Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Stephen Alter’s Monsoon Book Reviewed
Stephen Alter wrote a book about the monsoon, the big rainy season in India.
He talks about how the rain affects people’s bodies, minds, and spirits.
The book is written in plain, clear language and includes fun facts like a semi‑slug and the butterfly effect.
The review says the book is good but notes that in India, many writers are moving to online platforms like Substack instead of publishing books.
The writer wonders if books like this will still be popular in the future.
Stephen Alter’s new book, "The Fragrance of Rain: A Brief History of the Monsoon," explores the monsoon across southern India and beyond.
The book blends physical, mental, and spiritual recovery themes, featuring discoveries like a semi‑slug and butterfly effect explanations.
The review notes the book’s straightforward, unflorid prose and its place in a publishing context where Substack is rising in India.
The author’s work is compared to other nature writers such as Richard Powers and Amitav Ghosh, highlighting differing narrative approaches.
The article reflects on the decline of traditional book publishing in India and the growing appeal of Substack for high‑quality writing.
- Who
- Stephen Alter
- What
- "The Fragrance of Rain: A Brief History of the Monsoon"
- Where
- India
- Why
- The book examines the monsoon’s physical, mental and spiritual impact and reflects on India’s shift from traditional publishing to platforms like Substack.
- Title
- The Fragrance of Rain: A Brief History of the Monsoon
- Author
- Stephen Alter
- Publisher
- Aleph
- Price
- Rs 499
- Format
- Book (non‑fiction)