On the Delhi Bucket List for 2014 is to read a book every month. To make sure you follow through on this, we got in touch with one of our favourite independent bookstores in town, The Bookshop in Jor Bagh Market. When in doubt, we ask Sonal or Mr. Singh who run the book shop for a recommendation, and they suggest titles that fit just what we need! They've curated a selection of books for 2014 especially for LBBD.
As a bookseller it is difficult to make a definitive list, since recommendations are based on a reader's taste. But once in a while, special books come along that are loved by most. This is just such a list spanning genres.
Poetry | Best Poems on the Underground
This book is not just about the poems that are part of it, though each one beautiful in its own way, it is about an effort to make the mundane job of commuting more inspired.
Fiction | Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This is story about a time when death is ubiquitous, yet has a story to tell.
Cricket History | Beyond a Boundary by CLR James
A story of how cricket created a nation out of separate identities.
Biography | Diddi by Ira Pande
A glimpse into a glorious era of Hindi literature and feminist awakening.
Science Fiction | Fahernheit 451 by ray Bradbury
Must read of science fiction.
Mughal History | Emperors of the Peacock Throne by Abraham Eraly
A compelling history of the most fascinating rulers of India.
Literary Essays | Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman
A delightful book of essays on the love of reading,writing and collecting books.
Biography | Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund De Waal
An unusual biography tracing a family's history though art.
Fiction | Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
An epistolary book that shows how reading can make the difference between living and existing.
Science | Surely you're joking Mr. Feynman by Richard Feynman
Science for the layman; this book breaks it down, simplifying the jargon for everybody.
Crime/Mystery | Stepford Wives or Boys from Brazil by Ira Levin
Cult books, there is no other way to define them.
Fiction | Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennet
A little gem.
Find out more about The Bookshop | 13/7 Jorbagh Market, New Delhi; 011 2469 7102; Facebook Page here