Category: Book review

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10 Must-Watch Movies for Women in Their 30s: Stories That Speak to Your Soul

Your 30s are all about refinement—of goals, relationships, and identity. If you’re looking for films that resonate with this stage of life, here’s a curated list that celebrates strength, vulnerability, and reinvention.


💼 1. Julie & Julia (2009)


A charming dual narrative about Julia Child’s culinary legacy and Julie Powell’s journey to find purpose. It’s perfect for anyone balancing ambition with uncertainty.


🌟 2. Eat Pray Love (2010)


Elizabeth Gilbert’s quest across Italy, India, and Bali captures the messy beauty of starting over. Ideal for anyone craving self-renewal and adventure.


🧳 3. Wild (2014)


Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, this film explores grief, healing, and self-discovery through a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail.


🖋 4. Little Women (2019)


Greta Gerwig’s adaptation is a nostalgic and timely reflection on choice, sisterhood, and creative ambition. Jo March will always be iconic.


💔 5. Marriage Story (2019)


A nuanced portrayal of love, divorce, and identity. It reminds us that endings can be beginnings, even when they’re deeply painful.


💃 6. The Intern (2015)


A heartwarming story about intergenerational wisdom and women in leadership. Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of a modern CEO is both aspirational and real.


📸 7. Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)


A post-divorce story set in Italy that blends heartbreak, laughter, and home renovation. It’s about building beauty out of brokenness.


🍷 8. Wine Country (2019)


Funny, relatable, and refreshingly imperfect. This film about longtime friends reconnecting during a wine tour in Napa is pure 30s energy—gritty and graceful.


🎭 9. Frances Ha (2012)


A quirky, poetic look at the in-between moments of adulthood. Frances’s drifting journey reflects the rawness and joy of figuring it out.


👩‍🔬 10. Hidden Figures (2016)


Smart, inspiring, and deeply moving. It celebrates three brilliant Black women whose work at NASA helped launch space missions—perfect for fueling your own inner mission.

These films aren’t just entertainment—they’re emotional checkpoints. Whether you need courage, clarity, or just a reason to laugh through the chaos, each one offers a window into the multifaceted reality of womanhood.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

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10 Must-Read Books for Women in Their 30s: Bold Stories for a Beautifully Complex Life

Your 30s are the decade of metamorphosis. These reads won’t just entertain—they’ll echo your inner dialogue, push your boundaries, and become the kind of book-friends you quote in real life.

🌍 1. Becoming by Michelle Obama


A candid memoir that chronicles the former First Lady’s journey from South Side Chicago to the White House. It celebrates growth, purpose, and the power of finding your voice.

🔥 2. Untamed by Glennon Doyle


Part manifesto, part personal exploration—it challenges societal expectations and encourages women to break free from what no longer serves them.

🧠 3. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert


A creative pep talk wrapped in rich anecdotes, this book invites women to pursue passion without fear—whether in writing, art, or simply everyday decisions.

🏡 4. The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi


Set in 1950s India, it follows a woman who navigates independence, cultural norms, and healing rituals. A vibrant story of resilience, secrets, and artistry.

💔 5. Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed


A collection of advice columns filled with brutal honesty and deep wisdom. It’s for when you’re grappling with grief, relationships, or decisions that feel too heavy.

💼 6. Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg


While sometimes polarizing, it opens a conversation about leadership, gender bias, and ambition in the workplace. Thought-provoking for anyone balancing career and life.

✨ 7. The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni


A retelling of the Mahabharata through Draupadi’s eyes. Mythology meets feminism in a story that explores destiny, power, and inner conflict.

💬 8. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo


Twelve interwoven lives of Black British women across generations. This Booker Prize winner is rich in identity, fluidity, and the complexity of womanhood.

🧘‍♀️ 9. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown


A gentle but transformative guide on embracing vulnerability, letting go of perfectionism, and finding joy in authenticity.

🧵 10. Ikigai by Héctor García & Francesc Miralles


A calming, philosophical read that introduces the Japanese concept of “reason for being.” Perfect for self-reflection and lifestyle realignment.


These books don’t just talk at you—they walk beside you. Whether you’re redefining success, exploring identity, or simply pausing to breathe between responsibilities, there’s a title here to nudge your heart.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

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10 Must-Try Investment Strategies for Women Over 30

Your 30s are a financial turning point. Whether you’re building wealth, securing your future, or reclaiming financial independence, smart investing is key. Here’s a guide to help you grow your money with intention, even if you’re just starting out:


📈 1. Start with a Solid Emergency Fund
Before investing, build a cushion. Aim for 3–6 months’ worth of expenses in a high-yield savings account. This ensures your investments can grow without interruption.


🧠 2. Get Familiar with SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans)
SIPs are a great entry point into mutual funds. With small monthly contributions, you can start investing in diversified portfolios without feeling overwhelmed.


