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Kabuko the Djinn
Kabuko the djinn is the evocative story of a djinn who journeys through human life in search of occult knowledge.
Wishing to study the dynamics of the human species for himself, in order to unearth the secrets of human power, Kabuko enters the body of Ajee Shah, a boy born in post-independence Punjab, Pakistan.
As Kabuko loses himself to the trials and tribulations of living an ordinary yet intrinsically exceptional human life through Ajee, sex and the supernatural collide, entangling them both in a cataclysmic event that is to change their lives forever.
Woven throughout this tapestry of youthful yearnings and a desire for transcendental knowledge are real secrets of the Islamic occult, true stories of Muslim saints, and the folklore of the Punjab.
Wishing to study the dynamics of the human species for himself, in order to unearth the secrets of human power, Kabuko enters the body of Ajee Shah, a boy born in post-independence Punjab, Pakistan.
As Kabuko loses himself to the trials and tribulations of living an ordinary yet intrinsically exceptional human life through Ajee, sex and the supernatural collide, entangling them both in a cataclysmic event that is to change their lives forever.
Woven throughout this tapestry of youthful yearnings and a desire for transcendental knowledge are real secrets of the Islamic occult, true stories of Muslim saints, and the folklore of the Punjab.
- GenresFantasy
292 pages, Paperback
First published October 9, 2013
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99 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 29, 2023
This was a good read more like a fairy tale, where an old djinn enters the body of an unborn child and stays with him through out his life.
They together face the magical world where Kabuko learns different aspects of human life, "seperation is the biggest pain encountered so far". Strangely after devoting 30 years of his life in human body Kabuko the djinn really didn't what he would after being seperate.
While starting this book my thoughts were more about how we knew djinns till now dark, tormenting, impeccable, merciless but it turned out to be a friendly relationship between a human and a djinn. All in all it was ok more like children book.
They together face the magical world where Kabuko learns different aspects of human life, "seperation is the biggest pain encountered so far". Strangely after devoting 30 years of his life in human body Kabuko the djinn really didn't what he would after being seperate.
While starting this book my thoughts were more about how we knew djinns till now dark, tormenting, impeccable, merciless but it turned out to be a friendly relationship between a human and a djinn. All in all it was ok more like children book.
November 26, 2013
There are three things that influence my decision of picking up a book and read – title, cover and the blurb. To some extent, I also do get biased by authors whose works I have read and admired since years, but for newcomers and debutants, we can disregard this fourth point. So, when all the three mentioned parameters click, you can be assured that the book that you are holding in your hands is titled ‘Kabuko the Djinn.’
A title that is unique, a cover pic depicting a young child with fiery eyes, and a blurb promising a story that I have never heard or read anywhere (considering the fact that I am a book addict and a voracious reader), my heart was compelled to pick up this book, and man, did it satisfy me?
Absolutely, the book simply rocked.
This is the tale of Kabuko, a djinn, who wants to have first-hand experiences of a human’s life, feeling the emotions that are felt by the human species, and thus shares the body of Ajee Shah, a boy born in post – Independence Punjab in Pakistan. He settles into the body of the boy, when he is in his mother’s womb, and stays with him for thirty years of his life, learning and narrating the events in the boy’s life, as he grows and experiences the thrills and the charms of childhood, youth and adulthood.
What really stands out in the book is the way the events have been described. Though the plot is complex, the author narrates them in such a simple manner that you can even read the whole story with your eyes closed. The author, Hamraz Ahsan, certainly has a keen eye for observation, and that shows in the descriptions that cross the boundaries of space and time, often engulfing the readers in the beauty of its words that we are left spellbound, and addicted to its essence, we continue reading.
If you ever want to delve into a world of fantasy and mysticism, then this is the book to explore. The way the author talks about spirits residing in human bodies, djinns, paris, and several other magical beings, is simply engrossing. He weaves his words in such a manner that they convey the minutest of details, but doesn't bore you with unnecessary descriptions. The author creates a perfect balance, highlighting what is necessary, and painting a dimension so unbelievably believable that you do not want to go out of its realms. That is how the author binds you, and you don’t mind even a bit.
Hamraz, you have simply done an amazing job with this book. This flowed so seamlessly, lucid, just like a crystal clear stream of water, rippling on its own course, obeying the current. Along with that, you have also given your readers an adorable character in the form of Kabuko. Perhaps, djinns do exist, and someday, I wish I get to meet Kabuko the djinn in real, though not as a part of my soul, but as a friend.
On a serious note, this is a real refreshing read. So friends, after a hard day’s work, if you want to get rid of your tiredness by having a cup of tea, and then remember that you already emptied the tea packet the previous night, do not panic. Get on the bed, relax, and start reading this novel. It will serve as a perfectly soothing balm to your tired body and mind.
