Take a photo of a barcode or cover
jainandsdiary's Reviews (310)
Book: The Tale of a Naughty Prank
Author: Anand Neelakanthan
Genre: Chapter Books/Religious Fiction for Children
Publisher: Penguin Books /Puffin
Pages: 48
The Tale of a Naughty Prank by Anand Neelakanthan is a Puffin Chapter Book. This book shows the readers how Narada, the mischievous sage tricked Kubera, the god of wealth and the world's richest man. Tricked by the prankster Narada, Kubera decides to host the birthday party for Lord Ganesha. And the rest is, well... Narayana, Narayana!
The Sage Narayana is one of the most fascinating, intriguing and interesting personalities, from Hindu Stories and Legends. He is the one having wit, humour, charm, and mystery with a lot of mischievous, troublesome and naughtiness. But he doesn't do anything for only fun, there are always some lessons involved in it, and this story explores that nature and learning quite well.
The author very charmingly narrates the story for the young readers which can make them hooked and involved from the start. The banter between Lord Shiva, Devi Parvati and Narada Ji was very fascinating with a lot of fun and humour in it and the author took the creative liberty to make their conversations more interesting and relatable for the readers.
The storytelling was amazing and the beautiful illustrations helped the story to be more engaging. Although the moral lesson seems to be a little abrupt and might need a little more space, time and descriptions, it delivers what it promises - some action and fun, lots of laughter and a delightful read.
Author: Anand Neelakanthan
Genre: Chapter Books/Religious Fiction for Children
Publisher: Penguin Books /Puffin
Pages: 48
The Tale of a Naughty Prank by Anand Neelakanthan is a Puffin Chapter Book. This book shows the readers how Narada, the mischievous sage tricked Kubera, the god of wealth and the world's richest man. Tricked by the prankster Narada, Kubera decides to host the birthday party for Lord Ganesha. And the rest is, well... Narayana, Narayana!
The Sage Narayana is one of the most fascinating, intriguing and interesting personalities, from Hindu Stories and Legends. He is the one having wit, humour, charm, and mystery with a lot of mischievous, troublesome and naughtiness. But he doesn't do anything for only fun, there are always some lessons involved in it, and this story explores that nature and learning quite well.
The author very charmingly narrates the story for the young readers which can make them hooked and involved from the start. The banter between Lord Shiva, Devi Parvati and Narada Ji was very fascinating with a lot of fun and humour in it and the author took the creative liberty to make their conversations more interesting and relatable for the readers.
The storytelling was amazing and the beautiful illustrations helped the story to be more engaging. Although the moral lesson seems to be a little abrupt and might need a little more space, time and descriptions, it delivers what it promises - some action and fun, lots of laughter and a delightful read.
Book: If I Have To Be A Soldier
Author: Nikhil J. Alva
Genre: Literary and Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Pages: 336
If I Have To Be A Soldier by Nikhil J. Alva is a story of two long-lost friends in the backdrop of 1966's Mizo National Front(MNF) uprising and their armed rebellion. Samuel Rego aka Sammy, the Indian Army Captain finds himself back on the land from which he ran away years ago to interrogate 'Che' - one of the most powerful and thus feared MNF commanders in custody, as he is capable of conversing in the local language. As he starts the interrogation, he becomes aware of the real identity of Che-Sena, his childhood friend. And with the moral dilemma and changing scenario, they make choices that stick them to one another's fate as they become fugitives. And thus, both had to face the events of their bitter past and the test of friendship, again, as they are being hunted across the Mizo Hills and trying to save themselves, their identity and their fate. What would they do? Read the book to find out.
The book sensitively puts across the perspectives of both sides of the story - of the army and the natives from the third person perspective, and at the same time shows the brutality of the incidences, actions and plans that were operated there.
It shows how the negligence of the people in power can lead to a change in life, thoughts, psychology and thus, the ideology of the people and how it can lead to devastating results. Through the story and the characters, it reflects on the changes that, if have been brought up, could have led to an altogether different picture and how it is completely incongruent with reality.
