R. K. Narayan
An Indian author.
The Guide
Raju grows up in Malgudi as a railroad is being built. His father has a shop. They prosper, but his father dies and he decides to be a tour guide. Marco Polo and his wife Rosie, who’s a good dancer, shows up. They stay at Peak House after visiting Mempi Hills. Rosie and Raju have an affair, but she asks him to stay away for a while. Rosie leaves Marco, but Raju is in debt to Sait. She takes the name Nalini and begins performing. He hides a book and letters sent by Marco. He goes to Jail for forgery and never sees Rosie again. He is adopted as a holy man by a village, and he undergoes a two week fast. The novel ends with him saying there is rain coming over the hills.
Swami and Friends
Swami argues argues with the Mission School Headmaster, Mr. Ebenezar, over religion in Malgudi. He hangs out with Somu, Mani, Sankar, and The Pea. Mani sets up a fight with Rajam, but they become friends. He hangs out with Rajam, and his friends forsake him. He compares his plight to an ant on a paper boat. His mom has a baby, but he doesn’t really care. They try to kidnap a Coachman’s son, but fail. They started a cricket team called the MCC. He runs off, but is helped by Mr. Nair and Ranga.