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jainandsdiary's Reviews (310)
Elegy Of The Soul by Abhinav Sundar is a collection of 20 poems where the poet dives deeper into the emotional turmoil within the heart arising from love and loss.
Each poem follows a rhyming scheme, which works in favour of the words that paint a vivid picture in the mind of the readers, taking them to extreme emotions, with some poems to the darkness and some to the hope. Although not every poem connected with me to the core, there are lines that can open the semi-healed wound of betrayal and there are lines that make one believe in the power of ointments again. And that's the beauty of the book.
Each poem follows a rhyming scheme, which works in favour of the words that paint a vivid picture in the mind of the readers, taking them to extreme emotions, with some poems to the darkness and some to the hope. Although not every poem connected with me to the core, there are lines that can open the semi-healed wound of betrayal and there are lines that make one believe in the power of ointments again. And that's the beauty of the book.
The Magical Everything by Jenny Pinto, illustrated by Sharon Dev is a hybrid graphic novel where the author takes the readers on an adventure into the eco-wonderlands in search of the magical everything - the magic of nature, through the character of Ila. When Ila finds it difficult to create a science project with her friend Mallika on Climate change, she seeks refuge in Kapak, a huge old silk cotton tree and other characters such as Mira, Mr. Ramanujam, Hanu, and others. Go on this journey with Ila to find not only the solution for her science project, a subject which she doesn't enjoy much, but also for a journey of learning and fun.
The story was very well set and tried to make the facts of science fun with the intermingling of both aspects. The illustrations go very well with the story and make it more interesting.
The story tried to engage the readers with the wonders of nature and how it works from the time the earth was created to its present scenario - the age of Anthropocene and climate change, and how humans are making matters worse and what can be done now. Though the story got the element where it could be easily engaging, the story was highly academic as well, and at times, the intermixing of storytelling and learning felt imbalanced.
Overall, it is an educating and entertaining read for Middle and High School Children (but obviously can be read by Adults as well) about our environment, surroundings and the climate crisis in an engaging and visually appealing way.
The story was very well set and tried to make the facts of science fun with the intermingling of both aspects. The illustrations go very well with the story and make it more interesting.
The story tried to engage the readers with the wonders of nature and how it works from the time the earth was created to its present scenario - the age of Anthropocene and climate change, and how humans are making matters worse and what can be done now. Though the story got the element where it could be easily engaging, the story was highly academic as well, and at times, the intermixing of storytelling and learning felt imbalanced.
Overall, it is an educating and entertaining read for Middle and High School Children (but obviously can be read by Adults as well) about our environment, surroundings and the climate crisis in an engaging and visually appealing way.
Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee, as the name suggests is the story of the 'Aunties' of Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society who meet regularly for the meet-ups and gatherings. Things were working quite smoothly for them until one of their member's daughters - Philadelphia aka Philly shares a shocking incident with Tarun Adhikari, and their secret society of women comes under threat with the disappearance of Ratan Tamancha, one of the Adhikari's assets. And thus began the game of cats and mice of the 'Aunties' with Bhartendu Bandopadhyay, the most unusual investigator! To know what happens to their group and their secret, read the book!
Having read "The Curse Of Kuldhara" by the author earlier and enjoying it, I have had high expectations from this book and it didn't disappoint. The story is very well plotted and the chapters are written from the perspective of Philly and others, depending on the story.
Each of the 'Aunty' in the story shows the readers the daily dynamics of the middle-class family and individuals and their struggle - finances, health, individuality, body type, identity and desires - and how they try to navigate all of it when society keeps a keen eye on them, literally and figuratively!
Mukherjee very well pulled out an almost perfect and engaging ending, and cleared all the doubts one might have while reading the story, especially in the middle of the book! I had so many objections while reading it and to be honest, at one point I felt very disconnected from the story but it was just a build-up that Mukherjee was creating and although the ending was a little predictable because of that, it was near-perfect!
The use of regional language and the inclusion of local food enhanced the story very well. The names and the nicknames were another delight in the story. However, I felt that the narration was a little confusing at times, especially in the beginning and required more effort to make sense of it. The story felt a little mechanical in between but thankfully it picked it up at the right moment!
Overall, it was a very enjoyable read and I loved how well the author integrated some important themes through the story without trying to make a point out of it. So if you are looking forward to reading an engaging, dramatic, humourous mystery, this is a perfect read for you!
Having read "The Curse Of Kuldhara" by the author earlier and enjoying it, I have had high expectations from this book and it didn't disappoint. The story is very well plotted and the chapters are written from the perspective of Philly and others, depending on the story.
Each of the 'Aunty' in the story shows the readers the daily dynamics of the middle-class family and individuals and their struggle - finances, health, individuality, body type, identity and desires - and how they try to navigate all of it when society keeps a keen eye on them, literally and figuratively!
Mukherjee very well pulled out an almost perfect and engaging ending, and cleared all the doubts one might have while reading the story, especially in the middle of the book! I had so many objections while reading it and to be honest, at one point I felt very disconnected from the story but it was just a build-up that Mukherjee was creating and although the ending was a little predictable because of that, it was near-perfect!
