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jainandsdiary's Reviews (310)
Second Star: Poetry of the Conscious State by Puranjay Khanna is a collection of 110 poems and prose that aren't confined to a single theme but carry the essence of life in them.
With the experience of life and its journey, the poet tries to compile them into this collection with the metaphor of imagination, poetry, and written words.
The post very beautifully used the figures of speech at places, and the rhyming schemes that were followed were a delight to read. It's rare nowadays to read poems having rhyming schemes that do not hinder the meaning behind it but enhance it and this one comes into the latter.
The repetition of sentences multiple times in a poem elevates the essence of them in various poems, and it provides a wonderful experience.
As the poet said in the prologue - one can understand the value of life by hearing the story of a single life and this book is his story. Thus, the poems in the collection do not roam into imagination only but can be felt through the experiences, visuals, and stories from people from different aspects of life or maybe imagined, thus making it a lot more relatable and grounded.
I enjoyed and connected with many of them, but like any other collection, there were a few with which I did not feel connected or engaged. Overall, it was a collection that kept me hooked, looked around, and understood the value of life from more perspectives. If you want to read poetry that is simple yet engaging and covers a vast range of themes about life, this one is for you.
With the experience of life and its journey, the poet tries to compile them into this collection with the metaphor of imagination, poetry, and written words.
The post very beautifully used the figures of speech at places, and the rhyming schemes that were followed were a delight to read. It's rare nowadays to read poems having rhyming schemes that do not hinder the meaning behind it but enhance it and this one comes into the latter.
The repetition of sentences multiple times in a poem elevates the essence of them in various poems, and it provides a wonderful experience.
As the poet said in the prologue - one can understand the value of life by hearing the story of a single life and this book is his story. Thus, the poems in the collection do not roam into imagination only but can be felt through the experiences, visuals, and stories from people from different aspects of life or maybe imagined, thus making it a lot more relatable and grounded.
I enjoyed and connected with many of them, but like any other collection, there were a few with which I did not feel connected or engaged. Overall, it was a collection that kept me hooked, looked around, and understood the value of life from more perspectives. If you want to read poetry that is simple yet engaging and covers a vast range of themes about life, this one is for you.
My Little Book Of Holi by Ashwitha Jayakumar, illustrated by Swarnavo Datta is an astonishing board book that highlights the customs, traditions and stories behind the festival of colours: Holi.
By introducing the young readers to balloons, pichkaris, gujiya, malpua, bonfire, and of course- colours, the book beautifully shows the inclusivity and diversity through the illustrations and the detailing of the illustrations is a delight.
The book also tells the story behind Holi- the story of Hiranyakashipu, Prahlada and Holika in very friendly and simple words for kids, making them connected and intrigued with our Indian Festivals, diversity and traditions.
Suitable for children aged 3 and up, this vibrant book is a delight and shows how the festivals are a medium for the reunion of family, and friends, and a riot of happiness and laughter.
By introducing the young readers to balloons, pichkaris, gujiya, malpua, bonfire, and of course- colours, the book beautifully shows the inclusivity and diversity through the illustrations and the detailing of the illustrations is a delight.
The book also tells the story behind Holi- the story of Hiranyakashipu, Prahlada and Holika in very friendly and simple words for kids, making them connected and intrigued with our Indian Festivals, diversity and traditions.
Suitable for children aged 3 and up, this vibrant book is a delight and shows how the festivals are a medium for the reunion of family, and friends, and a riot of happiness and laughter.
Love on the Second Read by Mica De Leon is a romance fiction set in a publishing house in the Philippines. When the romance book editor Emma Morales gets a career-changing manuscript from an author, she wasn't expecting to work with Kip Alegre, the sci-fi and fantasy editor, because the manuscript is a sci-fi romance manuscript, and thus their collaboration seems natural. But it's not as natural and simple as it seems, because when two editors working on a sci-fi romance manuscript share friendly―flirty―literary smackdown, stares and some emotions get an obsessive ex-boyfriend, gorgeous ex-fiancée, and a friend worth having, things will get dramatic! To witness the drama, read the book.
As a book lover myself, I am always intrigued to read books set in the publishing world, especially if it's a romance, and this book was a perfect match.
