Bookless in Baghdad by Shashi Tharoor

Bookless in Baghdad is a 2005 book by Indian author Shashi Tharoor. It is a collection of essays on books, authors, and the literary life. The title essay, “Bookless in Baghdad,” recounts Tharoor’s visit to Baghdad in 1998, shortly after the Gulf War. He describes the devastation of the city and the impact it had on the cultural life, particularly the book trade.

The other essays in the book explore a wide range of topics, including the Indianness of Salman Rushdie, the influence of P. G. Wodehouse, the importance of literary festivals, and the challenges facing aspiring writers. Tharoor writes with wit and insight, and his essays offer a personal and thought-provoking look at the world of books.

Here are some of the other essays in the book:

• “The Indianness of Salman Rushdie”
• “The Wodehousian World”
• “The Literary Life”
• “Appropriations”
• “Interrogations”

Bookless in Baghdad is a well-written and insightful book that offers a unique perspective on the world of books. It is a must-read for anyone who loves to read or who is interested in the power of literature.