Not as special as the author’s previous work of fiction: Mr. Sampath (1949).
Most of the situations are explained through the outlook of Margayya, who is the main character this time around. He begins his career as a novice financial expert advising fellow townspeople under a banyan tree. Also, this novel deals mostly with the theme of greed—especially in regards to money.
The story’s a bit foreseeable and lacks in originality. Also, the worst aspect of this book is that when you reach the mid-point, it becomes humdrum much likes its titular character. The conclusion is also predictable and Narayan could have done much better by adding more humor to an otherwise mundane plot.
Still, I recommend this novel to readers who wish to pass time with the satirical genre, although they could do much better by reading R.K. Narayan’s other ventures.
