BOOK BRIEF

An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India

V.S. Naipaul
Guide cover placeholder

An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2002

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
V.S. Naipaul

An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

India • 1960s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India, V.S. Naipaul shares his experiences and impressions of India during his first visit. The narrative explores the complexities of Indian culture, history, and society through Naipaul's personal observations and reflections, highlighting his encounters with individuals and the intricate layers of the country's identity.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.0

2,682 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India by V.S. Naipaul is a provocative exploration of India, blending eloquent prose with candid observations. Critics commend Naipaul's vivid imagery and emotional depth but criticize his often negative portrayal of Indian society. The memoir is both insightful and contentious, reflecting Naipaul's complex relationship with his ancestral land.

Who should read this

Who Should Read An Area of Darkness: A Discovery of India?

A reader who appreciates An Area of Darkness by V.S. Naipaul likely enjoys introspective travel narratives and post-colonial critiques. Fans of Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie or The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy may find this book intriguing for its complex exploration of India.

4.0

2,682 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

India • 1960s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!