A title that is unique, a cover pic depicting a young child with fiery eyes, and a blurb promising a story that I have never heard or read anywhere (considering the fact that I am a book addict and a voracious reader), my heart was compelled to pick up this book, and man, did it satisfy me?
Absolutely, the book simply rocked.
This is the tale of Kabuko, a djinn, who wants to have first-hand experiences of a human’s life, feeling the emotions that are felt by the human species, and thus shares the body of Ajee Shah, a boy born in post – Independence Punjab in Pakistan. He settles into the body of the boy, when he is in his mother’s womb, and stays with him for thirty years of his life, learning and narrating the events in the boy’s life, as he grows and experiences the thrills and the charms of childhood, youth and adulthood.
What really stands out in the book is the way the events have been described. Though the plot is complex, the author narrates them in such a simple manner that you can even read the whole story with your eyes closed. The author, Hamraz Ahsan, certainly has a keen eye for observation, and that shows in the descriptions that cross the boundaries of space and time, often engulfing the readers in the beauty of its words that we are left spellbound, and addicted to its essence, we continue reading.
If you ever want to delve into a world of fantasy and mysticism, then this is the book to explore. The way the author talks about spirits residing in human bodies, djinns, paris, and several other magical beings, is simply engrossing. He weaves his words in such a manner that they convey the minutest of details, but doesn't bore you with unnecessary descriptions. The author creates a perfect balance, highlighting what is necessary, and painting a dimension so unbelievably believable that you do not want to go out of its realms. That is how the author binds you, and you don’t mind even a bit.
Hamraz, you have simply done an amazing job with this book. This flowed so seamlessly, lucid, just like a crystal clear stream of water, rippling on its own course, obeying the current. Along with that, you have also given your readers an adorable character in the form of Kabuko. Perhaps, djinns do exist, and someday, I wish I get to meet Kabuko the djinn in real, though not as a part of my soul, but as a friend.
On a serious note, this is a real refreshing read. So friends, after a hard day’s work, if you want to get rid of your tiredness by having a cup of tea, and then remember that you already emptied the tea packet the previous night, do not panic. Get on the bed, relax, and start reading this novel. It will serve as a perfectly soothing balm to your tired body and mind.
July 21, 2015
An excellent, excellent, excellent book. Written from a Djinn's perspective it is totally believable, interesting to read and Hamraz Ahsan has excelled as a storyteller. Picked it up on a whim at the airport before a flight even though had three books already and fell in love with it as soon as I delved into it.
From beginning to end, the book holds you and leads you into a fantastical world where the lives of Djinn's and humans overlap and what ensues. Don't be fooled by the title, this is not a scary book in the horror genre.
Totally loved the book and would have given it five stars but somehow, I felt that the ending was not at par with the rest of the book. Not the authors fault who has done a superb job, but my own opinion.
I thoroughly recommend this book, its beyond awesome :)
From beginning to end, the book holds you and leads you into a fantastical world where the lives of Djinn's and humans overlap and what ensues. Don't be fooled by the title, this is not a scary book in the horror genre.
Totally loved the book and would have given it five stars but somehow, I felt that the ending was not at par with the rest of the book. Not the authors fault who has done a superb job, but my own opinion.
I thoroughly recommend this book, its beyond awesome :)
December 11, 2013
lijed it n parts. some chapters are too engaging while others do not take the story anywhere. a good fast read but perhaps i expected more.
March 28, 2024
Magical place for a reader
Wonderful book with mystical and magical moments. A fantastic depiction of a realm far beyond with beautiful folktales and stories of a completely different species.
Wonderful book with mystical and magical moments. A fantastic depiction of a realm far beyond with beautiful folktales and stories of a completely different species.
March 12, 2019
Kind of loses its steam after a while
June 12, 2024
this has the potential to be turned into a cinematic masterpiece!!!!
March 9, 2014
By Hamraz Ahsan. Grade A+
I had heard and read about djinns before but had never pondered much about them. So, it was indeed with a great amount of pleasure and admiration that I read the book which delves deep into the world of djinns through the life of Ajee Shah, a boy born in Pakistan. It is as if I was transported into another world albeit a strangely realistic one, with the plot being set in a modern background.
The depth and intensity with which the author has created the main character Kabuko is really applaudable. Converting stories of Muslim saints into a mind blowing novel and transforming folklore of Punjab into a story so real in its creation is not easy. But, the author Hamraz Ahsan does it beautifully as if he himself was the djinn occupying the inner world of a human being. In an existence where we humans are not even partially aware of the universe that exists inside our thoughts, emotions and the soul itself, being led into the same world by a creature belonging to another sphere is a fantastic experience! It is eerie sometimes, because the author has made the entire cosmos of the book so very realistic that one cannot but believe that the events in the novel are actually happening.
