What do you think?
Rate this book
Ramona
Two tender kids, a girl Ramona and the boy Brian
almost in the same age level from different rural
outskirts grow against the society’s savage and
asymmetrical consideration towards their urchin backdrop.
With their dexterous focus on their survival they engage
in child labour for pittance, sometimes nomadic on streets
without food and shelter. They seesaw unpredictable
turbulence both from the nature and their ilk in the society
and by their experience, learn “discomfort is the basis of
comfort living’’.
When life gives little fillip for survival, Ramona and Brian
rise up with some hope to continue their daily chores. As
the fillip gets dried up or snatched away by the society’s
grandiose pillars, their despair resurfaces gleefully.
almost in the same age level from different rural
outskirts grow against the society’s savage and
asymmetrical consideration towards their urchin backdrop.
With their dexterous focus on their survival they engage
in child labour for pittance, sometimes nomadic on streets
without food and shelter. They seesaw unpredictable
turbulence both from the nature and their ilk in the society
and by their experience, learn “discomfort is the basis of
comfort living’’.
When life gives little fillip for survival, Ramona and Brian
rise up with some hope to continue their daily chores. As
the fillip gets dried up or snatched away by the society’s
grandiose pillars, their despair resurfaces gleefully.
186 pages, Paperback
Published March 27, 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 24, 2025
The story centered on the exploitative child labor practices and poverty-stricken family where the protagonists Ramona and Brian grew, struggled everyday, and engaged in odd affairs to support their family at a very young age. Their hardships were real and irrevocable, providing the picture of the worst reality of Indian society.
Ramona was a very hard-working, resilient, diligent character and multitasker who endured every insult, threat, and false accusation in her workplace and had to make herself survive. In her later times of her life, she married Brian and transformed herself into a strong woman capable of doing everything. Her aspirations were quite visible in her engagement with several women's development programs, where she found the strategies to help women in their general development and to attain economic independence.
On the other hand, there was Brian, who had to leave school and find for himself an odd job in order to sustain his family. He was very brilliant in adjusting himself to any working environment. At some point in his life, he was misled by his bad company of friends. When he realized his potential, he turned himself up to explore the world and unlock the door of good opportunities. After a huge struggle, he molded his personality into that of one of those successful men, and in the later part of his life, he switched his career to political affairs and aspired to work for the development of his society.
The narrative style was vivid and employed a tone of emotional striking that poignantly drew the precarious balance between hope and despair. Through their survival instincts, Ramona and Brian learn that “Discomfort is the basis of comfort living”—this becomes a guiding motto in their hardship journey and shapes their personalities.
A crucial aspect of this book is that it carries a motivational taste, and if you are someone who likes to enjoy reading short inspiring and hardship stories, you need to pick up this book for you.
Ramona was a very hard-working, resilient, diligent character and multitasker who endured every insult, threat, and false accusation in her workplace and had to make herself survive. In her later times of her life, she married Brian and transformed herself into a strong woman capable of doing everything. Her aspirations were quite visible in her engagement with several women's development programs, where she found the strategies to help women in their general development and to attain economic independence.
On the other hand, there was Brian, who had to leave school and find for himself an odd job in order to sustain his family. He was very brilliant in adjusting himself to any working environment. At some point in his life, he was misled by his bad company of friends. When he realized his potential, he turned himself up to explore the world and unlock the door of good opportunities. After a huge struggle, he molded his personality into that of one of those successful men, and in the later part of his life, he switched his career to political affairs and aspired to work for the development of his society.
The narrative style was vivid and employed a tone of emotional striking that poignantly drew the precarious balance between hope and despair. Through their survival instincts, Ramona and Brian learn that “Discomfort is the basis of comfort living”—this becomes a guiding motto in their hardship journey and shapes their personalities.
A crucial aspect of this book is that it carries a motivational taste, and if you are someone who likes to enjoy reading short inspiring and hardship stories, you need to pick up this book for you.
December 31, 2025
This book follows our main characters : Ramona and Brian from their early childhood till their end as they fight against the society to ensure their survival. It talks a lot about the rural outskirts they came from, their fight towards a better and a comfort future, their rise in status and power through sheer hard work and determination. It deals with a lot of political topics, child labor, the asymmetrical consideration towards their background. Through this story, we see them grow up together, being a pillar of strength for each other, and find their own pace in life while dealing with negative forces and hateful opposition. Personally, I wish the the story, the pacing and characters could have been utilized better for a flowing narration.
