short book review of malgudi days

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Thursday, March 17, 2011

Malgudi days -- r k narayan.

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Malgudi School Days: Book Review, Summary and Analysis

Malgudi School Days: This was a splendid read and took me about eight hours to finish. This is a classic, you don’t have to be a child to relate to it. Through my book review, I will be talking about the author, my favourite character and a critical analysis of a few parts. I will also be providing a summary of the book.

About the Malgudi School days Book Author:  R. K. Narayan

Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami was born on 10 October 1906. He is the brother of famous cartoonist R.K Laxman and is famous for his short stories set in the town of South India called Malgudi. He has authored three books, all three have been very famous including semi-autobiographical Swami and Friends, The English Teacher, and The Bachelor of Arts. His other book The Guide was also a famous one, which went on to win the Sahitya Academy Award and was also adapted for a film, winning the Filmfare Award for Best Film.

Read: RK NARAYAN: Biography and Books

A Summary of the Malgudi School Days Book

Swami and Friends are the first of a trilogy set in a fictional town of South India called Malgudi. The plot revolves around Swami, a demure yet outspoken boy, and his two friends Rajam- The boy who everyone looks up to in class and Mani- the big bruiser who everyone fears. They get involved in various adventures as they roam around the town trying to find things to do.

“He shuddered at the very thought of school” The opening lines of the book give us an account of how much he abhors school life. The first chapter gives us an account of the Albert Mission School and its teachers. Mr Pillai, the history teacher is a crowd favourite whereas Ebenezer, the scriptures teacher is disliked by everyone including Swami. The scriptures master detests Hindu gods, which angers Swami’s father who then writes a letter to the headmaster referring to the alienation that the Hindu boys of the class feel when Ebenezer bashes Krishna. This chapter introduces us to Mani. Mani is huge and his brawn outshines his brains. His other friends include Somu, Samuel, and Sankar.

The second chapter marks the entry of the new boy in a class called Rajam. Rajam is the son of a wealthy superintendent. Mani declares Rajam as his rival. After Swami mediates between both of them, they become the best of friends and hang around in a trio. Swami talks incessantly to his family about Rajam.  “Oh, granny you don’t know what a great fellow Rajam  is!” Swami exclaims. His continuous flattery and adulation for Rajam leads to him being called “Rajam’s Tail” by his other classmates including Somu Sankar and Samuel. This results in an ugly spat. Rajam to reconcile his classmates calls all of them over for lunch to his magnificent house and offers them a gift if they will make peace with each other.

“Say, Pea,”  Swami tells Samuel  “I got a brother this morning”  which highlights how children are unable to understand how babies arrive. Shubbhu his new baby brother has entered the world.

Then comes examination fever, Swami rushes to complete his chapters on decimal, read his lessons again, etc. On the last day of the examination, students are filled with joy, they know that they have a few days to relax and have fun Swami. But all is not so jovial and happy when it comes to the national arena. India is waging a nonviolent war against the British. The boys also decided to join the Freedom Movement and participate in the National boycott of foreign clothes. Swami gets so carried away that he throws a stone at the window of the school. This gets him shifted to another school which is the Board school, he is separated from all his friends and he is despondent.

The second segment marks the maturity of Swami. Now he and his friends have decided to form the Malgudi Cricket Club. Swami has established himself as a great bowler and he is fondly called Maurice Tate. Swami soon gets himself in trouble with the headmaster over The MCC and has to run away from school fearing punishment. Swami manages to reach a forest and is very tired and forlorn. A Forest officer finds Swami and takes care of him. Rajam’s father can’t find Swami. As soon as Swami returns to Malgudi, he is greeted with sad news as he realizes that Rajam is leaving the town, who is also very angry at Swami for running away on the day of their match. Swami runs to the train station to give his friend a parting present which is a book of fairytales. However, Rajam accepts the present but still doesn’t say a word to Swami. “ Oh rajam, you are going away? When will you be back”  When Rajam finally opens his mouth to say something, it’s too late, the train has already left the platform. Mani promises Swami that Rajam told him that he would write to him. But Swami isn’t sure. This is like a childhood friendship, which when the time comes, has to end.

