Ekta | wisdomekta

Action. Drama. Plot. Twists. This latest read with an exciting title, “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”, was the perfect “time pass” novel. I found this book to be un-put-downable, addictive, heartfelt time travel in Hollywood—a story of Old Hollywood that's simultaneously gossipy and poignant. Ready to share her life story, recluse Evelyn Hugo chooses unknown and unconfident reporter Monique Grant to write her biography full of Hollywood glamour and scandal. Invited to Evelyn’s home, Monique listens to Evelyn recall her life of fame, fortune, failed relationships, the journey of deceit, humiliation, friendship, and forbidden love. As Evelyn nears the end of her story, her life crosses with Monique’s heartbreakingly. The book is written in mixed prose, varying from Monique’s point of view to flashbacks as Evelyn recalls past events. The novel also includes ‘articles’, which makes it feel like the reader is living in that time, reading a celebrity gossip page. I recomm...

This read happens to be the parting gift from my office senior cum friend. Even before I began reading it, the book title and I agreed on the single point that listening (through both ears and visually) is required to understand the conversation and the meaning behind the spoken (and unspoken) words. In a world that is glued to the screen and where emotions are getting a reel trend without any real feeling, listening is the rarest of commodities.  Despite acknowledging that listening is crucial for a successful and fulfilling life, this is yet another trait that has yet to be taught formally in academics. “At work, we’re taught to lead the conversation. On social media, we shape our personal narratives. At parties, we talk over one another. So do our politicians. We’re not listening. And we are still waiting for someone to listen to us.” Kate Murphy depicts the problem of not-listening in an elaborate and well-researched manner. She also presents the ways of imbibing th...

Beste zonen ( Dear Sons in Dutch),      I am preparing you to be brave and face the worldly challenge with patience in heart. But the experiences are different for everyone, and I also understand you will face your set of challenges in life. During those times, I urge you to be brave enough to seek help without hesitation.      Recently, while waiting for a flight at Mumbai airport, I overheard a loud conversation that automatically reached my ears. The conversation went like this- ….. Person A- “My sister never help me.” Person B- “Why, what happened…” Person A - “Ärey I helped her so much as soon as she asked me, but she was not there for me when I required.” Person B- “But did you even bother to ask her or seek help by direct communication” Person A- “Well, she should have understood; why do I need to ask her. She is my family and must know what I need then.” …..      I kept thinking about this conversation on my flight, realising...