Welcome to The God of Small Things Online!
Written by Andrew Bentivoglio: Arundhati Roy is the author of the classic novel The God of Small Things. Roy received the 1997 Booker Prize for Fiction for the work and for her involvement in environmental and human right cases. The God of Small Things is told from Rahel and Estha's point of view, fraternal twins who are separated for a long period of time. The novel moves backward from present day to a drowning that took place over two decades ago. The consequences of the drowning and several forbidden love affairs set the novel up for different twists and turns. Estha at some point after the drowning becomes mute and will not speak. Ammu is banished from her home while dying miserable and alone at the age of 31. Rahel is expelled from school and wanders only to find an American she marries but later separates from. The novel begins and ends as Rahel returns to her family home in India and to Estha, where they hope to heal their wounds they have developed with the fond memories and love they share with each other. Various themes and motifs are the struggles over family, society, and class. Also are the versions of reality, memory, love, and one's own identity.
Our site contains discussion notes that took place several times which included quotes, vocabulary, and connections that are relevant with today's society. Pictures and other original artwork are located on the site for clarification. In addition, essays with critical analysis of Rahel as a character and the theme of family through the novel are linked, along with a critical analysis. Lastly, a trailer for a God of Small Things film can be found as well.
Enjoy!