Shrubaboti Bose's Blog - Posts Tagged "book-review"

Moongphali by Neha Singh

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Moongphali is a delightful collection of eight short stories exploring multiple themes like self-confidence, sharing and caring, honesty, sincerity, and others, written especially for children aged 7-10 years. Just like the title suggests, reading this book feels as refreshing as eating peanuts. It is sweet, funny, witty and ingrained with crisp messages that helps to instill moral values in young readers without sounding overtly preachy or imposing. Colourfully decorated with beautiful illustrations, this book reflects a typically Indian culture, with characters having Indian names and living in different parts of the Indian subcontinent.

The children-friendly font along with the simple lucid language used in this book makes it extremely readable. In fact, these tender and enriching stories can be enjoyed and cherished by both adults and children alike. It brings a nostalgic effect among adults, reviving distant, almost lost and forgotten memories of our own childhood as we follow in the footsteps of our little narrators featuring within the stories of mischief and adventure portrayed in the collection. Whereas in children, it enhances their understanding of life and the real world around them, giving them the opportunity to experience beyond their immediate surroundings. These stories depict the nuances of a regular Indian middle-class family making it easier for children to relate with the protagonists.

Incorporating vernacular vocabulary and Indian English, the writers have established a distinctly Indian literary space within the genre of children’s literature. This particular kind of cultural appropriation of the language is significant because children are the dormant seeds of our future. Therefore, building a strong cultural identity for these children in their formative years through literature is essential to protect our heritage and to further develop their interests in our cultural identity. “Poonam’s Chappals” and “The Perfect Doll” are two of the most influential stories in this collection, dealing with problems and dilemmas usually faced by children of this age group and through the unfolding of the narrative, they encourage and inspire our young readers to be more sensitive in their turn while handling similar issues.

Children often learn by imitation or from examples, hence, children’s literature plays an important role in providing a set of guidelines to nurture these inexperienced minds into thoughtful, kind and responsible people. In “Poonam’s Chappal” the author subtly shows us how in spite of different economical backgrounds, children are fundamentally similar in their thought processes and in their basic tendency to imagine elaborate scenarios or day dream. It skilfully explains how their happiness doesn’t depend on materialistic gains, but instead on simpler desires like taking a train ride. Though Punnu is unhappy with her new shoes, she instantly forgets about it when she sits on the train. Such innocent experiences bring real happiness and it is mirrored in both Punnu and Poonam’s joy of sharing and helping one another even though they return bare-feet.

Often children are confounded about the worth of things they own or gifts they might have received. They miscalculate the intrinsic value of these objects not because they find them unattractive but because the core concept of worth itself is such an abstract idea that it evades them. They learn to value by comparing the behaviour they notice of others with respect to the same object, and it is not until they lose it or ultimately see someone else sincerely caring for it that they finally realize the actual importance of the gift. Children often develop in association with each other and this interactive process is brilliantly portrayed in the story, “The Perfect Doll”. Sneha feels ashamed of her own actions when she observes Mallika’s treatment of the same defected doll that she had discarded. She realizes her own mistake and regrets it. Such stories enable kids to distinguish between what is good and bad.

What is particularly genius of this book is that at the end of each story, there are DIY (Do-It-Yourself) activities with proper step-by-step instructions on how to make a watermelon puppet or an origami ball, making the whole reading experience a fun-filled journey for the kids. Introducing various different characters picked from several different regions across the subcontinent, these stories help children to slowly and organically understand the multicultural essence of India. Moongphali has a mysterious way of nudging children to think for themselves and inspiring them to comprehend moral values with a timely introduction to the concept of ethics through its fascinating selection of short stories. If read aloud, it can also open a great mode of engagement between the parents and children. The beauty of this book lies in how it embraces life and delivers a message for all its readers, irrespective of age.



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The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


As an American author, Toni Morrison helped in bringing black literature into the mainstream. This novel is about a nine-year old girl, Pecola and it deals with various themes of racism, poverty, sexual violence, substance abuse as well as the devastating effects that these can have on adults or even children.

Pecola has a very strong desire for blue eyes. She loves Shirley Temple and believes that 'white' is beautiful whereas 'black' is ugly. The novel portrays many other incidences, including the representation of Jesus as being 'white'; that proves how racism is deeply ingrained among people. The story is told from Claudia's point of view mostly, in retrospection, (sometimes as a child and sometimes as an adult), and also as a third person omniscient narrator.

