Books have the power to transport us to different realms of imagination. They serve as windows into different worlds and universes. They’re pivotal for our education, our minds and for the growth in our personalities. World Literacy day falls on September 8th, and it’s celebrated every year to remind us that Literacy is fundamental right to all, regardless of their social class, religion, ethnicity or age. UNESCO dedicates this day; “To remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights.”
Being understood and acknowledged through words is more powerful than we realize. Unfortunately, Pakistani writers don’t get the recognition they deserve. Their books are filled with our history, culture, and carry deep, powerful stories. Well-rounded stories with fantastic plots and finally the element of reliability, being able to identify, having shared experiences is like a friend telling you the stories or giving you the advice. Here are six books by Pakistani writers that are a must read:
Historical Fiction – Cracking India by Bapsi Sidhwa
Although the title says India, the book is regarding Pakistan and India both. It’s set in pre-partition India and tells the story from the perspective of Lenny – a-four-year-old girl, based on Bapsi Sidhwa herself. Lenny, who grows up as the tale goes, describes the traumatic, painful and gruesome events during and after the split of Pakistan and India. The novel explores themes like: identity, loyalty, betrayal, innocence, violence, friendship and marriage. Cracking India was included on The Modern Library’s list of the 200 best books in English. In 1986, Sidhwa received the Sitara Imtiaz, the third highest Pakistani civilian honour, for her activism and service.
Marketing Editorial – Executive Doodles by Ahmed Kapadia
Executive Doodles is a compelling collection of 80 insightful pieces by the visionary founder of Synergyzer and Chairman & CEO of the Synergy Group. It’s a one stop for business advice, dynamic reflection of the rapid changes in the marketing and communication spheres in Pakistan and so much more. Kapadia’s sharp observations, provocative opinions, and constructive thoughts are captured with zeal and verve, making it seem like your dad’s giving you advice – it’s funny, interesting, and fearless. With two decades of insight into Pakistan’s trends, challenges, and perspectives, this book stands as the first and only of its kind in the country. It’s a must-read for industry insiders and aspiring professionals alike.
Urban Fiction– The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid
Changez is living an immigrant version of an American dream. At the top of his class snapped up by an elite valuation firm, thrives on the energy of New York, and his budding romance with elegant, beautiful Erica. But in the wake of September 11, Changez finds his position in his adopted city suddenly overturned, and his life shifting. Its patriotic, nostalgic, scary and unique. It was later converted into a movie in 2012, starring Riz Ahmed, Kate Hudson and other prominent actors. It was the writer’s own experience after 9/11 and most South Asians could heavily relate to the book as they were being collectively targeted by the world.
Poetry – The Far Thing by Maki Kureishi
Maki Kureishi, has been recognised as one of the foremost writers of poetry in English in Pakistan. Her work has been described as tender and sensitive, but also unsentimentally sharp. Written in controlled free verse, her poems read aloud well, and are absolutely beautiful, they will make you ponder, tear up and almost yell out in shock. She dabbles with themes of identity crisis, disease, fear, disability and nationalism. Great use of personification, metaphors along with strong imagery to address her concerns regarding the condition of the people of Pakistan.
Romance – Unmarriageable By Soniah Kamal
Everyone loves love! And Pakistanis love Shadi! And finally, who doesn’t love both? This book is the desi version of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, its detailed, hilarious, and is filled with intriguing surprises. The book has Urdu words and phrases, which the writer translates for the international audience. It’s relatable as the mother excitedly coaches her five unmarried daughters on the ‘art of husband hunting.’ It’s an adventure that every girl goes through especially in a desi household, get ready to ride the wave of reality for girls in a fun, unique way.
Historical/Political – Pakistan: The Formative Phase 1857-1948 by Khalid B. Sayeed
Not just a historical narrative, The Formative Phase evaluates the strength and weakness of the Muslim separatist movement that eventually culminated in the creation of Pakistan. This admirably written book analyses in a scholarly and impartial way a mass of material relating to the creation of Pakistan. Taking 1857 as the starting point, Khalid bin Sayeed relates the diverse factors which periodically heightened or lowered tension between the Hindus and Muslims of the subcontinent.
From Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s remarkable achievements, the emergence of the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League to the partition of Bengal. The latter part of the book gives a clear and penetrating account of Pakistan’s first year of independence and the role of Jinnah as Pakistan’s Governor-General. Even thirty years after it was first published, Khalid bin Sayeed’s scholarly study of the formative phase of Pakistan remains the definitive work for the period.
Read and read and read. Discover what works for you, what you like or don’t like, and give everything a chance. Reading directly connects with learning, growth, and becoming a better person. It’s essential for us as humans. So go ahead, pick up a book—relax or jump around with excitement—and cherish every moment. Happy reading!
Have you read any of these? Let us know in the comments below.
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