The use of regional language and the inclusion of local food enhanced the story very well. The names and the nicknames were another delight in the story. However, I felt that the narration was a little confusing at times, especially in the beginning and required more effort to make sense of it. The story felt a little mechanical in between but thankfully it picked it up at the right moment!
Overall, it was a very enjoyable read and I loved how well the author integrated some important themes through the story without trying to make a point out of it. So if you are looking forward to reading an engaging, dramatic, humourous mystery, this is a perfect read for you!
Rani and I by M Ahmed is a children's book that narrates the story of Bhola, an orphan village boy who is living with his uncaring and unloving extended family of grandfather and uncle-aunt. After being neglected for his characteristics, his life takes a turn when he is made the caretaker of Rani, an orphan baby elephant! Could the differences in species come in between the connection of situations? Read the book to find out.
The author very efficiently plotted the story and the characteristics of Rani and Bhola, especially by narrating the story from both of their perspectives - making it more fun, especially for children. The illustrations in between were beautiful and support the vivid and fascinating imagination that the author creates with the story.
The newest thing about the book was that the 'Forward' was written by a 10-year old and it was so refreshing to see it as no one could have written about it better than the ones who still have the eye of innocence and not getting into the details of the writing and just enjoying the story. It was new, refreshing and good to see.
The story beautifully captures some important themes of depression, caretakers, miscarriage, dysfunctional families, animal cruelty and welfare while keeping the tranquility of innocence intact and making the themes children-friendly. Overall, it was a beautiful book that captured the imagination and innocence of the relationship of animals and humans.
The author very efficiently plotted the story and the characteristics of Rani and Bhola, especially by narrating the story from both of their perspectives - making it more fun, especially for children. The illustrations in between were beautiful and support the vivid and fascinating imagination that the author creates with the story.
The newest thing about the book was that the 'Forward' was written by a 10-year old and it was so refreshing to see it as no one could have written about it better than the ones who still have the eye of innocence and not getting into the details of the writing and just enjoying the story. It was new, refreshing and good to see.
The story beautifully captures some important themes of depression, caretakers, miscarriage, dysfunctional families, animal cruelty and welfare while keeping the tranquility of innocence intact and making the themes children-friendly. Overall, it was a beautiful book that captured the imagination and innocence of the relationship of animals and humans.
The Dog Who Unleashed The Truth and Other Stories by Suresh Nair is a collection of a novelette and other short stories that arise from the daily life situations that all of us face and come across with the pinch of humour and absurdness in it.
The book starts with the novella with a bang! It talks about a dog who is now homeless after the family that adopted him left him on the streets to die and his revenge by publishing his memoir! And it reminded me so many times about "एक गधे की आत्मकथा" by Krishan Chander because of the personification of animals and their point of view.
The best part about all of the stories is the satire that is so subtle that one might miss it if not give the stories enough time. From the extent of the effect of the appreciation of people on social media and WhatsApp groups, the sense of a relatively high reputation that shatters with the changing scenarios, and feeling de-stressed by cooking by passing on the stress to others, among others, the stories have so much to offer and so much to say, and they do it magnificently.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading all the stories in the collection and after a long time, some short stories were able to make me laugh out loud so many times- sometimes with their humour, and sometimes with their satire. And looking forward to these elements in short stories, this is a must-read collection. A new addition to my favourite books.
The book starts with the novella with a bang! It talks about a dog who is now homeless after the family that adopted him left him on the streets to die and his revenge by publishing his memoir! And it reminded me so many times about "एक गधे की आत्मकथा" by Krishan Chander because of the personification of animals and their point of view.
The best part about all of the stories is the satire that is so subtle that one might miss it if not give the stories enough time. From the extent of the effect of the appreciation of people on social media and WhatsApp groups, the sense of a relatively high reputation that shatters with the changing scenarios, and feeling de-stressed by cooking by passing on the stress to others, among others, the stories have so much to offer and so much to say, and they do it magnificently.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading all the stories in the collection and after a long time, some short stories were able to make me laugh out loud so many times- sometimes with their humour, and sometimes with their satire. And looking forward to these elements in short stories, this is a must-read collection. A new addition to my favourite books.
Ollie's Glowing Discovery by Ruchi Mehta is a short children's picture book, illustrated by Amanda Letcher. This is the story of a little Octopus Ollie, who sets off to discover a hidden gemstone when he gets to know about it from his parents. And thus, begins the journey of Ollie through the wonders of the ocean and its marvelous creatures - from Jellyfish to seahorse to turtles - a journey of beauty and wisdom.
In this short illustrated book, the author conveyed a beautiful message and learning for the children, the one which even grown-ups forget (guilty as charged) - the lessons and wisdom of the journey. The story is beautifully rhymed and it is lyrical, and thus, makes it easy to recite. The illustrations are as gorgeous as the cover, and even more so! It's ideal for children aged 2-7 and is worth it if you are looking forward to a book for this age- group.
