"The Five Dollar Smile and Other Stories" is an outstanding collection of short stories penned by the talented author and politician, Shashi Tharoor. This captivating anthology encompasses a wide range of themes and a diverse cast of characters, taking readers on a remarkable literary journey.

Tharoor's storytelling prowess shines brightly as he skillfully crafts each story with finesse and precision. Whether delving into tales of love and loss, political intrigue, or cultural clashes, the author explores various aspects of human nature and society, offering thought-provoking narratives that resonate deeply with readers.

One of the most impressive aspects of this collection is Tharoor's ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and storytelling techniques. From the light-hearted and humorous to the dark and introspective, each story presents a unique perspective and keeps readers fully engaged from start to finish.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
Discover the charm of 'The Five Dollar Smile and Other Stories'

Tharoor's rich prose and vivid imagery breathe life into the stories, immersing readers in the intricate lives of the characters and the worlds they inhabit. The author's descriptive abilities allow readers to vividly visualize and empathize with the experiences and emotions of the characters, adding depth and authenticity to the narratives.

"The Five Dollar Smile and Other Stories" is a true testament to Shashi Tharoor's literary talent and versatility as an author. With its collection of compelling narratives and the exploration of diverse themes, this book offers a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

What are readers saying?

Shashi Tharoor's book, "The Five Dollar Smile and Other Stories," has received a mix of positive and critical feedback from readers. The collection of stories delves into various themes such as love, sacrifice, and human nature. Overall, the book has been praised for its clever writing style and thought-provoking narratives.

Many readers have expressed their appreciation for Tharoor's ability to create captivating plots and well-rounded characters. They found the stories to be engaging and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on their minds. Reviewers have also highlighted the author's skilled use of language and his talent for capturing the complexities of the human condition. It is evident that Tharoor's storytelling style had readers enthralled from start to finish.

However, there are those who felt that the stories lacked depth and were too short, leaving them longing for more. Some found the narratives to be predictable and desired better resolutions. There were also comments regarding the inconsistency in the quality of the stories. While a few stood out as exceptional, others fell short.

Another common critique centered around the lack of diversity in the characters and settings. Many voiced their disappointment that the majority of the stories focused on the experiences of the upper-middle-class Indian society, limiting the book's appeal. Readers expressed a desire for a broader representation of perspectives and narratives.

Despite these criticisms, the book has been praised for its ability to reflect on various aspects of life. The stories have been commended for effectively exploring complex human emotions, including love, loss, and societal pressures. Readers have also appreciated Tharoor's wit and humor, which added an enjoyable element to the narratives.

FiveDollarSmile ShortStories StoryCollection