.
If you are looking for a book that talks a lot about poverty, survival of the fittest, overcoming boulders to build a life for yourself, finding a partner to share your burdens, and a story that spans over the characters lifetime, then you can try this book!!
.
Thank you @bookreviewersclub and @notionpress.books for the copy!
.
If you are looking for a book that talks a lot about poverty, survival of the fittest, overcoming boulders to build a life for yourself, finding a partner to share your burdens, and a story that spans over the characters lifetime, then you can try this book!!
.
Thank you @bookreviewersclub and @notionpress.books for the copy!
December 30, 2025
This book takes its time and lets emotions surface naturally. Ramona is a quiet, introspective novel that focuses more on inner change than on dramatic plot twists. It explores identity, emotional distance, and the slow process of understanding oneself.
The story centres on Ramona, a character written with sensitivity and restraint. Her journey feels deeply personal. She is shaped by memories, relationships, and moments that linger quietly rather than loudly. What worked for me is how real she feels - flawed, thoughtful, and emotionally human.
The writing is subtle and observant. Much of the story lives in silences, pauses, and unspoken feelings. Relationships unfold through distance, tension, and quiet understanding rather than conflict or drama. It reflects how people often carry unresolved emotions while continuing with everyday life.
The backdrop stays grounded and familiar, never distracting from the emotional core. The author allows the story to move at its own pace, trusting the reader to sit with the emotions instead of rushing toward closure.
What Stands Out
• Strong, introspective character writing
• Emphasis on emotional depth over plot
• Realistic portrayal of relationships and inner conflict
• Calm, measured storytelling
What to Know
• This is a slow, reflective read
• Best suited for readers who enjoy character-driven stories
• Not meant for those looking for fast-paced drama
Overall, Ramona is a thoughtful exploration of self-awareness and emotional growth. It’s a book that asks you to pause, reflect, and sit with feelings rather than resolve them quickly. A quiet, steady read that stays with you in a gentle way.
The story centres on Ramona, a character written with sensitivity and restraint. Her journey feels deeply personal. She is shaped by memories, relationships, and moments that linger quietly rather than loudly. What worked for me is how real she feels - flawed, thoughtful, and emotionally human.
The writing is subtle and observant. Much of the story lives in silences, pauses, and unspoken feelings. Relationships unfold through distance, tension, and quiet understanding rather than conflict or drama. It reflects how people often carry unresolved emotions while continuing with everyday life.
The backdrop stays grounded and familiar, never distracting from the emotional core. The author allows the story to move at its own pace, trusting the reader to sit with the emotions instead of rushing toward closure.
What Stands Out
• Strong, introspective character writing
• Emphasis on emotional depth over plot
• Realistic portrayal of relationships and inner conflict
• Calm, measured storytelling
What to Know
• This is a slow, reflective read
• Best suited for readers who enjoy character-driven stories
• Not meant for those looking for fast-paced drama
Overall, Ramona is a thoughtful exploration of self-awareness and emotional growth. It’s a book that asks you to pause, reflect, and sit with feelings rather than resolve them quickly. A quiet, steady read that stays with you in a gentle way.
June 8, 2025
🌾 Ramona by N. Balaji – A Heartbreaking Symphony of Survival
🔸 👧🏽👦🏽 Two Souls, One Struggle
Ramona and Brian — two children born into silence, shadows, and the sharp edge of poverty. Their friendship is forged not in play, but in pain.
🔸 🛖 Streets as Home, Work as Childhood
With no beds to sleep in and no toys to hold, they trade innocence for labor — washing, lifting, wandering — scraping by for a few coins and scraps of food.
🔸 🌧️ Storms Without and Within
The world throws at them both nature’s fury and humanity’s cruelty. Hunger howls. The wind bites. And yet they walk on — barefoot, brave, and bound by survival.
🔸 🌀 The Seesaw of Hope
Sometimes life offers a flicker — a warm meal, a kind glance, a moment of peace. But joy is short-lived. Society, dressed in power and pride, always finds a way to snatch it back.
🔸 💭 Wisdom in Wounds
They learn what most never do:
> “Discomfort is the basis of comfort living.”
Their pain becomes their compass. Their scars, silent teachers.
🔸 🏛️ A World That Looks Away
The system sees their background, not their brilliance. It praises tall buildings while children sleep beneath them. It honors wealth, not willpower.
🔸 📖 Why Ramona Matters
This is more than fiction. It’s a quiet scream for justice. A love letter to resilience. A mirror to the forgotten corners of society.
It will make you ache. It will make you think. And it may just make you act.
🔸 👧🏽👦🏽 Two Souls, One Struggle
Ramona and Brian — two children born into silence, shadows, and the sharp edge of poverty. Their friendship is forged not in play, but in pain.
🔸 🛖 Streets as Home, Work as Childhood
With no beds to sleep in and no toys to hold, they trade innocence for labor — washing, lifting, wandering — scraping by for a few coins and scraps of food.
🔸 🌧️ Storms Without and Within
The world throws at them both nature’s fury and humanity’s cruelty. Hunger howls. The wind bites. And yet they walk on — barefoot, brave, and bound by survival.
🔸 🌀 The Seesaw of Hope
Sometimes life offers a flicker — a warm meal, a kind glance, a moment of peace. But joy is short-lived. Society, dressed in power and pride, always finds a way to snatch it back.
🔸 💭 Wisdom in Wounds
They learn what most never do:
> “Discomfort is the basis of comfort living.”
Their pain becomes their compass. Their scars, silent teachers.
🔸 🏛️ A World That Looks Away
The system sees their background, not their brilliance. It praises tall buildings while children sleep beneath them. It honors wealth, not willpower.
🔸 📖 Why Ramona Matters
This is more than fiction. It’s a quiet scream for justice. A love letter to resilience. A mirror to the forgotten corners of society.
It will make you ache. It will make you think. And it may just make you act.
August 31, 2025
N. Balaji's "Ramona" is a moving examination of resiliency, hope, and survival in the face of societal neglect and poverty. It centers on Ramona and Brian, two kids whose lives are shaped by the terrible realities of hunger, homelessness, and child labor. Their delicate but resolute journey through the chaos of society and nature is depicted in the book. As the two hold onto what little hope life has to offer, the story serves as a reminder that "discomfort is the basis of comfort living" despite interminable hardships. The author provides insights into how survival instincts transform innocence into endurance while eloquently capturing the emotional burden of marginalized childhoods. There are scenes in the story where hopelessness and brief happiness coexist, which gives it an unvarnished, unadulterated edge.
Nevertheless, I encountered some challenges during the reading process. Despite its powerful impact, the story lengthens in some chapters. I found it difficult to follow along with the beginning and the timeline changes. There were a few mistakes that distracted me. Finally, I wanted to see more of Ramona's character, who only shines at the end while the story focuses primarily on Brian.
Despite certain issues, I think "Ramona" still has a powerful message and emotional intent. The main themes of perseverance, overcoming hardship, and hope are moving and thought-provoking.
Nevertheless, I encountered some challenges during the reading process. Despite its powerful impact, the story lengthens in some chapters. I found it difficult to follow along with the beginning and the timeline changes. There were a few mistakes that distracted me. Finally, I wanted to see more of Ramona's character, who only shines at the end while the story focuses primarily on Brian.
Despite certain issues, I think "Ramona" still has a powerful message and emotional intent. The main themes of perseverance, overcoming hardship, and hope are moving and thought-provoking.
September 23, 2025
Ramona by N. Balaji is a story of survival and resilience. Survival and resilience of a woman who has gone through excessive child labor, but instead of crumbling, she becomes a person every other woman can look up to. This is the story of the woman named Ramona. But also this is the story of Brian, Ramona's husband, another victim of child labor who never stops supporting his wife.
In this story the main highlight is the character Ramona and how she gathers other women to make sure they don't suffer the way she suffered. And the author beautifully portrays Ramona's character so that you will love her immediately and praise her courage amidst all of her hurdles. She shines brighter in the book.
But for me, Brian's character is more colorful and relatable. He leaves his school to support his family and starts doing odd jobs; later, when he finds himself in the bad company of people, he tries to work hard to get out of the situation and does it in his favor. His character is full of flaws and at the same time commendable.
Also, the sensitive topics that the author presents here, like child labor, poverty, and how it affects people—everything the author did in a careful, emotional, and sentimental way, without overlooking the matter or exaggerating the problem. Which is remarkable.
So overall, from the characters to the plot, the book is a good read, and I definitely recommend it.
In this story the main highlight is the character Ramona and how she gathers other women to make sure they don't suffer the way she suffered. And the author beautifully portrays Ramona's character so that you will love her immediately and praise her courage amidst all of her hurdles. She shines brighter in the book.
But for me, Brian's character is more colorful and relatable. He leaves his school to support his family and starts doing odd jobs; later, when he finds himself in the bad company of people, he tries to work hard to get out of the situation and does it in his favor. His character is full of flaws and at the same time commendable.
Also, the sensitive topics that the author presents here, like child labor, poverty, and how it affects people—everything the author did in a careful, emotional, and sentimental way, without overlooking the matter or exaggerating the problem. Which is remarkable.
So overall, from the characters to the plot, the book is a good read, and I definitely recommend it.
September 15, 2025
“Compassion and love to assuage fellow human beings’ misery made the person live forevermore in their minds, even after death.”
Ramona by N Balaji hold a different place in my heart. The book is heartfelt and brings tears to one’s eyes. It’s not just a usual book or a similar story line but a breathtaking reality check.
The book revolves around two kids named Ramona and Brian which are almost coeval but from different rural outskirts. In the darkness of extreme poverty this haunting story takes the readers on their journey.
The book portrays how these poor kids grow on the terms of hunger, homelessness and harsh reality snatching away their innocence and childhood. How these kids survive each day in search of food, clothes and other basic amenities by working hard and doing chores.
Balaji worked on the theme of uncertainties of life filled with cruelty, neglect and discomfort.
His words touch the heart straight. But the book is not all so dark and saddening. There are incidents of hope when the kids enjoy meals, help from some strangers and kindness.
The book compels the readers to think, to sympathise with the souls of these innocent kids while portraying harsh reality of life. This book is beyond ordinary fiction. The character build up is perfect and the writing style is simple and touching. A must read.
Ramona by N Balaji hold a different place in my heart. The book is heartfelt and brings tears to one’s eyes. It’s not just a usual book or a similar story line but a breathtaking reality check.
The book revolves around two kids named Ramona and Brian which are almost coeval but from different rural outskirts. In the darkness of extreme poverty this haunting story takes the readers on their journey.
The book portrays how these poor kids grow on the terms of hunger, homelessness and harsh reality snatching away their innocence and childhood. How these kids survive each day in search of food, clothes and other basic amenities by working hard and doing chores.
Balaji worked on the theme of uncertainties of life filled with cruelty, neglect and discomfort.
His words touch the heart straight. But the book is not all so dark and saddening. There are incidents of hope when the kids enjoy meals, help from some strangers and kindness.
The book compels the readers to think, to sympathise with the souls of these innocent kids while portraying harsh reality of life. This book is beyond ordinary fiction. The character build up is perfect and the writing style is simple and touching. A must read.
October 1, 2025
This is a quiet powerful novel that lingers with you long after the final page. At its heart, it is the story of love, resilience, and self-discovery, but what makes it different is the author’s ability to narrate everyday emotions into something deeply expressive.
The story follows Ramona, a woman caught between the expectations of society and the stirrings of her own desires. Through her journey, the author explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that often demands uniformity. The narration is simple yet layered, making the book accessible while still rich with emotional shade.
What particularly stood out to me was how the author gave Ramona her own voice; vulnerable yet strong, conflicted yet determined. The emotional depth feels authentic, and many of her internal battles reflect the unspoken struggles of countless women of our society. While some sections move slowly, this pacing allows the space to a reader to sit with Ramona’s emotions and truly absorb the subtle shifts in her character.
Overall, Ramona is a moving, introspective read that will appeal to those who enjoy in depth character driven stories about the human spirit. It’s not just about Ramona’s life but about all of us, searching for our place in this vast world.
The story follows Ramona, a woman caught between the expectations of society and the stirrings of her own desires. Through her journey, the author explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that often demands uniformity. The narration is simple yet layered, making the book accessible while still rich with emotional shade.
What particularly stood out to me was how the author gave Ramona her own voice; vulnerable yet strong, conflicted yet determined. The emotional depth feels authentic, and many of her internal battles reflect the unspoken struggles of countless women of our society. While some sections move slowly, this pacing allows the space to a reader to sit with Ramona’s emotions and truly absorb the subtle shifts in her character.
Overall, Ramona is a moving, introspective read that will appeal to those who enjoy in depth character driven stories about the human spirit. It’s not just about Ramona’s life but about all of us, searching for our place in this vast world.
August 21, 2025
Ramona by N. Balaji is a deeply moving story that captures the painful yet inspiring journey of two children, Ramona and Brian. Unlike most childhoods filled with play and laughter, their bond is built through shared struggles, hunger, and the harsh realities of poverty. Homeless and without comfort, the two survive by doing small jobs on the streets, collecting just enough coins to buy food and make it through another day.
