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Prism of Perceptions
Earth is a beautiful planet. Hope shines eternally in forms of smiles and laughter, memories are made with family and friends, joy sparkling in each of them. Earth is perfect. Right?
However, things are far from perfect when Zana and Trillian land in Mumbai in the middle of the COVID pandemic. How do people react in the fear of catching the virus from their closest ones? How does one say goodbye to nearest ones without a last look?
But, somehow, hope still exists in the form of humans fighting the virus. One such thread of hope is the journey of migrants. People returning home, leaving their dreams and parts of life behind, nearly bankrupt, defeated. Unable to board the few overcrowded buses or wait for the trains to resume, they are left with only one option, walking. This doesn’t seem humanly possible. But who says that Zana and Trillian are humans?
Zana and Trillian arrive in Mumbai, in the middle of the COVID pandemic, and find refuge with Girish a doctor fighting a losing battle to save his patients. They observe how the virus impacts people in different societies. How do people react in the fear of catching the virus from their closest ones? How does one say goodbye to nearest ones without a last look?
Amidst the despair, a glimmer of hope emerges in the resilience of people trying to help each other. Trillian joins his migrant worker friend Mohan and his family on a harrowing journey back home to Kolkata, forced to abandon their dreams and fragments of life, battered and defeated. Unable to board overcrowded buses and without any trains, they are left with only one choice, to walk from Mumbai to Kolkata. This doesn’t seem humanly possible, but then again, who's to say that Zana and Trillian are merely humans?
Prepare to embark on a journey shrouded in uncertainty and peril, where every step forward brings them closer to the of darkness lurking within humanity's soul. As Zana and Trillian navigate the treacherous landscape of fear and uncertainty, they will confront the very essence of what it means to be human, and perhaps, unearth the hidden truths that lie dormant beneath Earth's seemingly flawless facade.
However, things are far from perfect when Zana and Trillian land in Mumbai in the middle of the COVID pandemic. How do people react in the fear of catching the virus from their closest ones? How does one say goodbye to nearest ones without a last look?
But, somehow, hope still exists in the form of humans fighting the virus. One such thread of hope is the journey of migrants. People returning home, leaving their dreams and parts of life behind, nearly bankrupt, defeated. Unable to board the few overcrowded buses or wait for the trains to resume, they are left with only one option, walking. This doesn’t seem humanly possible. But who says that Zana and Trillian are humans?
Zana and Trillian arrive in Mumbai, in the middle of the COVID pandemic, and find refuge with Girish a doctor fighting a losing battle to save his patients. They observe how the virus impacts people in different societies. How do people react in the fear of catching the virus from their closest ones? How does one say goodbye to nearest ones without a last look?
Amidst the despair, a glimmer of hope emerges in the resilience of people trying to help each other. Trillian joins his migrant worker friend Mohan and his family on a harrowing journey back home to Kolkata, forced to abandon their dreams and fragments of life, battered and defeated. Unable to board overcrowded buses and without any trains, they are left with only one choice, to walk from Mumbai to Kolkata. This doesn’t seem humanly possible, but then again, who's to say that Zana and Trillian are merely humans?
Prepare to embark on a journey shrouded in uncertainty and peril, where every step forward brings them closer to the of darkness lurking within humanity's soul. As Zana and Trillian navigate the treacherous landscape of fear and uncertainty, they will confront the very essence of what it means to be human, and perhaps, unearth the hidden truths that lie dormant beneath Earth's seemingly flawless facade.
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First published May 5, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 6, 2025
Prism of Perceptions is not a book that can be read casually; it asks the reader to pause and reflect on what it means to be human during a time of crisis. Set against the haunting backdrop of Mumbai during the COVID-19 lockdown, the story brings together two unusual outsiders—Zana and Trillian—who serve as both witnesses and participants in the unfolding chaos. Their perspective, slightly detached yet deeply empathetic, gives the narrative a unique lens, much like the prism in the title, refracting reality into layers of pain, resilience, and hope.
What stands out is Chakrabarti’s ability to merge the everyday struggles of survival with elements of imagination. While the alien characters may initially feel symbolic, they quickly become a powerful medium to show how strange and fragile human life appears when seen from the outside. The novel moves fluidly between scenes of stark reality—migrant workers walking long distances, overworked doctors facing exhaustion—and moments of almost poetic reflection, allowing the reader to both witness and process the trauma of the pandemic.
The writing is sensitive and deliberate, never rushing through the emotions. It reminds us that resilience is not only found in heroic acts but also in the small choices people make to endure another day. At the same time, the story doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths of inequality and helplessness that the pandemic exposed so vividly.
What makes Prism of Perceptions memorable is that it is not just about the pandemic itself, but about perception—the way events are seen, remembered, and interpreted. The prism here symbolizes the fractured yet colorful way in which reality is experienced by different people, and the author uses this metaphor effectively throughout the narrative.
