Made of movies, books and literature. Occasionally there's a penchant for social commentary.
The author reflects on their experience with Amish's writing, particularly praising the Immortals of Meluha series for its imaginative retelling of familiar characters. However, they found the Ramayana series lacking in depth and philosophical complexity, even as it explores new narratives. Despite disappointment, the appreciation for Amish's respectful approach remains.
By the time I laid my hands on Atomic Habits, the internet had already declared it a self-help genre cliché. I’m not big on self-help books because mostly I believe they are written by privileged men who never did laundry or looked after a child while building what they claim to have built in life;... Continue Reading →
Tejo Tungabhadra is a captivating tale set in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, intertwining the lives of Jews and Catholics in Lisbon with the socio-political landscape of Vijayanagara, Karnataka. The author, Vasudhendra, portrays complex characters amidst themes of religious extremism, acceptance, and cultural exchange, crafting a richly immersive narrative.
Khaled Hosseini's "A Thousand Splendid Suns" tells the intertwined stories of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives are shaped by war and oppression. Through emotional narratives and rich character development, Hosseini highlights themes of resilience, love, and sacrifice, offering a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Afghan women amidst adversity.
Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead follows Howard Roark, an innovative architect who resists societal norms to preserve his creative vision. The novel examines themes of individualism, integrity, and the conflict between innovation and tradition, showcasing characters like Peter Keating and Ellsworth Toohey, who embody conformity and manipulation. Roark's journey highlights the virtue of genuine creativity and self-interest.
CLI, a handsome horse from Madumalai, aspires to serve at the Mysooru palace like his grandfather. Facing challenges, he navigates a dangerous forest to achieve his dream. Kling Johnson’s children's book blends human-animal worlds, offers cultural insights about Mysore during Dasara, and promotes positive life and heritage values for young readers.
The author reflects on CS Lewis's quote while expressing their love for fantasy, particularly the Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas. They praise Maas's exceptional worldbuilding, character development, and intricate storylines across three books. The series captivates readers with a blend of romance, adventure, and various magical beings, leaving them eager for more.
The Palace of Illusions attempts to narrate the Mahabharata from Draupadi's perspective. As much as the creative liberty can be appreciated, most times we don't know what to do of it.
"The Inheritance of Loss" by Kiran Desai explores the lives of characters in Darjeeling, set against the backdrop of the 1989 civil unrest. The narrative unfolds slowly, emphasizing intricate details and a raw storytelling style. Desai's work highlights the experiences of her characters, offering profound reflections rather than a conventional plot.
The Boy in Striped Pyjamas is a seemingly simple yet misleading book about a boy named Bruno, who innocently navigates life near Auschwitz. While it captivates readers, it overlooks historical realities and invokes sympathy for Bruno, the Commandant's son, rather than the victims of the Holocaust, raising ethical concerns about its narrative.