Kabuko the djinn wishes to experience human life more personally and ‘unearth the secrets of human power’. He is advised to enter the body of Ajee Shah and then, therein begins the fascinating journey of the djinn and the reader. Infancy, youth and its desires, love, lust, hurt, joy – everything is experienced as if the djinn was watching a show and also undergoing the experiences himself. The unique world of birth, death, separation, fulfillment, frustration, illusion and reality – experiencing the mystery of different entities and their significant rules that govern life make Kabuko’s life interesting and perplexing. He gets the satisfaction of having experienced the emotions and reflections of the human world but he also loses out a lot in the process. Does he finally succeed in the goal that he had set out to accomplish? Does he ever get to leave the human world? Do the humans get disturbed by his presence in their world?
The book takes you on a journey you never believed ever existed. Slowly and steadily you are drawn into the djinn’s world and there reaches a time of conflict when you are caught amidst the emotions of Kabuko and Ajee Shah. Which world would you choose if you had the benefit of choice – the one that you are familiar with or the one that promises a ride of magic and muse? And what about Ajee’s mind, body and soul? Does it stay unaffected throughout Kabuko’s stay within? Who is the one that enjoys the ride more – Kaubuko or Ajee? That you have to read the book to know.
With an experienced journalist writing this novel, much is expected and the author does not fail to disappoint. The research and imagination gone into creating an illusionary world of djinns and mystery is to be appreciated. So, believers and non believers, have a blast!
Originally reviewed at Vaultofbooks.com, a close-knit community of fanatical readers. We are looking for perceptive readers who can write well, and we are eager to provide lots of free books in exchange for reviews. Shoot us a mail at contact@vaultofbooks.com
I had heard and read about djinns before but had never pondered much about them. So, it was indeed with a great amount of pleasure and admiration that I read the book which delves deep into the world of djinns through the life of Ajee Shah, a boy born in Pakistan. It is as if I was transported into another world albeit a strangely realistic one, with the plot being set in a modern background.
The depth and intensity with which the author has created the main character Kabuko is really applaudable. Converting stories of Muslim saints into a mind blowing novel and transforming folklore of Punjab into a story so real in its creation is not easy. But, the author Hamraz Ahsan does it beautifully as if he himself was the djinn occupying the inner world of a human being. In an existence where we humans are not even partially aware of the universe that exists inside our thoughts, emotions and the soul itself, being led into the same world by a creature belonging to another sphere is a fantastic experience! It is eerie sometimes, because the author has made the entire cosmos of the book so very realistic that one cannot but believe that the events in the novel are actually happening.
Kabuko the djinn wishes to experience human life more personally and ‘unearth the secrets of human power’. He is advised to enter the body of Ajee Shah and then, therein begins the fascinating journey of the djinn and the reader. Infancy, youth and its desires, love, lust, hurt, joy – everything is experienced as if the djinn was watching a show and also undergoing the experiences himself. The unique world of birth, death, separation, fulfillment, frustration, illusion and reality – experiencing the mystery of different entities and their significant rules that govern life make Kabuko’s life interesting and perplexing. He gets the satisfaction of having experienced the emotions and reflections of the human world but he also loses out a lot in the process. Does he finally succeed in the goal that he had set out to accomplish? Does he ever get to leave the human world? Do the humans get disturbed by his presence in their world?
The book takes you on a journey you never believed ever existed. Slowly and steadily you are drawn into the djinn’s world and there reaches a time of conflict when you are caught amidst the emotions of Kabuko and Ajee Shah. Which world would you choose if you had the benefit of choice – the one that you are familiar with or the one that promises a ride of magic and muse? And what about Ajee’s mind, body and soul? Does it stay unaffected throughout Kabuko’s stay within? Who is the one that enjoys the ride more – Kaubuko or Ajee? That you have to read the book to know.
With an experienced journalist writing this novel, much is expected and the author does not fail to disappoint. The research and imagination gone into creating an illusionary world of djinns and mystery is to be appreciated. So, believers and non believers, have a blast!
Originally reviewed at Vaultofbooks.com, a close-knit community of fanatical readers. We are looking for perceptive readers who can write well, and we are eager to provide lots of free books in exchange for reviews. Shoot us a mail at contact@vaultofbooks.com
December 7, 2014
Parting is such sweet sorrow. The decisions we make affect us for the rest of our lives. This story is one of those stories that engage in such themes.
