‘ Francis Itty Cora stirred up the reading public in Kerala for its thematic audacity, play of ideas and racy pulp rendering.’ – Outlook
When ex–US Marine Xavier Itty Cora realizes that the secret to resolving his personal troubles lies in the story of his ancestor, the scandalous, cunning pepper merchant Francis Itty Cora, he becomes obsessed with unearthing the truth. As Xavier begins to turn the pages of history with the help of Kochi-based sensual scholars and their friends and lovers, an intricate tale shrouded in secrecy and myths is unveiled. He discovers a man who is as befuddling as he is bedazzling: a mathematical genius, a figure revered by a mysterious cult and a person of rampant sexual desires.
Set in present-day Kerala, war-torn Iraq, ancient Alexandria and Renaissance Florence, TD Ramakrishnan’s Francis Itty Cora, a classic in Malayalam literature, is a provocative reimagining of history. With its complex plot twists and fascinating characters, this remarkable translation is just as unputdownable and unforgettable as the original.
Talking about the book, author TD Ramakrishnan says, ‘Francis Itty Cora, a novel written in Malayalam, was read and celebrated by the youth and avidly discussed in academic circles. I am happy that the English translation of the novel published by Harper Collins will reach people across the world.’
Priya K Nair, translator of the novel, adds, ‘Francis Itty Cora is a narrative that traverses time and space and plays with history, myth, magic and realism. The novel written on a large canvas explores multiple manifestations of desire.’
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