5 Must Read Books By South Asian Authors Released In 2022
2022 has been fantastic for books by BIPOC authors. From fantasies to rom-coms and everything in between, there have been so many great books to read. We feel like we’re atop a neverending pile of books–not that we mind, of course!
Today, we’re going to highlight some amazing novels released by South Asian authors this year (thus far) that you must immediately add to your TBR lists!
The Ivory Key
Akshaya Raman’s The Ivory Key is the first book in an Indian-inspired fantasy duology that follows estranged royal siblings attempting to find a new source of magic when all the magic in the kingdom has seemingly run out. As was written in our review of the book, “There is nothing The Ivory Key promises that it does not fulfill; it is in every sense of the word, magical.”
TJ Powar Has Something to Prove
We’ve all had insecurities about our bodies, and sometimes it’s things we cannot change. In Jesmeen Kaur Deo’s TJ Powar Has Something to Prove, TJ decides to make a resolution to stop shaving, waxing, and plucking to show the world she’s beautiful both with body hair and without. However, the high school debater finds herself wondering if the hardest person to convince might be herself. With a lot of heart and a feel-good message for all, Deo’s debut novel is sure to strike a chord and become a fast favourite.
The Balloon Thief
In a society stricken with racism and misogyny, Khadija and Jacob fight for friendship in a place that wants to see them never be friends or allies in Aneesa Marufu’s The Balloon Thief. The book is a fantasy adventure filled with wonderful writing and thrilling moments; you won’t want to put it down and might even want to read it over again once you’re done.
The Girl Who Lost a Leopard
Nizrana Farook continues with her animal-themed books in this year’s The Girl Who Lost a Leopard. Readers will be engrossed in an entertaining tale set in fictional Sri Lanka. Selvi has a love for climbing the mountains by her home and is often joined by a leopard named Lokka. But when poachers come and threaten the endangered animal’s life, Selvi will stop at nothing to save her feline friend. This is just the start of an epic adventure that’s made for a middle-grade crowd but is truly a fun read for all ages.
The Dream Runners
Shveta Thakrar is no stranger to lush fantasy storytelling. Thakrar’s latest book, The Dream Runners, is a standalone fantasy inspired by Hindu mythology. With excellent world-building and enjoyable characters, The Dream Runners is one of the best books of 2022. Filled with magical elements, suspense and romance, you’ll never want to put it down.