The author has beautifully tried to capture the essence of the local tribes, their culture and traditions and their issues. The relationship of Sammy and Sena was quite fascinating to read and their relationship with their parents was a major aspect of the book that stands out. But the pace of the story was a little slow and many times it becomes a little tricky to move ahead.
Though the story was quite powerful with the theme it represents, I felt a little disconnected from it, especially in the first quarter of the story. There was so much description about some things which made it lengthy at places where it was not required and could have been substituted in describing the thought process, psychology and motives of the protagonist at some important junctions, where it lacked and thus, lacks the connection. Though it comes back on track in between, it lacks again towards the end and takes away connectivity.
The author blends facts and fiction, history and imagination, and thus shows a story that holds the attention of the readers and makes them think, reflect, and research about the 'zamaan-o-makaan' - the time and space, circumstances and events that make its place in the history of this subcontinent.
So overall, this book, though having some flaws in storytelling finds its success in being able to make people more aware of the issues and the history of the Mizo people through this literary and contemporary fiction and thus, it is recommended to the ones who are looking forward to starting reading about it.
Author: Nikhil J. Alva
Genre: Literary and Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Pages: 336
If I Have To Be A Soldier by Nikhil J. Alva is a story of two long-lost friends in the backdrop of 1966's Mizo National Front(MNF) uprising and their armed rebellion. Samuel Rego aka Sammy, the Indian Army Captain finds himself back on the land from which he ran away years ago to interrogate 'Che' - one of the most powerful and thus feared MNF commanders in custody, as he is capable of conversing in the local language. As he starts the interrogation, he becomes aware of the real identity of Che-Sena, his childhood friend. And with the moral dilemma and changing scenario, they make choices that stick them to one another's fate as they become fugitives. And thus, both had to face the events of their bitter past and the test of friendship, again, as they are being hunted across the Mizo Hills and trying to save themselves, their identity and their fate. What would they do? Read the book to find out.
The book sensitively puts across the perspectives of both sides of the story - of the army and the natives from the third person perspective, and at the same time shows the brutality of the incidences, actions and plans that were operated there.
It shows how the negligence of the people in power can lead to a change in life, thoughts, psychology and thus, the ideology of the people and how it can lead to devastating results. Through the story and the characters, it reflects on the changes that, if have been brought up, could have led to an altogether different picture and how it is completely incongruent with reality.
The author has beautifully tried to capture the essence of the local tribes, their culture and traditions and their issues. The relationship of Sammy and Sena was quite fascinating to read and their relationship with their parents was a major aspect of the book that stands out. But the pace of the story was a little slow and many times it becomes a little tricky to move ahead.
Though the story was quite powerful with the theme it represents, I felt a little disconnected from it, especially in the first quarter of the story. There was so much description about some things which made it lengthy at places where it was not required and could have been substituted in describing the thought process, psychology and motives of the protagonist at some important junctions, where it lacked and thus, lacks the connection. Though it comes back on track in between, it lacks again towards the end and takes away connectivity.
The author blends facts and fiction, history and imagination, and thus shows a story that holds the attention of the readers and makes them think, reflect, and research about the 'zamaan-o-makaan' - the time and space, circumstances and events that make its place in the history of this subcontinent.
So overall, this book, though having some flaws in storytelling finds its success in being able to make people more aware of the issues and the history of the Mizo people through this literary and contemporary fiction and thus, it is recommended to the ones who are looking forward to starting reading about it.
