captivating read, praising its poetic prose and engaging narrative. They highlighted the book's ability to swiftly pull readers into its world, making the pages fly by. The depiction of Bombay's underworld is vivid and immersive, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of the protagonist, an escaped convict. The reviewer appreciated the depth and richness of the storytelling, making it a memorable experience.

Quick quotes

    This epic, mesmerizing first novel set in the underworld of contemporary Bombay.

    Shantaram is a brilliantly written and sometimes beautifully poetic novel in which the pages fly by faster than I can ...

    There is no doubt that Shantaram is a brilliantly written and sometimes beautifully poetic novel.

Full Time Explorer · 2022-01-04
engrossing 4.50

The book is praised for its perfect mix of humor and deep philosophical debates, rooted in real-life experiences. It's seen as a captivating journey through the underworld of Bombay.

This reviewer found Shantaram to be a perfect blend of funny encounters and serious philosophical debates. They appreciate how the author's real-life experiences add authenticity to the narrative. The journey through Bombay's underworld is described as both thrilling and thought-provoking, making it a compelling read. The balance between humor and depth is particularly highlighted as a strength of the book.

Quick quotes

    Shantaram is the perfect mix of funny encounters and serious philosophical debates supported by real life experiences that few people in the world ever have.

    The journey through Bombay's underworld is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

    The balance between humor and depth is particularly highlighted as a strength of the book.

Reddit - r/books · u/UnknownRedditor · 2020-10-01
entertaining 3.50

The book is ideal for young readers who enjoy travel and bending the rules. It's described as a fun ride with a bit of everything.

This reviewer recommends Shantaram to young readers who have a spirit for adventure and a taste for bending the rules. They describe it as a fun ride that offers a variety of experiences. The book is seen as a great choice for those looking for an exciting and diverse reading experience. The review highlights the book's ability to keep the reader engaged and entertained.

Quick quotes

    Good book to read if you are young, like to travel, and appreciate bending the rules.

    It's fun ride and has a little bit of everything.

    The book is seen as a great choice for those looking for an exciting and diverse reading experience.

The Bibliophage · 2018-04-30
compelling 4.75

The layers and complexity of the characters and story are loved, with each character having a rich backstory. The narrative is engaging and beautifully crafted.

They loved the depth and complexity of the characters and the story. Each character has a backstory that unfolds gradually, adding layers to the narrative. The reviewer finds the writing to be engaging and beautifully crafted, making it a standout read. The attention to detail and the way the story unfolds is particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    I loved the layers and complexity of the characters and the story.

    Every character has a back story that Roberts reveals in pieces.

    The narrative is engaging and beautifully crafted.

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