🏦 3. Explore Index Funds
Low-cost, passive, and long-term friendly—index funds mimic market performance and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for busy professionals.


🏠 4. Consider Real Estate (Direct or REITs)
Investing in property can bring rental income and asset appreciation. REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) offer access to this market without owning physical property.


📊 5. Use PPF and ELSS for Tax-Saving Growth
Public Provident Fund (PPF) and Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) help build wealth while saving on taxes. These options are especially valuable if you’re salaried.


🔮 6. Don’t Ignore Retirement Planning
Even if retirement feels far off, compounding favors the early birds. NPS (National Pension Scheme) or employer-backed PFs are excellent tools to start with.


🧴 7. Invest in Your Health


It’s not just about gym memberships—choose health insurance plans that cover critical illness, maternity, and wellness checkups. Your body is your biggest asset.


📚 8. Learn Before You Leap


Platforms like Zerodha Varsity, Women Who Money, or podcasts like HerMoney help demystify finance. Financial literacy is the best investment you’ll ever make.


👩‍💻 9. Consider a Side Hustle or Business
Channel creative skills into income—whether it’s blogging, consulting, or a product-based side hustle. Set aside earnings to reinvest or grow your business.


🌍 10. Try ESG Investing (Values-Driven)
Environmental, Social, and Governance funds let you invest in companies that align with your ethics. It’s wealth-building with a conscience.


Investing isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom, resilience, and legacy. As a woman in her 30s, you’re not late—you’re perfectly timed to start building meaningful wealth. Begin small, be consistent, and celebrate every financial milestone.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

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10 Must-Have Experiences Every Woman Should Embrace in Her 30s for a Healthy and Happy Life

Your 30s are a beautiful paradox—where confidence blossoms and self-awareness deepens. It’s a time when many women begin to reclaim their identities and redefine success on their own terms. It’s the time to slowly unwind and set your goals for the next 15-20 years on health, wealth and lifestyle front. Here are ten transformative experiences that can nurture a more balanced, vibrant, and fulfilling life.


1. Solo Travel to Reconnect with Yourself


Stepping away from routines and responsibilities, even briefly, is profoundly liberating. Whether it’s a beach escape or a soulful mountain retreat, solo travel fosters independence, clarity, and a stronger connection with your inner voice.


2. A Comprehensive Health Checkup


Preventive health is not optional in your 30s. Understanding your hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, and organ health can help you make better lifestyle choices and avoid long-term health complications. You can check my post here to know what you need to include in your health checkup.


3. Cultivating a Mindfulness Practice


Whether through yoga, meditation, or even mindful journaling, developing a daily grounding ritual reduces stress and boosts emotional well-being—something every thirty-something woman can benefit from in this fast-paced world.


4. Learning to Say No Guilt-Free


This decade is the perfect time to master the art of boundaries. Saying no isn’t selfish—it’s self-preservation. Prioritize your energy like the precious resource it is. It takes time but trust me when you learn to do this, you will pat yourself. Learning to say no is an art.


5. Therapy or Mental Health Coaching


Mental well-being deserves just as much attention as physical health. Therapy isn’t about being “broken”—it’s about understanding patterns, healing, and growing intentionally. Do not hesitate to seek help in case you need to.


6. Investing in Strength Training


More than just a fitness trend, lifting weights in your 30s helps protect bone density, boost metabolism, and build resilience. Plus, there’s something incredibly empowering about discovering your strength—literally. If you want an idea of what exercises you need to begin with check here.


7. Creating a Financial Safety Net


From emergency savings to investing, financial literacy is freedom. Understanding your money—how to earn, save, and grow it—gives you choices and confidence in every aspect of life. There are a lot of resources to learn from these days. Number of ways to access information and opportunity to learn about wealth is endless these days. Choose the right one that fits your bill and execute.

8. Trying Something Completely New


Whether it’s salsa dancing, starting a side hustle, or joining a book club, novelty sparks joy and builds courage. Every woman deserves to be surprised by her own boldness. Learning to drive a vehicle definitely is a new high and will be something new if you haven’t learnt so far. It gives you wings so you can fly away independently.


9. Curating a Soul-Nourishing Circle


Surround yourself with people who light you up. The 30s are about quality over quantity—friends who cheer your wins, hold space for your lows, and remind you of your worth. Choose them wisely even if it’s just two.


10. Creating a Self-Care Ritual That Feels Like Love


Forget the Instagram-perfect bubble baths (unless that’s your thing!). True self-care could be meal prepping for the week, saying no to weekend plans, or committing to 8 hours of sleep. Eating when you want and sleeping till when you want to wake up truly is self-care not being selfish. Most importantly ‘DO NOT FEEL GUILTY!!”.


Do what makes your body and soul feel cared for.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Ratna Prabha.

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Books to read this month

Here are some books that I enjoyed reading recently.

The boy with 100 questions

This book is a thoughtful exploration of a child’s curiosity and their quest for knowledge. The protagonist is Shunya, a nine-year old whose curious mind makes him ask innumerable questions about the world he lives in. A lot of these questions will be so relatable because even when we were kids, we would have chanced upon similar situations.


Navigating through his daily life, interacting with people around him like family and friends his journey is filled with curiosity and thirst for knowledge. There are new questions in each of these chapters that are filled with humour and the answers he receives. From a child’s perspective the author captures the essence making the book engaging and thought-provoking.


Shunya’s interaction is filled with realistic witty exchanges carefully bringing out the way of communication between kids and elders.  He is a relatable character expressing all ways a child behaves. A lovely book that celebrates the joy of learning and curiosity.
The author’s writing style is lucid and makes it easier for younger kids to read. The book is informative and engaging as it includes witty moments and realistic situations that make it relatable. I love the way the author handles complex topics. Shruti’s illustrations complement the story and enhances the reading experience.


The book encourages curiosity which is much needed as part of kids growth and learning experience. A heart-warming read that resonates with both adults and kids, which encourages them to embrace their questioning capability and explore the world around.


The book will be a great addition to any child’s bookshelf.

Buy here.

The Glass Girl

A powerful and poignant young adult novel, “The Glass Girl” by Kathleen Glasgow, tackles the heavy themes of alcoholism, mental health, and recovery. Bella, is a fifteen-year-old girl who chances to alcohol to cope with the pressures and traumas in her life.

Filled with challenges like her parents’ constant fighting, the recent death of her beloved grandmother, and the emotional turmoil of a breakup, Bella turns to alcohol at a young age, using it as a way to numb her pain and escape from her reality. On one instance, at a Thanksgiving party, Bella ends up in the hospital with alcohol poisoning, leading her mother to send her to a rehab center. Probably would have concluded it as a very bad night that life took turns.

Self-discovery, resilience, and the struggle to overcome addiction are the themes the author explores. The protagonist, Bella is a complex character who is both relatable and deeply troubled. I love how the author chose to depict the rehab journey in an honest way that is raw giving you complete details of the difficulties and setbacks that come in Bella’s way. The story also stresses the need for support systems and the impact of mental health on one’s life.

Glasgow’s realistic dialogue and description makes the narrative evocative and pulls the reader into the world of Bella. She does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction, making the story both impactful and thought-provoking.

This book is a testament to Glasgow’s ability to address difficult topics with sensitivity and depth. It provides a valuable perspective on the struggles of young people dealing with addiction and mental health issues. It encourages empathy and understanding, shedding light on the complexities of recovery and the importance of seeking help.

In conclusion, “The Glass Girl” is a compelling and heartfelt novel that offers a realistic portrayal of a teenager’s battle with alcoholism and the journey toward recovery. The Author’s powerful storytelling and well-developed characters make this book a must-read for young adults and anyone interested in understanding the challenges of addiction and mental health.

Buy here.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore by Laurie Gilmore is the second book in the Dream Harbor series, following the success of The Pumpkin Spice Café. I made sure I read the first book before I set myself up to read this one. It is a delightful cozy mystery filled with romance and small-town charm.

The story revolves around Hazel Kelly, the manager of the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore (the name of the store keeps changing), who discovers mysterious messages hidden in books throughout her store. Books each time are made to stand crooked in shelves which when opened have dog ears in a page which hold clues that are highlighted. Hazel initially is hesitant and tries to hide it from Noah when he makes a sudden appearance. Noah is a handsome hunk whose had a crush on her for years. Noah also gives her a slight nudge to follow these clues. Hazel who’s wanted to do something adventurous and interesting once she turns thirty in a few days is determined to uncover the source of these clues, and solicits the help of Noah. As they follow the trail of clues, their undeniable chemistry leads to a blossoming romance. It’s all lovey-dovey at many places, I especially loved the encounters at the blueberry bushes. But I felt it got spicier at many places, and I felt an overdose.
The Author excels at creating a slow-burn romance with witty mockery and intense chemistry. The novel also explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth, as Hazel learns to embrace impulsiveness and Noah meets his own doubts. The small-town setting and quirky characters add to the charm, making it a perfect read for fans of cozy mysteries and heartwarming romance.
Overall, The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is a charming and satisfying read that will leave you craving both pastries and more stories set in Dream Harbor. If you enjoy a good romance with a hint of mystery, this book is definitely for you. But I’d say I liked the first one more.

Buy here.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile

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2 young adults books not to miss this month

Small Fry by David Baddiel

Blurb

A funny, exciting, David vs Goliath adventure with a heart-warming father-son relationship – perfect for fans of Danny the Champion of the World, Millions, and Ratatouille.

The story of one boy and his brilliant burgers!

Benny Burns spends every weekend helping his dad by working at their burger van, parked outside the local football ground. And when Benny finds his grandfather’s old recipe book and begins following its instructions, he starts cooking INCREDIBLE food – so good, in fact, that he attracts the unwanted attention of fast food giant Bonkers Burgers! and its CEO, Bodley Bonkers.