Claudia's character stands out as a rebel, unlike other children she hates the 'white' doll that she is gifted; whereas Pecola serves as a contrast to her. She is shy, timid and awkward; somebody who has learned to fear life ever since she was a small child. Morrison very sensitively portrays the inner turmoil of her character, the immense emotional and psychological trauma that the young girl must be subjected to after being raped by her father (not once, but twice) and the consequences of having to carry their child in her womb.

The sexual assault on Pecola, recounted from Cholly's perspective is unflinchingly brutal. We are turned into passive onlookers, helplessly witnessing the crime while simultaneously also being taken into confidence inside Cholly's mind, feeling both his passionate love and hatred for his daughter. We feel his confusion about expressing and reacting to this new dimension of love between a father and daughter.

Having been sexually harassed in his own childhood, he has never learned to show love in any other way than by imposing himself forcefully on another, and even though he understands instinctively that what he is doing is wrong, he remains drunk and lets that cloud his judgement. He abuses Pecola in a semi-conscious state of mind. We are left to wonder, where this vicious cycle of the oppressed and the oppressor might finally end, if at all.

In this story, sex is highly significant because the male characters (Mr. Henry, Cholly, Soaphead) physically abuse women to establish their overall dominance over them, to exert a kind of control. The power-play between the 'white' men, the 'coloured' men, the 'black' men and the 'black' women through socio-cultural and racial conventions has also been effectively depicted here. There is a subtle hierarchy that exists between these diverse racial groups and while one suffers the injustice and subjugation under one group, that group again suffers similar repercussions under the hands of another.

According to me, the most intriguing part of the novel is the last chapter, where Pecola seems to be talking to herself in two separate voices. It reminded me of the character Golum in Lord of the Rings who keeps arguing with his own reflection in the water over his possession of the 'ring'. This kind of internal dialogue, or monologue (considering the fact that they are talking to themselves), perhaps reflects their loneliness as well as their conflicting minds. These two voices engaged in a rapid discussion, indicate the two contrasting identities and belief systems of Pecola. While one seems to be optimistic and is encouraging her to accept reality and move on with life, the other is pessimistic and pushes her towards despair.

The Bluest Eye has a lot of relevance especially in contemporary times because it helps us to question social norms that are often taken as granted, regarding appearance, the prevailing idea of 'beauty' as an ultimate measure of female's worth in society, class difference and dominance through sexual violence; all situations which will still need a long time to improve.




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Soroosh by Laleh Chini

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I read this novel after I had the chance of getting to know the author herself, through her blog on WordPress. It didn't take me that long to finish reading it, but it took me quite awhile to finally be able to sit and write a review on it. That isn't because the novel has a difficult language or complicated storyline, in fact, it's the opposite. The story is so simple that it makes you question your own beliefs and perceptions about life and the genre that is children's literature itself.

Soroosh is barely old enough to attend school when his father leaves the picture, making him the sole bread earner of the family. His mother guides him and encourages him in his role, but it essentially falls on Soroosh's little shoulders to now carry out the responsibilities as the head of the family.

Living in the port city of Abadan, Iran, there are many conventions that one needs to follow. Women aren't allowed to work alone outside. His mother, therefore, cannot do much to help him earn the daily income. They need to study in schools to be educated enough to afford to get proper jobs. The payment of fees has to be arranged on top of everyday living expense.

Soroosh has a younger brother, who is physically disabled. There is only so much one can expect from a job of meagre income. It is these hard-hitting and often bitter challenges of life that makes the book truly inspiring in its outlook. Soroosh is an ambitious young boy, he doesn't let his social background and poverty limit the reach of his own aspirations. He meticulously plans and organises his own savings to invest in a business that he deems profitable.

The novel follows the protagonist over several decades, spanning across his entire lifetime. Through his eyes, we learn the different perspectives of Iranian local people, including the journey of self-made entrepreneurs in the country. It's all about keeping a constant lookout for new opportunities, being sharp witted and smart enough to take risks when necessary. Soroosh never settles for less than he deserves, and he knows the value of his own investment.

What we end up experiencing through the novel is simply a remarkable tale of survival. If we overlook the fact that it is targeting children as it's main readership, one might even consider the plot unrealistic or too superficial. Everything seems to get resolved easily, the characters always find the most kind and benevolent patrons to partner with. The trajectory of the change in their lifestyle is hard to believe, but it is indeed their unquenchable optimism and indomitable spirit that is the real highlight of this novel.

Soroosh is not just a wish-fulfilling reverie, but also an inspiring tale of the journey of life itself. Nicely done!



