"Who would you throw under the bus in life if it meant long-term success and happiness for yourself? I'm astonished that A Burning is Majumdar's debut novel; its prose is mature, its characters are well-developed, and the voice of each individual shines. The story follows Jivan, a young woman falsely accused and imprisoned for terrorist acts; Lovely, a Hijra (a catch-all term in India for eunuchs, intersex people, and transgender people) learning to speak English to follow her dreams of Bollywood; and PT Sir, a P.E. teacher and school servant who has recently found community and fellowship in a right-wing populist party. Each character's account of events is fascinating, and each character is likable to the point you're unsure who to root for. But they can't all win...Recommend to readers who enjoy multi-perspective stories and tales from abroad.”- Julian, Programs
