‘Full of exuberance and inventiveness.’ John Self, The Guardian

First publication (outside of India) for this playful and moving masterpiece of psychological intrigue and feminist space-making by the International Booker winner

In this Indian modern classic, roofs are a special place; they are meant for wild things, for romance and for play. They are realms of freedom – freedom from the male gaze, sexual freedom and freedom from society. Chachcho and Lalna use their roofs to build a friendship that transcends time and memory. Suddenly one day, Lalna has to leave, to return only after Chachcho’s passing. Amidst rumours and gossip in the neighbourhood, Chachcho’s nephew tries to piece together his memories of the two women, one of whom is his mother. The truth he is searching for could destroy him forever, but to not find out is no longer an option. Now finally published outside of India, this consummate novel of twists and turns by the International Booker Prize-winning author Geetanjali Shree, The Roof Beneath Their Feet is a contemporary novel that promises to be read for generations to come.

‘Shree moves fluidly between timeframes, mirroring memory to build tension, while the rhythmic prose in Soni’s translation draws attention to the characters’ interior lives. The compassion at the heart of the novel is deeply satisfying.’ Lucy Popescu, The Times

‘Geetanjali Shree’s prose is animated – the walls and doors have a special role to play. They hold people’s secrets. They have seen and heard things. They have eyes and ears, but none of the biases of people.’ Hindustan Times