The White Tiger

Born in a village in the dark heart of India, Balram Halwai is taken out of school by his family and put to work in a teashop. His dreams of escape come true when a rich village landlord hires him as a chauffeur for his son, daughter-in-law and their two Pomeranian dogs. From behind the wheel of a Honda, Balram sees Delhi for the first time, a vision of the city that changes his life forever. His learning curve is very steep, and he quickly comes to believe that the way to the top is by the most expedient means. And if that involves committing the odd crime of violence, he persuades himself that this is what successful people must do.

Over the course of seven nights, the White Tiger tells his story in Adiga's Man Booker Prize-winning debut novel. What we learn about India is the twin worlds of the bleak, soul-destroying poverty of village life and the glittering prizes to be found in the big city. The book cleverly avoids fulfilling any of the expectations a potential reader might have, while propelling the book forward like a tense thriller. Adiga's book is both gripping and gritty.