Analysis of the Malgudi School Days Book

The beginning of the book automatically alerts you to what this story is going to be about. You get to know that this story is specifically revolving around Swami, a boy from a town called Malgudi who hates school. Swami is an upper-caste vegetarian Brahmin, no doubt. His identity is highlighted in the chapter where he raises his voice against Ebenezer, his scriptures master when Ebenezer glorifies Jesus. As a Brahmin boy, he is unable to take in the fact that Jesus, who eats meat and drinks wine, is worshipped as a god over and above the great Krishna.

K Narayan seeks to fulfil another purpose with his book and doesn’t restrict it to just a schoolboy narrative. He tries to focus on the post-colonization changes throughout the book as he mentions the boys’ participation in the National Boycott. The line “Young man, do you want our country to remain in eternal slavery?” is significant. This reminds Swami, a middle schooler, that despite his age, he has a few obligations towards his country. Since he is wearing a foreign cap, he removes it and throws it in the fire.

Swami goes till the length of shouting out loud “We will spit on the police” when the headmaster of Board High school is unwilling to participate in the strike. Swami gets so angry that he even manages to throw a stone at the glass window of the school which shatters into a million pieces. When his father reprimands Swami for behaving like this, we see a form of social control being administered on children and students, disallowing them to enter the realms of politics because they are “too young”. It is a reflection of how most elders are aloof of the idea of children expressing dissent.

Narayan also tries to subtly hint at the attitude most Hindus had towards Muslims. When Rajam arrives at swami’s house, Swami is seen fiddling with a camera made by a Muslim boy in his class called Akbar Ali. Sensing Rajam’s disapproval of his new friend, Swami tries to explain himself. He says that Akbar Ali is a “very fine Mohammedan, calls Mohammed of Ghazni and Aurangzeb rascals.” The next line from Rajam which is “what makes you think they were rascals?” leaves me a little uncertain about Rajam’s opinion on the matter.

All in all, this was a splendid read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. To see a book being written for Indian kids, with native heroes in a familiar social context makes me really happy. Often Indian children resort to books like “What Katy did” to find a frame of reference for their own childhood, but Swami’s story offers an Indian alternative to Western novels.

Favourite Character – Swami’s Innocent Grandmother

My favourite character is undoubtedly the grandmother. She lived at the end of an ill-ventilated passage between the front hall and the dining room. Swami was a frequent visitor and would often, after his meal, curl up in his granny’s lap. She smelt of cardamom and cloves. Her listening abilities and patience know no bound. Swami can go on about Rajam, his schoolmaster, literally, anything under the sun and granny will still listen to him with a lot of attention. She has a really giving nature. She manages to concede to Swami’s demand all the time.

Her memory, for her age, is pretty good as she recounts stories of the valor and intelligence of her husband. She tells Swami about how his grandfather got a gold medal for securing the first position in the FA Examination.  Her innocence is bewildering, the way she nods off to sleep in between one of Swami’s rendition is indeed endearing. She constantly reminds. Swami about the importance of being a good human being as she narrates stories of Harishchandra.  

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_and_Friends
• https://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2011/jun/17/review-swami-friends
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._K._Narayan
• Malgudi School days by R.K. Narayan – Available on Amazon

Saanjh Shekhar

Saanjh Shekhar is a first-year student of Lady Shri Ram College. She is studying sociology and is passionate about the subject. She loves writing and debating. Her other interests include reading lots of fiction. She's a fan of all things classic, including movies and books. If you ever want to have deep discussions about life or even light ones about social conditioning, you can hit her up on her Insta id which is saanjh_shekhar

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These 24 brief tales--eight previously uncollected, the others from volumes never published here--are set in the fictional...