Book: Mehar's World Of Colours
Author: Arti Sonthalia
Genre: Middle-Grade Children's Fiction
Publisher: Puffin Books
Pages: 176
Mehar's World Of Colours by Arti Sonthalia is a Middle-Grade Children's Fiction that tells us the story of Meher and her journey of sustaining the passion that gives her identity and makes her world colorful. Meher loves reading books, especially comic books and not only reading but she loves colouring and painting as well and is hoping to make her comic book one day with her best friend Ananya. But what is school life without drama? And here, the drama comes from her mother. She wants Mehar to swim and become a champion in it just like her elder sister Saanvi. And when Mehar's school starts an after-school activity class, her happiness knows no bounds when she sees comic-making as one of the activities. But what would Mehar do when the activity times clash with the swimming classes, especially when the competitions are near and she is expected to practice more? What would be her mother's reaction? Read the book to find out.
The book very beautifully captures the life of a fifth-grade girl who is in a dilemma about her love for her passion and her mother's expectations. With the easy and engaging way of narration, the story holds the attention throughout its journey and can be easily finished in a day!
The beauty of the book lies in the relationships, be it friendship, siblings, grandparents or with the mother and teachers. It beautifully articulates the ups and downs that one faces in any relationship and shows a very real and authentic picture of it, especially with Mehar's friendship with Ananya. The author also highlights the hardships of a single mother, the role of teachers and grandparents in the upbringing of the children and its impact on them.
It was my first book by Arti Sonthalia and I was planning to read her books from the time I met her during Bookaroo Children's LitFest in 2022 and with this book, the journey has finally started. The book is as sweet, comforting and fun as the author and it would be loved by readers. The ending is very fun and entertaining and looks so filmy and enjoyable.
It's a book that will be enjoyed by children and at the same time can be devoured by grown-ups as well who will find the ignition in the flame of their passion. This is a book that I thoroughly enjoyed and am looking forward to reading more by the author. And thus, this is a highly recommended book from my side.
Rating: 4.75/5
Author: Arti Sonthalia
Genre: Middle-Grade Children's Fiction
Publisher: Puffin Books
Pages: 176
Mehar's World Of Colours by Arti Sonthalia is a Middle-Grade Children's Fiction that tells us the story of Meher and her journey of sustaining the passion that gives her identity and makes her world colorful. Meher loves reading books, especially comic books and not only reading but she loves colouring and painting as well and is hoping to make her comic book one day with her best friend Ananya. But what is school life without drama? And here, the drama comes from her mother. She wants Mehar to swim and become a champion in it just like her elder sister Saanvi. And when Mehar's school starts an after-school activity class, her happiness knows no bounds when she sees comic-making as one of the activities. But what would Mehar do when the activity times clash with the swimming classes, especially when the competitions are near and she is expected to practice more? What would be her mother's reaction? Read the book to find out.
The book very beautifully captures the life of a fifth-grade girl who is in a dilemma about her love for her passion and her mother's expectations. With the easy and engaging way of narration, the story holds the attention throughout its journey and can be easily finished in a day!
The beauty of the book lies in the relationships, be it friendship, siblings, grandparents or with the mother and teachers. It beautifully articulates the ups and downs that one faces in any relationship and shows a very real and authentic picture of it, especially with Mehar's friendship with Ananya. The author also highlights the hardships of a single mother, the role of teachers and grandparents in the upbringing of the children and its impact on them.
It was my first book by Arti Sonthalia and I was planning to read her books from the time I met her during Bookaroo Children's LitFest in 2022 and with this book, the journey has finally started. The book is as sweet, comforting and fun as the author and it would be loved by readers. The ending is very fun and entertaining and looks so filmy and enjoyable.
It's a book that will be enjoyed by children and at the same time can be devoured by grown-ups as well who will find the ignition in the flame of their passion. This is a book that I thoroughly enjoyed and am looking forward to reading more by the author. And thus, this is a highly recommended book from my side.
Rating: 4.75/5
A Choice Of Love by Vijay N. Koli is a contemporary romance fiction that narrates the story of an immigrant girl who is in a dilemma because of cultural conflicts. This is the story of Avanti, a girl who grew up in the authoritarian Tambram family in Tamil Nadu. And while she was there, she started learning Bharatnatyam from Anjali and developed a close bond with her. But when her father decided to move abroad, things took a turn for her. The constant clash of cultures – Indian vs American, takes a toll on our protagonist. And it is about this choice of choosing her own identity, that the novel talks about. The romance part of the book also contributes to this theme, aligning with the storyline. Read the book to know more.
