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79 pages 2 hours read

Q & A

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Vikas Swarup

Q & A

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 2000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Vikas Swarup's novel Q & A, a penniless teenager named Ram Mohammad Thomas is arrested after correctly answering twelve questions on a TV quiz show. Each chapter recounts his life experiences that provided him the knowledge to answer the questions, revealing the vast social and religious divides in contemporary India. The narrative addresses themes including abuse.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Adventurous

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.1

36,796 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Q & A by Vikas Swarup has garnered praise for its imaginative narrative and compelling storyline, inspired by a game show format. Readers admire its unique structure and engaging plot twists, though some critique its reliance on coincidences and perceived lack of depth in character development. Overall, it succeeds as an entertaining and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Q & A?

Readers who enjoy Q & A by Vikas Swarup are likely drawn to compelling narratives involving social issues, drama, and unexpected twists. Fans of Slumdog Millionaire (inspired by this book) and The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga will appreciate its blend of suspense, cultural context, and intricate storytelling.

4.1

36,796 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Ram Mohammed Thomas

An orphan who grows up in various slums and works as a servant, Ram Mohammed Thomas has a deep longing for a sense of belonging and is fascinated by films, distinguishing clearly between reality and fantasy.

Thomas’s best friend and a fellow lover of films, Salim is charismatic and dreams of becoming a movie star despite the hardships of their lives.

A former famous actress obsessed with her beauty, she hires Thomas as a servant and develops a complex relationship with him.

A beautiful young prostitute who has been forced into her profession by her tribe’s customs, she becomes a significant person in Thomas’s life.

An orphaned boy who becomes a close friend to Thomas; he is described as kind and honest, despite his inability to communicate in an understandable language.

Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 2000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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