Unlike most other jinn stories this one takes place in Pakistan . But them jinn live all over the place . Kabuko is a member of a jinn tribe that makes bird like sounds and communicate with birds. Kabuko is a jinn that longs to understand the human existence and glean some occult knowledge that humans know . His parents and other tribe members are not so understanding. To help him in his endeavor he consults a lady named Kiya. They engage in a relationship and she teaches him what he needs to learn.
Kabuko's first attempt to inhabit a human body ends up in failure so he decides to try again. His parents try to stop him. The boy he inhabits , Ajee Shah, is a sayed, a descendant of Muhammad. Ajee's uncle gives the ok.
So Kabuko experiences life through Ajee's eyes. Together they expose Jinn learning in a madrassa, jinn inhabiting a tree who fell in love with Ajee's ancestors. They feed a snake named Babaji who protects treasure and guides people through the woods. Encounter a snake charmer who introduces Ajee to a prostitute to teach him About love.
Ajee's brother , Kerman shah gets involved with alchemy. Making to mercury balls go solid. Bhoa last teaches some secrets. In the end Ketman perishes in a flood.
Bhao lar takes Ajee under his wing and introduces him to a dervish. Together they explore spiritual worlds and discover enlightenment .
Ajee also falls in love with a female Jinn. They marry and have a child.
Things proceed to the end but I will leave that for you to r
Unlike most other jinn stories this one takes place in Pakistan . But them jinn live all over the place . Kabuko is a member of a jinn tribe that makes bird like sounds and communicate with birds. Kabuko is a jinn that longs to understand the human existence and glean some occult knowledge that humans know . His parents and other tribe members are not so understanding. To help him in his endeavor he consults a lady named Kiya. They engage in a relationship and she teaches him what he needs to learn.
Kabuko's first attempt to inhabit a human body ends up in failure so he decides to try again. His parents try to stop him. The boy he inhabits , Ajee Shah, is a sayed, a descendant of Muhammad. Ajee's uncle gives the ok.
So Kabuko experiences life through Ajee's eyes. Together they expose Jinn learning in a madrassa, jinn inhabiting a tree who fell in love with Ajee's ancestors. They feed a snake named Babaji who protects treasure and guides people through the woods. Encounter a snake charmer who introduces Ajee to a prostitute to teach him About love.
Ajee's brother , Kerman shah gets involved with alchemy. Making to mercury balls go solid. Bhoa last teaches some secrets. In the end Ketman perishes in a flood.
Bhao lar takes Ajee under his wing and introduces him to a dervish. Together they explore spiritual worlds and discover enlightenment .
Ajee also falls in love with a female Jinn. They marry and have a child.
Things proceed to the end but I will leave that for you to r
January 27, 2014
I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. The cover first caught my eye, and I have an interest in stories from the Indian subcontinent.
Though at times the main story gets lost in chapters that seem to go off on a tangent, it is well worth the read. Kabuko is an interesting character, I can't think of many stories written from the djinn point of view, so it was very refreshing. I was kind of left with that feeling that you get after a good meal, you are satisfied, but still have space left for dessert. I would love to see more of Kabuko, or maybe background stories of some of the other characters.
Though at times the main story gets lost in chapters that seem to go off on a tangent, it is well worth the read. Kabuko is an interesting character, I can't think of many stories written from the djinn point of view, so it was very refreshing. I was kind of left with that feeling that you get after a good meal, you are satisfied, but still have space left for dessert. I would love to see more of Kabuko, or maybe background stories of some of the other characters.
December 29, 2013
Kabuko the djinn is a compelling tale that is part fantasy, part magical, and part realist. In lucid prose, the author presents an interesting story line that is primarily based on the dual existence of a middle aged djinn and a young human in a realistic setting in Punjab.
Read the complete review of Kabuko the Djinn at
http://www.thebookoutline.com/2013/12...
Read the complete review of Kabuko the Djinn at
http://www.thebookoutline.com/2013/12...
December 1, 2014
The concept is good and unique but after reading it, I had the feeling that it could have been a much better book. There are parts of it that are very imaginative and interesting but the book loses it's grip here and there which dampens the over all reading experience.
February 12, 2014
Jinn is an intelligent spirit of lower rank than the angels, able to appear in human and animal forms and to possess humans.
For detailed review
http://mithimishti.wordpress.com/2014...
For detailed review
http://mithimishti.wordpress.com/2014...
October 24, 2013
Engrossing account of life in a village in the Punjab through the eyes of a denizen of the unseen world...
October 22, 2014
It was just an OK read! the title of the book should be Ajee Shah the Possessd One instead of Kabuko the Djinn!
August 11, 2015
a nice book with different context.
one should read it
one should read it
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews