Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- As an exile and a fugitive, can Lin ever truly fit into Indian society?
- Why does Lin hang on so tightly to the fact that he's never killed anyone? Does it truly differentiate him from his mobster friends?
- Even though he feels betrayed by Khaderbhai in the end, was it worth it to Lin to have the fatherly relationship with him?
- Is Karla capable of love? Does she ever have any true emotions for Lin, or is she always just playing him?
- Why does Lin choose to go to Sri Lanka with Abdullah in the end? Why doesn't he choose a lawful life in Bombay?
- Why did Ulla betray Lin? Was she conscious of her role in his imprisonment, or was she just being used by Madame Zhou?
- How would the novel be different if it began in the Australian prison rather than in Bombay?
- Of all of Lin's crazy friends, which one would you choose to be your travelling companion on an expedition to India?
- Lin seems to be a superhero sometimes, with his fighting skills and medical knowledge. Do you buy it, or do you think he's doing a little self-help exaggeration?
- Why is Shantaram soooo long? Would it be better or worse to cut it into two or more books?