To Bodley, Benny and his burgers are a threat that must be eliminated… by any means necessary.

And so, along with his dad and his two best friends, Jasper and Mina, Benny must find a way to defeat Bonkers Burgers, help rescue his dad’s business, and share his passion for cooking with the world – a mission that leads to him competing with the world’s greatest chef to cook the best burger.

Review

Small Fry by David Baddiel illustrated by Cory Loftis, is a hilarious and heartwarming illustrated novel that is perfect for young readers. The story follows Benny Burns, a young boy who helps his dad run their burger van outside a local football ground. There is a background story to how his dad came to this business. Benny discovers his grandfather’s cookbook from which he starts cooking incredible recipes. Small Fry as he’s fondly referred to, Benny is excited when his father hands him the responsibility of making the burgers. An ardent fan of renowned chef, Juliana Skeffington, he’s seen her from her initial days to tremendous growth that made her a celebrity. Taking her as an inspiration, Benny sets to make his fathers Burger van more successful. Benny’s burgers start becoming so popular that the burger giant in their town, Bonkers Burgers is given a run.
An absolutely fun David vs Goliath story that has a father-son relationship at its core. Benny’s friends Mina and Jasper lighten up conversations that give you a fun reading moment and signs of beautiful friendship. Baddiel’s witty writing and Loftis’s illustrations make it an engaging and a fun read. Benny’s journey to make his dad’s business successful is engaging and inspiring. Benny not giving up, living his dreams, supporting his friend’s choices, helping his father, and being responsible for carrying forward his family legacy is truly remarkable and something that kids could learn from him.


This book is a charming read that is sure to entertain kids and adults. A very good addition to any young readers’ library.

About the Author

David Baddiel is an author and comedian. His children’s books have sold more than a million copies in the UK alone, and his debut, The Parent Agency, won the Laugh Out Loud Book Award. David lives in London with his family.

Super Sleuth by David Williams

Blurb

Dilly loved a good murder. Not a REAL murder. A made-up murder. One you would find in a murder mystery novel. Sherlock Holmes was her favourite detective, so much so that she had named her dog Watson after his faithful companion.

Dilly had trained her Watson to sniff out clues and follow scent trails. Something he would happily do for a dog biscuit. Or two. So far, Dilly and Watson hadn’t had much luck cracking cases – beyond lost cats, or missing biscuits that turned out to have been eaten all along.

But now the detective duo found themselves on a luxury ocean liner bound for London. A thousand passengers. A thousand nautical miles of ocean around them. It was the perfect place for a murder…

Or two.Or three. Or four. Or MORE!

Super Sleuth is the hilarious new historical mystery novel from multi-million bestseller David Walliams.

Review

If you are looking for a delightful and humorous mystery novel suitable for young readers, then “Super Sleuth” by David Walliams is the one I’d suggest from my recent reads. The story follows Dilly, a young detective who solves made-up murders, inspired by her favorite detective, Sherlock Holmes. Dilly and her dog assistant Watson make a great team, as they board a transatlantic cruise liner bound for London. Dilly accompanies her Aunt Gladys who looks after her post her parents’ demise. Aunt Gladys falls in love with Lord Fox who also is on board the ocean liner. A series of mysterious events on board, make Dilly and Watson Super Sleuth to unwind the motives behind the multiple murders.

Walliams trademark blend of humor and adventure makes the book an interesting read for both kids and adults. Funny situations and quirky characters make it an entertaining read that is also light-hearted. I especially loved the different character names and their exhibit that was included while introducing them which I feel is a great way the kid could visualize. The illustrations from Stower are vivid and give out a visual dimension which enhances the narrative thereby bringing the characters and scenes to life.

On the whole, “Super Sleuth “ is a fun and engaging mystery read that encourages kids to think creatively and analytically while enjoying the read. It is also a good addition to any young detective’s library.

About the Author

David Walliams is a literary phenomenon whose books have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide and have been translated into fifty-five languages.

This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.

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6 books I read this month

This month I was on a reading spree. The pile of books adding up to my TBR list were competing with the Navratri wardrobe refresh that was happening with all the festivities done . I decided I will get this completed before I start adding more to the list. I did a combined reading where at times I read two books..I initially thought that would be difficult but that was an interesting decision that I took and I enjoyed doing it that way. So let me give you a  short review of all the books that I read .