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MALGUDI DAYS

by R. K. Narayan ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 1, 1982

These 24 brief tales--eight previously uncollected, the others from volumes never published here--are set in the fictional city of Malgudi, where for over 40 years Narayan's humble-to-prideful Malgudians (in tales and novels) have twisted and bobbed to the winds of Fate, to the vagaries of their fellows. Some tales end with an amusing flip of fortune, often stiffened with a light chill of irony: a street astrologer, visited by a glowering client bringing retribution from the past, wins out because of both wits and chance; a pickpocket learns that God's gift to him was a ""one-way deftness"" after he is jailed for compassionately putting a wallet back; a failure at winning crossword-contest money tries suicide by lying peacefully across tracks. . .but is saved by a delayed train--and a bit of luck at home. Or, like the animal in ""Blind Dog"" who inexplicably re-enters servitude to a brutal master, there are those who ""return to their doom with a free heart"": a student, a laughing-stock failure, writes a suicide note but dies in the delirium of success; a timid retiree turns his back on his own liberating artistry when others suggest he is mad. There are also delightful tales in which Fate as absolute millstone is hilariously: mocked: a poor man wins a steamroller, which nearly proves his ruin until a welcome earthquake solves his enormous problem. . . while an enterprising businessman gets more than he wanted when he purchases a mammoth statue for its metal. And the newer stories offer a fresh array of Malgudians who study Fate's bland surprises and cruel sentences with fascination: a lazy modern son teased into the marriage-mart, a glamorous singing star returning to her peasant village, a dessicated centenarian and a Western ""hippie"" pursuing elusive paths to pardon for sins of the past. From crowded streets to public buildings and neighborhood lanes, Narayan offers a rich cross-section of contemporary India; but the underlying ethos--that while good fortune may smile, bad luck crouches in the fairest garden--is captivatingly universal.

Pub Date: March 1, 1982

ISBN: 0143039652

Page Count: -

Publisher: Viking

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 1, 1982

Categories: FICTION

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Malgudi Days

R. K. Narayan, Jhumpa Lahiri | 4.36 | 15,909 ratings and reviews

Ranked #21 in Indian Author , Ranked #21 in R — see more rankings .

Rankings by Category

Malgudi Days is ranked in the following categories:

• #46 in Indian

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Book Reviews on...

Malgudi days, by r k narayan.

Narayan is a genius. He is sheer magic. If you mention his name in India people stand up and cheer.

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“Narayan is a genius. I only discovered him last year and I have now read everything he has ever written. He is sheer magic. If you mention his name in India people stand up and cheer.” Read more...

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Malgudi Days

By r. k. narayan, malgudi days study guide.

Malgudi Days is a short-story collection by Indian writer R. K. Narayan . The book was initially published in 1943 in India by Indian Thought Publications. It was republished internationally by Penguin Classics in 1982.

The book follows the lives of different people, all located in the town of Malgudi, tracing moments in their everyday lives. Each story usually begins with the description of a person's job or daily routine and follows a slight disruption in that pattern. The endings of the stories usually feature some kind of significant turning point for the characters, for better or worse. In the story "Engine Trouble," a man wins a steam-powered tractor (a "road engine") which he cannot use, move, or store. He becomes increasingly desperate to get rid of it, as the city begins charging him rent to leave it at the fairgrounds where he won initially. After a series of increasingly disastrous failures to move it, the tractor is finally pushed by an earthquake, which plugs up an unclean water well. As a result, he reaches an agreement with the man whose wall he destroyed earlier, as the man was about to be fined for the well. In "Second Opinion," a son rebuffs his mother's effort to get him to marry. Then one day, he learns she has secretly been very ill and gives in to her demands. However, after getting a second doctor's opinion, he discovers she will likely be fine, leading him to feel he was too hasty in agreeing to marry. The stories often deal with issues of class, labor, and poverty, highlighting characters who struggle to maintain a household with their earnings. Narayan also uses historical events in the background of the story, like the prime ministership of Indira Gandhi.

A number of the stories were adapted into a 1986 television series of the same name. More of the stories were featured in a subsequent TV series, made in 2006. Google honored Narayan's birthday in 2014, with a graphic on their site about his life and work.

Malgudi Days Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Malgudi Days is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What were the items on Swami's list of much required stationary?

Swami writes down a list of his needs for the examination, such as paper, nibs, ink, clips, and pins.

What is the main conflict in R. K. Narayan's "The Man Eater Of Malgudi"?

The main conflict in the The Man Eater of Malgudi is the struggle between good and evil.

who is the main character of malgudi days

Malgudi days is a collection of short stories so it depends on which one you mean.

Study Guide for Malgudi Days

Malgudi Days study guide contains a biography of R. K. Narayan, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Malgudi Days
• Malgudi Days Summary
• Character List

Lesson Plan for Malgudi Days

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to Malgudi Days
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• Malgudi Days Bibliography

• Blogging Resources
• Non-fiction
• Author Interviews
• Guest Interviews

Malgudi days

“Swaminathan had never thought that this story contained a moral. But now he felt that it must have one since the question paper mentioned it.”