The first part of the book shows the story of Avanti’s parents and becomes crucial in formulating the background for her life. It throws light on the patriarchal society and its norms and how it affects one’s life. This is the part that stands out well for me. Some of the scenes were very real. It shows the character development and helps us connect more with the story. Especially when we move ahead with Avanti’s story in the next part, the initial upbringing and the context behind the father’s behavior become very helpful.
But with the later parts, I was not able to connect. Many characters were coming and going in between which didn’t contribute much to the character's development. The romance part also had huge potential and the emotional dilemma of choosing a partner from the one you love and the one who is chosen by the family could have made it more connecting and interesting.
The story, set on different continents, connects the reader with its easy writing style. There were some minor errors but those didn’t impact the storyline. The novel holds huge potential given the themes introduced by the author.
The first part of the book shows the story of Avanti’s parents and becomes crucial in formulating the background for her life. It throws light on the patriarchal society and its norms and how it affects one’s life. This is the part that stands out well for me. Some of the scenes were very real. It shows the character development and helps us connect more with the story. Especially when we move ahead with Avanti’s story in the next part, the initial upbringing and the context behind the father’s behavior become very helpful.
But with the later parts, I was not able to connect. Many characters were coming and going in between which didn’t contribute much to the character's development. The romance part also had huge potential and the emotional dilemma of choosing a partner from the one you love and the one who is chosen by the family could have made it more connecting and interesting.
The story, set on different continents, connects the reader with its easy writing style. There were some minor errors but those didn’t impact the storyline. The novel holds huge potential given the themes introduced by the author.
Book: Under The Bakul Tree
Author: Mrinal Kalita
Translator: Partha Pratim Goswami
Genre: Literary and Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Penguin Books
Pages: 328
Under The Bakul Tree by Mrinal Kalita is a winner of Sahitya Akademi's Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2021, which is translated from Assamese to English by Partha Pratim Goswami. It shows the story of Ashim, a bright student of the class and called the 'jewel' by their Mathematics teacher Mahendra. But when he suddenly drops out of the school, it surprises everyone, especially Nirmal. He goes out of the way to find out the reason behind it and does everything possible under the sun for him to make him join the school again. But what happens when the reality of life collides with the dreams? What happens when the 'jewel' slopes down? Read the book to know more.
Set in rural Assam and showing the harsh realities of the people, this book creates the perfect setting for the ground realities of Idealism vs Realism, more so with the introduction of another Mathematics teacher, Anubhav. A teacher who aims at not only teaching but learning. A teacher that Ashim, Nirmal and many other children like them need.
But the story becomes a little preachy in between and rants in great length about the education system, politicians and the change required, which although complements the story, becomes a little repetitive at times.
Nirmal and Ashim's friendship is the benchmark of the book and probably one of my favourite bookish friendships till now. Nirmal completely signifies the meaning of his name - Pure— pure in friendship, studies, actions and motivations, 'heart' and soul!
It shows the impact of an alcoholic father and the "strict teacher" on the physical, emotional, financial, educational and mental aspects of the children and will break the hearts of the readers multiple times with its brutal and real representation. The story also signifies the philosophy of 'it takes only one person to make a difference' and at the same time the importance of collective efforts and their impact on the lives of the people.
The book is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, and shows us the power of resilience, love and nurture. It portrays beautiful character development and descriptions of Ashim and Nirmal. But the story would have been more impactful if the story and journey of Sir Anubhav were told and what made him the person he is and the decisions he takes.
Overall, this is a must-read book that narrates the coming-of-age tale with the brutal realities of the education system and the hope that can be brought up - the hope that blooms like the flowers of the Bakul tree.
