Suicide is a complex and deeply troubling issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. In India, the discussion around suicide has gained increasing attention, especially as societal pressures, mental health challenges, and other factors contribute to rising suicide rates, particularly among students and young adults. 

Literature, with its power to explore the intricacies of human emotions and experiences, provides a valuable lens through which we can better understand and address this critical issue.

In this post, we delve into the top 5 books on suicide, with a special focus on works by Indian authors. These books offer a range of perspectives, from personal memoirs and psychological thrillers to novels and plays, each shedding light on different aspects of suicide. Whether you’re looking for insight into the psychological underpinnings of suicidal thoughts or seeking to understand the societal pressures that contribute to this crisis, these books provide essential reading for anyone interested in the subject.

Book 1: Dying to Be Me by Anita Moorjani

Though not solely focused on suicide, this memoir by Anita Moorjani offers profound insights into the mental anguish that can lead to suicidal thoughts. Moorjani recounts her near-death experience after battling cancer and shares how this experience transformed her understanding of life and death. The book is celebrated for its compassionate exploration of self-worth, illness, and the fear of death.

Why we recommend it: Moorjani’s narrative is powerful for those struggling with suicidal thoughts, providing a message of hope and the possibility of finding meaning and joy even in dire circumstances.

Book 2: Em and the Big Hoom by Jerry Pinto

This novel by Jerry Pinto is a sensitive portrayal of a family dealing with the mental illness of the mother, who is prone to suicidal ideation. Set in Mumbai, the book explores themes of depression, despair, and the impact of a loved one’s mental health struggles on the family.

Why we recommend it: Pinto’s semi-autobiographical work is lauded for its honesty and its portrayal of mental illness in an Indian context, providing readers with a deep understanding of the emotional landscape surrounding suicide.

Book 3: Black Suits You by Novoneel Chakraborty

This psychological thriller by Novoneel Chakraborty delves into the dark recesses of the human mind, exploring themes of obsession, manipulation, and suicide. The book follows the life of a bestselling author whose personal and professional lives spiral out of control, leading to a suspenseful narrative with suicide as a recurring motif.

Why we recommend it: Chakraborty’s writing is gripping, making complex psychological themes accessible and engaging for a wide readership. 

Book 4: The Illicit Happiness of Other People by Manu Joseph

Manu Joseph’s wry, poignant novel is a comprehensive exploration of the reasons behind suicide. “Why did they do what they did?” is a question topmost on the minds of those left behind. And it is what Ousep Chacko wishes he could ask of his dead son, Unni when he kills himself. We really think we know the people we live with, but they are just specters of dust, molten light passing through our minds, touching our souls. The book explores various factors that lead individuals to consider or die by suicide, including mental illness, social pressures, and existential crises.

Why we recommend it:  Joseph’s book has brilliant writing, a superb and finely balanced mix of emotions swirling around the dark and tragic, comic and beautiful.

Book 5: Avinash by Shanta Gokhale

In this intense, superbly written play, Shanta Gokhale explores various facets of a middle-class family, including themes of existential despair and the events leading up to a suicide. The story sheds light on the struggles of individuals facing profound emotional crises in the short span of 24 hours.

Why we recommend it: Gokhale’s ability to capture the nuances of human emotions and the effects of interpersonal conflicts on families makes this book a brilliant read for understanding the broader impact of mental health struggles.

These books offer varied perspectives on suicide, from memoirs and novels to psychological thrillers and plays. Together, they provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors surrounding suicide, particularly in the Indian context. Each of these works brings to light the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassionate conversations about suicide.