R. K. Narayan

Indian thoughts publication, indian short stories, number of pages.

“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ”

Publisher's Blurb

The book Malgudi Days is a collection of short stories written by R.K. Narayan and published by Indian Thought Publications in India in the year 1943. 

Outside India the book was republished by Penguin Classics in 1982. Malgudi days is a collection of 32 fictional stories set in a small beautiful town called Malgudi in South India. Every story is based on the problems faced by nation in general during that era.

The Malgudi Days story has been applauded round the world. Actor and director, Late Shankar Nag had directed the televised series of stories of Malgudi Days in 1986. Film-maker Kavitha Lankesh has redirected the series which was telecasted in 2006. The Malgudi Days series was very popular, do read the book and got to know more about it. Powerful, magical portraits of all kinds of people and comprising stories written over almost forty years, Malgudi Days presents Narayan's imaginary city vividly. On R. K. Narayan’s 108th birthday Google commemorated by featuring a Google Doodle showing him behind a copy of Malgudi Days in 2014.

R.K. Narayan

R.K. Narayan was the pioneer of early Indian literature in English. He is known for his books based on a fictional town called Malgudi. The first trilogy is semi-autobiographical. His simple writing style made him one of India’s best novelists. Some of his famous works include ‘The Guide’, ‘The Financial Expert’, ‘The English Teacher’ and many more. He was a Sahitya Academy winning author and a Padma Bhushan winner too. He was considered to be a close friend of Graham Greene.

Indian literature in English. He is known for his books based on a fictional town called Malgudi. The first trilogy is semi-autobiographical. He was a Sahitya Academy winning author and a Padma Bhusan winner too. He was considered to be a close friend of Graham Greene.

Author Bio and Pic from Goodreads

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"Malgudi Days" Summary

By R.K. Narayan

fiction | 264 pages | Published in NaN

Four gems, with new introductions, mark acclaimed Indian writer R. K. Narayan’s centennialIntroducing this collection of stories, R. K. Narayan describes how in India “the writer has only to look out of the window to pick up a character and thereby a story.” Composed of powerful, magical portraits of all kinds of people, and comprising stories written over almost forty years, Malgudi Days presents Narayan’s imaginary city in full color, revealing the essence of India and of human experience. This edition includes an introduction by Pulitzer Prize- winning author Jhumpa Lahiri. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.

Estimated read time: 5 min read

One Sentence Summary

A collection of short stories set in the fictional town of Malgudi, capturing the everyday lives and complexities of its inhabitants.

Table of Contents

Introduction, brief synopsis, main characters, stories overview, main events, themes and insights, reader's takeaway.

"Malgudi Days" by R.K. Narayan is a collection of short stories that are set in the fictional town of Malgudi. The book beautifully portrays the everyday lives, struggles, and aspirations of the people living in this small South Indian town. Through the diverse characters and their experiences, Narayan weaves a rich tapestry of human emotions, relationships, and societal norms. The stories are simple yet profound, offering a glimpse into the essence of Indian middle-class life in the early 20th century.

Plot Overview

The stories in "Malgudi Days" revolve around the lives of various characters residing in the town of Malgudi. Each story presents a unique perspective on life, covering themes such as love, family, friendship, and societal traditions. The narratives often delve into the mundane aspects of daily existence, transforming ordinary events into compelling tales that resonate with readers.

Malgudi, the fictional town created by R.K. Narayan, serves as the backdrop for the stories. With its bustling streets, serene landscapes, and vibrant community, Malgudi comes to life through the vivid descriptions and intimate portrayal of its inhabitants. The town becomes a character in itself, reflecting the idiosyncrasies and charm of small-town India.

The short stories feature a diverse array of characters, each contributing to the colorful tapestry of Malgudi. Here are some of the main characters:

The collection of stories in "Malgudi Days" presents a wide range of captivating narratives, each offering a unique insight into the human experience. Here is a summary of some of the prominent stories:

The Financial Expert

The story follows Margayya, a shrewd and unscrupulous moneylender, as he schemes and manipulates his way to financial success. However, his relentless pursuit of wealth comes at a cost, leading to moral dilemmas and personal downfall.

