In Spite of the Gods: The Strange Rise of Modern India [Hardcover]

'IN SPITE OF THE GODS is without question the best book yet written on New India: witty, clear and accessible yet minutely researched and confidently authoritative. Edward Luce has proved himself an affectionate and unusually perceptive observer of the Indian scene' William Dalrymple

'Not only fun to read, it is also a deeply insightful account of contemporary India . . . A fine introduction'

'A brilliant, bracingly uncondescending introduction to the new
India in its many-layered modernity, written with perceptiveness, humour
and real respect'

'Immediately readable and consistently beguiling...an unalloyed
treat, rich in information, stimulation and humour. Believe the blurb.'

'[Luce] has written a perceptive, witty and readable book that
will for some time be the definitive generalist's account'
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

`[Luce's] distinctive combination of intimacy, objectivity and humorous optimism delivers a thoroughly engaging insight into the subcontinent's remarkable growth' --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

`Luce puts forward a thorough, enjoyable and credible thesis . . . Essential reading for an understanding of modern India' --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

`Luce is well qualified to write on modern India. He is clearly a huge fan and an exceptionally well-informed commentator' --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

`[Luce] brings a keen analytical brain, fluent journalistic style and subtle personal engagement to the task . . . outstanding'
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

India is poised to become one of the world's three largest economies in the next generation and to overtake China as the world's most populous country by 2032. Well before then India's incipient nuclear deterrent will have acquired intercontinental range and air, sea and land capabilities. India's volatile relationship with its nuclear-armed neighbour, Pakistan, may prove to be the source of the world's next major conflict. And if you call anyone -- from your bank to rail enquiries - - your query may well be dealt with by a graduate in Gujarat. Any way one looks at it, India's fate matters. In "In spite of the Gods", Edward Luce, one of the most incisive and talented journalists of his generation, will assess the forces that are forging the new nation. Cutting through the miasma that still clouds thinking about India, this extraordinarily accomplished book takes the measure of a society that is struggling to come to grips with modernity. Drawing on historical research, existing literature and his own unparalleled access as the New Delhi-based, South Asia correspondent of the FT, this is a book that will enthral as well as educate and will remain the definitive book on the country for many years.

Edward Luce is a graduate from Oxford in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. He worked as a speech writer for the treasury secretary in the Clinton administration, was the FT's South Asia bureau chief and is now based in Washington DC as the FT's Washington Commentator.