Discover the formative literary work of Shashi Tharoor in 'The Five Dollar Smile,' a collection showcasing fourteen early stories alongside a compelling two-act farce. Penned primarily in his late teens and early twenties, these pieces delve into the intricate landscape of youth, from its lighthearted high spirits and burgeoning romances to its deeper encounters with disaffection, trauma, and complex adult themes like death, deceit, and honor. The collection culminates with a richly inventive play set against the backdrop of the Indian Emergency, demonstrating Tharoor's early command of diverse narrative forms.

Why You Should Read?

• Gain insight into the early literary development of a celebrated author and public figure.
• Explore a broad spectrum of human experiences, from youthful innocence and high spirits to mature ethical dilemmas.
• Encounter a unique play offering a fictionalized perspective on a pivotal historical period, the Indian Emergency.
• Witness the emergence of a distinctive and powerful literary voice that would later captivate readers worldwide.