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Book Review- Best Intentions by Simran Dhir

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“Everything is not black and white; the world is grey.” The lawyer turned author Simran Dhir, presents her debut novel, which incorporates all the elements that an elite Delhiite might encounter: politics, love, marriage, vandalism, history, and intellect. This narrative revolves around four main characters: Gayatri, Akshay, Nandini, and Amar. Gayatri is a 32-year-old self-aware, independent, and lovable bachelorette who fights for her beliefs, all while facing constant pressure from her family. Her younger sister, Nandini, has recently married Amar, a man from a well-respected business and politician family, and is a younger brother of Akshay. While Gayatri has always been a free spirit, having left her corporate law firm to pursue a career as a historian, Akshay holds completely different views. Without revealing the intricate details of this drama reminiscent of OTT series, I want to commend the author for the delicate way in which she addresses domestic issues and house...
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Book Review- The Vegetarian by Han Kang

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“The feeling that she had never really lived in this world caught her by surprise. It was a fact. She had never lived. Even as a child, as far back as she could remember, she had done nothing but endure. She had believed in her own inherent goodness, her humanity, and lived accordingly, never causing anyone harm. Her devotion to doing things the right way had been un-flagging, all her success had depended on it, and she would have gone on like that indefinitely. She didn’t understand why, but faced with those decaying buildings and straggling grasses, she was nothing but a child who had never lived.” This tragic gem begins with a dream. Let me begin this review with the conclusion : This dark allegorical novel, winner of the 2024 Nobel Prize, is not for the faint-hearted. It carries a trigger warning due to its intense themes of trauma, violence, and repression while providing valuable insights into societal structures and personal struggles. The Vegetarian is a story in th...
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Book Review-More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

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And the story continues to flow smoothly like water. The charm and emotions follow Days at the Morisaki Bookshop . In this novel, we find a deepening of the relationship between Takako, her uncle Satoru, and the people in their lives. The book roams around themes of family, love, grief, healing, and personal growth, as well as the magical power of books and bookstores. Takako, the protagonist from the first book, is in a much better place. No longer the heartbroken, directionless young woman seeking refuge above her uncle's shop, she's now confidently pursuing a career in design while still lending a hand at the Morisaki Bookshop. Her relationship with books has deepened, and it's a joy to see her enthusiasm for literature blossom. But the real heart of this story belongs to Takako's aunt and uncle, Momoko and Satoru. Their reunion at the end of the previous book hinted at unresolved tensions and doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of their ...
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Book Review- Strong Mothers, Strong Sons by Meg Meeker

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This book, given to me by one of my favourite people, is titled “Strong Mothers, Strong Sons: Lessons Mothers Need to Raise Extraordinary Men." It led me to explore the insights of Meg Meeker on raising boys. The bond between a mother and her son is truly fascinating! Since mothers have never been boys themselves, they often find it a bit tricky to navigate this journey . Every caring mom wishes to raise her son into a responsible and successful man, but figuring out how to do that can sometimes feel overwhelming. This book aims to offer helpful insights and guidance along the way! Before you read it further, let me make a disclaimer that kids are kids, irrespective of gender . However, it is up to us how we groom them, and it is upon them how they receive, perceive, and implement the lessons from their upbringing. The book is dense in the sense that Dr. Meeker presents a clinical perspective in a tone that feels more like words. She shares what she’s learned from man...
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Book Review- Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

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The book was recommended by many, and being a Japanese one, it was also waiting in my to-read booklist. Coming straight to the book, this book can be reviewed in two ways - First, the “Book Cover” and second, the book itself, i.e. the tale of new beginnings, love, family relationships, community and the comfort I find in reading the books. If you look at the book cover that I am seeing, you will notice a cat gazing at a door. To the left, there is a bike, surrounded by a sea of books on the left, top, and right sides. In the center, there is a door featuring the silhouettes of what appear to be a man on the left and a woman on the right. The book title is centered at the top. There are additional details that enhance the enjoyment of reviewing the cover. This book cover is a delight to my eyes and feels like a gateway to an amazing dream place! The story follows a young woman named Takako, who discovers the joy of reading. It also delves into her relationship with Uncle Sat...
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Book review- Daivya Sutras by Mona Verma

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During one of my training, I had the opportunity to attend a class-cum-workshop led by a charming faculty member who was discussing a common topic with interesting twists. At the time, I had no idea who she was or what her background entailed. Curiosity piqued, I later learned that she was an accomplished writer who had gained acclaim for her work. This remarkable faculty member turned out to be Ms. Mona Verma, the author of a notable book that has resonated with countless readers. I think, since the dawn of language, storytelling has always captivated our hearts and minds! My childhood was filled with many stories told by my mother. Mythology weaves a vibrant tapestry of tales that help us explore our culture and discover our place in the grand narrative of life. Daivya Sutras is one such remarkable collection of unforgettable stories. This enchanting book, with its stunning cover, draws in with captivating tales of the trinity, heroic warriors, the divine beauty of goddes...
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Self story 2024

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The death is REAL! 2024 marked the departure of many known souls from this world, reminding me of the fragility of life. Their untimely departure has put the core of my being in freeze. Each untimely loss has cast a shadow over my spirit, leaving me in a state of reflection and introspection. In such times, I pacified myself with the dialogue from “Anand” Movie “ Babumoshai, zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahi ”. Embracing the moments that matter can genuinely make all the difference. This is the motto I am embracing as I move into another year. This reality check has disconnected my scorpion soul on some deeper level from this world. It seems I have developed a sensitivity and respect for the people in my life at a deeper level. The “plastic” aspects of career, fame, profit, and happiness have revealed their true meaning to me. No, it is not that I have attained nirvana!  It is simply the heart speaking, and the mind has finally embraced these heartfelt truths that...
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