Author: Mrinal Kalita
Translator: Partha Pratim Goswami
Genre: Literary and Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Penguin Books
Pages: 328
Under The Bakul Tree by Mrinal Kalita is a winner of Sahitya Akademi's Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2021, which is translated from Assamese to English by Partha Pratim Goswami. It shows the story of Ashim, a bright student of the class and called the 'jewel' by their Mathematics teacher Mahendra. But when he suddenly drops out of the school, it surprises everyone, especially Nirmal. He goes out of the way to find out the reason behind it and does everything possible under the sun for him to make him join the school again. But what happens when the reality of life collides with the dreams? What happens when the 'jewel' slopes down? Read the book to know more.
Set in rural Assam and showing the harsh realities of the people, this book creates the perfect setting for the ground realities of Idealism vs Realism, more so with the introduction of another Mathematics teacher, Anubhav. A teacher who aims at not only teaching but learning. A teacher that Ashim, Nirmal and many other children like them need.
But the story becomes a little preachy in between and rants in great length about the education system, politicians and the change required, which although complements the story, becomes a little repetitive at times.
Nirmal and Ashim's friendship is the benchmark of the book and probably one of my favourite bookish friendships till now. Nirmal completely signifies the meaning of his name - Pure— pure in friendship, studies, actions and motivations, 'heart' and soul!
It shows the impact of an alcoholic father and the "strict teacher" on the physical, emotional, financial, educational and mental aspects of the children and will break the hearts of the readers multiple times with its brutal and real representation. The story also signifies the philosophy of 'it takes only one person to make a difference' and at the same time the importance of collective efforts and their impact on the lives of the people.
The book is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, and shows us the power of resilience, love and nurture. It portrays beautiful character development and descriptions of Ashim and Nirmal. But the story would have been more impactful if the story and journey of Sir Anubhav were told and what made him the person he is and the decisions he takes.
Overall, this is a must-read book that narrates the coming-of-age tale with the brutal realities of the education system and the hope that can be brought up - the hope that blooms like the flowers of the Bakul tree.
Book: Mum In A Mess
Author: Sanjana Kapur
Genre: Children's Book
Publisher: Duckbill
Pages: 80
Mum In A Mess by Sanjana Kapur is a children's fiction that narrates the story of Vishi and her family. When her mother suddenly breaks the coffee jar, it's not perceived as any big deal as that's quite common in households. But what started as a usual affair didn't remain usual as her mother declared that only she would clean it up and no one would try to clean it up. And it followed up for days! What's the reason behind it? What will Vishi and her father do? Read the book to find out.
In this delightful book, the author very appealingly raises some important issues regarding mental health, well-being and the support system in the daily life of an individual, especially a mother.
Though after a point of time, the spilling of coffee looks overboard, the story helps in sensitizing not only children, but adults as well for some much-needed conversations and looking for the symptoms for the ask for help by partners or any other relations for that matter.
The illustrations by Proiti Roy complement the story very well, particularly the illustration of the "list". The innocence of the childhood friendship is beautifully captured through Vishi and Jahan.
I highly recommend this book for children ages 7+ which would help the adults to initiate the conversations around such important topics and make children understand their parents better in a fun and engaging way.
Author: Sanjana Kapur
Genre: Children's Book
Publisher: Duckbill
Pages: 80
Mum In A Mess by Sanjana Kapur is a children's fiction that narrates the story of Vishi and her family. When her mother suddenly breaks the coffee jar, it's not perceived as any big deal as that's quite common in households. But what started as a usual affair didn't remain usual as her mother declared that only she would clean it up and no one would try to clean it up. And it followed up for days! What's the reason behind it? What will Vishi and her father do? Read the book to find out.
In this delightful book, the author very appealingly raises some important issues regarding mental health, well-being and the support system in the daily life of an individual, especially a mother.
Though after a point of time, the spilling of coffee looks overboard, the story helps in sensitizing not only children, but adults as well for some much-needed conversations and looking for the symptoms for the ask for help by partners or any other relations for that matter.
