The English Problem

Former Viking Penguin editor Kamlani debuts with an insightful chronicle of a young Indian man’s turbulent and transformative years in Great Britain. In 1931, Mahatma Gandhi sees a future leader of the independence movement in Shiv Advani and sponsors the 18-year-old’s London education. While studying at the Inns of Court, Shiv faces racial prejudice during a debate with a barrister, who calls him a “heathen” when he dares to question the precedent of English law. He then does his best to assimilate, even after discovering his sexuality with aristocratic Lucien Calthorpe, who breaks off their affair when Shiv refuses to be more public about their relationship. By 1934, having become a barrister, he finds love with the rebellious Julia Chesley, who helps Shiv start a magazine championing Indian independence. In 1941, Shiv survives an assassination attempt while delivering a speech in Glasgow, forcing him to return to India and the parents who feared he abandoned them. Kamlani’s portrayal of Shiv’s tribulations and his compromises makes for a dynamic character portrait as well as a nuanced depiction of India’s struggles against British rule. It’s a triumph. Agent: Marly Rusoff, Marly Rusoff Literary. (Jan.)