hilarious, sad, insightful novel/commentary on the "democratic process" in the West Indies.

One of Naipaul’s earlier novels and my first introduction into his work. He was destined to do great things later on and this satire, still only his second novel, already shows. In one word: rumbunctious.

Love this book. I can see this happening in the rural areas of my country, where the story is set

A funny look at politics and politricks in the fictional village of Elvira, in a budding democracy. Based in the pre-independence era of Trinidad circa 1955.

The trials and tribulations of a Hindu running for election in Trinidad. Muslims, Negroes, Christians and Hindus must all be bribed.

I read this in 1980, 40 years ago. I don't recall anything about it. I was in my Naipaul phase and I read everything I could by him. Back then it was not easy getting hold of a book, especially an obscure book. If your local library didn't have it, you had to buy it. Books were expensive so I would always go to the Used Books stores and search for it. I recorded my reads in my journals back then but I never made any sort of comment after finishing the book. I loved Naipaul at this juncture: his books took me places strange and scary and he was always an insightful guide.

A must read!!