A speck of coal dust

Set in the backdrop of coal-mining regions, the book is centered around the land of Khajoori in Bihar where Vipul, the 11-year-old coal mine manager is the protagonist. A come-of-age novel this is an example of meditative prose. The book is a refreshing read with the choice of words used in narration. Vipul and his sibling Sameer explore the fictional village of Khajoori as they navigate their lives.
The author creates a rich, immersive world combining the changes in society of the late period of the 2000s and a vivid depiction of the coal mines. Vipul engages himself in fruitful adventures by saving his energy in doing activities like killing mosquitoes and reading comics. Vipul meets a new person at every stage like Swamiji who promises to make him tall in exchange for his American comics, Father Rocqueforte who introduces him to BBC and Dickens, and the classmate mocked for his appearance. All these characters though appear for a limited period, make Vipul realise something important. Some parts that I loved reading include the ones from where they go jeep riding, the counting of the mosquitoes killed, and the dialogues exchanges between their mother and maasi. The book had its bits of seriousness, humor, anger and adolescence.
The book takes you down memory lane of how we used to enjoy trips to our grandparents’ place, get drenched in rain, and have much room. The attention to detail is commendable and the comeback of this book with all the added elements that would make this likable for the present generation is appreciable. I loved the cover it is simple and makes you inquisitive.In an era of smart phones, the book lets you know how kids spent time and still had more fun. I really wish I had the chance to read the earlier version.

The enclave

Set in the late 2000s, the author explores the changing dynamics and economy of the country through the protagonist, Maya. Middle-aged at 40, she is recently divorced and quite settled, and works as a copywriter in a government-run-academic institution named ‘The Centre’. It is set in the author’s signature style of depicting, the protagonist’s interest.
Maya spends her days mostly doing two things that keep her occupied- thinking about writing which she doesn’t and indulging in the many affairs. She has decent work and many suitors. Going through each day in her life is content. Like every one of us, she has to go through things that make her rethink everything about herself. Because she also understands that nothing comes easily.
The author has a keen eye for details which is evident in his writing that is observant and exuberant capturing the essence of Maya’s existence. Complexities of modern urban life, independence, and self-discovery are some of the themes the novel explores. The book is filled with moments of humor and profound wisdom about emotions. The protagonist’s journey is a captivating exploration of womanhood.
Maya is from the period that understands the Country’s new freedom and wants to enjoy them because she was denied from experiencing them during her young age. All the more the story premise is captivating and promising. It is an entertaining and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh perspective on Indian Womanhood.

The book of Emperors

History was one of my favourite subjects at school. Weird ? I loved knowing about kingdoms, the Kings and their adventures of capture places, the monuments they built. The palaces they lived in. This book took me back to those days. But the only difference was that, our books used to be in black and white, but this book is truly a masterpiece when it comes to the illustrations.
The first thing that you would comment on once you see the book is the illustrations.
The book begins with notes about the time before the Mughals and then proceeds to the period from Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir and Shahjahan to name a few. A brilliant one to understand the Mughal period and how they captured places.  The book is definitely a trip down memory lane for history lovers and I bet even people not interested in history will definitely fall in love.
The book of emperors is a treasure trove for young adults and also lovers of history.

Missy

Missy is a tale about Savi that begins in Madras and takes you to the United States. A girl who stays in a convent undergoing struggles and who only thinks that her life is etched with unhappiness alone is brought into a family under her perspective of happiness to bloom. Still, something traumatic occurs so she flees the country with her lover Ananda after a traumatic incident.
Forty years later, Savi is now Missy, who built a successful life in Chicago and a happy family. The characters coming alive in each page, the life of Missy along with her happy family gives you a peak in the experience of living alongside them. An unexpected turn with the arrival of a new character that resurfaces her past events which becomes a threat. A threat that has the potential to rekindle the past and shatter her successful life into pieces. Exploring the themes of struggles, identity, sacrifice, and tragedy the book is heart-wrenching and an emotional read.
An engaging and heartfelt read from a debutant author, that combines her struggles in India and her success in America. Forced displacement, the pain of belonging, and the struggle to find an identity are complexities that the author handles in this book. The plot at times is predictable, but the characterization and depth of emotions make it a compelling read. A thought-provoking tale that gives a fresh perspective on migratory life. If the theme of resilience is of interest, the book is a must-read.

A M Naik The Man who built tomorrow

Anil Kumar Manibhai Naik or A.M. Naik as many know has been quite a known personality in our Nation. Transforming a construction company to a global conglomerate is no simple feat but something that requires years of hard work, toiling, and the ability to take risks. A.M.Naik was the visionary entrepreneur who was responsible for this magnanimous achievement. Having been in the corporate sector for long, I’ve only known him as the one who heads Larson and Toubro, but this book here gave me an introduction to a completely different person of who he is.
From his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the top industrialists, this book gives you in-depth descriptions of all the events. Both Authors have made commendable efforts to bring together details about his passion, commitment, and resilience. With lessons and anecdotes brimming in the book, this serves as a guidebook for aspiring leaders and managers for inspiration to be taken into.
What is even more important is that the book also includes his contributions to nation-building and philanthropy in addition to his success in Business. A.M.Naik the man who built tomorrow is a powerful story of grit and determination. This is a must-read for all those who look for inspiration, waiting to take a step, looking for milestones to accomplish, and whoever is connected to the world of business and leadership.