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Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures by Leon Stevens

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Leon's collection of poems, short prose pieces and drawings is a carefully drafted mixture of emotions and observations, perhaps even memories. Ones that you might relate with, or understand despite being unfamiliar with the original experience that could have inspired it.

The poems invite you in, bringing you to a place of contemplative silence where you are encouraged to enjoy your solitude. While you are thus preoccupied, you could also admire some of his quick sketches in the sides of these poems or at the start of a new section, that enhances the moody ambience which is characteristic of the whole book. Like the bubbles on the cover, these poems and strange reflections have an effervescent charm that is unique in its own way.

Some poems, especially, "Rain", "Wind", "Winter" and "If (The Refuge)", to name a few, became my favourites along the journey. Their gentle imagery and brief exclamations, build stories making us curious to know more. What I absolutely enjoyed and found specific to Leon's writing style is how the subjects themselves were not always poetic or typically those that we like to associate with poems. These were things from everyday life, problems we face daily or situations we confront from time to time in our routine existence. I believe, it's the power of his wordplay and simple gift with descriptions, that makes the overarching theme of these poems relevant to all of us in a way.

The different types of pieces included in the book also contributes to the wholesome experience. Like the short prose piece towards the end of the book, "Lines by Leon" seems to beckon us and draw us in, like some kind of a single hardcover spine sticking out in a bookshelf. Oddly, I found it quite satisfying and enjoyable to read this book! Highly recommended for poetry lovers and those who appreciate sensitivity in words or images!



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The Light Within The Darkness: Mental Management & Mind Manipulation by Aisha Khan

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Positive and motivational!

This book takes us on a journey in the author's life and examines the troubles she has faced due to her mental health issues. Depression and anxiety often go hand in hand, but it is our desire to get better, to heal and to understand our own selfworth that helps us overcome these obstacles or illnesses.

Psychological wounds can be invisible but it still hurts, and influences not only our perception of life but also the entire worldview through which we judge our situations or circumstances.

Depression can make us feel insecure, guilty or even worthless. Throughout this book, the narrator attempts to reflect on these nuances of mental health, tracing reasons which lead to frustration and a sense of powerlessness during the course of treatment and therapy. External treatment can be effective only when we have the mentality to accept our own shortcomings.

A motivational read, this book covers an important subject in brief and gives the readers some handy tips to deal with it. Recommended for those who are interested in reading memoirs and tales of struggle against mental health issues!



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Semi Colon ;: Poetry To Take You Through a Journey Through Mental Health Awareness by Leah Jones

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Heartrending and Emotional poems that are bound to touch you!

I loved the honesty with which every poem in this book is written. The feelings are genuine and the poet never tries to hide her insecurities or her pain. The overarching theme of mental health evokes not pity, but a sense of mutual and silent understanding. You grow to admire the poet's resilience by the end of the book.

Simple lines that you would read, yet it affects you deeply. "You think you know, think you care,/ Truth is, you just sit there and stare/ At me as I read aloud,/ When I’m done, I’m not proud."

Grief, yearning, self-consciousness, anxiety, depression, these poems are submerged in emotions. Spreading awareness about mental health in the most conducive manner. Brilliant work! Recommended for readers across all backgrounds.



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Pablito Bandito #1 Operation Mailman by Tomi Hall

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Full of humour and vivid imagery, this book is a treat to the senses. The story is written in simple language that is easy to grasp and has a wide range of vocabulary that is suitable for young children. Humour has been laced within the text effortlessly, and it lends to the overall charm of the story. Starting with General Pablo to Izzy, the main characters in this book are all dogs. As Pablo tells us the story in first person, we look into a world from the perspective of tiny spirited chihuahua and become acquainted with the human world from a relative distance.

When the leader of the troop faces trouble and is rushed to the emergency room at the veterinary, the scene is described with sensitivity so as to not portray any graphic details of the violence. Instead, the narrative focuses on how the humans express their care and concern towards the wounded dog in their own ways. While one of the kids, laughs at Pablo's confusion and clumsy gait the next day, it is one without poison or vindictiveness. The situation is light-hearted and amusing, traced with comic elements behind the retorts.

Throughout the story, we notice that Pablo is given a free ride by the family and although he is hardly in control of the dogs in his so-called "troop", he is still praised and appreciated for his initiatives to maintain decorum in the farm. Even when utter chaos reigns and all the dogs are busy chasing around each other creating havoc or snarling at one another, or according to the General's orders pooping at the stoop, the humans in the story are mostly indulgent and affectionate to the dogs. This is great for young readers because children learn by imitation and such behaviours displayed by characters in the book would then encourage the children to be equally lenient and caring to dogs in their own lives. Recommended for kids and for inculcating a genuine love of dogs.

