Category: books

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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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The magic faraway Tree: My gateway to imagination and Adventure

As a little girl, I would always curl up in my cozy corner of the house, clutched in my hands a tattered copy of “The Faraway Tree”, a book loved by most of Enid Blyton’s lovers. Through these pages are held some untold secrets that whisper about mystical creatures, enchanted lands, and endless possibilities.


The Whimsical Tree


The Colossal Tree stands at the heart of the story- a tree that reaches the clouds and beyond. With their peculiar inhabitants, the magical worlds reside in those beautiful branches. As Joe, Beth, and Frannie climb higher, they discover the lands of Topsy-Turvy, the Land of Spells, and The Land of Do-As-You-Please.


The Quirky Characters


As vivid as the lands they inhabit, Blyton’s characters are vivid.  Moon-face with his friendly round face, Silky- the fairy with silver wings, and the Saucepan man with a kitchen full of surprises. All these characters become our cherished companions.


The Joy of Exploration


Sliding down the slippery slopes, tasting pop biscuits, and meeting Saucepan Man’s peculiar friends are all lovely things for us to explore. Kindness, courage, and the magic of Friendship are all what we learn through each of these visits.


Lessons Hidden in Fantasy


Blyton teaches us life lessons on a whimsy. The tree teaches us that curiosity is a gift, kindness transcends boundaries and adventure awaits those who dare to climb higher. Her characters embody courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness. They navigated challenges, celebrated diversity, and cherished the bond of friendship. Through their eyes, we learned about empathy, kindness, and the joy of discovery.


Forever Young


The magic from the Faraway Tree hasn’t dimmed even now as an adult when I revisit the book. All this reminds me that imagination has no age. We all need a dash of Moon-face’s wonder and Silky’s kindness.
Decades may have passed but Enid Blyton’s magic endures. Reading Enid Blyton’s books is like sipping a warm cup of cocoa by the fireplace. Her words bridge generations, connecting us to our inner child- the one who believed in enchanted forests and whispered secrets. Within those pages, adventure awaits and childhood dreams come true.
Let’s dust-off those well-loved books, turn the pages, and lose ourselves once more in the tales spun by Enid Blyton.


So, if you ever find a gnarled old tree with a ladder leading to the clouds, climb it. Who knows what adventures await?

Buy the complete collection here.

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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Book review of Spiritual Anatomy

For someone who only knows about the number of chakras inside us. I’d say this book will be my ABC to learn more about it, how to locate it, and how to mitigate it. When we talk about well-being we often get to think and act only on physical and mental well-being.

But I used to wonder when people keep talking about spiritual wellness, what would that be and why is it being discussed by many? Well, this book made me understand why and why not I should give it a go. Gone are the days when we presumed spirituality talks were only for older people. This book changed my perception and if it is anything about wellness, I’m game.


When I started reading this book, it raised a lot of eyebrows. Being an avid reader, it has been habitual for me to carry it along, so the book traveled with me during cab rides, and play dates, and were not. So, when I mentioned raised eyebrows, it was all the presumed notion of why she is reading about spirituality at this age. I laughed it out, because rather than wasting time on explaining why to them, I’d rather enrich myself in the words of Daaji.
The book is divided into three parts – Read and Enjoy, Do and Feel, Meditate and Transcend. I was impressed when I read the introduction, the idea of consciousness to be taken on a journey fascinated me. The simple and natural process as explained by the author will promise you that you can achieve it.
Read and Enjoy: The chapters under this topic explore the significance of spiritual anatomy and the origin of the soul.
Do and feel: This section will give you an overview of heartfulness practice, and explain the chakras- their characters and tips to overcome limitations on consciousness.
Meditate and Transcend: Throughout the spiritual journey, it could be made easier with an atlas, as it gives you a picture of experiences and the conditions during the journey.


The sections ask Daaji and self-reflection to help you with a deeper understanding of what was learned, questions that would arise after learning through the chapter, and replies from Daaji on the same.


Heartfulness essential practices is my favorite chapter in the book where we learn techniques that evolve consciousness and ways to integrate the spirit into everyday life. The only things that are needed for you to get involved in these practices are your willingness and interest. All you need is just ten minutes in your day-to-day routine to include this practice.

The mere mention of the word inventure which translates to the inner adventure will convince you to take a chance on this amazing transformational path. A simple questionnaire from Daaji will help you to locate how far you have traveled in this inventure.