Ghoul school

I

love haunted tales that are themed around spookiness and scream horror. But here in Ghoul School, you’re in for a surprise. What’s even better is that kids would enjoy reading this book and not feel scared at all. Corridors of ISB scream fear, a School that wants to make the Ghouls learn the art of scaring. Our protagonist, Siliguri, a ten-year-old Ghoul, has a different career dream of entertaining humans. With dreams peaking at times during the day of his entertainment shows being a blockbuster, he has often been made to understand their purpose in life to scare the humans.
A friendship blossoms between him and Kachori, a human he believes in, and both of whom devise plans that aim to cater to both school goals and his dreams.  The plans make you go haha and also land Siliguri in detention for rule-breaking. The vocabulary is an additional factor that will make you read the book continuously. With words being made to converse to suit the Ghoul world, it was a fun reading experience. A special mention to the illustrations which I found to be cute though it’s supposed to be a story about Ghoul. A charming and entertaining tale that will make you look forward to more of these adventures. The book has many amusing characters and situations that are filled with humor making it an enjoyable read.
Siliguri Jumps in to save his friend, Kachori from an ex-student Ghoullella who is known to be a terrorist, will he take the plunge to save her? Does he fulfill his dreams of being an entertainer? Do the others get to know of their plans? Or does Siliguri end up doing what he is supposed to? Read the book to know more.

If any of these interests you feel free to purchase and enjoy reading.

This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.

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Book review: Under the influence

Under the influence

Blurb

Have you ever been trolled on social media? Received comments that have upset you? Ever been body-shamed?

Founder of the popular lifestyle blog MissMalini, Malini Aggarwal has experienced the Internet at its best and worst. As a pioneering content creator, she has seen tremendous success and also made mistakes on the medium – and she’s learnt vital lessons from it all.

In Under the Influence: How to Survive and Thrive Online, Malini deep dives into the psychology of rampant online hate culture, explaining why it exists and provides practical tools to tackle it. With insight and empathy, she guides today’s users on how to deal with trolls and cancel culture, respond to hate and provocation, and combat negativity with positive action and mindfulness.

Complete with interviews with prominent influencers and psychologists, personality self-assessment tests and interactive quizzes, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complex battlefield that is social media today.

Review

Miss Malini, a popular social media icon and a columnist has given the readers a glimpse of how the dynamics in social media are. This book will take you on a journey across the world of influencers, online presence, and social media.


Diversifying across generations and the various platforms there is, Malini has crafted the book for everyone interested in social media. I love how the book is very interactive, that it involves the readers in engaging activities. Belonging to the same generation as that of the author, the insights provided are much more relatable. Not only relatable they can also be termed as valuable.
Sharing her mistake from when she was a novice brings out the honesty in her approach to providing real information to the readers and upcoming influencers. Not only hers, but the experiences of fellow influencers like Sakshi and Vir also add varied perspectives on topics such as online presence, handling trolls, and negative feedback.


In the daunting online world, this book serves as a guide for every upcoming influencer. I’d say the book gives you a better understanding of why people spread hatred online and ways to tackle it. Malini with her experience helps you with listing out ways to handle them by fighting back with positivity.
From someone who is considered the OG content creator, she helps people heal from online hatred and negativity. The book is an apt read for someone who wants to start their journey as a creator in the online world or even for someone who has been there for a while. On the whole, it caters to reading likes of people in the digital world.
From being an inspiration to me, to getting featured on her page, Malini has been a beacon for content creators like me. I’m truly honored to have had the opportunity to read this wonderful guide.

Buy here.

This book review is part of blogchatter’s book review program.

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6 books I read this summer

Every summer we look forward to vacation, getting together and making lots of memories. But this time it was something that would scar me forever. Not even three years since I’d started healing from the grief of losing my mother here I am back to square one, as dad left me too. It was all too sudden for me to process cause I thought he still had time. Man proposes, God disposes.

Books have been my comfort zone, my warm hug whenever I needed them. Yet again they’re here to keep me a companion.

I read six books in the last month. Here are some synopses of what they’re actually about.

Mum in a mess

Mothers help set things right for the smooth functioning of the family. Right from the dad to the kids and also taking care of the needs of grandparents, a mother works tirelessly. If they are also working all this is an addition on their plate. Quite often we fail to understand what goes into her thoughts and how does she feel.  We immediately jump to conclusions, and spring to judging her not understanding what led to the current situation. Mother’s also fail to bring to our attention that they need sometime to actually get better.
Mum in a mess, is a story on similar lines where Vishi goes into a cycle of confusion when her super-active mom starts behaving strangely. What initially started off as a spillage of coffee powder on the floor and the struggle to decide who will clean it up. The mess remained on the floor for longer than anyone would have guessed.
Empathy is something that everyone must learn, including kids. Many days passed, so did many instances but still the broken jar and coffee lie on the floor. Vishi’s friend Jahan also came home but still no respite for the broken jar. However when Vishi tried to bring up the topic, the replies were single worded or sometimes a deathly stare.
Vishi sensed things were not right when one morning her father mentioned mom needed extra sleep hours . One fine day when she saw her mom making a list of chores to do, she broke down and had a meltdown. She finally brought herself up to mention that she was facing difficulties. Sanjana carefully portrayed the emotions conveyed among mum, Dad, and Vishi in this scene. What does Vishi do further? How does mum feel and what happened to the broken jar is the remaining part of the story.
Carefully narrated, the book combines empathy, and a child’s curiosity perfectly.