(Note: Obtained ARC on Reedsy)



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The Evolution of Love: Poems and Stories by Elison

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Poems about love are overrated. They tend to be generally very corny, full of stereotypical messages of eternal happiness, or underwhelming laments of unrequited infatuations, eliciting no real emotion or reaction from the reader. But this collection of poetry and micro-fiction hover over the edge of cliché, painting the nuances of falling in love, staying in love and choosing the same person as "the one" over and over again, while reflecting newer perspectives that each stage of our lives can bring into the frame. The title of the book, The Evolution of Love, does justice to the different forms of love that transcend time or logic throughout these pieces.

They move us in ways we were last touched in our personal encounter with love, forcing us to blink away the tears and gulp the stubborn lump that begins to form in our throats in a frail attempt to overlook the visceral nature of such strong feelings. Love is no longer a fleeting emotion, rather, it takes on a tangible shape, becoming a way of being, a mode of living itself. It is the reason why people cling to one another in hopes for better days and it is what results in the desperation that follows the loss of our dear ones. It encompasses the small joys we keep tucked away in our memories, and the special moments with all the glory of their insignificant minute details. All that comes together in this carefully selected bundle of writing like in a final exuberance of celebration.

Elison immortalizes the emotions that we often experience in the throes of our passion, whether it is lust, mutual respect, love or even spiritual connection with someone who understands us at a deeper level. This book makes you see beyond the facades and pretensions of present day's prescriptive love affairs, it is almost a tribute to the sense of believing in true love and fighting for it vigorously, despite the apparent futility of seeking something so vague and uncertain. It harks back to the power of genuine relationships, the strength in loving with the ideology of accepting a person for who they are, irrespective of their flaws and past baggage. Perhaps, one can sum it up in the poet's own words as, "Loving is the bravest thing/any of us will ever do." Recommended for all those who enjoy reading sensitive, soul-stirring pieces on the matters of the heart and the soul.

(Note: Obtained ARC on Reedsy)



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The Saddest Dog Finds a Friend by Christina J Donato

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


They say dogs are our best friends, and that's true. Now imagine ignoring your friend for several months and not even realizing the problem you were building up? Would that make your friend upset? Why, yes, obviously! That's the same thing dogs feel when we forget to be there for them or completely ignore them. Dogs can be extremely friendly, playful and happy creatures until they start sensing abandonment. When left alone for long periods of time, like humans they tend to feel unloved and insecure. They crave affection and as long as there is a constant source of love and attention focussed on them, they remain happy. But once that connection is broken, they also feel sad.

This book beautifully narrates the story of how Belle, an exceptionally happy and friendly dog, suddenly becomes depressed and disillusioned due to her loneliness. Despite having a loving family, nobody really gets to spend that much time with her as they used to when he was only a puppy. The characters are not portrayed as black and white, they are realistic. Throughout the story we notice there are subtle nuances that vouch for the fact that Belle's family undoubtedly love her, but it also makes us aware that they had become too preoccupied with their own routine lives to realise that they had started neglecting poor Belle.

In the end, lots of small lessons are carefully packed into the story, the idea that neglect can be a form of mistreatment, the fact that one shouldn't lie and keep something they just found outside (like a lost puppy) no matter how tempting the idea is because they too belong to another family who would be terribly missing them, and also the fact that dogs need actual company to be happy. Written in a very simple and inviting language, this short story has an easy to follow narrative style and is definitely ideal for young school students. The detailed watercolour illustrations add to the overall experience of the lovely story. Wonderful read, recommended for all children.

(Note: Obtained ARC on Reedsy)



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DON'T LOOK BACK: Sliding Away or Slipping Inside by Ezeliora Ndidiamaka

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The story was a mysterious and thrilling account of a love story gone wrong.

We are often told that it takes years to get to know a person but we can never be sure if we still know them inside out, or just the image that they project in front of us. When Wendy meets Ken for the first time, she falls for his good natured laugh and confident attitude. But shortly after they get married, she notices his behaviour towards her changing. It doesn't take long for slight miscommunications to lead to greater distress as he starts to abuse her physically and emotionally. The author does a great job in building up the sequences, the suspense never falling flat and till the last minute we cannot expect what's to come.

However, the story seems to end with a little cliff-hanger as we realise there is a mention of an unnamed character in passing who is not introduced but one can assume will be a new character in the next sequel if the author chooses to write one. A fairly exciting read!

(Note: Obtained ARC from IMP)



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