Ten Incarnations of Rebellion by Vaishnavi Patel

1. How did the format of the book inform the narrative? Was this an effective way to lay out the story? How do the ten chapters here, representing a new year in Kalki’s life, compare to the months in our previous book? Can you think of other Western books with this structure?

2. The ten incarnations refer to the avatars of Vishnu and how characters through the story embody each of these ideas throughout the narrative. Did you know any of these stories before, or were any familiar? What do you think of their use in completing each chapter?

3. The book is told in first person. Was this effective? How might it have changed if it were in third person?

4. As a speculative historical novel, this book explores an alternate history of India. How does real history inform the changes? What did you think of the growth of the rebellion and the way everyone takes part?

5. Are there any other stories or authors writing like this? What did you think of the prose?

6. The relationships are central to the story. Kalki, Fauzia, and Yashu all represent different perspectives on the revolution. In what ways did this affect their relationships with each other? 

7. How did Kalki and Fauzia’s marriages differ from the relationship that blossoms between them? Would you consider this a queer book? Why/Why Not?

8. Could this book work on screen? How would you do it?