The book is filled with literary references as banter at every junction, making it so much fun and interesting. Although the not-so-sci-fi-lover in me couldn't decipher them all, it was fun to search some and get what the characters were pointing to. Most of the chapters start with some romance-relatable perspectives, which were my favorites from the book, as the romance lover in me could relate so much to them.
The relationship of Emma with her friend Janey was a highlight for me. Friendships in stories are something that I always look up to, and this one was one of my favorites. The contrast in the way of dealing with the authors between Kip and Emma was fascinating to read, and it was a major highlight for me.
However, I felt that their relationship could have given more emotional perspective in the initial attraction because it felt a little rushed. Also, a little more inclusion of family and relationships in the first half and their work of editing and professional life in the second half could have given a perfect balance, as both overpower the others in their counterparts.
The book was all the cliches, the cliches of romance, relationships, conversations and endings, all the cliches that gave us comfort. And this book was just as loving as Kip and Emma think about each other— "Just two nerds standing in the middle of a nerdy joke." Read this book to enjoy the cliches and their comfort.
As a book lover myself, I am always intrigued to read books set in the publishing world, especially if it's a romance, and this book was a perfect match.
The book is filled with literary references as banter at every junction, making it so much fun and interesting. Although the not-so-sci-fi-lover in me couldn't decipher them all, it was fun to search some and get what the characters were pointing to. Most of the chapters start with some romance-relatable perspectives, which were my favorites from the book, as the romance lover in me could relate so much to them.
The relationship of Emma with her friend Janey was a highlight for me. Friendships in stories are something that I always look up to, and this one was one of my favorites. The contrast in the way of dealing with the authors between Kip and Emma was fascinating to read, and it was a major highlight for me.
However, I felt that their relationship could have given more emotional perspective in the initial attraction because it felt a little rushed. Also, a little more inclusion of family and relationships in the first half and their work of editing and professional life in the second half could have given a perfect balance, as both overpower the others in their counterparts.
The book was all the cliches, the cliches of romance, relationships, conversations and endings, all the cliches that gave us comfort. And this book was just as loving as Kip and Emma think about each other— "Just two nerds standing in the middle of a nerdy joke." Read this book to enjoy the cliches and their comfort.
Win Every Argument by Mehdi Hasan shows how anyone can communicate with confidence, rise above the tit for tats on social media, and triumph in a successful and productive debate in the real world.
The book is divided into three parts: The Fundamentals, Tricks Of The Trade, and Behind The Scenes.
There are various examples given in the book from the author's own life to give a better understanding of his points and make the readers feel connected. But the book at times felt more like the author's own version of self-appreciation and made me feel disconnected. Also, there were a lot of things that we all have heard here and there.
I am someone who wasn't aware of who Mehdi Hasan was before this book. Thus, this book gave quite an insight into him, his career, his persona, and his famous debates.
Also, although the book title says to win every argument, it is important to understand if you are doing the argument for learning or winning, and the book fails to distinguish that.
Overall, the book has some new things to offer, and it could be used to revisit the things that we have heard around us.
The book is divided into three parts: The Fundamentals, Tricks Of The Trade, and Behind The Scenes.
There are various examples given in the book from the author's own life to give a better understanding of his points and make the readers feel connected. But the book at times felt more like the author's own version of self-appreciation and made me feel disconnected. Also, there were a lot of things that we all have heard here and there.
I am someone who wasn't aware of who Mehdi Hasan was before this book. Thus, this book gave quite an insight into him, his career, his persona, and his famous debates.
Also, although the book title says to win every argument, it is important to understand if you are doing the argument for learning or winning, and the book fails to distinguish that.
Overall, the book has some new things to offer, and it could be used to revisit the things that we have heard around us.
Book: The Shortest History Of China
Author: Linda Jaivin
Genre: Non-Fiction
Publisher: MacMillan
Pages: 292
China is a country that's been discussed and debated constantly not only on the macro level in international politics but on the micro level as well in the roadside stalls of snacks, and thus, is something that cannot be ignored.
The Shortest History Of China by Linda Jaivin attempts to cover the vast history of China in a short, readable account that can capture the attention and make the readers intrigued and informed about it. The book narrates the history of China from the "Origins" to "The New Era of Xi Jinping" in around 15 chapters.
