August was an absolute treat for book lovers—history, politics, romance, thrillers, memoirs, mythology, and even K-dramas made their way onto our shelves! From timeless classics reimagined to gripping crime stories, from powerful memoirs to fun romances, this month’s releases are as diverse as they come. Here’s your cheat sheet to what’s new and worth reading.
Courtesans Don’t Read Newspapers – Anil Yadav, trans. Vaibhav Sharma
Dark, witty, and unsettling short stories that pull you into the messy, raw lives of people on the margins—prostitutes, folk singers, rioters, and dreamers. Strange, sharp, unforgettable.
Ponniyin Selvan 5 & 6 – Kalki, trans. Gowri Ramnarayan
The legendary Chola saga nears its climax. Betrayals, conspiracies, and epic destinies unfold as Vandiyatevan, Arulmozhi Varman, and Nandini face love, revenge, and sacrifice. A dazzling finale to a historical masterpiece.
The Book of Killings – Amit Majmudar
The Kurukshetra war begins. Gods, curses, boons, and betrayals collide in this thrilling modern retelling of the Mahabharata’s bloodiest chapter.
India’s Tryst with the World – Rethinking India Series
India’s place on the global stage—from Nehru to now. Essays by leaders like Manmohan Singh, Shashi Tharoor, and Shivshankar Menon rethink foreign policy for India@100.
Resilience Decoded – Sujata Kelkar Shetty
A lifeline for parents navigating teen anxiety, digital overload, and mental health. Neuroscience + real stories + practical hacks to raise resilient kids.
Waiting in the Wings – Salima Hashmi with Maryam Hasan
Growing up with Faiz Ahmed Faiz in a newly divided Pakistan. A moving memoir of art, politics, and finding your own voice.
Enter Stage Left – Salima Hashmi with Maryam Hasan
From teaching and TV shows to activism under Zia’s regime, Salima Hashmi’s second memoir captures a life steeped in art, courage, and resistance.
Story Rules – Ravishankar Iyer
31 storytelling techniques to ace presentations, pitches, and boardrooms. Packed with real examples to make you unforgettable at work.
Hindutva and Hind Swaraj – Makarand R. Paranjape
Gandhi vs. Savarkar, non-violence vs. rebellion. A deep dive into two ideologies that still shape India’s political soul.
More from Less for More – Sushil Borde & Raghunath Mashelkar
How India can solve big challenges with inclusive innovation. Real-life examples + tools for creating “affordable excellence.”
Murarirao Ghorpade – Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta & Indrajeet Ghorpade
The unsung Maratha warrior who shaped history, saved Robert Clive, and fought bravely against the French and Haider Ali. A forgotten hero’s story told at last.
A Shimla Affair – Srishti Chaudhary
Three sisters, a glamorous hotel, a British officer, and a deadly conspiracy during India’s freedom struggle. Romance and rebellion in the hills.
Comrades and Comebacks – Saira Shah Halim
The story of India’s Left—from its revolutionary roots to its struggle to stay relevant today. Bold, sharp, and thought-provoking.
You Had Me at Annyeong! – Malini Banerjee
An Indian girl in Seoul finds herself in the middle of a swoony, complicated K-drama romance—chaebol heirs, exes, fiancées, and all.
The Menon Investigation – Saharu Nusaiba Kannanari
A Kerala crime thriller that digs deep into caste, corruption, and complicity. Wry, suspenseful, and deeply human.
Happiness Happens – Robin Singh
A Silicon Valley success story turned Indian farmer. A memoir about trading money for meaning and finding happiness in purpose.
Why the Constitution Matters – Justice D.Y. Chandrachud
The Chief Justice on why our Constitution is the backbone of democracy, rights, and justice. Accessible, inspiring, and essential reading.
The Career Edge – Kaushik Mitra
Career lessons from a PepsiCo veteran—on resilience, collaboration, and leadership. Straight-talking wisdom for every stage of your professional journey
From epics and thrillers to politics and K-dramas, August gave us a bookshelf bursting with variety. Whether you’re craving a story of rebellion, love, or resilience—there’s something here for you. Which one are you picking up first?
