Mapping out the Rushdie Republic

Book excerpt: Mapping out the Rushdie Republic differs from existing studies on the work of Salman Rushdie by dint of its seriousness of intent and profundity of content. Every major work of the writer is paid due attention as separate articles are devoted to every aspect of his literary persona. As such, the contributions raise pertinent issues and questions that invite the perceptive reader to enter into a meaningful dialogue with the views of a range of formidable academics of national and international repute. A long interview with Timothy Brennan, a notable Rushdie critic, offers further insights, making this a book that designedly stops short of being merely encomiastic about Rushdie’s achievement as an author. The significant act of mapping out the Rushdie republic makes this a must-read for those who find the Rushdie phenomenon an interesting one as part of ongoing debates and discussions.