Though quite short in length, the book covers many aspects that have significant importance in Chinese history. Although divided into 15 chapters, the last four cover almost half of the book which starts with the Japanese Invasion and Civil War, and although it was interesting to read, a little balancing in the first half could have made it more interesting.
Overall, it was an informative read that provided a vast history in a very quick, crisp and interesting manner. It could be a good read for anyone who is looking forward to reading the history of China in short, which can make them curious and let them explore more of it.
Author: Linda Jaivin
Genre: Non-Fiction
Publisher: MacMillan
Pages: 292
China is a country that's been discussed and debated constantly not only on the macro level in international politics but on the micro level as well in the roadside stalls of snacks, and thus, is something that cannot be ignored.
The Shortest History Of China by Linda Jaivin attempts to cover the vast history of China in a short, readable account that can capture the attention and make the readers intrigued and informed about it. The book narrates the history of China from the "Origins" to "The New Era of Xi Jinping" in around 15 chapters.
Though quite short in length, the book covers many aspects that have significant importance in Chinese history. Although divided into 15 chapters, the last four cover almost half of the book which starts with the Japanese Invasion and Civil War, and although it was interesting to read, a little balancing in the first half could have made it more interesting.
Overall, it was an informative read that provided a vast history in a very quick, crisp and interesting manner. It could be a good read for anyone who is looking forward to reading the history of China in short, which can make them curious and let them explore more of it.
The Shortest History of Democracy: Four Thousand Years of Self-Government—A Retelling for Our Times
Book: The Shortest History Of Democracy
Author: John Keane
Genre: Non-Fiction/Political History
Publisher: Picador India
Pages: 256
Democracy is the word that trends globally from time to time, especially now when the largest democracy in the world is going to have its General Elections.
The Shortest History Of Democracy by John Keane is an attempt to make the readers familiar with the concept of democracy from the time of its origin to the recent debates where there are always comparisons between democracy and other forms of government. The book is divided into three parts: Assembly Democracy, Electoral Democracy and Monitory Democracy.
The author talks in detail about the origin of democracy and all the controversies around it. The first part of the book is quite interesting in that context. Although I was a little lost in the second and third parts at some moments.
Overall, this is a good book for someone who wants to know about the evolution of democracy, the emerging challenges and its significance in the current time, and something that could be read in a short duration.
Author: John Keane
Genre: Non-Fiction/Political History
Publisher: Picador India
Pages: 256
Democracy is the word that trends globally from time to time, especially now when the largest democracy in the world is going to have its General Elections.
The Shortest History Of Democracy by John Keane is an attempt to make the readers familiar with the concept of democracy from the time of its origin to the recent debates where there are always comparisons between democracy and other forms of government. The book is divided into three parts: Assembly Democracy, Electoral Democracy and Monitory Democracy.
The author talks in detail about the origin of democracy and all the controversies around it. The first part of the book is quite interesting in that context. Although I was a little lost in the second and third parts at some moments.
Overall, this is a good book for someone who wants to know about the evolution of democracy, the emerging challenges and its significance in the current time, and something that could be read in a short duration.
Timeless Tales is a collection of Children's Stories from Bengal and Bangladesh, written by some of the best Bengali writers, and translated by Ayushmita Kundu. In this collection of 23 stories, the readers, along with children can dive into the world of joy, wit and fantasy with the added comfort and fun of the storytelling.
The collection has stories of some well-known authors like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Abanindranath Tagore, Sukumar Ray and Gaganendranath Tagore amongst other authors and it was fascinating to read stories from the authors who are not much mentioned and discussed. And thus, this book comes as a breath of fresh air with charming and engaging stories.
Most of the stories are very short in length and could be easily used to read in between any chores and work, or maybe at bedtime, and can be a source of fun and vibrant moments. Many stories in the collection may originate from folktales, because even though I have not read Bengali children's stories earlier, I could feel that I have heard some other version of them at some places or others, and it makes it more interesting. The stories are beautifully complemented with illustrations.
I enjoyed reading most of the stories, and these stories are a delight not only for children but for grown-ups as well. If you are someone who is looking forward to some short stories for children or yourself for some light, fun, and engaging stories, this one will serve you perfectly.
