Vintage Naipaul

By V.S. Naipaul

Vintage Readers are a perfect introduction to some of the great modern writers presented in attractive, accessible paperback editions. "The most splendid writer of English alive today. . . . He looks... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1400034000
• ISBN13: 9781400034000
• Release Date: January 2004
• Publisher: Vintage
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.0" x 0.5" x 5.2"

Customer Reviews

A good introduction to V.S. Naipaul.

If you're new to V.S. Naipaul and want to get acquainted with his work, both fiction and non-fiction, look no further; this is the book for you. Born and raised in Trinidad of Indian ancestry in 1932 Naipaul writes superbly on the plight of the post-colonial peoples and nations. He has since written 27 books of which seven short excerpts are included in this anthology. I was delighted that one of his most memorable and flawed characters is included: Mr. Mohan Biswas of THE HOUSE FOR MR. BISWAS that is my favorite Naipaul book. In the selection from THE ENIGMA OF ARRIVAL Naipaul demonstrates his art of expertly and convincingly describing the physical surrounding of the English countryside. Also included are several excerpts from his non-fiction books that enable one to read a wide gamut of his themes. There is no doubt that this compilation could have been longer; 190 large font pages undermine the scope of this talented writer. Regardless, it's a good start for readers who are just becoming acquainted with V.S. Naipaul.

Thematically Brilliant..if not slightly overwritten at times

This is my first introduction to VS Naipaul's work. This collection contains some segments from his novels as well as essays he's collected in various volumes. Regarding his fiction, I think it's very good--especially if you like Indian writing (which I love). Of his essays in his edition, I think Jasmine is my favorite--all because of the last few paragraphs.Naipaul's set-up always leads to perfect execution, though, at times, elements of his writing seemed overblown, overembellished. His essay on Mobutu and the first half of Jack's Garden struggled in keeping my attention, though, both had wonderful themes once finished.This seems to be a nice study of his work. The balance between fiction and non-fiction was consistent and welcome.