The book leads you on a path to sustainable joy. The book will encourage us to integrate our fragmented lives. Natural freedom and miraculous happiness can be discovered through awareness and meditation.


Daaji blends ancient wisdom and modern practices making spirituality accessible and relevant. The book also bridges the gap between spirituality, science and personality experience.

About the Author

Kamlesh D. Patel, affectionately known as Daaji, has been the global guide for the heartfulness movement since 2014. Daaji is the spiritual leader of Shri Ram Chandra, a meditation organization with practitioners in over 150 countries. He is also fourth in line of raja yoga (which is known as “royal yoga”). His followers include the president of India, Ram Nath Kovind. He is the author of numerous books, including USA Today Bestseller Heartfulness Way (New Harbinger, 2018) and Designing Destiny (Hay House, 2019).  While balancing his spiritual journey, Daaji was also a successful pharmacist in New York City, and is married with two sons.

Buy here.

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

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5 must read books on Indian festivals

As much as I love teaching my kids about culture and tradition, there is nothing like a good old book that can help in making them understand much better. We live in a world where kids well at least some of them would not have access to experience the essence of the festivity’s books can help them understand the reason behind the celebration came into place, how to celebrate, and what preparations need to be done.


Here are some books that I came across and I’m sure you would enjoy some of them too.


FESTIVALS OF INDIA from Sonia Mehta’s Discover India series


The book unravels the vibrant tapestry of India’s diverse festivities. The book takes readers on a journey through all the festivities. With vivid descriptions and captivating illustrations, the book brings alive each festival from Holi and Diwali.


The Author weaves fascinating stories and legends associated with each festival. Through this, the children learn customs, traditions, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the festivals.


The book is perfect for little minds to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. The book strikes a perfect balance between information and entertainment.


FESTIVALS THROUGH THE YEAR by Rachna Chhabria


Through the eyes of twins, Natasha and Nikhil this book helps little minds explore the cultural heritage of the country and celebrate it.


Starting with Lohri in January to Christmas in December, Natasha and Nikhil explore festivals throughout the year.


The book is a treasure to cherish and revisit because of the detailed descriptions and wealth of information it contains about each of the festivals.


Young readers are introduced to rituals and joy associated with each festival along with explaining the significance.


Right from Holi to Diwali the child understands the traditions and customs.


Not only that Natasha and Nikhil record their experiences of the festivities on a blog.
Their observations add depth and authenticity to the storytelling.


AMMA, TELL ME ABOUT FESTIVAL series by Bhakti Mathur


This set is a lovely find for book readers. Fortunate to have had the chance to review these books, what caught my attention was the colorful illustrations, simple text, and engaging story narration.


Holi, Diwali, and Ramayana are the books in this series where the mother tells the children the story of how the festival came into existence.


Klaka and Kiki, the two siblings settle down for a story from Amma where she weaves a charming story on a delightful journey to celebrate Holi and Diwali.


SHE CELEBRATES


This book is an anthology of 21 stories by women across the world who are of Indian origin. Each of these stories has a backdrop of an Indian festival like Lohri, Sankranti, Teej, Onam, and Vishu to name a few. What I loved the most was the recipe at the end of each chapter associated with the festival. The illustrations were good too.


These are some of the books that had a festive background, caught my attention, and remain a favorite to me and my kids though these books were published long ago. But that’s what books are for right? To be remembered for time immemorial and to be revisited often.

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

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My favourite Author – Kavita Kane

One of my favorite Authors is Kavita Kane, an Indian writer known for her works in mythological fiction and primarily based on Indian Mythology. All her books focus on the stories and perspectives of the female characters in the epics who are marginalized and overlooked in the original narratives.


Her bestseller is Karna’s Wife: The Outcast Queen, which tells the story of the wife (Uruvi) of Karna, the tragic hero of Mahabharata.


I love reading her books cause of the reason that they are captivating, inspiring, and insightful. I love how while reading her books, I get transported to a different realm, that lets me explore the rich and diverse heritage of our Indian spirituality and culture. It helps me in a challenging way that it lets me think about issues and the dilemmas faced by characters in an empathetic and critical way on how they could relate to the contemporary world. Her books also bring out the importance and celebrate women’s courage, wisdom, and strength which can make a difference in their lives and of others.


Some of her books which I like are,
SITA’s SISTER: This is the story about Urmila who is the sister of Sita and the wife of Lakshmana who was left behind at Ayodhya when Ram, Sita, and Lakshmana went to the forest. Her sacrifices, resilience, and struggles as she faces the trials and tribulations in Ramayana are very well explained.