The Astrologer's Day

This tale revolves around an astrologer who leads a double life, concealing a dark secret from his past. As fate intervenes, he confronts his own past and finds redemption through an unexpected encounter.

Raju, an aimless young man, assumes the role of a local hero after a series of comical yet heroic incidents. Through his newfound status, he undergoes a transformation, ultimately finding purpose and direction in his life.

The Missing Mail

Swami, a mischievous schoolboy, experiences a mix of excitement and trepidation when he discovers an unopened letter addressed to his father. His attempts to conceal the letter's existence lead to unforeseen consequences, teaching him valuable lessons about honesty and responsibility.

The stories in "Malgudi Days" are replete with poignant and significant events that shape the lives of the characters. From personal revelations to societal upheavals, the narratives capture the essence of human existence in a small town. Some of the main events include Margayya's rise and fall in "The Financial Expert," the astrologer's confrontation with his past in "The Astrologer's Day," and Swami's moral awakening in "The Missing Mail."

"Malgudi Days" explores a multitude of themes that resonate with readers on a profound level. These themes include:

• Ambition and Morality : The conflict between ambition and ethical conduct is a recurring theme in the stories, highlighting the choices individuals make in pursuit of their goals.
• Societal Norms : The narratives shed light on the impact of societal norms and expectations on the characters, often leading to internal conflict and self-discovery.
• Innocence and Experience : The contrast between the innocence of youth and the wisdom of experience is a prevalent theme, offering insights into the transformative nature of life.

The stories in "Malgudi Days" offer valuable insights into the human condition, portraying the universal struggles and triumphs of ordinary individuals. Through the lens of Malgudi's residents, readers gain a deeper understanding of human nature, relationships, and the complexities of existence.

"Malgudi Days" captivates readers with its evocative storytelling, endearing characters, and profound exploration of the human experience. The collection serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty found in life's simplest moments and the profound impact of everyday interactions. Readers are left with a sense of nostalgia, empathy, and introspection, as they reflect on their own journeys through the lens of Narayan's timeless narratives.

In "Malgudi Days," R.K. Narayan masterfully captures the essence of small-town life in India, infusing each story with warmth, humor, and emotional depth. The collection stands as a timeless tribute to the intricacies of human existence, offering readers an enriching and immersive literary experience that lingers in the heart and mind long after the final page.

Malgudi Days FAQ

What is 'malgudi days' about.

Malgudi Days is a collection of short stories by R.K. Narayan that are set in the fictional town of Malgudi. The stories portray the everyday life of various characters in the town, capturing the charm and simplicity of Indian village life.

Who is the author of 'Malgudi Days'?

The author of 'Malgudi Days' is R.K. Narayan, a renowned Indian writer known for his simple yet profound storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of Indian life.

Are the stories in 'Malgudi Days' interconnected?

Yes, the stories in 'Malgudi Days' are interconnected as they all take place in the fictional town of Malgudi and often feature recurring characters who inhabit the town. However, each story stands on its own and can be read independently.

What themes are explored in 'Malgudi Days'?

The stories in 'Malgudi Days' explore themes such as the simplicity of rural life, the dynamics of human relationships, the impact of modernization on traditional values, and the humor and irony present in everyday situations.

Is 'Malgudi Days' suitable for all age groups?

Yes, 'Malgudi Days' is suitable for readers of all age groups. The stories are written in a simple and engaging style, making them accessible to both young and adult readers. The themes and insights presented in the stories are relevant to people of all ages.

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• Malgudi Days Summary of R.K. Narayan's Book

Exploring the Magic of Malgudi: A Comprehensive Review of R.K. Narayan's Malgudi Days

Detailed summary, extensive analysis, final thoughts.

R.K. Narayan, one of India's most celebrated writers, takes readers on a captivating journey through the enchanting town of Malgudi in his collection of short stories, "Malgudi Days." First published on January 1, 1943, this timeless book has since become a classic in the world of fiction. Narayan's storytelling prowess shines through as he weaves together vivid tales that offer a glimpse into the essence of India and human experience.

In his introduction to the collection, Narayan beautifully captures the essence of Indian storytelling, highlighting how even the simplest moments can give rise to captivating narratives. "Malgudi Days" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the rich tapestry of characters that populate the fictional town of Malgudi. With new introductions added to this edition, readers are treated to an even deeper understanding of Narayan's masterful storytelling.