The collection has stories of some well-known authors like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Abanindranath Tagore, Sukumar Ray and Gaganendranath Tagore amongst other authors and it was fascinating to read stories from the authors who are not much mentioned and discussed. And thus, this book comes as a breath of fresh air with charming and engaging stories.
Most of the stories are very short in length and could be easily used to read in between any chores and work, or maybe at bedtime, and can be a source of fun and vibrant moments. Many stories in the collection may originate from folktales, because even though I have not read Bengali children's stories earlier, I could feel that I have heard some other version of them at some places or others, and it makes it more interesting. The stories are beautifully complemented with illustrations.
I enjoyed reading most of the stories, and these stories are a delight not only for children but for grown-ups as well. If you are someone who is looking forward to some short stories for children or yourself for some light, fun, and engaging stories, this one will serve you perfectly.
Ostrich Girl | An illustrated chapter book on biodiversity and conservation
Lesley D. Biswas, Lesley D. Biswas
Book: Ostrich Girl
Author: Lesley D. Biswas
Genre: Children's Book
Publisher: Duckbill
Pages: 80
Ostrich Girl by Lesley D. Biswas is a Children's Book that takes the readers to Henry Island, which is famous amongst travellers and visitors for the birds. The island which is famous for bird tourism is now in trouble because of illegal trapping and trading. Thus, the Manager Babu came up with the idea, to have the children make bird calls to captivate tourists. And Ritu is one of the children among them. However she struggles with making the bird calls, and once accidentally a child named Anik mistakes Ritu's bird call for an Ostrich's and now wants to see the bird. But how will she show him an Ostrich when there's no such bird on the island? Read the book to know more.
The book was engaging from the first page itself. The illustrations by Anupama Ajinkya Apte beautifully support and complement the story.
The character of Ritu and even Anik was very well developed and it was good to see the changes in their journey gradually, making it more interesting, realistic and fun to read. The relationship of Ritu with her mother also gives more insight about their life which makes it more connecting and personal.
The book raises the issue of wildlife's extinction, endangerment, protection and conservation in such a captivating way through the master storytelling by blending it into the character's routine and life that it never feels preachy or out of the box and thus can be perfect way to make aware people and especially children familiarised with the issues and their importance.
The book very subtly raises concern about the role and responsibilities of media and ethical tourism. Although it becomes a little slow in some places, it adds to the storytelling and the learning. It also talks about the power of unity, collaboration and the feeling of oneness and how it helps in bringing real change.
Thus this book is much more than a fun and engaging read and becomes a crucial read to make people - including children and adults - aware, talk and discuss the topics of utmost importance. And thus, it is a highly recommended book.
Rating: 4.25/5
Author: Lesley D. Biswas
Genre: Children's Book
Publisher: Duckbill
Pages: 80
Ostrich Girl by Lesley D. Biswas is a Children's Book that takes the readers to Henry Island, which is famous amongst travellers and visitors for the birds. The island which is famous for bird tourism is now in trouble because of illegal trapping and trading. Thus, the Manager Babu came up with the idea, to have the children make bird calls to captivate tourists. And Ritu is one of the children among them. However she struggles with making the bird calls, and once accidentally a child named Anik mistakes Ritu's bird call for an Ostrich's and now wants to see the bird. But how will she show him an Ostrich when there's no such bird on the island? Read the book to know more.
The book was engaging from the first page itself. The illustrations by Anupama Ajinkya Apte beautifully support and complement the story.
The character of Ritu and even Anik was very well developed and it was good to see the changes in their journey gradually, making it more interesting, realistic and fun to read. The relationship of Ritu with her mother also gives more insight about their life which makes it more connecting and personal.
The book raises the issue of wildlife's extinction, endangerment, protection and conservation in such a captivating way through the master storytelling by blending it into the character's routine and life that it never feels preachy or out of the box and thus can be perfect way to make aware people and especially children familiarised with the issues and their importance.
The book very subtly raises concern about the role and responsibilities of media and ethical tourism. Although it becomes a little slow in some places, it adds to the storytelling and the learning. It also talks about the power of unity, collaboration and the feeling of oneness and how it helps in bringing real change.
