Map of Bihar

A wide-ranging collection of short stories, taking in India and various parts of the UK (the 'mother country'). In both lands, hard-pressed people struggle to carve out a better life for themselves against the restrictions of class, income, caste or gender. But, when opportunity comes knocking, who will be ready to act?

These meticulously, observed short stories delineate the geometry of the lives of people faced with the possibility of change. Whether in a London suburb or in urban India, we see life chances sought, seized, squandered and subverted. Join these citizens from opposite sides of the world in their very different, but always compelling quests for fulfillment.

'These stories are shocking, surreal and sensual. They speak of experience, and a compassion that's nothing to do with worthiness. Swinney has a distinctive voice and eye, and she makes brilliant use of imagery. No-one is safe from her dark, perceptive and occasionally painfully funny funny gaze.' - Cathy Galvin, writer and founder of The Word Factory and the Sunday Times Short Story Award.

O colectie larga de povestiri scurte, prezentate in India si in diferite parti ale Regatului Unit („tara mama”). In ambele tari, oamenii cu dificultati mari se lupta sa-si croiasca o viata mai buna impotriva restrictiilor de clasa, venituri, casta sau sex.