I won’t wash my hair

Most kids don’t prefer to wash their hair. Even when I was a kid, I hated washing my hair. Be it bubbles, the water or the fragrance of the shampoo, nothing convinces a child to get to wash their hair.
‘I won’t wash my hair’ is the story of Divya whose parents have left for a trip, hence her aunt and her dog come home to take care of her. With her aunt running behind the dog, Divya suggests reasons that shampoo gets into her eyes, hair gets dirty again and doesn’t go for a hair wash. Meanwhile, during the time she saves she digs a hole to chile, learns the language of ants and much more.
On the other hand, her teacher Ameena makes her sit near window, outside class, at the playground and finally on the boundary wall because she couldn’t stand the stink. Her friend Sahil agrees not to wash his hair but finally gives up because he couldn’t manage the itch.
Divya manages to skip seven, nine and thirteen days before she skips to washing her hair. Finds all sorts of stuff like pencil, earthworms, chilli from her hair while she lies down on the pillow.
The narration is brilliant from the perspective of a child, the illustrations deserve a special mention as well. What does Divya do in the end when she knows her parents would be back and she can no longer dodge her no hair wash pleads. Read on.

MEHAR’S World of colours

I loved Simi stands tall and couldn’t contain my excitement to read Arti’s new book, Mehar’s World of colours. Two sisters Mehar and Saanvi have a daily routine for their swimming classes accompanied by their mom. While Saanvi excels and has won a lot of competitions, Mehar is only attending just because her mother wants her to. She is very much interested in art and colours and her only liking is to swim in the world of arts alongside vibrant colours.
Mehar and her friend Ananya love to read comics and Mehar’s excitement doubles up when one of her after school classes included comic as well. Support from a teacher is what kids yearn for especially if it is someone who supports their likes and interests. The teacher who calls herself a coach encourages Mehar to enhance her comic skills.
Will Mehar muster up the courage to negotiate with her mom to allow her for the after-school comic classes instead of swimming, especially when her mom wants her to win medals. Mehar and her class help underprivileged students and Mehar also wants to raise funds to help the kids with a better classroom, so suggests an idea of putting up a fund raiser which was immediately approved. Every kid comes up with their best to raise funds for the wonderful cause.
Such a heartwarming tale that tells you how a child handles the situation when she is being imposed interest by her parents , when she has interests in a different field, how a child is selfless and thinks of a  wonderful cause that needs funds for which she suggests an event.sss
In between all this we have complicated relationships between parents who are separated, a juggle in friendships and swimming. How does Mehar handle all this? Does her mom approve of her skipping swimming to pursue a comic? Read the book to know it all.

Another parenting perspective

The genre of self-help when it comes to parenting has a lot of books that offer a lot of information. Quite often the level of information makes you drenched and most often isn’t very relatable since it suits the Western lifestyle. This book by Smruti offers a fresh perspective and which is why the title is another parenting perspective.
Smruti through this book emphasizes much more self-awareness and personal growth while taking the reader on an introspective journey of effective parenting. What really opened my eyes was to look at yourself first and then go to guiding the children. The most important difference that we notice in kids of this generation is their exposure to the outdoors. Kids these days prefer to keep themselves occupied within the house or should I clearly say within their rooms. Be it educational, extracurricular, or even sporting kids resort to screens, Smruti gives you ways to handle this problem.
The book begins with making the couple think about their decision on why to become a parent and how to proceed on the journey there. By covering the different stages I would say the entire parental timeline from birthing to developmental stages to adulthood is well explained.
Self-awareness and personal growth is an evolutionary approach that Smruti suggests we first get an understanding of emotions and needs which will help us become better parents by making us connect with them easily.
Peer pressure, rivalry among siblings, and parenting struggles can be well managed through tips and tools Smruti offers. There are also inspiring ideas and personal anecdotes that will help us manage the struggles in a better way.
As per Smruti being mindfully present for the child will also help with screen time trouble and the empty nest phase which longs for a genuine connection. As I go through the book again and again, I see myself reflecting on the principles mentioned, and give me a way to prospect the inner self.