Thus this book is much more than a fun and engaging read and becomes a crucial read to make people - including children and adults - aware, talk and discuss the topics of utmost importance. And thus, it is a highly recommended book.
Rating: 4.25/5
Book: What Happened To Grandpa
Author: Nandini Nayar
Illustrator: Aditi Anand
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Puffin Books
Pages: 36
What Happened To Grandpa by Nandini Nayar, illustrated by Aditi Anand is a heartwarming picture book that shows us the story of our little protagonist Neha and his Grandpa. Grandpa is old, of course, and he is not able to keep up with names, words, places and even faces, and his family seems to be losing him, but not Neha. She is the one who reminds them of all her Grandpa is, through her own ways. In this tale of love and loss, will his family be able to remember Grandpa and celebrate him?
Through very few words, and some gorgeous illustrations by Aditi Anand—that can give nostalgia to anyone about their school art and craft class, this story is something that not only bridges the remnants of remembrance, but also acts as a conversation starter for so many things.
This book heals some deep wounds, for me personally, from not being able to spend time with grandparents much and losing them, and all that's left behind are stories, stories of love, fun, belonging, comfort and loss. And thus, this book is something that feels personal. Although very different, it is still personal. And thus, I feel that this book is a perfect read for someone for whom their loved ones have stayed through stories, as they are still with us through them.
Without telling you in detail about the book, as it's already a short one, I highly recommend this. Although a children's book, it is something that will resonate with everyone and can make anyone emotional. A must-read book.
Author: Nandini Nayar
Illustrator: Aditi Anand
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Puffin Books
Pages: 36
What Happened To Grandpa by Nandini Nayar, illustrated by Aditi Anand is a heartwarming picture book that shows us the story of our little protagonist Neha and his Grandpa. Grandpa is old, of course, and he is not able to keep up with names, words, places and even faces, and his family seems to be losing him, but not Neha. She is the one who reminds them of all her Grandpa is, through her own ways. In this tale of love and loss, will his family be able to remember Grandpa and celebrate him?
Through very few words, and some gorgeous illustrations by Aditi Anand—that can give nostalgia to anyone about their school art and craft class, this story is something that not only bridges the remnants of remembrance, but also acts as a conversation starter for so many things.
This book heals some deep wounds, for me personally, from not being able to spend time with grandparents much and losing them, and all that's left behind are stories, stories of love, fun, belonging, comfort and loss. And thus, this book is something that feels personal. Although very different, it is still personal. And thus, I feel that this book is a perfect read for someone for whom their loved ones have stayed through stories, as they are still with us through them.
Without telling you in detail about the book, as it's already a short one, I highly recommend this. Although a children's book, it is something that will resonate with everyone and can make anyone emotional. A must-read book.
My Little Book Of Diwali by Ashwitha Jayakumar, illustrated by Swarnavo Datta is a stunning board book that highlights the customs, traditions and stories behind the festival of lights: Diwali.
The book introduces the young readers to lamps, lights, flowers, sweets, and something without which Diwali at home cannot be imagined— cleaning. The illustrations beautifully and majestically support the story to make it more fun and vibrant.
The book also tells the story behind the festival of Diwali and why it is celebrated. In very few, friendly and simple words, the book introduces the readers to Lord Rama, his fourteen years exile, the kidnapping of Sita Ji, and his homecoming and paves the way for the interaction between parents/guardians and young readers for further discussions and storytelling.
Suitable for children aged 3 and up, this book shows us the importance of our festivals, the reason behind them and how they could be passed up to further generations, making us more connected with our roots, culture, heritage and diversity.
The book introduces the young readers to lamps, lights, flowers, sweets, and something without which Diwali at home cannot be imagined— cleaning. The illustrations beautifully and majestically support the story to make it more fun and vibrant.
The book also tells the story behind the festival of Diwali and why it is celebrated. In very few, friendly and simple words, the book introduces the readers to Lord Rama, his fourteen years exile, the kidnapping of Sita Ji, and his homecoming and paves the way for the interaction between parents/guardians and young readers for further discussions and storytelling.
Suitable for children aged 3 and up, this book shows us the importance of our festivals, the reason behind them and how they could be passed up to further generations, making us more connected with our roots, culture, heritage and diversity.