Uniting disparate lives in India's political turmoil.
"A Fine Balance" immerses you in the personal stories amidst the backdrop of India's historical challenges. Mistry's nuanced portrayal of characters from different walks of life coming together during a period of upheaval is both heartbreaking and illuminating. It's a poignant exploration of human resilience and the threads that bind people together against the odds. If you're someone who appreciates deep, character-driven narratives set against real-world events, this book might just leave a lasting impression on you.
- Booker Prize Nominee (1996)
- Winifred Holtby Memorial Prize (1996)
- Scotiabank Giller Prize (1995)
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction (1996)
- Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best Book Overall (1996)
- CBC Canada Reads Nominee (2002)
- Dublin Literary Award Nominee for Shortlist (1997)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
ISBN: 9780571203628
Authors:
Rohinton Mistry
Publisher: Faber and Faber
Date of Publication: 2000-03-20
Format: Paperback
Goodreads rating: 4.38
(rated by 154544 readers)
Description
At 600 pages, Mistry's stunning second novel looks intimidating, yet this moving tale of four people caught up in India's 1975 state of emergency -- when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi suspended the constitution in order to hold on to power following a scandal -- is an incredibly detailed, compelling read that sweeps you along from the opening pages and is over far too soon. Though it takes place in a time of political upheaval and chaos, A Fine Balance is not a political diatribe. Instead, it is a beautiful and compassionate portrait of the resiliency of the human spirit when faced with death, despair, and unconscionable suffering. Set in an unnamed city by the sea, it is the story of four disenfranchised strangers -- a widow, a young student, and two tailors -- who are forced by their impoverished circumstances to share a cramped apartment. Initially distrustful of one another, Dina, Maneck, Ishvar, and Om gradually build loving, familial bonds and learn together "to maintain a fine balance between hope and despair" in a society suddenly turned inhumanly cruel and corrupt.
Condition guide
Book Condition Guide
Books in Like New Condition
This book may contain very minor cosmetic defects, but it is in pristine condition. There should be no yellowing, no foxing, no water damage, and no annotations of any kind on the cover and the pages. For paperbacks, there should not be any crease marks on the spine. This book is good as new — lucky you!
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Very Good Condition
This book has been used, but it is still in a clean condition. There should be no foxing or annotations of any kind on the inner pages, but a sparse amount may be present on the cover, title pages, or outside edges of the book. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be light crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Good Condition
We do our best to ensure the quality of our books, but there is no escaping the wear and tear that comes with time. Slight foxing and some annotations may be present on the pages and the cover. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be several crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Well Read Condition
This is a well-read book, which means that the previous owner probably really enjoyed it! The cover and pages may include moderate foxing and annotations, but the text is not obscured and still readable. Moderate cosmetic defects and minor water damage may be present on the edges of the book. For paperbacks, there may be multiple crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Find out more about our process here.
Quantity selected exceeds current stock
Adding product to your cart
Uniting disparate lives in India's political turmoil.
"A Fine Balance" immerses you in the personal stories amidst the backdrop of India's historical challenges. Mistry's nuanced portrayal of characters from different walks of life coming together during a period of upheaval is both heartbreaking and illuminating. It's a poignant exploration of human resilience and the threads that bind people together against the odds. If you're someone who appreciates deep, character-driven narratives set against real-world events, this book might just leave a lasting impression on you.
- Booker Prize Nominee (1996)
- Winifred Holtby Memorial Prize (1996)
- Scotiabank Giller Prize (1995)
- Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction (1996)
- Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best Book Overall (1996)
- CBC Canada Reads Nominee (2002)
- Dublin Literary Award Nominee for Shortlist (1997)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
Similar Reads
Uncover books linked by topic and theme
Pauline Delabroy-Allard
|
Vintage
All About Sarah
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.46
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you've ever felt like life was monotonously ticking away, "All About Sarah" could offer an exciting jolt. It vividly depicts how a single, charismatic individual can turn everything upside down, making you feel every heartbeat of its chaos and fire. Sarah’s character is a force that might inspire you to find the extraordinary in your ordinary.