Narayan's "Malgudi Days" introduces readers to a wide array of characters, each more vibrant and memorable than the last. From the wise and witty Swami to the enigmatic Rama, the characters in this collection come alive on the page, drawing readers into their world with their unique quirks and personalities.

Swami - Swami is a young boy who serves as the protagonist in several of the stories. His mischievous antics and innocent perspective provide a charming lens through which to view the events of Malgudi.

Rama - Rama is another prominent character in the collection, known for his wisdom and insight. His interactions with the other characters offer valuable life lessons and moments of reflection.

With each story, readers are introduced to a new facet of life in Malgudi, from the bustling streets to the quiet corners where hidden truths lie. Through the characters that inhabit this fictional town, Narayan paints a vivid portrait of India and its diverse tapestry of human experiences.

"Malgudi Days" is a collection of stories that span almost forty years of Narayan's writing career. Each story is a gem in its own right, offering a unique perspective on life in Malgudi. From tales of friendship and loyalty to stories of love and loss, the collection covers a wide range of themes and emotions.

In one story, Swami embarks on a daring adventure that leads him to confront his fears and discover the true meaning of courage. In another, Rama imparts valuable wisdom to a young boy, teaching him the importance of patience and perseverance. Through these stories, Narayan captures the essence of life in Malgudi, showcasing the beauty and complexity of human relationships.

As readers journey through the pages of "Malgudi Days," they are transported to a world where every character has a story to tell and every moment is filled with meaning. Narayan's storytelling is imbued with a sense of magic and wonder, drawing readers in with its captivating narratives and vivid imagery.

At its core, "Malgudi Days" is a celebration of the human experience and the rich tapestry of life in India. Through his characters and stories, Narayan explores themes of identity, tradition, and change, offering profound insights into the complexities of the human heart.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Narayan's writing is his ability to capture the essence of everyday life with grace and elegance. His stories are rooted in the mundane yet brim with magic, transporting readers to a world where ordinary moments take on extraordinary significance.

Moreover, the characters in "Malgudi Days" are both relatable and timeless, serving as mirrors through which readers can reflect on their own lives and experiences. Whether it is Swami's youthful exuberance or Rama's quiet wisdom, each character embodies a different facet of the human spirit, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of existence and the beauty of human connection.

In addition, Narayan's portrayal of Malgudi as a vibrant and dynamic town adds depth and richness to the stories. The setting becomes a character in its own right, shaping the actions and motivations of the characters who inhabit it. Through his vivid descriptions and keen observations, Narayan brings Malgudi to life, painting a vivid picture of a place that is both familiar and fantastical.

Overall, "Malgudi Days" is a testament to Narayan's storytelling prowess and his ability to capture the magic of everyday life. Through his powerful narratives and memorable characters, he invites readers to explore the depths of the human soul and discover the beauty that lies in the simplest of moments.

To conclude, "Malgudi Days" is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its enchanting tales and vibrant characters. R.K. Narayan's storytelling is a true gift to literature, offering a window into the rich tapestry of Indian life and the universal truths that bind us all together.

If you have enjoyed this brief overview of "Malgudi Days," I highly recommend picking up a copy of the complete book to experience the full magic of Narayan's storytelling. Alternatively, you can also listen to the audiobook version for a truly immersive experience. Dive into the world of Malgudi and let the stories of its inhabitants enchant and inspire you. Happy reading!

Remember, the stories of Malgudi are waiting to be discovered, so don't miss out on this literary gem. Happy reading!

9780143039655 (ISBN10: 0143039652)

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Malgudi Days (Penguin Classics) Paperback – August 29, 2006

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• Print length 288 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Penguin Classics
• Publication date August 29, 2006
• Dimensions 5.06 x 0.54 x 7.77 inches
• ISBN-10 0143039652
• ISBN-13 978-0143039655
• Lexile measure 910L
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Penguin Classics; First Edition (August 29, 2006)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 288 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0143039652
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0143039655
• Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ 910L
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 7.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.06 x 0.54 x 7.77 inches
• #687 in Cultural Heritage Fiction
• #1,469 in Short Stories Anthologies
• #9,284 in Literary Fiction (Books)

