Shrubaboti Bose's Blog - Posts Tagged "reedsy"

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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The Box by Robert Lipman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Exploring different themes like abusive relationships, narcissistic personalities, the effect of parental neglect on children, the impact of bullying, domestic abuse and the overall shame associated with seeking help, this book builds up an entire universe of its own. It creates a detailed picture of the relationship between Max and the mysterious 'box', offering us generous amounts of immersive scene descriptions and dialogues. Although, the title doesn't hold any special charm, one would be underestimating the story if they decided to skip it.

While the whole narrative is interspersed with elements of fantasy, the issues discussed in the book are still very much real and pertinent in our daily lives. Robert Lipman attempts to cover all these subjects in a manner that is both interesting and children-friendly without compromising on the gravity of the situations involved. The story also emphasizes on the bond between friends, as both Max and Emile continue to help and inspire one another throughout the story arc. In the end when everything feels hopeless, it is our friends and family that choose to support us.

The slow pacing of the story makes it slightly tedious and certain ideas such as referring to Roxie as "Moustache", her classmates judging her on the basis of appearance and how despite realising it's discriminative the protagonist doesn't seem to take much of a stand to stop the injustice is a bit disturbing. Especially, the fact that none of the bullies ever get called out on their behaviour and it looks like this problem just gets covered up by the bigger chaos that ensues in Max's life.

However, one has to appreciate the courage Lipman has shown in talking about such sensitive issues in a children's book. We tend to believe that children are too young to see the bitter truths and harsh realities, but it is in fact crucial that we explain these issues to them and ensure that they have a basic awareness regarding these topics. Overall, the book is worth trying out and could probably make an engaging summer read!

(Note: Obtained ARC from Reedsy)



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The Mysterious Pool by Charlene McIver

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Children's fiction forms one third or perhaps even a larger share of my monthly reading and as far as I have noticed, adventure stories always have characters that are most importantly able-bodied and comprise of white males, thus, at least in some way or the other ones who represent the vast majority of our population. To say, diversity is grossly under-represented in children's fiction would be enough to surmise the core reason why this book in particular is such a refreshing read.

There are certain details like Tara's bag with the stereotypical barbie design (as though that's the only design girls prefer) or the fact that she seems to be more invested in carrying a lip gloss in her bag for the trip down to the magical realm, undoubtedly puncture the buoyant feeling one gets to discover an otherwise gender neutral and quite inclusive book. But the lasting imagery is that of how all three kids bond together and look out for one another without dismissing anyone or discriminating against anybody with respect to their biological gender or physical abilities. It's wonderful to see how Leigh's use of a wheelchair never stops him from being as involved in the adventures as the other kids.

This wholesome attitude extends to the animals that are featured in the story and the curious dialogues exchanged between Little Tom or Mother with the children, paints a beautiful picture of a world that can coexist with others despite our inherent differences. One might generalise and say it is too idealistic and dream-like, but I personally believe children need to be encouraged to have bigger dreams that they can positively work towards than being restricted by reality and the notions of what is feasible or not, right from the start. If anything, the wishful thinking that all of us are bound to have when we look back to our childhood and reminisce our carefree past, is to have had the ability to be kinder to everyone around us, to have had bigger dreams and to have aimed higher.

An overall inspiring story with interesting conversations and magical encounters, this book is recommended for all kinds of children.

(Note: Obtained as ARC on Reedsy)



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My Life in Bits and Pieces by Santoshkumar Uppinal

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The book has poetry along with beautiful minimalistic illustrations, and introductory prose pieces that help in establishing the context of the next poem. Throughout the narration we see the different stages of life that our protagonist experiences. There are hardly any secondary characters, the crux of the story is based entirely on this singular central figure and yet we never get to know her name. Perhaps, it is this absence of a specific identity that makes it universal and relatable to readers, or perhaps it is the disarming candour with which she expresses her angst, grief, anxiety and her fervent admiration as well as newfound love that engages us. But there is something about it that holds your attention and urges you to turn the pages.

The beauty of this book lies not in the language itself, which although rich in vocabulary, misses the mark by a couple of inches in the natural fluidity or eloquence that one expects in a haibun or other poetic compositions; but it is the ingenuity of the subject and the manner in which it covers that. Despite the traumatic events she witnessed, in spite of all her misgivings and apprehensions, she journeys through life and finds herself feeling exactly the same emotions that any other person would. It makes her humane and it keeps the character rooted.

