An Itinerant Observer

by Asad Mian

A book of stories about thinking and talking animals, birds, human beings, and others.

150 pages, Paperback

First published April 30, 2014

About the author

Although I am a pediatrician, ER physician and researcher by profession, my proclivity to writing is my way of creative exploration and expression. My first foray into writing was for kids and it happened a few years ago when I created the Biloongra series of bilingual books for children. My essays on health, education, literacy, culture, art and science of rambling, and so on, have appeared in newspapers in Houston and Karachi and on my blog (biloongra.com). I shuttle between Karachi and Houston, cities that I love and itinerantly observe from when I feel the urge. An Itinerant Observer is my first book for older children, young adults and adults; it is a compilation of stories about my fellow travelers.

Reviews

[Mayank Aranke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I suppose this is more so a review of the author than of the book (although both are equally great). Asad (the itinerant observer) is an amazing friend, mentor, writer, editor, thought partner, and aptly enough, observer. Having known him for most of my adult life (caveat- I'm 22 years old), I can safely say that few professors/mentors/friends have made an impact on my life the way Asad has. This collection of short stories is Asad's first official novel, but I have been fortunate enough to read several of his "underground" musings about education, medicine, and the human condition in general. Personally, I can't wait to get my hands on this and will devour it like none other. Go Asad and go IO!

[Ansul Noor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sensitive, thought provoking, humorous and innocent. A must read! The author brings childlike wonder to each interesting life situation, stories are infused with wisdom and compassion. It will awaken the child in you, and nurture the sage. So begin you IO journey. Awaken your inner child! I also enjoyed the poignant photography throughout the book, like beautiful clouds scattered across the pages. Highly recommended it.

[Rakshinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most delightful anthologies of stories about the absences and reconstructions of human life. A formidable and enticing experience that takes the reader to a whole new dimension along with insightful images that connect with almost everyone. I think it is the best handy compendium of a form in which the simple pleasures of life are believed to excel. The fact that it caters for almost every variety of taste in writing makes this book unusually interesting. And as the author "Asad I. Mian" says it best when he says and I quote "If you do not like the writing, enjoy the pictures instead"

[Pashmeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"An Itinerant Observer” is one of the few books I intend to keep a copy of.

This book is a sweet balance between "Chicken Soup for the Soul" and "This is Going to Hurt". An Itinerant Observer is a book of warmth, truth, and hope.

For me, it is just reassuring to know that I live in a world with the real-life characters of this book—Nori, Daisay, Jonathan, et all.