5 books set in London
London is a favourite setting in literature: a lot has happened there historically, it is a cultural stronghold and numerous social problems can be discussed. Here are 5 excellent London novels to prove it:
Bernardine Evaristo’s Girl, Woman, Other
Weaving together twelve different stories, from a young playwright staging her feminist piece, to an old farmer reminiscing about her life, Bernadine Evaristo’s novel Girl, Woman, Other, highlights the diverse nature of Black British culture. With a varied and anti-formulaic approach to narrative storytelling, that fuses poetry and prose, Evaristo is able to brilliantly offer insight into a dozen different lives that are sure to compel readers.
Written as a stream of consciousness novella that explores the endurance of a young Black British woman, Assembly provides a cutting critique into a society marked by systemic racism and heavy expectations. The unnamed protagonist works in the financial sector, is promoted, has just bought a London apartment, and has invested her own money profitably. But this material success is marred by everyday racism and sexism, which make it increasingly clear to her how much she has to be bent and exploited to be part of this industry and environment. Chock full of profound social commentary, mixed with a healthy dose of intelligent insight, this novella perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being trapped within a society marked by exclusion.
Candice Carty-Williams’ Queenie
The novel follows Queenie Jenkins, a 25-year-old Jamaican British woman living in London. After a messy breakup with her boyfriend, she embarks on a series of destructive relationships, while struggling with her mental health. The novel dives into the interconnectedness of trauma, gender, and vulnerability. But Carty-Williams still depicts Queenie’s story with a light touch and a good dose of humor.
Mithu Sanyal’s Antichristie (no English translation yet)
While creating an anti-racist adaptation of an Agatha Christie novel, the screenwriter Durga is transported from modern day London to 1906 East London into the body of Sanjeev, a Bengali man fighting for Indian independence. Incorporating elements of classic British mystery, the novel dives into the afterlives of colonialism in modern British politics. As always, Sanyal writes with a lot of humour.
Meera Syal’s Life isn’t all Haha Heehee
Syal’s novel follows the lives of three best friends: Sunita, once an activist and now failed law student and unhappy wife; Tania, an aspiring TV/film director; Chila, the baby of the group. They grew up together in the Punjabi community of East London. The trio usually get along just fine, but Tania’s film’s success ignites a series of betrayals, leaving the three women to fight for their own happiness amidst fraying friendships.