In the end, this book leaves the reader thoughtful rather than comforted. It challenges us to reconsider our own perceptions of crisis and survival, while offering a subtle sense of hope that even in times of despair, empathy and imagination can keep us human.
What stands out is Chakrabarti’s ability to merge the everyday struggles of survival with elements of imagination. While the alien characters may initially feel symbolic, they quickly become a powerful medium to show how strange and fragile human life appears when seen from the outside. The novel moves fluidly between scenes of stark reality—migrant workers walking long distances, overworked doctors facing exhaustion—and moments of almost poetic reflection, allowing the reader to both witness and process the trauma of the pandemic.
The writing is sensitive and deliberate, never rushing through the emotions. It reminds us that resilience is not only found in heroic acts but also in the small choices people make to endure another day. At the same time, the story doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths of inequality and helplessness that the pandemic exposed so vividly.
What makes Prism of Perceptions memorable is that it is not just about the pandemic itself, but about perception—the way events are seen, remembered, and interpreted. The prism here symbolizes the fractured yet colorful way in which reality is experienced by different people, and the author uses this metaphor effectively throughout the narrative.
In the end, this book leaves the reader thoughtful rather than comforted. It challenges us to reconsider our own perceptions of crisis and survival, while offering a subtle sense of hope that even in times of despair, empathy and imagination can keep us human.
November 12, 2025
A nuanced glimpse into the social situation during the pandemic, this story takes the reader on an emotional ride.
Zana and Trillion are Retonets, inhabitants of another planet named Reton. They are a unique combination of artificial intelligence and human- like features. They arrive on Earth in order to research and study the planet and its natives. However, they end up on Earth in Mumbai during the COVID-19 pandemic. What they witness during their stay brings them face to face with the raw nature of humanity and society on Earth.
This story uses the premise of unfamiliar aliens trying to acclimatise themselves to the human society to portray the social conditions in an honest manner. The lockdown, the stress on the healthcare system, the apathy of relatives and friends as well as the loss of close ones everything has been discussed throughout the story. Even the troubles of the migrant laborers have been discussed with all its brutal reality. Amongst all this, the bonds develop between the aliens and the humans which surpass all hardships and generate a sense of hope. The true nature of relationships with all its colors is shown in the story. From love to longing to friendship, many aspects have been discussed.
The alien characters are penned down creatively. The norms of the alien planet and their reactions to human responses makes this story interesting. However, the depiction of society gives gravity to the story. The human characters have been carved out with well developed stories and each character is used to throw light on a specific vice of the society. The author has even paid attention to subtle issues like an apathetic husband and in-laws for a woman trying to give attention to her unwell parents.
This is an impressive portrayal of human nature during one of the most difficult times of society. The resilience of humans in the face of the life threatening situation is depicted in its truest essence through the story.
Zana and Trillion are Retonets, inhabitants of another planet named Reton. They are a unique combination of artificial intelligence and human- like features. They arrive on Earth in order to research and study the planet and its natives. However, they end up on Earth in Mumbai during the COVID-19 pandemic. What they witness during their stay brings them face to face with the raw nature of humanity and society on Earth.
This story uses the premise of unfamiliar aliens trying to acclimatise themselves to the human society to portray the social conditions in an honest manner. The lockdown, the stress on the healthcare system, the apathy of relatives and friends as well as the loss of close ones everything has been discussed throughout the story. Even the troubles of the migrant laborers have been discussed with all its brutal reality. Amongst all this, the bonds develop between the aliens and the humans which surpass all hardships and generate a sense of hope. The true nature of relationships with all its colors is shown in the story. From love to longing to friendship, many aspects have been discussed.
The alien characters are penned down creatively. The norms of the alien planet and their reactions to human responses makes this story interesting. However, the depiction of society gives gravity to the story. The human characters have been carved out with well developed stories and each character is used to throw light on a specific vice of the society. The author has even paid attention to subtle issues like an apathetic husband and in-laws for a woman trying to give attention to her unwell parents.
This is an impressive portrayal of human nature during one of the most difficult times of society. The resilience of humans in the face of the life threatening situation is depicted in its truest essence through the story.
August 20, 2025
Fear, hope, or secrets...What do masks really hide?
Prism of Perception brings out unseen truths of humanity behind the masks we all wear, be it Covid or not. The literal and the metaphoric, both the masks hide our feelings & sufferings.
The novel begins with Zana and Trillian arriving in Mumbai at the height of the pandemic. They are not regular people, and exploration of our chaos and the uncertainty of human life through their lenses, highlights the most poignant aspects of the crisis we have all gone through during the pandemic.
The story takes us into the heart of the pandemic, where a doctor tirelessly battles to save lives while exhausted migrants embark on harrowing journeys by foot to return to their distant homes.