Christopher Priest
|
Gollancz
Episodes
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱341.55
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.64
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱341.55
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
45% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
If you appreciate storytelling that deftly weaves between the fantastical and the everyday, "Episodes" by Christopher Priest might just be your next favorite anthology. Priest's skill shines through as he explores different genres, offering a rich variety of themes that could resonate with anyone intrigued by the elasticity of fiction. The author's own reflections add a layer of depth, giving you a behind-the-scenes glance into his creative process.
Charles Frazier
|
Sceptre
Thirteen Moons
Regular price
₱341.55
from ₱242.55
38% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.74
Regular price
₱341.55
from ₱242.55
38% off
- Unit price
- / per
63% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
"Thirteen Moons" will not just captivate you with its tale of adventure and romance, it'll sweep you across the changing landscapes of both America and a man's heart. Charles Frazier has a way of weaving history and fiction that feels alive, almost as if you're riding alongside Will, experiencing his challenges and transformations. This book might just redefine your sense of time and love.
Alexander McCall Smith
|
Abacus
In the Company of Cheerful Ladies
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱292.05
25% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.09
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱292.05
25% off
- Unit price
- / per
61% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"In The Company Of Cheerful Ladies" is a delightful escape into the sunlit streets of Botswana, where you meet the always sage and endearing Mma Ramotswe. It’s not just about solving cases; it’s about the joys and complications that stitch the fabric of daily life. The series offers a gentle examination of human nature and will leave you feeling a bit more optimistic about the world.
New
Kazuo Ishiguro
|
Faber
And
Faber
Limited
The Remains of the Day
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.14
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
29% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
If you've ever found yourself wondering about the paths you didn't take, "The Remains of the Day" will speak to you. Ishiguro masterfully explores the life of a dedicated butler, Stevens, who grapples with his loyalties and personal sacrifices. It's a moving contemplation on service and the human condition that touches anyone reflecting on life's quiet introspections and missed opportunities.
from ₱589.05
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Anagrams" could resonate with you if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of identity and how we continually reinvent ourselves. Lorrie Moore's knack for blending humor with poignant observations about life could offer you a refreshing literary experience that's as playful as it is profound. The inventive structure, mingling reality with fiction, might just challenge your perception of storytelling.
Jennifer Weiner
|
Atria
Books
All Fall Down - A Novel
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.65
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
69% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"All Fall Down" speaks to the heart of anyone managing the delicate balance of modern life's demands. It stirs empathy and offers an unflinching look at addiction in a setting where it's least expected. If you're drawn to stories exhibiting the fragility of seemingly perfect lives or seeking a narrative that delves into the complexities of personal struggle, Allison Weiss' journey will resonate with you and perhaps even provide a new perspective on the opioid crisis.
New
Anitha Devi Pillai, Kamaladevi Aravindan |
Marshall
Cavendish
International
(asia)
Sembawang: A Novel
from ₱193.05
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.26
from ₱193.05
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
This book could be a good read for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Singapore. Through the lens of the Sembawang community, the author brilliantly captures the essence of resilience and transformation. The vivid descriptions and authentic characters make it an engaging and enlightening read, transporting the reader to a bygone era.
Anna Quindlen
|
Random
House
Blessings
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.63
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
89% off est. retail
In stock: Very Good
This book is a heartwarming story about the power of community and the unexpected paths life can take. The unique appeal of "Blessings" lies in its exploration of the secrets of the past and how they shape the present. You'll be captivated by the beautifully crafted characters and their journeys of personal change. Anna Quindlen's masterful storytelling will leave you reflecting on the meaning of family and the choices that define us. Get ready for a touching and thought-provoking read that will warm your heart and remind you of the importance of love and forgiveness.
Marko Vignjević
|
Ethos
Books
Shezlez the Self-Proclaimed
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.24
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
"Shezlez the Self-Proclaimed" paints a satirical yet profound picture of political struggles, perfect if you're into dark humor laced with existential undertones. As Shezlez's journey unfolds, the book offers a sharp critique of a society where power and deceit dance together, making you question the very nature of ambition and integrity. The narrative deftly captures the grotesque and the folly in the quest for influence, striking chords with anyone who's ever witnessed the absurdity of politics.
Gaelen Foley
|
Piatkus
The Secrets of a Scoundrel : Number 7 in series
₱193.05
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.92
₱193.05
- Unit price
- / per
87% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
This book would be a good read for fans of steamy historical romance novels. The chemistry between the hero and heroine is electric, and the plot is full of danger, intrigue and forbidden love. The hero's rebellious and charismatic nature will keep readers on the edge of their seats, while the heroine's strong will and intelligence make her a formidable match for him. Overall, this book delivers a satisfying blend of adventure, suspense and romance.
