25 pages • 50 minutes read
The Vendor of Sweets
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Book Brief
144
Novel • Fiction
Malgudi, India • 1960s
1967
Penguin Books
Adult
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
In R.K. Narayan's The Vendor of Sweets, Jagan, a traditional and contradictory sweet vendor, faces turmoil when his son Mali decides to pursue writing over university studies. Mali's return from America with Grace, an American woman, and a plan to produce story-writing machines escalates tensions. Jagan ultimately seeks peace by withdrawing from material life and supporting a sculptor's spiritual project.
Humorous
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Heartwarming
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
2,796 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
R. K. Narayan's The Vendor of Sweets often receives praise for its charming storytelling and vivid portrayal of Indian culture. Critics commend Narayan's ability to infuse humor and warmth into the narrative. However, some feel that the plot is somewhat predictable and the character development could be deeper. Overall, it remains a beloved classic for its heartwarming and insightful exploration of human relationships and societal norms.
Who Should Read The Vendor of Sweets?
A reader who enjoys The Vendor of Sweets by R. K. Narayan would likely appreciate rich cultural narratives and character-driven stories. Fans of books like The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri or A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry, which explore familial relationships and Indian society, will find this work compelling.
2,796 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mali
Mali
He is an ambitious young man who represents the newer generation, often at odds with traditional values and driven by his own goals, particularly his desire to explore opportunities abroad.
Grace
Grace
An energetic and kind woman who attempts to integrate into Jagan's family, she brings a different dynamic to the household and faces challenges in navigating both personal and cultural expectations.
The Cousin
The Cousin
A well-liked and trustworthy figure in the community, he serves as a confidant and source of information, remaining an impartial observer who aids the main characters without judgment.
The Vendor of Sweets is set in the fictional town of Malgudi, a quintessential South Indian town, which serves as the backdrop for many of R. K. Narayan's novels and stories.
The novel was published in 1967, showcasing Narayan’s distinctive blend of humor and keen observation of human behavior, traits for which his works are celebrated.
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R. K. Narayan was inspired by everyday life in India, and his writing often explores themes of tradition versus modernity, depicted through relatable characters and settings in his narratives.
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144
Novel • Fiction
Malgudi, India • 1960s
1967
Penguin Books
Adult
10-14 years
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