On one hand, the novel portrays despair, fear, and loss and on the other, hope & unbreakable human spirit. While every character is carrying a certain burden, it makes them human as they endure the results of their choices. In the midst of all of these are Zana and Trillian, covered in certain mystery, their secret identities add intrigue and make the narrative fascinating as well.
The writing of the author weaves real-life struggles with what lies beneath the surface of human behaviour. The author draws you into the moral and emotional fabric of each moment, making it, at times, heartbreaking.
This novel makes the reader pause and reflect on society with a gripping narrative journey. This is a book about humanity at its breaking point; it’s unsettling and moving, reminding us that even in the darkest times, hope finds a way to survive.
Prism of Perception brings out unseen truths of humanity behind the masks we all wear, be it Covid or not. The literal and the metaphoric, both the masks hide our feelings & sufferings.
The novel begins with Zana and Trillian arriving in Mumbai at the height of the pandemic. They are not regular people, and exploration of our chaos and the uncertainty of human life through their lenses, highlights the most poignant aspects of the crisis we have all gone through during the pandemic.
The story takes us into the heart of the pandemic, where a doctor tirelessly battles to save lives while exhausted migrants embark on harrowing journeys by foot to return to their distant homes.
On one hand, the novel portrays despair, fear, and loss and on the other, hope & unbreakable human spirit. While every character is carrying a certain burden, it makes them human as they endure the results of their choices. In the midst of all of these are Zana and Trillian, covered in certain mystery, their secret identities add intrigue and make the narrative fascinating as well.
The writing of the author weaves real-life struggles with what lies beneath the surface of human behaviour. The author draws you into the moral and emotional fabric of each moment, making it, at times, heartbreaking.
This novel makes the reader pause and reflect on society with a gripping narrative journey. This is a book about humanity at its breaking point; it’s unsettling and moving, reminding us that even in the darkest times, hope finds a way to survive.
October 9, 2025
Few stories manage to blend simplicity with depth the way this book does. The author turns the chaos of the pandemic into a meditation on empathy, resilience, and the quiet power of kindness. Set in Mumbai during the lockdown, the story follows Zana and Trillian, two strangers whose lives intertwine with a doctor battling exhaustion and uncertainty. Through their eyes, we witness not only the fear and fragility of those times but also the profound strength that arises from shared humanity.
What makes this book unforgettable is its emotional honesty. It doesn’t shy away from loneliness, loss, or despair, yet it constantly finds light within the shadows. The author writes with a quiet lyricism that feels both poetic and deeply real; her words flow gently, but they strike deep. Every scene, from the deserted streets to the tender exchanges between characters, feels vividly alive.
Reading this novel felt like revisiting a moment in time we all lived through but rarely talk about. It reminded me of how even in silence and distance, connection still found its way. Zana and Trillian’s story isn’t just about survival; it’s about rediscovering compassion when the world feels broken.
This book isn’t merely a story about the pandemic; it’s a reflection of what it means to be human in times of crisis. Honest, heartfelt, and deeply moving, it’s a book that lingers long after you close it.
What makes this book unforgettable is its emotional honesty. It doesn’t shy away from loneliness, loss, or despair, yet it constantly finds light within the shadows. The author writes with a quiet lyricism that feels both poetic and deeply real; her words flow gently, but they strike deep. Every scene, from the deserted streets to the tender exchanges between characters, feels vividly alive.
Reading this novel felt like revisiting a moment in time we all lived through but rarely talk about. It reminded me of how even in silence and distance, connection still found its way. Zana and Trillian’s story isn’t just about survival; it’s about rediscovering compassion when the world feels broken.
This book isn’t merely a story about the pandemic; it’s a reflection of what it means to be human in times of crisis. Honest, heartfelt, and deeply moving, it’s a book that lingers long after you close it.
November 9, 2025
Prism of Perceptions by Anushila Chakrabarti
Some books don’t shout for attention — they just sit quietly, waiting to be felt. Prism of Perceptions is one of those books. It doesn’t rush anywhere; it lets you breathe with it.
Set in Mumbai during the pandemic, it follows Zana, Trillian, and Girish — three people stuck in very different corners of the same storm. Each of them is trying to make sense of life, fear, and everything in between. There’s also the silent story of migrant workers, which honestly hit me the hardest.
What I liked most is how real the emotions feel. Nothing’s overdone. It’s quiet, sometimes painfully so — but that’s exactly what makes it beautiful. The writing flows like someone’s personal journal. You can feel the loneliness, the exhaustion, and that tiny flicker of hope that refuses to die.
And the best part? It’s not just about the pandemic. It’s about how we see people, how our perceptions change when everything else falls apart. How masks — both real and emotional — reveal who we really are underneath.
It’s not a fast or dramatic read, but it’s the kind that stays with you after you close the book. You’ll probably find a bit of yourself in one of those pages. I definitely did.
⭐ Tender. Thoughtful. Real.
A quiet reminder that every person you meet is carrying a story you can’t see.