Stephen Hunt
|
Gollancz
Foul Tide's Turning - The Far-Called
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.9
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
80% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
If you enjoy epic fantasy with political intrigue and rich world-building, "Foul Tide's Turning" might just be your next great adventure. Stephen Hunt delivers a tale that cleverly navigates the consequences of power and betrayal. The intertwining fates of the Carnehan brothers offer a personal touch to a grand scale conflict, ensuring you're as invested in the characters as you are in the fate of their world.
Mohsin Hamid
|
Penguin
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
42% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is a thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of identity and the challenges of being caught between two conflicting cultures. Through the protagonist's story of love, betrayal, and disillusionment, the book raises important questions about globalization, prejudice, and the search for belonging. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy introspective character studies and nuanced explorations of contemporary issues.
Lincoln Child, Douglas Preston |
Grand
Central
Publishing
White Fire
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.11
Regular price
₱391.05
from ₱193.05
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
White Fire could be a good read for fans of suspenseful mysteries and thrilling crime novels. The book stands out for its unique premise of an arsonist burning down multimillion-dollar mansions while a discovery made by the protagonist threatens the resort’s existence. The twists and turns keep readers engaged and on edge, with a satisfying payoff at the end. Fans of the Pendergast series will not be disappointed in this installment.
Moin Mir
|
Roli
The Lost Fragrance of Infinity
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.87
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
In stock: Well Read
Imagine finding solace in the rich tapestry of history, where love and spirituality intertwine with the intricate designs of Sufi philosophy. "The Lost Fragrance of Infinity" elegantly leads you through breathtaking historical landscapes, while gracefully weaving a narrative of rebirth and profound connection. If you are drawn to stories that revive the soul and blend the aesthetic with the metaphysical, this book promises to be a thoughtful and deeply moving journey.
New
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're drawn to richly woven historical tapestries, "A Column of Fire" won't disappoint. Ken Follett transports you to a 16th-century Europe teeming with political intrigue and religious turmoil. As you follow Ned Willard's journey of loyalty and espionage, you'll find yourself marveling at the exquisite detail that brings this tumultuous period to life. It's an engrossing read for anyone who relishes masterful storytelling set against the backdrop of actual historical events.
Anthony Minghella, Michael Ondaatje |
Bloomsbury
The English Patient
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱341.55
22% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.87
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱341.55
22% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're drawn to richly textured historical dramas, "The English Patient" will speak to you. Michael Ondaatje's writing is exquisite, weaving a tale that's captivating not just for its historical context but for the deeply personal stories of its characters. The intertwined destinies, the haunting atmosphere of the Italian villa, and the poetic exploration of human connection in the face of war's desolation could make this book a memorable experience for you.
New
Jean Tay
|
Epigram
Books
Sisters & Senang: The Island Plays
from ₱341.55
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.1
from ₱341.55
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Sisters & Senang: The Island Plays" would be a compelling choice for you if you're fascinated by the intersection of history and mythology. Jean Tay masterfully merges real events and folkloric elements, offering a nuanced look at Singapore's lesser-known stories. The plays' exploration of human nature and ambition through the lens of the country's transformative era could offer an enriching experience that connects the past with the present.
Ken Follett
|
Dutton
Jackdaws
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.06
Regular price
₱440.55
from ₱391.05
20% off
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're into gripping tales of WWII espionage enriched with strong female characters, "Jackdaws" by Ken Follett will hold your interest from the first page to the last. It's a celebration of bravery and cunning, perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction with a hefty dose of suspense and action.
New
Rohinton Mistry
|
Faber
And
Faber
A Fine Balance
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.38
from ₱440.55
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"A Fine Balance" immerses you in the personal stories amidst the backdrop of India's historical challenges. Mistry's nuanced portrayal of characters from different walks of life coming together during a period of upheaval is both heartbreaking and illuminating. It's a poignant exploration of human resilience and the threads that bind people together against the odds. If you're someone who appreciates deep, character-driven narratives set against real-world events, this book might just leave a lasting impression on you.
By completing this form, you are signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time.