This is the story of how Madhu, a hijra, survives in Mumbai’s notorious red-light district. Madhu is too old for prostitution, so begs on the street until called for a special job when the parcel arrives.

To date, this is Irani’s best novel, with an intimate experience of the tastes, smells and prejudices of those forced into a different life. A compelling read from the first page, this is one of my all time favourites.

• Canadian 5 out of 5s
• Other Asian 5 out of 5s