MEETING KUNAL BASU

How often do you get a Professor of Strategic Marketing, that too at Oxford, delving into the world of 'Miniaturists', 'Opium Clerks' and 'Racists'. In between all of that he also acts, writes and narrates his own documentaries.

Kunal Basu is all of that and a whole lot more. Another one of those amazing writers who make you wonder what exactly you have been doing with your 24 hours.

And despite his sheer brilliance, that amazing voice (which he unfortunately kept losing in our chilly studios), meeting Kunal is a dream come true. There is always so much to ask on the show, and always so little time. I chat some more on the way out and discover a man who doesn't believe in taking breaks. He is already at work on his next book. It's 'coming along fine', he says modestly.

Given that he does not believe in repeating himself. That after the Miniaturists, he took his readers on a stunning journey through the beautiful island of Arlinda, a journey that could be dubbed a study in black and white - I can't wait for the next book.

Though before we get to that, here's a little more about 'Racists': The year is 1855 and two of Europe's pre-eminent scientists are about to begin an experiment with the aim of settling an argument that has raged for decades. With that unravels a fascinating tale, by an author whose real life seems amazingly far removed from the topics he writes about.

With its mix of science, history, romance and a seemingly preposterous experiment at work, the book is gripping from the word go. In an effortless sweep through lands unknown, issues best left untouched, Basu's immensely moving work, just like his earlier ones takes you on a journey that is entertaining and fulfilling in the same breath.