MENAKA’S CHOICE: This is the story about the celestial nymph, Menaka who was sent by Lord Indra to seduce Vishwamitra, the sage from his penance. Contrary to the purpose for which she was sent, she fell in love with the sage and gave birth to Shakuntala, the book portrays her choice, passion, and dilemma.


LANKA’S PRINCESS: This book narrates the story of Surpanakha, who was Ravana’s sister, and the catalyst of the war that blooms between Rama and Ravana. For the injustice and humiliation done by Rama and Lakshmana, the book explains her actions and motives as she seeks to take revenge on the brothers.

KARNA’S WIFE: It is the story of Urvi, a princess who falls in love and marries Karna, the son of a charioteer and the tragic hero of the Mahabharata. She stands by Karna in the war, the book explains the loyalty of Urvi, her struggles, and her sacrifices as the war proceeds. We also understand the conflicts and complex relationships between Karna and characters like Draupadi, Krishna, and Arjuna.


TARA’S TRUCE: It is the story of Tara, the wife of Vaali and the Queen of Sugriva. Her wisdom, courage As she tries to restore harmony and peace in her Kingdom Kishkinda, the book portrays her wisdom, courage, and diplomacy. The motives, and emotions of Tara are portrayed beautifully, and her relationships with characters like Rama, Hanuman and Lakshmana.

Learning more about the female characters, their point of view of the great epics was a different experience away from always reading the epics in the same old perspective. I do hope that some of these titles would make you pick them up and get drenched in the female characters courage, wisdom and diplomacy.

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

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Dive into the world of book reading: beginners guide to genres in book reading

Beginners guide to genres in book reading

Book reading is beneficial and enjoyable as it not only helps to lower stress but also to gain knowledge, enhance creativity, and improve memory and focus. Not only that it also exposes the reader to different perspectives, and experiences and also helps to foster compassion and empathy. As one engrosses oneself in reading into a captivating story and its characters, books can give you pleasure and entertainment. Reading can be termed a lifelong habit that can help transform one’s mind, soul, and life.


Here are some genres that I love reading. These are genres that can work for a beginner or if you’ve been into reading for a long time as well.


MYTHOLOGY


A genre that features characters and stories from folklore, myths, and traditions. Through this genre, one can explore the origin, its implications, and how it reflects and identifies the beliefs of people. With creativity and imagination, new narratives can be made that appeal to modern readers.


Kavita Kane is my favorite when it comes to this genre. I love her retelling and especially the way she portrays the female protagonists whom we as readers know only as characters in epics and not much more. Kavita can be termed one of the best in the new era of retelling. Karna’s Wife and Tara’s Truce are my favorites from her works.


FANTASY


A genre that features magical, supernatural elements like elves, wizards, and dragons. Here imagination is limitless and anything is possible. These books can help transport you to a different world. On the other hand, as a reader, you can also take inspiration to be more curious, adventurous, and courageous.


Gebre by N.K.Jemison is a fantasy book. The author is the same award winner of the Broken Earth Trilogy. The book is set in a world where magic is controlled by seasons. Gebre is a young girl who must master her powers and save her people from a tyrannical empire. The book is thrilling and captivating as it explores identity, oppression, and resistance.
Mad sisters of ESI by Tashan Mehta is another book that I recently liked. The author’s creation of a world of shape-shifting islands rings out her imagination and skills. The cover will make you fall in love even before you start reading.


CHILDREN’S BOOKS


I find this genre enjoyable because I read a lot to my kids and get myself engrossed at times. Children’s books these days come in a variety of genres themselves. They not only help engage kids but also help in molding them. Kids can learn new words that improve their vocabulary, and also stimulate their curiosity and imagination. They can also serve to be a tool to enhance their emotional, social, and moral development. Being a book reviewer in this genre I love getting myself involved in reading so many good books that are out there for kids today.


Devdutt Pattanaik and Ruskin Bond are some of my favorite authors in this genre.


NON FICTION


The non-fiction genre features factual and informative content about people, events, and topics. Depending on their purpose these books can inspire, educate, and persuade the reader. They have different formats like memories, religion, travel, essays, and biographies. This will help expand their knowledge and also enrich their lives. I usually choose to read books on topics of self-help, food, skincare, finance, and the human body.


Atomic Habits remains one of my favourites in this genre though I read the book a long time ago.


I hope the genres I’ve listed here will help you in choosing a good book for your next read. Let me know in the comments.

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