A Comprehensive Guide to Arundhati Roy’s Literary Works: Books in Order

Arundhati Roy is a renowned Indian author and activist whose work has garnered international acclaim for its insightful exploration of social and political issues. With a diverse body of work that includes both fiction and non-fiction, Roy has established herself as a powerful voice for marginalized communities and a fierce critic of oppressive systems. Here is a comprehensive list of Arundhati Roy’s books in the order they were published, showcasing her evolution as a writer and thinker.

1. The God of Small Things (1997) – Roy’s debut novel, "The God of Small Things," catapulted her to literary stardom, winning the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Set in Kerala, India, the novel delves into the intricacies of Indian family dynamics and the rigid caste system through the poignant story of fraternal twins Estha and Rahel.

2. The Cost of Living (1999) – This collection of essays critically examines the Indian government’s development projects, with a particular focus on the controversial Narmada Dam project and its detrimental effects on displaced communities.

3. Power Politics (2000) – In this compilation of essays, Roy delves into the socio-political implications of globalization and the exploitative practices of multinational corporations in developing nations.

4. War Is Peace (2001) – Roy’s incisive essays in this book scrutinize the U.S.-led war on terror and its far-reaching consequences on global peace and justice.

5. The Algebra of Infinite Justice (2002) – This collection of essays tackles a range of pressing issues, including nuclear proliferation, the war in Afghanistan, and the state of democracy in India.

6. The Checkbook and the Cruise Missile (2003) – A series of interviews conducted by David Barsamian with Arundhati Roy, this book offers a deep dive into Roy’s thoughts on various political matters.

7. War Talk (2003) – Roy’s essays in this collection reflect on the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the rise of religious nationalism in India, and the global implications of U.S. foreign policy.

8. Come September (2004) – This publication features Roy’s speech delivered in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she eloquently discusses the perils of global capitalism and its impact on the world.

9. An Ordinary Person’s Guide to Empire (2004) – Through a series of essays, Roy critiques U.S. imperialism and its detrimental effects on global geopolitics.

10. Public Power in the Age of Empire (2004) – In this lecture, Roy delves into the intricate relationship between public power and corporate power in the context of the Iraq war and the forces of globalization.

11. War With No End (2007) – This collection of essays, featuring contributions from various authors including Roy, reflects on the perpetual cycle of violence perpetuated by the so-called "war on terror."

12. The Shape of the Beast (2008) – A compilation of interviews with Roy, this book offers readers a deeper understanding of her perspectives on literature, politics, and activism.

13. Listening To Grasshoppers (2009) – Roy’s essays in this collection shed light on the state of democracy in India, addressing issues such as Hindu nationalism and the tragic Gujarat riots.

14. Broken Republic (2011) – This book comprises three poignant essays that focus on the struggles of indigenous communities in India, particularly in the context of the Maoist insurgency.

15. Kashmir: The Case for Freedom (2011) – Roy contributes to this book that advocates for the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir, shedding light on their long-standing struggle for autonomy.

16. Walking with the Comrades (2011) – In this immersive account, Roy chronicles her experiences in the forests of central India, where she spent time with Maoist rebels, offering a unique perspective on their lives and struggles.

17. The Hanging of Afzal Guru and the Strange Case of the Attack on the Indian Parliament (2013) – This book delves into the controversial case of Afzal Guru, who was convicted and executed for his alleged involvement in the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament, raising important questions about justice and accountability.

18. Capitalism: A Ghost Story (2014) – Roy’s scathing critique of corporate globalization and its devastating impact on marginalized communities and the environment in India is at the heart of this compelling book.

19. The End of Imagination (2016) – A collection of Roy’s essays that challenge mainstream narratives on various political and social issues, showcasing her unwavering commitment to dissent and social justice.

20. Things that Can and Cannot Be Said (2016) – A collaborative effort between Roy and John Cusack, this book features conversations with whistleblowers Edward Snowden and Daniel Ellsberg on state surveillance and civil liberties, shedding light on the erosion of privacy and freedom in the digital age.

21. The Doctor and the Saint (2017) – In this extended essay, Roy critically examines the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, juxtaposing his views with those of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, offering a nuanced perspective on two towering figures in Indian history.

22. The Ministry of Utmost Happiness (2017) – Roy’s second novel is a sweeping narrative that spans decades and locations, interweaving the stories of a diverse cast of characters grappling with love, loss, and resistance in a tumultuous world.

23. My Seditious Heart (2019) – This comprehensive collection brings together all of Roy’s non-fiction writing from the past two decades, covering a wide array of social, political, and environmental issues, showcasing her unyielding commitment to speaking truth to power.

24. Azadi: Freedom. Fascism. Fiction. (2020) – In this collection of essays, Roy reflects on the current political climate in India, addressing pressing issues such as rising authoritarianism, the Kashmir conflict, and the role of literature in fostering resistance and social change.

Arundhati Roy’s body of work is a testament to her unwavering dedication to social justice, human rights, and the power of storytelling to challenge oppressive systems and inspire change. Through her incisive writing and fearless activism, Roy continues to be a beacon of hope for those fighting for a more just and equitable world.