The illustrations by Proiti Roy complement the story very well, particularly the illustration of the "list". The innocence of the childhood friendship is beautifully captured through Vishi and Jahan.
I highly recommend this book for children ages 7+ which would help the adults to initiate the conversations around such important topics and make children understand their parents better in a fun and engaging way.
Lives Not Lived by Monika Bhatti is a literary fiction that shows the story of Haree and Naina- the stories that run parallelly and meet at a juncture that no one thinks of, the stories that meet their happily ever after at junctions, the stories that are quite different from each other, and yet similar because of the pain. To know about them and their stories, read the book.
The story comes with many trigger warnings and that's the reason it's not for everyone. It has the themes of domestic violence, sexual abuse, rape, child marriage, depression and trauma, toxic relationship, and parental disconnection among others which makes it more sensitive with the detailed storytelling, making it a triggering emotional read which can be heavy and unbearable at times.
It was a debut novel by the author and while reading, it didn't look like one. With mature writing, captivating storytelling, the depiction of reality, the keen observation that reflects in the way the scenes are written, and the character development, every aspect of the story looks like a thread of wool which when stitched together makes a beautifully crocheted novel. It is undoubtedly one of my favourite debut books ever.
The book provides some hard-hitting moments, the perfect start of each chapter with few lines, some lines in between that can start a chain of thoughts exponentially, and yet a sense of calmness, the calmness that comes from numbness. This is a highly recommended book from my side, but read it only if you are good with the mentioned trigger warnings.
The story comes with many trigger warnings and that's the reason it's not for everyone. It has the themes of domestic violence, sexual abuse, rape, child marriage, depression and trauma, toxic relationship, and parental disconnection among others which makes it more sensitive with the detailed storytelling, making it a triggering emotional read which can be heavy and unbearable at times.
It was a debut novel by the author and while reading, it didn't look like one. With mature writing, captivating storytelling, the depiction of reality, the keen observation that reflects in the way the scenes are written, and the character development, every aspect of the story looks like a thread of wool which when stitched together makes a beautifully crocheted novel. It is undoubtedly one of my favourite debut books ever.
The book provides some hard-hitting moments, the perfect start of each chapter with few lines, some lines in between that can start a chain of thoughts exponentially, and yet a sense of calmness, the calmness that comes from numbness. This is a highly recommended book from my side, but read it only if you are good with the mentioned trigger warnings.
Married In Hate: An Enemies to Lovers Billionaire Romance is the first book in the Dynasty Rebels series by Shilpa Suraj. It is the story of Aarush Reddy, a billionaire CEO of Laxmi Builders, who is in no way interested in marriage and all because all his life, he loved one woman, the one he could not have any more until destiny worked its charm. Priyanka Kodela, the daughter of the sitting CM of Telangana, wants nothing with her life, because all she had wanted was Aarush who never turned up for her at the bus stop four years ago, and all she has now is her life in the cage of her father — a cage that she could escape from with none one other than Aarush, because both of their fathers have decided for this marriage for their convenience by letting go of their grudges. What will happen when the dynasties merge, the past comes into the present, and they have to live with each other? What will happen when friends turn enemies turn spouses? Read the book to know more.
The story was interesting and kept me hooked. I haven't read much billionaire romances, and this one served perfectly for the beginners like me. Both the protagonists' relationship with their siblings was the highlight for me and provided for much-needed grounding of emotions in between all the clashes and chaos.
As usual, this book also had short and crisp chapters, both protagonists' points of view, some steamy scenes and emotional turmoil like other stories by the author, which gives Suraj's book their identity, and it's always a joy to read them.
The book has some very significant moments concerning Aarush and Priyanka's parents and their relationships, which give a lot of plot twists. But I think that it needed more time and space in regards to the protagonists' story and their journey in addition to their emotional journey as well which was kind of rushed at important instances.
There were many moments in the story where the character's actions, especially of Aarush were intense and needed more insights to understand the reason behind the action, which lacked and thus became the reason that I wasn't able to root for him and his relationship with Priyanka.
