The White Tiger (by Arvind Adiga)

"The White Tiger" is the winner of the "Man Booker Prize in 2008".

Generally this book is about cast and class contrast in India, however it is also reflective of these same class issues deeply embedded in most of the subcontinent .

It is a realistic but interesting view of a society from a common man's perspective who belongs to a biggest democracy strongly impacted by globalization .Writer have a very good grip on the topic he takes his readers full circle from poorest of the poor to straight to the top end of the society while weaving his story like an artist.

Wikipedia Says

The White Tiger takes place in a time in which increased technology has led to world globalization, and India is no exception. In the 21st century, India has had one of the fastest booming economies. Specifically Americanization in India has played its role in the plot, since it provides an outlet for Balram to alter his caste. To satisfy Pinky's want for American culture, Ashok, Pinky, and Balram simply move to Gurgaon instead of going to back to America. Globalization has assisted in the creation of an American atmosphere in India. Ashok justifies this move by explaining "Today it’s the modernist suburb of Delhi-National Capital Region. American Express, Microsoft, all the big American companies have offices there. The main road is full of shopping malls—each mall has a cinema inside! So if Pinky Madam missed America, this was the best place to bring her".^[8] By blackmailing Ram Persad, the other driver, Balram is promoted and drives Ashok and Pinky to their new home.

Ashok is even convinced India is surpassing the US, "There are so many more things I could do here than in New York now...The way things are changing in India now, this place is going to be like America in ten years".^[9] Balram is noticing the rapid growth as well. From the beginning of his story he knows that in order to rise above his caste he should become an entrepreneur. Although his taxi service is not an international business, Balram plans to keep up with the pace of globalization and change his trade when need be. "I‘m always a man who sees ‘tomorrow’ when others see ‘today.’"^[10] Balram's recognition of the increasing competition resulting from globalization contributes to his corruption.

A very good read keeps reader curious till end.

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Arvind Adiga's description of the social ladder and the layers and layers of a systematic discrimination where big fish eats small fish, is excellent!.