Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Round and Round the Persian Wheel

Rate this book
In the aftermath of Partition, millions are uprooted from their moorings as they find themselves on the wrong side of the hastily drawn line.

Round and Round the Persian Wheel is a moving narrative about the struggles of one such family whose lives have forever been altered. Maninder Singh presents a poignant portrayal of resilience, focussing on the inherent ability of humans to rise from the ashes and rebuild.

Kishen, toiling in his elder brother Tej Singh’s workshop, repairing Persian wheels, finds his family’s dynamics upended when his mother-in-law Bibi seeks refuge with her young children after fleeing from the violence in West Punjab. Kishen’s wife Daya is unable to cope with the sudden disappearance of her father, who had left to protect the honour of some abducted women, never to return or be heard of.

As Kishen grapples with the weight of newfound responsibilities, Daya retreats into herself until the arrival of their son Tejpal brings a glimmer of hope. Determined to create a better future, Kishen works tirelessly, dreaming that Tejpal will one day make him proud.

In a world of shattered dreams, will Tejpal be able to fulfil his father’s wishes? Find out in this story anchored by the essential ingredient that sustains human life—hope.

216 pages, Paperback

Published May 5, 2024

5 people want to read

About the author

Maninder Singh

39 books4 followers
Maninder Singh spent his childhood in different towns of Punjab, visiting his grandparents in the heart of rural Punjab during vacations. The stories he listened to during those days have inspired his debut novel Round and Round the Persian Wheel.

By profession, Maninder is an engineer. An ardent reader, he possesses a keen interest in history and sports. He currently resides in Chandigarh with his wife and children.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
2 (66%)
4 stars
1 (33%)
3 stars
0 (0%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
2,094 reviews78 followers
December 8, 2024
In the tumultuous aftermath of Partition, millions find themselves displaced and disoriented, navigating the chaos of hastily drawn borders. "Round and Round the Persian Wheel" by Maninder Singh is a poignant tale that follows one such family, portraying their struggle to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins. Through the eyes of Kishen, a man who works in his brother's workshop repairing Persian wheels, Singh presents a moving narrative of resilience and hope.

The story revolves around Kishen, whose life is upended when his mother-in-law, Bibi, seeks refuge with her children after fleeing the violence in West Punjab. Kishen's wife, Daya, is devastated by the mysterious disappearance of her father, who left to protect abducted women and never returned. As Kishen shoulders new responsibilities, Daya retreats into herself, only to find solace in the birth of their son, Tejpal. Determined to secure a better future for Tejpal, Kishen works tirelessly, hoping his son will make him proud. The novel explores themes of hope, perseverance, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

Maninder Singh’s characters are deeply developed, providing a window into the emotional and psychological impacts of Partition. Kishen’s unwavering determination and Daya’s silent suffering are portrayed with poignant realism. Tejpal’s journey from a symbol of hope to a bearer of his father’s dreams is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. The supporting characters, including Bibi and Tej Singh, add depth to the narrative, highlighting the collective struggle and resilience of the community.

Maninder Singh's "Round and Round the Persian Wheel" is a masterful debut novel that captures the essence of human endurance amidst the turmoil of post-Partition Punjab. With poignant and powerful prose, Singh skillfully weaves a deeply moving and engaging narrative that explores the intricate relationships between customs, family bonds, and the challenges of adjusting to changing circumstances. The Persian wheel serves as a powerful symbol of perseverance and life's cyclical nature. This book offers a rich mosaic of historical and cultural narratives, making it a compelling read that leaves a lasting impression.



1 review
July 6, 2024
The Persian wheel is a tale of courage, resilience and hope. The sociocultural fabric of Punjab after Partition is intricately woven throughout the book.
Though set in the years post partition, it is not simply another partition account. The author has gone in depth into the cultural and social conditions prevailing during the time and has built a compelling narrative. The book reflects the author’s hard work in bringing those times alive through his characters. I’m looking forward to read more from the author.
1 review
July 6, 2024
The book is unputdownable from the beginning and keeps you captivated till the end. It’s a story of hope and human resilience. The character of Kishen specially touched me with his honesty and integrity in-spite of being pushed against the wall which tells you about the society in general where people held their morals and did not bow down in times of adversity.
Loved the writing style of the author. His eloquent way of saying things will remain with you long after you have read the book.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.