One might consider such optimism slightly far-fetched but sometimes, it is important to remember that our past can influence the way we react to or interpret a situation, but it is our decisions that eventually give shape to our future. Recommended for adventurous readers who won't shy away from new forms of writing.

(Note: Obtained as ARC on Reedsy Discovery)



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Good Luck Chestnut: and other lucky colors of the World by Linda Gruenberg

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Beautifully illustrated, this book introduces you to the different hues and patterns that characterize horses. While portraying children engrossed in their play, Linda skilfully blends colours with simple rhymes to create an effect that is both sensitive and endearing. There's Chestnut, Dapples, Palomino, Roan and many more, but what makes it particularly interesting for a child to follow and remember, are the little associations that connect each horse with a story.

Appaloosas look like they have a blanket with spots covering their backs, and as the author intricately connects words together to describe this, one can see it reflected in the watercolour alongside, two little boys sitting on top of a horse with a white spotted rump. Socks are, as the name suggests, horses with white on their legs till the joints and this is accompanied by a wonderful depiction of four legs wearing imaginary socks. Words tumble forth page after page like unstoppable giggles, there is a sense of blissful happiness in the phrases that is almost contagious. Diversely represented, one can find children of all kinds of colours and ethnicities here, smiling and laughing with joy.

The play of light and shadow through the leaves, or a child holding a horse's mane softly caressing, or the tiny tummy peeking underneath the shirt of a girl as she lies comfortably horseback, shows the amount of love and tenderness that has gone behind the making of this book. If you are a stranger to horses like me, you would feel a yearning to be among these animals, wishing to enjoy their company like these carefree children. But if you happen to be someone who grew up with animals, this is still bound to make you feel nostalgic. Recommended for everyone, especially for parents who enjoy reading aloud to their children.

(Note: Obtained as ARC on Reedsy Discovery)



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kaleidoscope of colors II by Robert A. Cozzi

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A sensitive and nuanced journey through the author's life portrayed in myriads of emotional poems!!

Reading this collection feels like taking a brief journey into the life of the narrator. The poems are thoughtful but not mere flights of fantasy, where the nuances stop having any relevance. Here you will find brilliant poetry portraying deeper emotions as the narrator himself grapples with grief, loss, love and friendship. Reflecting his various sensations in such a humane and sensitive way invites and keeps us enraptured. It's the beauty in simple descriptions of sharing a watermelon with a lover or watching someone you care about from a distance and admiring them, that holds our attention curiously.

One of the best thing about these poems is that they capture both the fleeting and the persisting memories with equal tenderness, like the winter sunlight that dissolves softly into night, the untamed wind on a summer afternoon dishevelling locks of hair on someone's forehead. While Robert doesn't shy away from his own feelings and his queer identity, he also encourages the reader to have an open mind as he smoothly guides us through the different periods of his lifetime. The lines flow like water, naturally with a rhythm of it's own. Here's a quote to illustrate that, "And when we hug hello/I hear you make the sound I have come to love/A little sigh of happiness/And all my irritation/Simply drains away".

It would be limiting to call this just a mere collection of poetry because it is so much more, in how it depicts the city of New York, the music scene during the late 1980s, the kind of treatment or prejudice the LGBTQ+ community had to live with, and the almost universal expectation of people to move on from a personal loss. There are a few letters, written in a candid confessional tone, that reads like a journal entry, and some passages that describe cherished memories of loved ones. Overall, if you love reading sensitive nuanced poetry, you will find it worth your time and if you are a newcomer to this style, you would be convinced to try more by the time you are a few pages into it.

(Note: ARC obtained on Reedsy Discovery.)



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The Scar: An African Marvel Legend of a Waterfall by Eva Fogel

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A little folktale about the origin of waterfalls in the land of Africa

Children often ask endless questions, many of which might not likely have a simple explanation and it is during those incidences that a myth or folktale comes to use. As humans we are always curious to know about the things surrounding us, children even more so because everything around them are unfamiliar, new and intriguing. While most storybooks for children dwell on keeping the language easy to grasp or the pictures enticing enough to hold the attention of a child, this book in addition to those points, also attempts to cover significant topics like parental abuse, the sense of a community, the importance of nature and of course, the origin story of waterfalls themselves.