Some books don’t shout for attention — they just sit quietly, waiting to be felt. Prism of Perceptions is one of those books. It doesn’t rush anywhere; it lets you breathe with it.
Set in Mumbai during the pandemic, it follows Zana, Trillian, and Girish — three people stuck in very different corners of the same storm. Each of them is trying to make sense of life, fear, and everything in between. There’s also the silent story of migrant workers, which honestly hit me the hardest.
What I liked most is how real the emotions feel. Nothing’s overdone. It’s quiet, sometimes painfully so — but that’s exactly what makes it beautiful. The writing flows like someone’s personal journal. You can feel the loneliness, the exhaustion, and that tiny flicker of hope that refuses to die.
And the best part? It’s not just about the pandemic. It’s about how we see people, how our perceptions change when everything else falls apart. How masks — both real and emotional — reveal who we really are underneath.
It’s not a fast or dramatic read, but it’s the kind that stays with you after you close the book. You’ll probably find a bit of yourself in one of those pages. I definitely did.
⭐ Tender. Thoughtful. Real.
A quiet reminder that every person you meet is carrying a story you can’t see.
August 23, 2025
Prism of Perceptions by Anushila Chakraborty is a moving story that mixes science fiction with the real struggles of the COVID 19 pandemic. Set in Mumbai, it shows life through the eyes of two unusual visitors Zana and Trillian who come from another world. They arrive in the middle of the chaos and watch how people fight to survive to hope and to keep going even when everything feels uncertain.
The novel takes us into hospitals where doctors work endlessly to save lives and onto the roads where tired migrants walk long distances back to their homes. Every character carries a hidden burden fear loss or regret but also a spark of strength that makes them human. Zana and Trillian bring mystery to the story but the heart of the book remains with the emotions and choices of the people around them.
This book shows both sides of the pandemic pain despair and exhaustion on one hand but also courage kindness and the will to endure on the other. The writing makes you stop and think about the masks we all wear whether to hide fear or to protect hope.
In the end Prism of Perceptions is a story about humanity at its most fragile yet also at its strongest. It is heartfelt thought provoking and a reminder that even in the darkest times hope still survives.
The novel takes us into hospitals where doctors work endlessly to save lives and onto the roads where tired migrants walk long distances back to their homes. Every character carries a hidden burden fear loss or regret but also a spark of strength that makes them human. Zana and Trillian bring mystery to the story but the heart of the book remains with the emotions and choices of the people around them.
This book shows both sides of the pandemic pain despair and exhaustion on one hand but also courage kindness and the will to endure on the other. The writing makes you stop and think about the masks we all wear whether to hide fear or to protect hope.
In the end Prism of Perceptions is a story about humanity at its most fragile yet also at its strongest. It is heartfelt thought provoking and a reminder that even in the darkest times hope still survives.
October 9, 2025
Prism of Perceptions by Anushila Chakraborty is not just another pandemic novel—it’s a mirror that reflects both our collective wounds and our hidden resilience. Blending science fiction with raw reality, the story unfolds in Mumbai, where two outsiders, Zana and Trillian, arrive from beyond our world. Through their eyes, the familiar chaos of COVID-19 feels newly haunting and strangely illuminating.
Chakraborty captures the city at its most vulnerable: exhausted doctors fighting against time in hospitals, migrant families trudging mile after mile under a merciless sun, and countless individuals carrying silent battles within themselves. Fear, grief, and regret are never far away, yet what shines through is the quiet defiance of the human spirit.
The alien presence of Zana and Trillian adds a layer of intrigue, but the real strength of the narrative lies in the humanity it portrays—the masks we wear, the burdens we shoulder, and the choices we make when the future is uncertain.
At once heartbreaking and uplifting, Prism of Perceptions reminds us that fragility and strength can coexist. It is a moving testament to endurance, compassion, and the stubborn spark of hope that refuses to be extinguished
Chakraborty captures the city at its most vulnerable: exhausted doctors fighting against time in hospitals, migrant families trudging mile after mile under a merciless sun, and countless individuals carrying silent battles within themselves. Fear, grief, and regret are never far away, yet what shines through is the quiet defiance of the human spirit.
The alien presence of Zana and Trillian adds a layer of intrigue, but the real strength of the narrative lies in the humanity it portrays—the masks we wear, the burdens we shoulder, and the choices we make when the future is uncertain.
At once heartbreaking and uplifting, Prism of Perceptions reminds us that fragility and strength can coexist. It is a moving testament to endurance, compassion, and the stubborn spark of hope that refuses to be extinguished
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions by Anushila Chakraborty is a powerful story that blends science fiction with the real-life challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Set in Mumbai, the novel follows two unusual visitors, Zana and Trillian, who come from another world and observe the chaos around them. Through their eyes, we see how people struggle to survive, hold onto hope, and keep moving forward despite uncertainty.
The story takes us inside crowded hospitals where doctors work tirelessly and along the long roads where exhausted migrants walk home. Each character carries hidden fears, losses, and regrets but also a quiet strength that makes them human. While Zana and Trillian add mystery, the heart of the novel is the emotional journey of those they encounter.
The book shows both the pain and despair of the pandemic, as well as the courage, kindness, and resilience that shine through. The writing invites readers to reflect on the masks we all wearto hide fear or protect hope.
In the end, Prism of Perceptions is a moving reminder that even in our most fragile moments, humanity’s strength and hope endure.
The story takes us inside crowded hospitals where doctors work tirelessly and along the long roads where exhausted migrants walk home. Each character carries hidden fears, losses, and regrets but also a quiet strength that makes them human. While Zana and Trillian add mystery, the heart of the novel is the emotional journey of those they encounter.
The book shows both the pain and despair of the pandemic, as well as the courage, kindness, and resilience that shine through. The writing invites readers to reflect on the masks we all wearto hide fear or protect hope.
In the end, Prism of Perceptions is a moving reminder that even in our most fragile moments, humanity’s strength and hope endure.
August 26, 2025
"Prism of Perception" is a story about two people, Zana and Trillian, who find themselves in Mumbai during the COVID pandemic. They take shelter with a doctor who's fighting hard to save his patients. Meanwhile, many others are trying to get home on foot due to the lack of transport.
The story explores what people hide behind their masks and the challenges they face. As the characters navigate this uncertain and perilous time, they discover the strength of human resilience and hope. The book is a journey of self-discovery, mystery, and survival.
With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, "Prism of Perception" will keep you hooked. It's a story about humanity's struggles and triumphs during a global crisis. If you enjoy stories about hope and resilience, you'll like this book. It's a compelling read that will leave you thinking about the human experience. Should go for this.
September 30, 2025
The reading reminded me of those really foreign, very hard pandemic days. I remember being stuck at home and constantly checking the news, not fearing just for myself but also for people whom I had never met before. The story about migrant workers walking back to Kolkata reminded me of the guilt I felt - sitting safe while others had to walk for days. It dawned on me that even for us who actually lived through it, the whole time seemed so surreal as Zana and Trillian perceived all of it as outsiders. But what really stayed with me was the hope, hope in people helping strangers, in doctors like Girish not giving up, and in families holding on together despite everything. I lost a lot during those times plans, connections, and even a piece of myself but I also developed strength I never knew I had. This story made me pause and think not just about what happened but also about the journey we have taken from there.
September 30, 2025
Reading “Prism of Perception” brought back so many memories from the early days of the pandemic. I remember standing on my balcony during the first lockdown, the streets eerily silent, yet full of invisible fear. I remember the endless sirens, the anxiety of watching the news, and the ache of worrying for loved ones far away. This book captured all of that not just the fear and isolation, but also the tiny sparks of humanity and hope that kept us going. Following Zana, Trillian, and the doctor felt like walking alongside real people I might have met back then. Their courage, their exhaustion, their small acts of kindness reminded me of neighbors helping each other, of strangers delivering food, of how we all held on. “Prism of Perception” isn’t just a story; it felt like holding a mirror to my own memories of that time. It left me teary, but also strangely comforted a reminder that we survived, together.
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions stayed with me long after I finished reading. It’s more than just a story about the pandemic it made me reflect on what it truly means to be human during such difficult times. Anushila Chakraborty beautifully captures the harsh realities of Mumbai’s lockdown the exhaustion, fear, and inequality but also the quiet moments of strength and kindness that often go unnoticed.
What really moved me was seeing the story through the eyes of Zana and Trillian, two alien visitors whose curious and compassionate perspective helped me see the fragility and resilience of human life in a whole new way. Their viewpoint, like a prism, broke the pandemic into layers of pain, hope, and endurance.
This book challenged me to think about hardship not just as suffering, but as a place where empathy and imagination can flourish. It left me feeling both deeply touched and quietly hopeful.
What really moved me was seeing the story through the eyes of Zana and Trillian, two alien visitors whose curious and compassionate perspective helped me see the fragility and resilience of human life in a whole new way. Their viewpoint, like a prism, broke the pandemic into layers of pain, hope, and endurance.
This book challenged me to think about hardship not just as suffering, but as a place where empathy and imagination can flourish. It left me feeling both deeply touched and quietly hopeful.
September 30, 2025
Some stories don’t just describe a moment they live inside you long after you close the book. Prism of Perceptions is one of those rare stories. From the first page, it pulled me into Mumbai’s heart during the pandemic, a place filled with pain, fear, and uncertainty that I still carry with me. Through the eyes of Zana and Trillian strangers to our world I was forced to see the chaos anew: the relentless exhaustion of doctors, the desperate journeys of migrants, the silent battles waged behind every closed door. But amidst that darkness, the story also breathed life into moments of unexpected kindness, quiet resilience, and fragile hope. This book connected every shattered piece of that time the grief and the courage and reminded me that even when everything feels broken, the human spirit can still find a way to shine. Prism of Perceptions didn’t just tell a story; it held my heart in its hands.
September 30, 2025
Some stories don’t just describe a moment they live inside you long after you close the book. Prism of Perceptions is one of those rare stories. From the first page, it pulled me into Mumbai’s heart during the pandemic, a place filled with pain, fear, and uncertainty that I still carry with me. Through the eyes of Zana and Trillian strangers to our world I was forced to see the chaos anew: the relentless exhaustion of doctors, the desperate journeys of migrants, the silent battles waged behind every closed door. But amidst that darkness, the story also breathed life into moments of unexpected kindness, quiet resilience, and fragile hope. This book connected every shattered piece of that time the grief and the courage and reminded me that even when everything feels broken, the human spirit can still find a way to shine. Prism of Perceptions didn’t just tell a story; it held my heart in its hands.
October 10, 2025
I picked up Prism of Perceptions without expecting much, and somewhere along the way it pulled me in. It’s not your typical story; two aliens land in Mumbai during the lockdown, but instead of the usual sci-fi chaos, what you get is this gentle, reflective look at people, emotions, and how the pandemic changed us.
There’s something strangely comforting about the way it’s written. The empty streets, the fear, the confusion — all of it feels close to what we all went through, but seen from an outsider’s eyes. Some scenes stay with you longer than you expect. It’s not flashy or dramatic, but honest and quietly emotional.
The writing feels simple and genuine, maybe a bit slow in parts, but that slowness kind of suits the story. It feels like the author really poured her heart into it. I finished it with that small lump-in-the-throat feeling you get when something touches you without trying too hard.
There’s something strangely comforting about the way it’s written. The empty streets, the fear, the confusion — all of it feels close to what we all went through, but seen from an outsider’s eyes. Some scenes stay with you longer than you expect. It’s not flashy or dramatic, but honest and quietly emotional.
The writing feels simple and genuine, maybe a bit slow in parts, but that slowness kind of suits the story. It feels like the author really poured her heart into it. I finished it with that small lump-in-the-throat feeling you get when something touches you without trying too hard.
August 22, 2025
"The Prism of Perceptions" by Anushila Chakraborty is a heartfelt and creative novel that mixes science fiction with real-life human experiences. It takes place in Mumbai during the COVID-19 pandemic and tells the story of two aliens, Zana and Trillian, who come from the planet Reton. They watch over humans during a tough time, offering a fresh and clear view of the situation. Their perspective shows the deep emotions people felt-grief, strength, and kindness during the crisis.
The story not only highlights the challenges faced by doctors and people who had to move, but also shows how people hide their feelings-sometimes out of fear, sometimes to hold onto hope.
The mystery of Zana and Trillian keeps readers interested without taking away from the real emotional story. This book is a thoughtful one and I highly recommend it.
The story not only highlights the challenges faced by doctors and people who had to move, but also shows how people hide their feelings-sometimes out of fear, sometimes to hold onto hope.
The mystery of Zana and Trillian keeps readers interested without taking away from the real emotional story. This book is a thoughtful one and I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2025
The Prism of Perceptions is a strange and at times tragic tale of science fiction intersecting with human harsh realities. When sudden happenings occur due to the outbreak of Corona in Mumbai, illicitly life-altering acts are going on around them-were Zana and Trillian simply observing life with untroubled, untarnished eyes? The incomparable elaboration of events in detail and her unpretentious rendition gives lustre to the epic title as well as to time where each masked face represents a complicated story. Going beyond her sci-fi canvas, the novel interacts with us as a woven tapestry and mirror reflecting the contradictions of humanity with desolation and joy, tragedy and comedy, life and death. The genius of Chakraborty enables the narrative to occupy us with questioning not only the identity of her alien observers but also our own as the readers.
September 30, 2025
Hope shines brightest in the darkest times. That’s what I felt as I read Prism of Perceptions by Anushila Chakrabarti. The story transported me to Mumbai during the height of the COVID-19 crisis, where I could almost feel the tension in overcrowded hospitals and the exhaustion of migrants walking endless roads. Seeing everything unfold through the eyes of Zana and Trillian two visitors from another world gave the story a unique perspective that made the human experience even more striking.
What resonated with me most was how each character carried their own fears and pain but also a deep well of courage. It reminded me of the quiet strength people showed around me during those uncertain days. The novel made me reflect on how even when life feels overwhelming, small acts of kindness and hope can carry us through.this book left me feeling inspired by the resilience of the human spirit.
What resonated with me most was how each character carried their own fears and pain but also a deep well of courage. It reminded me of the quiet strength people showed around me during those uncertain days. The novel made me reflect on how even when life feels overwhelming, small acts of kindness and hope can carry us through.this book left me feeling inspired by the resilience of the human spirit.
September 30, 2025
“Prism of Perception” is a rare and powerful work that captures the soul of a moment in history with breathtaking clarity. Anshula Chakrabarti doesn’t just tell a story about the pandemic she invites us to live it through the eyes of her characters, feeling their fear, their pain, and their flickers of hope as if they were our own. What makes this book truly extraordinary is how it goes beyond the surface of crisis to explore the complex layers of human emotion and resilience. The way Anshula lays the hidden struggles behind every mask is both haunting and profoundly compassionate. This isn’t just a story; it’s a mirror reflecting our shared humanity in its most vulnerable state. It’s beautifully written, deeply moving, and urgently relevant. This is the kind of book that challenges us, stays with us, and changes the way we see the world
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions is a touching story set during Mumbai’s tough lockdown. The author, Anushila Chakrabarti shows what life was like for many people full of fear, tiredness, and unfairness but also filled with small acts of kindness and courage that often go unnoticed.
What makes this book special is that it’s told through the eyes of two alien visitors, Zana and Trillian. Their fresh and curious view of humans helped me see the pandemic in a new way. They noticed not only the pain and struggle but also the hope and strength that people found inside themselves.
This book made me think differently about hard times. It showed me that even in suffering, people can grow empathy and creativity. Prism of Perceptions left me feeling hopeful and reminded me how strong and caring humans can be, even in difficult moments.
What makes this book special is that it’s told through the eyes of two alien visitors, Zana and Trillian. Their fresh and curious view of humans helped me see the pandemic in a new way. They noticed not only the pain and struggle but also the hope and strength that people found inside themselves.
This book made me think differently about hard times. It showed me that even in suffering, people can grow empathy and creativity. Prism of Perceptions left me feeling hopeful and reminded me how strong and caring humans can be, even in difficult moments.
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions makes you think differently about tough times and what it means to be human.
The story uses two aliens watching everything from the outside, helping us see our world in a new way.Zana and Trillian show how fragile and amazing human life can be.The pandemic’s chaos is a backdrop to stories about fear, loss, and hope.The migrants walking home show how hard life can get and how strong people are.Girish, the doctor, represents all the frontline workers doing their best every day.The story doesn’t give easy answers but makes you think about the tough stuff.It shows how the way we see things changes everything.After reading it, you’ll ask yourself: what does it really mean to be human?
The story uses two aliens watching everything from the outside, helping us see our world in a new way.Zana and Trillian show how fragile and amazing human life can be.The pandemic’s chaos is a backdrop to stories about fear, loss, and hope.The migrants walking home show how hard life can get and how strong people are.Girish, the doctor, represents all the frontline workers doing their best every day.The story doesn’t give easy answers but makes you think about the tough stuff.It shows how the way we see things changes everything.After reading it, you’ll ask yourself: what does it really mean to be human?
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions truly moved me because it captured the raw reality of the pandemic in a way that felt both distant and deeply personal. Watching Zana and Trillian strangers to Earth experience the fear, loss, and hope around them reminded me of how confusing and surreal those times were for all of us. The journey of the migrants walking home broke my heart; it made me reflect on the countless untold struggles happening behind the headlines. Girish’s tireless fight as a doctor brought to life the exhaustion and courage of frontline workers I so deeply admire. This story didn’t just tell me about the pandemic it made me feel it. It stayed with me, a reminder of human resilience even when everything feels fragile.
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions left a deep impression on me. The story’s unique perspective seen through Zana and Trillian, two outsiders brought a new dimension to the familiar struggles of the pandemic. It made me reflect on the pain, fear, and hope that so many faced during those difficult times. The portrayal of exhausted doctors and migrants trekking home felt raw and real, reminding me of the resilience people showed when everything seemed lost. What really stood out was the idea of masks both physical and emotional that hide our true feelings. This book doesn’t shy away from tough emotions but also celebrates the quiet strength that keeps us going. Reading it felt like stepping into someone else’s world, and it stayed with me, long after the last page.
September 30, 2025
Prism of Perceptions reminded me what it truly means to be human. The portrayal of Mumbai during the pandemic, I was pulled into the raw reality of suffering hospitals bursting at the seams, migrants walking for miles with nothing but hope to hold onto. But what made this story unforgettable was the presence of Zana and Trillian, strangers from another world, silently witnessing our pain and resilience.
This book stirred something deep inside me. It laid bare the invisible battles everyone fights the grief, the isolation, the endless exhaustion and yet, beneath it all, an unbreakable will to survive and care for one another. Reading it was like looking into a mirror, seeing both my own fears and my capacity for hope reflected back.
This book stirred something deep inside me. It laid bare the invisible battles everyone fights the grief, the isolation, the endless exhaustion and yet, beneath it all, an unbreakable will to survive and care for one another. Reading it was like looking into a mirror, seeing both my own fears and my capacity for hope reflected back.
September 30, 2025
This book hit me hard. Anushila Chakrabarti did something amazing by putting those alien visitors, Zana and Trillian, right in the middle of the scary COVID time in Mumbai.
I felt a huge wave of sadness and respect for the people in the story the doctors working non-stop and the tired people walking home. Their struggles felt very real and personal.
The main idea seeing how people can be both weak and incredibly strong at the same time was intense. It made me think about my own fears and hopes. Even though the story showed a lot of pain, I finished the book feeling a stubborn sense of hope. It’s a powerful reminder that we are tough and kind, even when things are darkest. I really loved it.
I felt a huge wave of sadness and respect for the people in the story the doctors working non-stop and the tired people walking home. Their struggles felt very real and personal.
The main idea seeing how people can be both weak and incredibly strong at the same time was intense. It made me think about my own fears and hopes. Even though the story showed a lot of pain, I finished the book feeling a stubborn sense of hope. It’s a powerful reminder that we are tough and kind, even when things are darkest. I really loved it.
September 30, 2025
“Prism of Perception” felt like it reached into my own memories and held them gently. As I followed Zana, Trillian, and the doctor through their struggles, I saw parts of myself the quiet fears, the moments of doubt, and the small sparks of hope that kept me going during the pandemic. Their journey wasn’t just a story to me; it was a mirror reflecting my own hidden feelings. Anshula Chakrabarti writes with such warmth and honesty that it felt like someone truly understood what it meant to live through those uncertain days. What stayed with me most was the way she showed that even behind the masks and chaos, there is a deep, unbreakable strength in all of us. This book reminded me that “even in the darkest times, light finds a way.” ✨ It’s a beautifully human story that touched my soul.
September 30, 2025
When I first picked up Prism of Perceptions, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The mix of science fiction and a story about the COVID‑19 pandemic felt unusual, even risky. But from the opening pages, I was drawn in. Reading about Zana and Trillian arriving in Mumbai during such chaos felt like I was seeing my own memories of the pandemic through new eyes. The scenes of doctors fighting exhaustion, migrants walking endless roads, and families clinging to hope reminded me of moments I had almost forgotten. At times, it was uncomfortable, even painful, but it was also strangely healing. Anushila Chakraborty doesn’t just tell a story she mirrors our collective experience. This book made me pause, grieve, and finally feel a quiet strength I didn’t know I still carried.
September 30, 2025
When I first chose Prism of Perceptions, it was the promise of a unique perspective that drew me in aliens observing the chaos of a pandemic-stricken world. But the story revealed so much more. Through the eyes of Zana and Trillian, I witnessed Mumbai’s raw reality the tireless doctors, the weary migrants, and the silent battles fought within hearts. It stirred long-buried memories of fear, isolation, and the fragile threads of hope that sustained us all. This novel holds a delicate balance between despair and resilience, illuminating the quiet strength that defines humanity at its most vulnerable. Prism of Perceptions is not merely a tale; it is a profound reflection on endurance, compassion, and the unyielding spirit that refuses to be broken.
September 30, 2025
This story stayed with me long after I finished reading.It brings back memories of quiet streets, constant sirens, and time seeming to blur during those months.I can still recall seeing migrant families walking the highways with nothing but their bags and hope and feeling absolutely powerless.
Once again, through Zana and Trillian's eyes, I felt that pain but also some of that beauty of caring and helping.Girish reminded me of doctors I knew that were exhausted but just would not give up.
There is a beautiful reassurance-that even at our worst-still kindness can exist.
This story reminded me that being human is not just about surviving; it is about how we build each other up.
Once again, through Zana and Trillian's eyes, I felt that pain but also some of that beauty of caring and helping.Girish reminded me of doctors I knew that were exhausted but just would not give up.
There is a beautiful reassurance-that even at our worst-still kindness can exist.
This story reminded me that being human is not just about surviving; it is about how we build each other up.
September 30, 2025
This story drew every memory of painful helplessness back from the year 2020 the sounds of sirens, the news updates splayed across airwaves, and the achingly painful distance from loved ones.
Through Zana and Trillian, we refocus our observations through an undiluted lens and experience the weirdness all over again.The nonexistent journey of migrants almost broke my heart, especially because it did happen.
Yet, what hit me just as hard was how even through that almost complete darkness, people were stepping up to help.This reminded me how all of us hold on to even the tiniest moments of hope.
This story does not merely reflect on pain; it also honors survival.
Through Zana and Trillian, we refocus our observations through an undiluted lens and experience the weirdness all over again.The nonexistent journey of migrants almost broke my heart, especially because it did happen.
Yet, what hit me just as hard was how even through that almost complete darkness, people were stepping up to help.This reminded me how all of us hold on to even the tiniest moments of hope.
This story does not merely reflect on pain; it also honors survival.
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