The God of Small Things

by Arundhati Roy
The God of Small Things cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Literary Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 78
  • Added: 2025-08-30
  • Updated: 2026-02-21
  • ISBN: 9789351184409
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2017-06-13
  • Formats: 37
  • Reviews: 4

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy is a profound and poignant exploration of family, love, and the societal constraints that bind them. Set in the Indian state of Kerala, the story unfolds through the lives of the Rahel and Estha, twins whose world is shattered by the arrival of their cousin Sophie Mol. The narrative weaves together personal tragedy with the broader historical context of colonialism and casteism, revealing how the 'Love Laws' dictate who can love whom and how much. Roy's lush prose and intricate storytelling bring to life the beauty and brutality of human relationships, making this a powerful and unforgettable read. The novel delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics, the impact of political and social upheavals, and the enduring power of memory and loss.

Reviews
Reddit - r/literature · 2026-02-21
gorgeous 4.50

The book is gorgeously written and its themes and messages are important. It is a deeply moving tribute to India's 'small lives'.

The reviewer praises The God of Small Things for its gorgeous writing and important themes. They highlight the novel's deep emotional complexity and its touching tribute to India's 'small lives'. The reviewer also appreciates the book's imaginative descriptions and satisfying narrative, which make it a memorable reading experience. The novel's themes and messages resonate deeply with the reader, making it a significant piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    It is first of all gorgeously written with writing that makes you wonder, how it is someone's first novel.

    The themes and the messages are important.

    The novel is a deep and emotionally-complex book underneath.

Sania Writes · Sania Ansari · 2025-10-13
insightful 4.50

The novel is praised for its perfect blend of satire, drama, and politics, offering a critical yet engaging look at Indian society. The reviewer finds it unapologetic and insightful.

Sania Ansari commends 'The God of Small Things' for its masterful blend of satire, drama, and politics. They find the novel to be unapologetic in its portrayal of Indian society, shedding light on various facets that are often overlooked. The reviewer appreciates the way Roy weaves together different elements to create a compelling narrative that is both critical and engaging. They believe the book's strength lies in its ability to challenge readers and provoke thought about societal issues.

Quick quotes

    The novel is a perfect blend of satire, drama, and politics.

    It sheds light on the various facets of Indian society in an unapologetic way.

    The book's strength lies in its ability to challenge readers and provoke thought.

thestudentnews.co.uk · 2025-01-30
poignant 4.50

The novel is highly recommended for its poignant depiction of intertwined themes of love and loss, presenting a tragic yet beautiful narrative.

This reviewer highlights the novel's ability to weave a deeply moving tale where love and loss are inseparably linked, creating a story that is both tragic and beautiful. They recommend it enthusiastically, noting the emotional depth and the powerful portrayal of the characters' traumas and relationships. The book's exploration of human emotions and societal constraints resonates strongly, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I would highly recommend The God of Small Things.

    A beautiful depiction of a tragic tale, where love and loss seem always intertwined.

    Love and loss seem always intertwined.

DLI Review · 2024-04-30
entertaining 4.50

The book is entertaining and a truly worthy winner of the Booker Prize. It tests one's ability to comprehend and engage with its complex themes.

This book is not only entertaining but also a truly worthy winner of the Booker Prize. It's a challenging read that tests one's ability to comprehend and engage with its complex themes. The narrative is rich and layered, offering a deep dive into the intricacies of Indian society. It's a book that rewards careful reading and reflection.

Quick quotes

    However, it's entertaining and, in my opinion, a truly worthy winner of the Booker Prize.

    The book truly tests one's ability to comprehend.

    The narrative is rich and layered, offering a deep dive into the intricacies of Indian society.

Appears in Lists