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Book Review: The Book of Gems by Vidya Math

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Book Review – Anthropic Waves by Pramudith D Rupasinghe

“Anthropic Waves” is a profound heart touching poetry collection by the Sri Lankan author Pramudith D Rupasinghe. The collection spans across various global backdrops. It sometimes walks the memory lane of the author while growing up in Sri Lanka, in another instance…the poems will take you strolling across beaches of Africa or some other countries and narrate the stories of traditions…lineage…love and loss. From rich to war-torn to under-developing countries, the author seems to have observed the impacts silently. Thus, this poetic collection hits you hard. It is like armchair experience, however in a poetic way. Not an exact travelogue, the poems carry the intensity of pain of the people from various zones of their lives. The impact and observation of the book is global. It reads like a map of poetry. Nearly all poetries have different mood, zeitgeist, and appeal…a sort of cogitation that one could make if that person has lived or frequented that country and place. One of the stand...

Book Review – Bhuno by Orpheus Rayswarnadhir

‘Bhuno’ is a terrific Bengali novel written by Orpheus Rayswarnadhir that delves deep in the folktale/story that has its only vestiges but not the proper scaffold. The story revolves around the disappearance of a father and son, Bhuno and Syamra, along with their white owl. That’s why the narrative is presented as a recovered story that someone has left for the townspeople. It is set against the backdrop of a ‘Maoist’ den called ‘Kolmikim.’ In its pursuing genre, the novel is classified as Young Adult Fiction, with a focus on classic themes. Additionally, the story seems to have elements of mystery or suspense due to the central disappearance. The book explores the relationship between a father, a son, and their unusual companion, the white owl. The mention of "Kolmikim" and the "Maoist" connection suggests a story that delves into social or political issues, possibly related to insurgency or a specific historical context. Talking about Maoist Den in the book,...

Book Review – Rakshasa Chronicles: the Soul Devourers by Dhruv Nala

“The Soul Devourers” by Dhruv Nala is the first book in Rakshasa Chronicles. It is a different and powerful fantasy espionage novel that blends elements of Indian mythology with a contemporary urban setting. The story is set in Hyderabad, which is plagued by attacks of Rakshasas (sort of devils from the Indian mythology). The Rakshasas are merciless attackers. To counter them, The Anti-Rakshasa Force (ARF) is responsible for protecting the city, and its elite agents, Aditya, Ramya, and Rajesh, are skilled in combating these threats. However, a new and more brutal wave of killings begins, unlike anything the ARF has encountered before. The attackers are elusive, leading to rumors of a ghost, a monster, or an entirely new kind of Rakshasa. The core of the plot revolves around these agents' efforts to unravel this mystery as fear grips the city. Eventually the bigger theme in the book is Good vs. Evil – a popular recurring theme amidst Indian mythological books. The constant battle...

Book Review: The Justice by Nikhil Khasnabish

Nikhil Khasnabish’s latest book – The Justice – is a poignant and fast-paced novel that delves into the devastating impact of sexual violence and the journey of a survivor seeking justice and healing by turning recluses to the society. The novel is short in page length; however, its storyline is extensive delivering a powerful message. The story centers on the central character “Ime Borah” – a young woman whose life is irrevocably altered when she is brutally raped a few days before her wedding. The assault shatters her world, nudging her to break off her engagement and withdraw from the society…where she was vibrant a few days ago in the pursuing of her marriage. The novel explores her emotional struggle, the societal reactions she faces, and the efforts of a local vigilante group, "Save Women Society," to bring her perpetrators to justice. The narrative tackles crucial questions: were the rapists caught and punished? Is a rape victim unfit for marriage? And ultimately, does...

Book Review: Parenting Strategies Unplugged by Shibu Nair

‘Parenting Strategies Unplugged: Your Guide to Positive Parenting by Shibu Nair is a useful and highly resourceful book that aims to prepare modern parents with practical strategies to navigate the complexities of raising children in today's world, where digital distractions obstruct not only parents focus but also diminish the value of children at home. The book is loaded with practical key strengths. It can be referred from time and again for guidance. The book tackles a wide array of contemporary parenting issues. This includes digital obsession, hyperactivity, academic success, nurturing good habits, lack of focus and concentration, and the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of children. It also delves into topics like family dynamics, communication, discipline, self-worth, and even financial literacy. The book’s significant strength lies in its focus on practical solutions and actionable advice. Shibu Nair, who is also a renowned motivational speaker and educational ...

Book Review: Deceptive Murders by Amitav Ganguly

Deceptive Murders by Amitav Ganguly is a crime, thriller, and murder mystery novel, it's a relatively new addition to the genre. The story centers around the reckless murder of Saira Sapru, the heiress to a powerful industrial empire, alongside an unidentified woman that later turns out an important auxiliary character. Detective Inspector Samsher Brahma and Sub-Inspector Suparna Sharma are assigned to the case, which quickly spirals into something far more complex than a typical murder case. The bodies continue to pile up – Saira's parents, key witnesses, and anyone who threatens to expose the killer. What makes this case unique and terrifying is that the murderer isn't directly committing the acts. Instead, he/she/they are a master manipulator, coercing and deceiving others to do their bidding. This makes the killer "untouchable" and a "ghost in the system," operating from the shadows and weaving an intricate web of death spanning around two decades....