SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 82

SSC CHSL - 12 Nov 2025 - Shift 2 • General Awareness • Q82

Who is the author of the book 'The Illicit Happiness of Other People'?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 4: Manu Joseph.
Explanation:

  • Book: The Illicit Happiness of Other People is Manu Joseph's second novel, published in 2012.
  • Plot: This novel is set against the backdrop of 1990s Madras (Chennai). It tells the story of a father (Ousep Chacko) who investigates the reasons behind the mysterious suicide of his 17-year-old son, Unni.
  • Genre: The book is a blend of philosophical satire and deep human emotion.

About the Author, Manu Joseph:

  • First Novel: His debut book was Serious Men, for which he received the 'Hindu Literary Prize' and the 'Pandora Award'.
  • Awards: Manu Joseph is renowned for his incisive journalism and distinctive writing style.

Notable Novels by Other Options (Important from an Exam Perspective):

  • Janice Pariat: Boats on Land and The Nine-Chambered Heart.
  • Madhuri Vijay: The Far Field—for which she received the JCB Prize in 2019.
  • Neel Mukherjee: The Lives of Others—which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize.
  • Important Questions for Upcoming Exams:
  • Question: Who is the author of the book Serious Men?
  • Answer: Manu Joseph.
  • Question: Which author, recently in the news, is known for the novel The Far Field?
  • Answer: Madhuri Vijay.