Balaji paints a vivid picture of their world, where every night is cold, every day uncertain, and every encounter with society reminds them of cruelty and neglect. Yet, despite the constant hardships, Ramona and Brian continue to walk forward with courage. What makes their story even more touching are the small moments of hope , that is a kind stranger’s smile, a warm meal, or a fleeting gesture of care that give them the strength to carry on. But sadly, these sparks of kindness are often overshadowed by the unfairness of the world around them.
This book goes beyond fiction. It mirrors the lives of countless forgotten children who live and suffer in silence. It not only makes readers feel their pain but also admire their resilience, while questioning a society that chooses to ignore their existence.
Balaji paints a vivid picture of their world, where every night is cold, every day uncertain, and every encounter with society reminds them of cruelty and neglect. Yet, despite the constant hardships, Ramona and Brian continue to walk forward with courage. What makes their story even more touching are the small moments of hope , that is a kind stranger’s smile, a warm meal, or a fleeting gesture of care that give them the strength to carry on. But sadly, these sparks of kindness are often overshadowed by the unfairness of the world around them.
This book goes beyond fiction. It mirrors the lives of countless forgotten children who live and suffer in silence. It not only makes readers feel their pain but also admire their resilience, while questioning a society that chooses to ignore their existence.
August 31, 2025
The book is about two young children named Ramona and Brian. They live in two different outskirts of rural places and how they grow against the society's savage and different backdrop.
This is a novel about intense struggle towards livelihood which results from unpredictable life and expectations of the society.
What did we love about the book?
This book is quite different from all other books which deal with Melancholy and pathos. Here the two children grow against different situations of life and as the author says Discomfort is the basis of comfortable living.
We understand how much truth it has.
If you are not comfortable in life
Your life is complex and has poverty along with everything else you will take up this situation as a challenge and be aware of the next situation that you can actually create.
With the help of hardwork
With the help of determination
We loved the wonderful way of dealing with stories and most importantly the character analysis.
This book will help you to be grateful and understand everyone's life is not a bed of roses. Hardships are part of life and that hardship gives the promising attitude of who we are.
August 24, 2025
Book Review: Ramona by N. Balaji
Ramona by N. Balaji is a haunting yet deeply inspiring story that sheds light on the lives of two children, Ramona and Brian, who grow up in the shadow of poverty. Unlike ordinary childhoods filled with innocence and play, their bond is shaped by hunger, homelessness, and the harsh realities of street survival. With every passing day, they struggle to earn a few coins through child labor, battling cold nights, hunger pangs, and the indifference of society.
Balaji’s narrative is stark and unflinching, yet filled with tender moments of hope a kind stranger’s smile, a warm meal, or a fleeting gesture of humanity that helps them endure. These rare sparks of kindness, however, are often overshadowed by the cruelty of a world that chooses to look away. What stands out is the quiet wisdom they gain through suffering their scars becoming silent teachers, their pain transforming into resilience.
The book is more than fiction; it mirrors the forgotten lives of countless children caught in cycles of poverty and neglect. With simple yet powerful language, Balaji compels the reader not just to sympathize, but to reflect and question society’s silence. Ramona is a heartbreaking symphony of survival moving, thought-provoking, and unforgettable.
Ramona by N. Balaji is a haunting yet deeply inspiring story that sheds light on the lives of two children, Ramona and Brian, who grow up in the shadow of poverty. Unlike ordinary childhoods filled with innocence and play, their bond is shaped by hunger, homelessness, and the harsh realities of street survival. With every passing day, they struggle to earn a few coins through child labor, battling cold nights, hunger pangs, and the indifference of society.
Balaji’s narrative is stark and unflinching, yet filled with tender moments of hope a kind stranger’s smile, a warm meal, or a fleeting gesture of humanity that helps them endure. These rare sparks of kindness, however, are often overshadowed by the cruelty of a world that chooses to look away. What stands out is the quiet wisdom they gain through suffering their scars becoming silent teachers, their pain transforming into resilience.
The book is more than fiction; it mirrors the forgotten lives of countless children caught in cycles of poverty and neglect. With simple yet powerful language, Balaji compels the reader not just to sympathize, but to reflect and question society’s silence. Ramona is a heartbreaking symphony of survival moving, thought-provoking, and unforgettable.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews