Book Summary:
An Atlas of Impossible Longing is a novel by Indian author Anuradha Roy, first published in 2008. The narrative spans multiple generations of a Bengali family, intertwining themes of love, longing, and the complexities of familial bonds against the backdrop of India's sociopolitical landscape in the early to mid-20th century.
Set in a sprawling house on the outskirts of a small Bengali town, the story begins in 1907 with the establishment of a factory by Amulya, a prosperous businessman. Amulya's wife, Kananbala, grapples with mental health issues, leading to her confinement within their home. Their sons, Kamal and Nirmal, along with Nirmal's daughter, Bakul, and Mukunda, an orphan taken in by the family, form the crux of the narrative. As Bakul and Mukunda grow, their deep bond evolves, facing challenges rooted in societal norms and personal aspirations. The novel intricately weaves their stories, highlighting themes of unfulfilled desires, societal expectations, and the quest for belonging.
About the Author:
Anuradha Roy (born 1967 in Kolkata) is an acclaimed Indian author, journalist, and editor. She has penned several notable novels, including:
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The Folded Earth (2011): A tale set in the Himalayan foothills, exploring themes of love and loss.
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Sleeping on Jupiter (2015): A story delving into the lives of travelers and the secrets they uncover.
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All the Lives We Never Lived (2018): A narrative reflecting on choices and the paths not taken.
Roy's work has earned her prestigious awards, including the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature for Sleeping on Jupiter and the Economist Crossword Prize for The Folded Earth.
