Kazuo Ishiguro

White Teeth is Zadie Smith's debut novel, published in 2000. The book focuses on the later lives of two wartime friends—the Bangladeshi Samad Iqbal and the Englishman Archie Jones—and their families in London. It spans over 50 years, detailing the trials and tribulations of their families and exploring Britain's relationship with immigrants from the British Commonwealth. The novel addresses themes of identity, race, and the complexities of multiculturalism, and it is known for its vivid characters, humor, and strong narrative structure.

The Remains of the Day is a novel told through the first-person narration of Stevens, a long-serving butler at Darlington Hall. In the summer of 1956, Stevens embarks on a six-day motoring trip through the West Country, which becomes a journey into his past. The novel explores Stevens' memories of his service during and after World War II, his relationship with the former housekeeper Miss Kenton, and the decline of the English aristocracy. It delves into themes of regret, repression, and the consequences of dedicating one's life to professional duty at the expense of personal happiness. The story is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, the reliability of memory, and the human cost of maintaining a rigid professional persona.

The novel follows Masuji Ono, a former artist, as he looks back on his life and career in the years immediately after World War II. Ono grapples with the consequences of his past actions, particularly his support for the militarist government, and the impact it has had on his reputation and personal life. The story explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and the changing attitudes towards art and artists in post-war Japan. Ono's narrative also delves into his relationships with his family and his struggle to find peace and acceptance in a rapidly changing world.

Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is an allegorical novel that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on a journey to fulfill his Personal Legend. The story blends elements of fantasy and realism, exploring themes of self-discovery, following one's dreams, and listening to one's intuition. Along his journey, Santiago encounters various characters and challenges that teach him valuable lessons about life and the importance of perseverance. The book's simple yet profound message has resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring them to pursue their passions and embrace the journey. The Alchemist is a timeless tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams.

A Pale View of Hills is Kazuo Ishiguro's first novel, published in 1982. It tells the story of Etsuko, a middle-aged Japanese woman living in England, who reflects on her past and the recent suicide of her daughter Keiko. The novel explores themes of memory, identity, and the complexities of human emotions, set against the backdrop of post-war Japan and England.