In this short illustrated book, the author conveyed a beautiful message and learning for the children, the one which even grown-ups forget (guilty as charged) - the lessons and wisdom of the journey. The story is beautifully rhymed and it is lyrical, and thus, makes it easy to recite. The illustrations are as gorgeous as the cover, and even more so! It's ideal for children aged 2-7 and is worth it if you are looking forward to a book for this age- group.
Endless I Will Be by Sonia Oinam is a collection of 68 poems, that are divided into 3 sections - Behold Not, Come Changes Come, and Hope. The poems are the reflection of not only the poet's perception of life and things around her but of her spiritual journey as well, where she relieves the moments of joy, love, happiness, departure, pain, success and failure among other emotions.
The poems in the collection are very refreshing and present a new and raw perspective on life and things around us. The poet shines in the moments where she elevates the beauty of the things which mostly we ignore in the hustle and bustle of life, and thus creates a very calming and soothing effect. It also has some beautiful illustrations in between.
The highlight for me in the collection was the fact that in so many poems, the lines and stanzas in between a poem tell a whole different story, which in itself feels like a poem and it feels like a poem within a poem.
The first and third sections were my personal favorites where there were a lot of poems with which I felt connected. Though the second section was engaging and appealing as well, I felt less connected with it. Overall, it was a beautiful collection that gives so highlights and beautiful moments and can create a comfortable space.
The poems in the collection are very refreshing and present a new and raw perspective on life and things around us. The poet shines in the moments where she elevates the beauty of the things which mostly we ignore in the hustle and bustle of life, and thus creates a very calming and soothing effect. It also has some beautiful illustrations in between.
The highlight for me in the collection was the fact that in so many poems, the lines and stanzas in between a poem tell a whole different story, which in itself feels like a poem and it feels like a poem within a poem.
The first and third sections were my personal favorites where there were a lot of poems with which I felt connected. Though the second section was engaging and appealing as well, I felt less connected with it. Overall, it was a beautiful collection that gives so highlights and beautiful moments and can create a comfortable space.
Not Just A Joke Book by S. Ramkumar, as the name suggests is not just a joke book, but a book that carries anecdotes from life that carries humour in it.
It is a book that reminds me of the books that used to be sold at the railway stations, bus stops and other stalls that many of us have been through in our childhood which have jokes in it that we used to crack in front of our friends and otherwise.
The 'jokes' not only focus on the humour-provoking incidents from our surroundings but sometimes also contain some social commentary and philosophy as well.
The author is very imaginative in the way he captures the moments of humour, and in some infuses it, which makes it very interesting.
Though I have my share of hits and misses, it is a collection that takes us back to the days when joke books were so fun to read, and we were able to find some good laugh-out-loud moments in between the predictable, cringe and not-so-funny moments sometimes.
It is a book that reminds me of the books that used to be sold at the railway stations, bus stops and other stalls that many of us have been through in our childhood which have jokes in it that we used to crack in front of our friends and otherwise.
The 'jokes' not only focus on the humour-provoking incidents from our surroundings but sometimes also contain some social commentary and philosophy as well.
The author is very imaginative in the way he captures the moments of humour, and in some infuses it, which makes it very interesting.
Though I have my share of hits and misses, it is a collection that takes us back to the days when joke books were so fun to read, and we were able to find some good laugh-out-loud moments in between the predictable, cringe and not-so-funny moments sometimes.
Tides Of Being by Tanvi Agarwal is a collection of 100 poems that takes the readers on the evolved form of basic childhood emotion - curiosity, into the questionnaire. A collection where every poem will take you on the journey of introspection.
Divided into three parts - Virtues of Life, You & Chaos, and Seeking Solace, each part offers the readers some questions and like our favourite teacher during exams, some hints to look out for the answers.
Each poem comes with an illustration literally - apart from the imagery it presents - giving way for more interpretations and diversity. However, the mastery of Agarwal lies in the fact that there were times when I was so immersed in the words that I missed looking at illustrations and then went back to them and found new meanings. The illustrations by Ruchi Sinha stand out on their own and make the poems more reflective.
If you are someone who is looking forward to reading more poems that can help you understand yourself better, this is a collection for you. And in the words of the poet herself -
"To the ones seeking self,
To the ones fighting with themselves
To the ones missing little joys,
And to the ones who feel lost. "
Divided into three parts - Virtues of Life, You & Chaos, and Seeking Solace, each part offers the readers some questions and like our favourite teacher during exams, some hints to look out for the answers.
Each poem comes with an illustration literally - apart from the imagery it presents - giving way for more interpretations and diversity. However, the mastery of Agarwal lies in the fact that there were times when I was so immersed in the words that I missed looking at illustrations and then went back to them and found new meanings. The illustrations by Ruchi Sinha stand out on their own and make the poems more reflective.
If you are someone who is looking forward to reading more poems that can help you understand yourself better, this is a collection for you. And in the words of the poet herself -
"To the ones seeking self,
To the ones fighting with themselves
To the ones missing little joys,
And to the ones who feel lost. "