Tasty tiffin

Packing a tiffin box is a tedious task, especially for kids of this generation. Not only do these kids have much exposure but they also tend to have a lot of expectations. All the more peer pressure is another factor that adds to all this.
As a mom, we must understand their needs but also keep in mind their nutritional needs that need to be fulfilled. A complete packaging of meals for an entire day that encompasses all food groups, carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, protein, fats, and adequate water. Archana not only gives you innovative ways to make everyday school boxes but also tips here and there on how to pack and to keep them fresh.
The dishes that Archana has given in this book are simple, nutrient-dense, and easy to make. I particularly loved the snacks that made sure it makes the kid feel fuller and also healthy.  Divided into various sections like small snacks, waffles and sandwiches, rice recipes, roti sabzi, and Indian style tiffin items the dishes cover a wide range of cuisines that will make the lunch interesting for kids when the kids open the box. There are 40+ tasty recipes that the book offers which will never make you go on a thinking trip on what to pack. Archana has ensured a perfect balance in taste and nutrition by carefully curating these recipes. More than a cookbook this is a celebration of wholesome meals and the joy of offering your kid a balanced, tasty meal.
The smoothie recipes were the first ones that I tried from the book which were an instant hit with the kids. I’m so glad that I got my hands on the book during the holidays which will help me gear up for the school reopening. I can’t wait to pack interesting lunch boxes for my kids. This book is definitely recommended for moms who have school-going kids.

The Djinn waits a hundred years

The book’s plot spans across generations telling you stories of two women whose lives are connected by the place they live in not by their choice.  The timelines are 1932 and 2014. Akbar Manzil once a magnanimous place is now a crumbling building near the shore at Durban. The timeline of the stories we see are about the Khans during the 1930s and the one about Sana Malek where she tried to cope with the passing away of her mother recently. She moves into the building with her father.
The author explores loneliness and grief against a backdrop of history and fantasy. Though at places the book is haunting it is an enjoyable read. The characterisation of Meena is especially beautifully weaved with resilience, and being fearless that she never gives up.
The multi-layered plot that spans decades carefully blends in the themes that keep the reader engaged. Each chapter unveils a new layer but makes it interconnected.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘BookishCafeBloghop2024’ hosted by  Rakhi   and Samata Dey Bose

This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.

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Brave Inked Emotions -Review

BLURB

Emotions are beautiful but are also very powerful. They can uplift us at one moment but can sink us really deep the very next. Every coming generation seems to be getting weaker and weaker in handling their emotions and it is heart-breaking to see so many succumbing to suicide or mental health failure. To us not only our emotions are extremely vital but also of our loved ones and each one of us devices his or her own techniques to fare better when thrown out of our comfort zone and I guess experience teaches us the most about how to secure our emotional wellness.



So here is a delve into 31 soulful life experiences of eminent Indian writers of how life taught them precious lessons on emotional strength which someone in a similar boat can use as a guiding light to deal better. You can read an unimaginable range of true stories here right from a young bride’s exemplary resilience to a wheelchair-ridden young girl’s biography. There’s a counselor giving her heart and soul to her student and there’s a destiny’s chosen child stumbling and weaving back life at every step in life and many many more. They all will touch your soul like never before, giving you precious lessons on emotional wellness.

MY REVIEW

Resilience, vulnerability, and emotions are delved into deeply in each of these 31 chapters in this book which is a combined effort of 31 remarkable authors. The book cannot be just an anthology, but it is a combined effort of 31 authors who have shared their heartfelt experiences and their learnings that will help people sailing in the same boat.


We live in a generation where people are quite hesitant to acknowledge emotional issues. Not only in us adults but also gives insights into how to handle emotional wellness in kids separately.


“Do not judge a book by its cover.”
“You never know what someone is going through until you are in their shoes.”
I’ve seen a lot of videos of Dharman which let you understand empathy and situations that make you understand that human emotions are not just feeling but much more than that.
Having known a few of the authors personally and what they’ve gone through, it is truly a commendable effort for many of them to come forward, share their experiences, and their way of life to deal with emotions. That thought of this life lesson will help many who are like us are applauded.


There are two things, one is dealing with ourselves and the emotions, the latter is emotions and the people with whom we deal. The book helps you understand different situations involving parents, kids, and in-laws.
There is no human being without a problem, no human being who is always happy. Everyone at some point of time in their life would have faced a standstill, a moment, or a period where they needed help, and didn’t know what to do or how to come out of it.
Every chapter where the authors share their life experiences, especially in a way that they connect with the readers. In most self-help books where people discuss emotions, we often see a preachy narration. This is where the book stands out, the connection they make with the readers will surely help in uplifting.


A unique synergy is a blend of personal experiences with professional insights. It would be right to call this anthology a holistic resource that will serve as a beacon for those who are struggling and for those who love to read and learn from experiences.  The book will be a great option as a gift to someone whom you know who needs the courage and uplifting to move ahead.


I’ve purposely not mentioned in detail any of the chapters from the book, because I would want you to buy, read, and enrich yourself in the experience.

A truly remarkable anthology powered by Roma Gupta Sinha and the team of women.

Buy yourself a copy or gift to your loved ones.