Once Upon a Town

by Priya Sharma

208 pages, Paperback

Published January 31, 2026

Reviews

[Avani ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town by Priya Sharma, illustrated by Abhijeet Kini, is a wholesome collection of short stories set in a beautiful small town. It offers a wonderful glimpse into the everyday lives of the people who live there.

Having been born and raised in a big city like Bombay, I often find myself longing for the slow-paced life found in India’s smaller, scenic towns. The food, the people, and the culture are all so mesmerizing and rich.

Priya Sharma perfectly captures that small-town charm. Each story is meaningful and heartwarming, complemented by Abhijeet Kini’s beautiful illustrations, which make the reading experience even more immersive.

After a hectic day at work, this was exactly the kind of book I needed. These stories made me feel more grounded, and seeing the simplicity of these characters' lives has encouraged me to reflect on and rethink my own.

From children studying under a mango tree to a brother helping his sibling despite past grudges, this book depicts the kind of town I would eventually love to call home.

[Srujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon A Town is a beautiful anthology of short stories set in the quiet, unnamed coastal towns of Western India. It serves as a time capsule, capturing a period where life moved slower and the world felt much larger. Through uncomplicated prose, the book explores the deep-rooted interpersonal relationships within families and neighborhoods, painting a vivid picture of a community-centric life that feels increasingly rare in our modern, individualistic world.

Reading this book felt like a soothing balm. As a millennial, it transported me back to the simpler times of my own childhood, leaving me feeling incredibly relaxed and happy. There is a profound honesty in the narrative that resonates with me deeply. It doesn’t rely on grand gestures but rather on the quiet, flickering moments of human connection that stay with you long after you turn the final page.

What worked best for me were the relatable struggles of the young protagonists. "The Missing Sweetness" was particularly moving, capturing the silent heartache of a perceptive boy trying to sacrifice his weekly treat to ease his family’s financial strain. Similarly, "The Purchase That Never Was" perfectly mirrors that universal childhood yearning for gadgets like Walkmans. These stories succeed because they find extraordinary emotion in ordinary, everyday experiences.

* Who Would I Recommend This Book to?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys light, breezy literature filled with old-school charm. If you are looking to escape the hustle of the digital age and reconnect with a sense of kinship and community, this collection is a joyful read. It is a perfect choice for a quiet afternoon when you want a story that truly warms the heart.

[Sharmila Sengupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something special about stories that focus on everyday life, and "Once Upon a Town" does this beautifully. It’s a collection of short stories set in a town that feels so real, you can almost see it and hear it as you read. The town isn’t just a backdrop; it’s like a living person, full of dreams, regrets, laughter, and silent moments that shape everyone who lives there.

One thing that stands out is how the stories show that even small, ordinary moments can have a big impact. Sometimes, it’s a simple conversation, a shared look, or a quiet act of kindness that stays with us. The author captures this gently, reminding us that these little things are what make life meaningful.

The writing is lyrical but simple, making it easy to get lost in the stories. Each story is like a small window into someone’s life, and together they make a picture of a town that feels warm and welcoming.

What I really liked is how the stories talk about feelings everyone knows—hope, longing, regret, and belonging. The author doesn’t try to teach a lesson or preach; instead, the stories unfold naturally, with honesty and kindness. It’s comforting to see characters who feel real, as if they could be your neighbors or friends, and to realize that their quiet struggles and joys are part of what makes us human.

The way the stories are put together also feels thoughtful. They flow smoothly from one to the next, like walking through the town and discovering new corners. Each story adds a piece to the bigger picture, showing how connected everyone is—even in small, simple ways.

Most of all, the tone is respectful and gentle. There’s no rush or loud drama—just a quiet appreciation for life’s small moments. It makes you think about your own town, your neighbors, and the stories hidden all around you. It’s about seeing the beauty in the everyday, in the lives we often overlook.