About the author

R. k. narayan.

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Malgudi Days

Fiction | Short Story Collection | Adult | Published in 1943

Plot Summary

Malgudi Days is a collection of short stories written by R. K. Narayan, published in 1943 by Indian Thought Publications, the publishing company Narayan himself founded in 1942. He founded the company after he was cut off from England as a result of WWII, and needed some outlet for his writing. It wasn’t just a vanity press, though, as during the war there was no other way to circulate Indian writing, and Indian readers had no access to new work. The press is still in operation, now run by Narayan’s granddaughter, Bhuvaneswari, or Minnie. Malgudi Days was first published outside of India in the 1982, by Penguin Classics. The book consists of 32 stories, all of which take place in the fictional town of Malgudi, in southern India. Each story is meant to portray a different facet of life in Malgudi. The project has been adapted several times, beginning in 1986 when a few of the stories were adapted into a television series, also called Malgudi Days , which was directed by actor and director, Shankar Nag. In 2004, it was revived by the film maker Kavitha Lankesh; the new series was broadcast on the public service broadcaster founded by the Government of India, Doordarshan.

“An Astrologer’s Day” features an astrologer who knows absolutely nothing about stars or astrology. He never wanted the job but he was so impoverished, he couldn't turn down the job. Through clever guesswork and manipulation, he has made many amazing predictions over the years so that people keep using his services. One day he comes across his rival, a man he thought he had killed years ago. He disguises himself as “the astrologer” and fools his rival, effecting a narrow escape.

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In “The Missing Mail,” Thannappa is a kind postman who has a pleasant relationship with each of his customers, especially Ramanujam, a senior clerk in the Revenue Department Office. Ramanujam’s daughter is finally set to be married after many ups and downs. Thannappa decides not to deliver a letter to Ramanujam, which tells his about his uncle’s death, in hopes that it will not disrupt the much anticipated marriage ceremony.

“The Doctor’s Word” tells the story of Dr. Raman, who believes good words can’t save lives. When his best friend suddenly falls seriously ill, he finds himself questioning his beliefs, and finally says ‘good words’ in order to save his friend's life. He does this even though he knows there is no hope for his friend’s recovery. At the end of the story, though, his friend recovers. It is a medical miracle and even Raman is stunned.

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In “Gateman’s Gift” we meet Govind Singh, who has been a gatekeeper and security guard for his entire life. When he finally retires, he picks up the hobby of working with sawdust and clay to make miniatures.

“The Blind Dog” depicts a blind beggar who catches a dog to help him navigate the city. He tortures and mistreats the dog, but the dog still returns to him after running away one day.

In “Fellow Feeling," Rajam Iyer is a Tamil Brahmin who is travelling by train and gets into a fight with another passenger, while in "The Tiger's Claw," the Talkative Man, a recurring character in other stories, has a fight with a tiger.

In "Iswaran" the eponymous character is a boy who fails his Intermediate Exams ten times. He finally passes it, and in his celebrations, drowns in the river Sarayu.

"Such Perfection" tells the story of a sculptor who begins to worship his most recent creation.

“Father’s Help” introduces Swami, a character from R. K. Narayan’s first novel, Swami and Friends . In “Father’s Help”, Swami wrongly accuses his teacher Samuel. He learns lessons about proper behaviour and speaking the truth from his father.

In “The Snake Song” a musician narrates his life and experiences and explains why he stopped playing the harmonium.

The main character in "Engine Trouble" is a poor man who wins a road engine lottery, but gets himself into some serious trouble, and is not able to put his lottery win to good use.

“Forty-Five A Month” explores the relationship between a daughter, Shanta, and her father, Vankat Rao.

In “Attila,” a friendly dog with a frightening name tries to scare off burglars, without any success.

“Leela’s Friend” tells the story of a five year old girl named Leela and her servant, named Sidda. Sidda has a special ability to communicate with children. One day Sidda is arrested for the suspected theft of Leela’s gold chain, but Leela’s mother later finds it in a cooking pot.

Other short stories collected in  Malgudi Days include: “Out of Business”, “The Axe”, “Lawley Road”, “Trail of the Green Blazer”, “The Martyr’s Corner”, “Wife’s Holiday”, “A Shadow”, “A Willing Slave”, “Mother and Son”, “Naga”, “Selvi”, “Second Opinion”, “Cat Within”, “The Edge”, “God and the Cobbler”, “Hungry Child”, and “Emden”.