Overall, it was a good one-time read for me. I enjoyed reading the book like any other book by Shilpa Suraj and look forward to reading more by her.
The story was interesting and kept me hooked. I haven't read much billionaire romances, and this one served perfectly for the beginners like me. Both the protagonists' relationship with their siblings was the highlight for me and provided for much-needed grounding of emotions in between all the clashes and chaos.
As usual, this book also had short and crisp chapters, both protagonists' points of view, some steamy scenes and emotional turmoil like other stories by the author, which gives Suraj's book their identity, and it's always a joy to read them.
The book has some very significant moments concerning Aarush and Priyanka's parents and their relationships, which give a lot of plot twists. But I think that it needed more time and space in regards to the protagonists' story and their journey in addition to their emotional journey as well which was kind of rushed at important instances.
There were many moments in the story where the character's actions, especially of Aarush were intense and needed more insights to understand the reason behind the action, which lacked and thus became the reason that I wasn't able to root for him and his relationship with Priyanka.
Overall, it was a good one-time read for me. I enjoyed reading the book like any other book by Shilpa Suraj and look forward to reading more by her.
The Black Orphan by S. Hussain Zaidi is a crime fiction with the elements of thriller and mystery set in the city of dreams- Mumbai. When the city witnessed 26/11, it not only shook itself to the core but the whole nation. And though the security agencies, authorities, agents and workers have given their heart and soul for its safety, one can feel that 'the city was sitting on a pile of gunpowder', as the protagonist of the story, Ajay remarks.
DIG Ajay Rajvardhan of the National Investigation Agency is a specialist in taking down terrorists and likes to have things in his control, not everything is in his control, especially his feelings for Asiya Khan, the defense lawyer, who represented a young woman the NIA had arrested and came into the limelight. When India's top nuclear scientists are being murdered one by one and the serial killer is nowhere in sight, will Ajay Rajvardhan along with Deputy Commissioner Sagar Pratap and Commissioner Neeraj Kumar and their associates would be able to save the city of dreams, and how would Ajay and Asiya would navigate their relationship amidst this, read the book to find this out.
Inspired by true events, the story takes twists and turns and gives the readers an insight into how complex things are which we generally do not give much thought to. With the link of terrorism with Osama bin Laden, the development of India's nuclear program and police investigation, this book has everything that is needed to keep the readers on edge.
With friendly language, short chapters and crisp writing, the story moves swiftly and maintains its fast pace till the end, which makes it a really engaging and easy to read and thus can be easily finished in a day.
The book tried to show the rivalry between multiple departments within the government and their work culture. It also tries to show how departmental inquiries sometimes affect the lives of innocent people. It shows the inner turmoil one goes through when the place one is attached to is conditioned with sour memories. It dives deeper into the dynamics of a relationship and the people involved amidst other things such as national security, agencies and their workers and how they are handled by different stakeholders.
But all of these are underwhelming and nothing comes out concrete. The story is very predictable from the start and one can easily guess what's going to happen in the end. The characters are underdeveloped and there are events which could have given more insight about them and their lives but they are just missed opportunities. The love angle in between the thrill is also rushed and thus it was difficult to form an emotional connection with any of the characters. And thus, the story leaves an underwhelming feeling and the craving to see more.
Hussain Zaidi is a very discussed author in this genre and it was my first book into his world. It was a captivating read and kept my attention thoroughly. Though my expectations were a little higher, I am invested enough to read more books by him, hopefully soon. Overall, this book is a perfect read if you are looking forward to a fast-paced, engaging read that can be easily finished in a sitting or two and can take you out of your reading slump if you are into it.
