William Dalrymple Books
William Dalrymple is an acclaimed Scottish travel writer and historian whose work focuses on South Asia and the Middle East. In addition to writing over a dozen award-winning books, he has created TV series, curated museum exhibits and music compilations, and received honorary doctorates from three universities. He has lived in India on and off since 1989.
The Anarchy
What's The Anarchy about?
The Anarchy (2019) details how the East India Company, an English joint-stock corporation, came to rule the British economy – and the fates of 200 million South Asians. From its founding in 1599 by privateers and pirates to its time as master of the largest standing army in South Asia, the Company fanned the flames of anarchy, then used the resulting chaos as an opportunity to loot an empire.
Who should read The Anarchy?
- History hounds so appalled by colonialism that they can’t look away
- Those interested in how corporations came to rule our lives
- Travel junkies looking to contextualize their time in India
What's Nine Lives about?
Nine Lives (2009) is a study of spirituality and religion in contemporary India. Drawing on William Dalrymple’s in-depth interviews with religious practitioners, these blinks will whisk us from Tibet to Karnataka to Kerala and West Bengal as we explore four remarkable – and remarkably pious – lives. Along the way, we’ll unpack the social and historical context in which these believers’ faiths emerged and continue to be practiced.
Who should read Nine Lives?
- Globetrotters fascinated by the world’s diversity
- Atheists interested in what motivates the faithful
- History buffs
What's City of Djinns about?
City of Djinns is a captivating blend of history, travelogue, and memoir by William Dalrymple. Set in Delhi, India, the book delves into the city's rich and complex past, uncovering forgotten stories and exploring its vibrant present. With lyrical prose and meticulous research, Dalrymple takes readers on a fascinating journey through time and culture.
Who should read City of Djinns?
- Readers with an interest in Indian history and culture
- Travel enthusiasts looking to explore the complex layers of Delhi
- Those who enjoy immersive and richly detailed non-fiction narratives
What's From the Holy Mountain about?
From the Holy Mountain is a captivating travelogue by William Dalrymple that takes readers on a journey through the vanishing Christian communities of the Middle East. With rich historical insights and vivid storytelling, the book offers a unique perspective on the region's complex religious and cultural landscape.
Who should read From the Holy Mountain?
Readers who are interested in history, particularly the Byzantine Empire and early Christianity
People who enjoy travel writing and exploring remote and ancient places
Those curious about the intersection of different cultures and religions in the Middle East
City of Djinns
What's City of Djinns about?
City of Djinns is a captivating blend of history, travelogue, and personal memoir by William Dalrymple. Set in Delhi, India, the book delves into the city's rich and complex past, uncovering forgotten legends, mystical beliefs, and fascinating characters. With Dalrymple's lyrical prose and keen observations, readers are taken on a mesmerizing journey through time and space.
Who should read City of Djinns?
Readers who are curious about the rich history and culture of Delhi, India
People who enjoy immersive and well-researched non-fiction narratives
Those with an interest in exploring the complexities of urban life and its impact on individuals
From the Holy Mountain
What's From the Holy Mountain about?
From the Holy Mountain is a travelogue written by William Dalrymple. It recounts his journey through the Eastern Christian communities of the Middle East, documenting their history, traditions, and struggles in the face of persecution and modernization. Through vivid storytelling and historical insights, Dalrymple sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the region's religious and cultural landscape.
Who should read From the Holy Mountain?
Readers interested in the history and culture of the Middle East
Those curious about the lives of monks and religious communities
People who enjoy travel literature and exploring ancient landscapes
The Age of Kali
What's The Age of Kali about?
The Age of Kali by William Dalrymple is a thought-provoking exploration of modern India. Through a series of essays and travelogues, the book delves into the social, political, and cultural changes taking place in the country, offering a nuanced and often unsettling portrayal of India at the turn of the millennium.
Who should read The Age of Kali?
Readers curious about the complexities of Indian society and culture
Those interested in exploring the darker aspects of contemporary India
Individuals who enjoy thought-provoking and immersive non-fiction narratives
The Last Mughal
What's The Last Mughal about?
The Last Mughal by William Dalrymple is a gripping account of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and the end of the Mughal dynasty. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Dalrymple brings to life the final days of the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar and the dramatic events that led to the British colonization of India. It offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history and its far-reaching consequences.
Who should read The Last Mughal?
History enthusiasts who want to explore the final days of the Mughal Empire
Readers interested in the complex interactions between different cultures and religions
Those curious about the impact of colonialism on India during the 19th century