Rob the Rich

So, you decided to kidnap a rich man? Do you even know the technique? Remarkably capable, yet poor Ramesh Kumar earns a living by coaching underprivileged children of India’s elite for university entrance exams. Not the most dangerous job in the world—but trouble comes from where you don’t expect it. When Ramesh accidentally places first on the All-India exams, his childish ward, Rudy, wakes up famous. And now they’ll have to maneuver so as not to cross anyone’s path and keep their little secret hidden. Even if they have to kidnap a couple of wealthy men for the job.

“Steal a Rich Man” is an amazing blend of a classic crime comedy and a coming-of-age novel set in modern Delhi and the traditions of crazy Indian grotesque: one part Guy Ritchie, one part Tarantino, one part Bollywood, a pinch of a coming-of-age story, and garam masala. Garnish with a severed pinky finger on a skewer—and eat immediately. Caution: causes hysterical laughter attacks.

“Rahul Rayna’s debut novel can easily be called the most cynical book of the year—a wild, headlong trip through grimy Delhi in the best traditions of Tarantino. But behind the biting criticism there’s an astonishing warmth—far more convincing than in any other pretty and picturesque novels about India.” — The Sunday Telegraph