Why read The Mistress of Spices?

Book cover of The Mistress of Spices

Book description

A classic work of magical realism, this bestselling novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni tells the story of Tilo, a young woman from another time who has a gift for the mystical art of spices.

Now immortal, and living in the gnarled and arthritic body of an old woman, Tilo has…

Explore

Topics

Genres

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked The Mistress of Spices as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Jude Berman

Author

Mostly, I just read a book once through. Mistress of Spices is one of the few that I have picked up again and again over the years since I first read it. Because the writing is so good, I sometimes reread passages just to get my own creative juices flowing.

From Jude's 3 favorite reads in 2025.

Jennifer J. Chow

Author

My friend recommended this book to me since I wanted to learn more about the Indian culture. I enjoyed discovering the different spices tied to each chapter.

In the beginning, there was a beautiful mythological backstory to becoming a Spice Mistress, which I found both inventive and fascinating. I also related to the emotional heart of Tilo, who flaunted the rules of her magic by helping those around her (including an exciting love interest).

From Jennifer's list on books that combine food and magic.