DIG Ajay Rajvardhan of the National Investigation Agency is a specialist in taking down terrorists and likes to have things in his control, not everything is in his control, especially his feelings for Asiya Khan, the defense lawyer, who represented a young woman the NIA had arrested and came into the limelight. When India's top nuclear scientists are being murdered one by one and the serial killer is nowhere in sight, will Ajay Rajvardhan along with Deputy Commissioner Sagar Pratap and Commissioner Neeraj Kumar and their associates would be able to save the city of dreams, and how would Ajay and Asiya would navigate their relationship amidst this, read the book to find this out.
Inspired by true events, the story takes twists and turns and gives the readers an insight into how complex things are which we generally do not give much thought to. With the link of terrorism with Osama bin Laden, the development of India's nuclear program and police investigation, this book has everything that is needed to keep the readers on edge.
With friendly language, short chapters and crisp writing, the story moves swiftly and maintains its fast pace till the end, which makes it a really engaging and easy to read and thus can be easily finished in a day.
The book tried to show the rivalry between multiple departments within the government and their work culture. It also tries to show how departmental inquiries sometimes affect the lives of innocent people. It shows the inner turmoil one goes through when the place one is attached to is conditioned with sour memories. It dives deeper into the dynamics of a relationship and the people involved amidst other things such as national security, agencies and their workers and how they are handled by different stakeholders.
But all of these are underwhelming and nothing comes out concrete. The story is very predictable from the start and one can easily guess what's going to happen in the end. The characters are underdeveloped and there are events which could have given more insight about them and their lives but they are just missed opportunities. The love angle in between the thrill is also rushed and thus it was difficult to form an emotional connection with any of the characters. And thus, the story leaves an underwhelming feeling and the craving to see more.
Hussain Zaidi is a very discussed author in this genre and it was my first book into his world. It was a captivating read and kept my attention thoroughly. Though my expectations were a little higher, I am invested enough to read more books by him, hopefully soon. Overall, this book is a perfect read if you are looking forward to a fast-paced, engaging read that can be easily finished in a sitting or two and can take you out of your reading slump if you are into it.
On the eve of his 90th birthday, Ruskin Bond pens down a letter for the readers in the form of 'Hold On To Your Dreams'. Mr. Bond pens down a heartfelt letter that emerges from his experiences where he reflects upon love, longing, friendship, companionship, partners, goals, achievements and life in general.
This letter feels like a conversation with any favourite grandparent near us who we cherish dearly and like to talk to in the evening with a cup of tea! And it gives the same vibes - can be easily finished in half an hour, is not peachy at all, comes out of the experience and makes you feel a little better about yourself and your life, and gives a new perspective for things around us and how we can perceive them better.
The illustrations inside the book by Pearl D'Souza support the writing beautifully and every line that I found I needed to highlight was already illustrated and it just elevated the overall reading experience. And reading the afterword in Ruskin Bond's handwriting gave it the perfect ending!
Overall, it's a book that I highly recommend if you are looking forward to reading something that can change your mood instantly. It's something that I know I'll read again and again. And as Mr. Bond says in the dedication itself —
"This letter is for older readers, too.
If it's hot, enjoy the shade.
If it's cold, enjoy the sunshine.
But don't stop dreaming."
— this book is for each of us and our dreams.
This letter feels like a conversation with any favourite grandparent near us who we cherish dearly and like to talk to in the evening with a cup of tea! And it gives the same vibes - can be easily finished in half an hour, is not peachy at all, comes out of the experience and makes you feel a little better about yourself and your life, and gives a new perspective for things around us and how we can perceive them better.
The illustrations inside the book by Pearl D'Souza support the writing beautifully and every line that I found I needed to highlight was already illustrated and it just elevated the overall reading experience. And reading the afterword in Ruskin Bond's handwriting gave it the perfect ending!
Overall, it's a book that I highly recommend if you are looking forward to reading something that can change your mood instantly. It's something that I know I'll read again and again. And as Mr. Bond says in the dedication itself —
"This letter is for older readers, too.
If it's hot, enjoy the shade.
If it's cold, enjoy the sunshine.
But don't stop dreaming."
— this book is for each of us and our dreams.