About
the only foreign writer on the list with his book on Gandhi, one of the most influential personalities of India. The book is divided into two parts of the time which Gandhi spent in South Africa and his comeback to India with the name ‘Mahatma’. Lelyveld utilises documentary source and also information from opinion to develop Gandhi’s relation with Prussian Architect. The enquiries include Gandhi’s letter to Kallenbach in London written during 1909.
What makes this book stand out?
It is a good source of knowledge and outlook on Gandhi from a foreigner’s perspective.
Read it for
A good approach on Gandhi and his time abroad. The evidence drawn from letters and collected information makes it best books to read in 2011.
Don't read it for
The controversy of Gandhi and ‘test of vow’ towards young women is triggered in this book. Furthermore, historians have reflected that the invective on Gandhi should have been outlined in a proper context.