Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts is the story of an escaped Australian convict who finds his way to India and lives for many years under a false identity.  From what I can tell, it’s based pretty closely on the author’s life. He lives in slums. He learns the local languages. He works for the Bombay mafia. He even goes to war in Afghanistan. The book is nearly 950 pages and took me forever to read. Which pissed me off because I want to read 50 books this year – hey, a girl’s gotta have goals – but it was worthwhile. Though there are slightly maudlin reflections in the book that didn’t add much for me, the plot of the book is absolutely riveting.

The version I read didn’t have the pretty cover below. This one’s prettier than the one I read. And to match it, a colour-block outfit, no?

Get the book: Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts

Get the look: Topshop tank top, Kenneth Jay Lane necklace, Topshop Jade Paperbag Waist midi skirt & NO.6 Huarache woven clog