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A horse and two goats, an astrologer's day, a tiger for malgudi, swami and friends, the ramayana, the vendor of sweets.

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What are 'the kids' thinking these days? Honor Levy aims to tell in 'My First Book'

Leland Cheuk

What are the kids thinking these days? That seems be to the question behind the publication of My First Book , the buzzy debut story collection by Honor Levy.

The 26-year-old writer was the subject of a viral profile in The Cut , earlier this month, in which she described the praise she received for her story "Good Boys" on The New Yorker website as "not undeserved" and demurred when asked whether she's the voice of her generation. Social media discourse and the inevitable backlash aside, Levy's first book is an amusing, if uneven, take on growing up white, privileged, and Gen Z, the first generation to completely be born after the existence of the internet.

Readers won't find meticulously plotted story arcs, fleshed-out characters, emotional epiphanies, or any other earmarks of conventional literary fiction. Most of Levy's stories run fewer than 12 pages and feel like very long flash fiction, written in a voice dense with the chaotic patois of the internet. In her strongest stories, Levy channels the blitzkrieg of contradictory micro-observations we absorb from social media, video games, and doomscrolling to create the absurd, incomprehensible cacophony that anyone born after 1997 had to grow up enduring. These stories seem to ask: How can anyone expect a well-adjusted adult to rise from all this noise?

In "Internet Girl," the main character is 11 and very online, and Levy's portrayal of her narrator's interiority is both compellingly satirical and frighteningly plausible. She writes:

"It's 2008, and my dad gets laid off and everything is happening all at once. All at once, there are two girls and one cup and planes hitting towers and a webcam looking at me and me smiling into it and a man and a boy and a love and a stranger on the other end. All at once, there are a million videos to watch and a million more to make. All at once it's all at once. It's beginning and ending all at once all the time. I'm twenty-one. I'm eleven. I'm on the internet. I'm twenty-one."

Another strong piece is "Love Story," the collection's opener, which is about a boy and a girl having an online relationship that seems to consist entirely of texting and sending pics of their bodies to each other. Levy poignantly captures the girl's vulnerability. "Little girl lost can't even find herself," Levy writes. "Pictures of her naked body are out there everywhere, in the cloud floating, and under the sea, coursing through cables in the dark. It's so dark."

Levy smartly skewers late capitalism in "Halloween Forever," about a young woman trying to survive a surreal and drug-filled Halloween night in Brooklyn. She meets a "boy from Stanford dressed as a cowboy," who, when sufficiently coked-up, muses about the romance of the Wild West and how "The West was freedom...just like the internet originally was!" The narrator is skeptical:

"Freedom is the stuff of dreams and nightmares only and our free market doesn't make us free people, but the cowboy doesn't care. Silicon Valley must have burrowed itself deep into his brain underneath that hat. He is probably afraid of blood, or social media, or something stupid. My drink is seventeen dollars."

As the collection progresses, the unique blend of the satirical and the poignant gives way to a more essayistic approach to storytelling. In "Cancel Me," which is about cancel culture, the characters — a young woman and two "Ivy League boys with kitten-sharp teeth and Accutane-skin," all of whom have experienced cancellation for murky reasons — gradually fade into a series of observations about wokeness that aren't much different or more insightful than what one might find on X or Reddit.

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"Z Was For Zoomer," which runs more than 50 pages, seems to be a continuation of "Cancel Me," except the two male "edgelords" — someone on an internet forum who deliberately posts about controversial or taboo topics to appear edgy — are named Gideon and Ivan instead of Jack and Roger. Just as in "Cancel Me," the narrator's relationship with the men is never defined and doesn't progress. Character-driven narrative takes a back seat to dashed-off, inch-deep lines like "Identity is a Swedish prison, comfortable but you still can't leave."

It should also be mentioned that these stories won't pass the most permissive of racial Bechdel tests. The number of non-white references in this 200-page book won't go past one hand, unless you count the few references to anime and the rapper formerly known as Kanye West. The milieu of Honor Levy's fiction is undeniably white and privileged, but her best stories exaggerate that milieu to great satirical effect. Perhaps her second book will contain more of them.

Leland Cheuk is an award-winning author of three books of fiction, including the latest No Good Very Bad Asian . His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, San Francisco Chronicle, and Salon , among other outlets.