Da: A Tender Coming-of-Age Novel By Arathi Menon

STEP INTO A BITTERSWEET, MOVING TALE OF FAMILY, FEAR, AND FIERCE DEVOTION SET AGAINST THE SHADOW OF PREJUDICE IN MODERN INDIA.

For inquisitive thirteen-year-old Ved, his entire universe is his adoptive father, affectionately known as "Da". From cooking him the perfect biryani to helping him navigate his first school dance and adolescent crushes, Da lets Ved be completely himself. But their fiercely loving, protective bond harbours a dangerous secret that could destroy them both: Da is gay, living in an Indian metropolis in 2013 when Section 377—a colonial-era law—still criminalized homosexuality.

As vigilante gangs prowl the shadows and societal pressures grow, their happy existence becomes increasingly fragile. Narrated through Ved's innocent yet perceptive eyes, Da is a luminous and poignant story capturing the everyday courage it takes to love someone a prejudiced world refuses to accept.

Why this book is a must-have:

• Acclaimed Author: Written by Arathi Menon, celebrated for her evocative prose, sharp character insights, and multi-award-recognized storytelling.

• Profoundly Moving Narrative: Explores the delicate dynamics of a single-parent adoption and queer survival under the weight of archaic laws.

• Richly Atmospheric: Set against the backdrop of contemporary urban India, beautifully capturing the mind and voice of a young, hormonal teen navigating a high-stakes reality.

• Essential Contemporary Fiction: A tender, gripping masterpiece for readers of literary fiction, queer stories, and character-driven emotional dramas.

Discover the everyday bravery of love. Add Da to your collection at Beetle Bookshop today—enjoy 10–14% off and Free Shipping on orders above ₹500!