Although the language seems to need a little editing as it lacks the kind of smooth flow one would expect in a children's book, the manner in which the author deals with the heavy themes is admirable. Instead of pointing out bluntly what is right or wrong, the narration lets the reader experience the pain of the little child who undergoes emotional stress due to the treatment he receives from his own family. The boy feels isolated and heartbroken. Through the character of the speaking tree, we are invited to sympathise with the boy's predicament and towards the end, despite the fantastic nature of the story, we find ourselves relating to it.

What is special about this book is how it manages to retain its traditional form of an enigmatic folktale and simultaneously doesn't overwhelm the reader. In the span of such a short tale, it inspires children to be kind to others, to preserve our environment, to respect nature and appreciate its gifts and finally, it also teaches parents to be more understanding and patient. Children deserve all the love and care they can get and this sensitive African folktale upholds the same universal belief. Recommended for kids and for parents to read it out loud to their children.

(Note: ARC obtained on Reedsy Discovery)



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What Do I Do With This? by Latoshia Martin

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Uplifting and beautifully illustrated children's book that encourages parent-child bonding through reading

Introducing children to the habit of reading is special, not only for the family but also for the child. This story helps to spark interest among young readers and encourages parents to spend quality time with their children. The innocent, wide-eyed curiosity of Isaiah is endearing, his little antics with his birthday present (the book) squeezes necessary humour into the narration and the manner in which the entire family remains engrossed with the child's reactions is particularly wholesome.

But what is most interesting in this book is the way in which Isaiah's unawareness about reading or books in general, becomes a subject of great amusement to his siblings and other family members. It also reflects the tenderness with which one must teach children new things in life, without shaming or frightening them for their mistakes. Learning is a part of life and one should never be afraid of making mistakes. The story does not preach, nor does it impose any of its well-intended advices. It inspires parent-children bonding in an organic manner, through the shared connection that they would develop while reading a book together.

The simple and expressive illustrations are a great addition to the book. They add to the meaning and experience of the reading process, especially significant for those kids who enjoy reading picture books. Parents can even point out different objects in the picture and help kids learn new words. Also, personally I believe, in a world full of generally misrepresented children's books, the presence of a coloured family in this one is undoubtedly refreshing. Recommended for children and new parents wishing to find methods to reconnect with their kids.

(Note: Obtained ARC on Reedsy Discovery)



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A Bump Abroad by Sophia Metrakos

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The daring adventures of a 23 year old as she travels Europe with a baby bump

In a succinct collection of short pieces reminiscent of journal entries, Sophia casually takes us on a trip around some of the most beautiful tourist spots in Europe. What makes this book particularly exciting to read is the fact that she was 6 months pregnant at the time when she ventured on her backpacking trip by herself but that didn't stop her. The author clearly indicates in her introduction that this is not a tour guide in any way, in fact, it is what she hopes might inspire and push people to step out of their comfort zones and begin to explore the world around by themselves.

We realise the narrator went through some kind of growth and development, when she starts accepting her situations without feeling too frustrated about it. She learns true acceptance is not a compromise, it is an act of far greater understanding. From getting into tricky situations where Sophia is left standing alone on the streets of Belgium in the middle of the night, to meeting new roommates from different parts of the world sleeping on bunk beds and sharing the room with her, to that mysterious girl who wouldn't stop groaning in her sleep, and the beautiful green pastures of Ireland.

Sophia covers every aspect of her personal journey and along with her, as readers we also get to witness the ups and downs of life in general. Sometimes the strange cities have peaceful vibes with locals welcoming her into their midst, and at other times the streets were overpopulated, the locals invisible and uncomfortably buzzing with tourists everywhere, like in Venice. Another interesting point is the inclusion of a few significant tips for future travellers at the beginning of some of the essays. Although her boyfriend joins in the later half of her travels, the portrayal of their various struggles are very realistic, making their experiences all the more relatable.

Overall, this short book features an unexpectedly brave feat, encompassing quite an inspiring and wonderfully empowering story. Thoroughly enjoyable to read and recommended for all.

(Note: Obtained ARC on Reedsy Discovery)



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