This story is something that stays with you long after you turn the last page. It’s about noticing that every life, no matter how simple, has a story worth hearing. It invites us to slow down and see the world through kinder, softer eyes. And in doing so, it reminds us that we’re all part of a bigger story, just like the town in these pages.

[Chai Book aur Charcha · Rating 4 out of 5]

ONCE UPON A TOWN
-Priya Sharma

This is a comfort book that feels like love, comfort and hugs. A book that is full of warm feelings and nostalgia.
Once upon a time is beautiful book with short stories of a small town that explores the human connections, holds deep emotions and captures the magic of small town people and their day to day life.
The author beautifully creates a landscape of a small, cozy small town where the character feels real, the stories fell nostalgic and the moments feel magical.
The stories that reflect on each stage of life from childhood friendships to teenage love, from familial bonds to neighborhood bonds. Exploring the feelings of hope, love, longing, regret, belonging, support, honesty and kindness this one is a beautiful read.
The way stories are put forth gently with characters like real life makes it a delightfully wholesome read.
The illustrations by Abhijeet Kini adds to the charm perfectly blending with the setting.
Best pick when you want to unwind after a hectic day of work and rush of city life, wanting to slow down with the simple, sweet and mundane moments of everyday life that makes you feel light and full of love, energy and nostalgia again.

Toddles 💕

[Shaloo Walia · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Every town carries stories. Some whispered. Some forgotten. Some waiting for you.”
Once Upon a Town by Priya Sharma is a collection of 12 short stories that explores love, memory, aging, and the beautiful everyday moments. The town feels alive — almost like it’s holding everyone’s memories in its hands.
It gave me the same comforting nostalgia as it reminded me of Malgudi Days — simple lives, profound emotions.
✨ Favourite story: The Swing Under the Cassia Tree
🎨 Beautiful illustrations by Abhijeet Kini
💛 Perfect for slow readers who love reflective, character-driven stories.

[Musemanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had only one word to describe this book, it would be Comforting, that is this book. If you are someone who loves when their stories are simple yet complex, comforting yet relatable and with realistic and highly well rounded CHARECTERS, then this book is FOR YOU. I cannot even explain the range of emotions I felt while reading this book.
It's a compilation of short stories based in a simple little town that will feel like your own home. From little things our grandparents did to the nearby food place we all had as kids, this book will genuinely make you feel as if the author knew you personally (That's how I felt honestly). It felt as if, i was reading moments from my own life, but with a bird's eye view. This way of the book not only helped me feel nostalgic and made the story relatable but also prompted the reader to see and understand things about our actions and society that we have ever seen before.
Now!! Let's move on to the big 3s✨✨
1. Language- This book's languages was honestly the highlight for me. First of all, it is written in an extremely simple language, in fact the language was something you'd speak while talking to a friend, it is not only very easy to read and understand but also Highly relatable and hooky. The language will make you IMMEDIATELY connect and attach to the story as it did for me.
2. CHARECTERS: another MAJOR highlight was the complex and extremely HIGHLY well rounded CHARECTERS. The characters were everything I hoped they would be. They were human, realistic and highly complex individuals, every single one of them. I have to applaud the author on that because It is NOT easy to write such well rounded CHARECTERS. You will genuinely SEE YOURSELF in them.
3. Plot: the plot was simple and complex actually, it was simple in the sense of the story, the stories are extremely simple and almost feel like your day to day life, but complex before the reliability factor combined with the realistic characters, combine all together to make the plot, simple in story but filled to the brim with complexity.

Overall, reading this story will help you understand how every moment in your life actually carries so much weight, how a mundane morning can be viewed through the specs of social critique only if you tried to. Genuinely i cannot wait to read more from this amazing author!

[Soumya.storyverse · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been a long time since I picked up a book that felt this warm and comforting. This beautiful slice-of-life story follows the everyday lives of the people of Maheshnagar, and from the very first chapter I knew I was going to enjoy it. There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the way the story unfolds ...it slowly pulls you in and makes you think about your own childhood memories and the little moments that made those days special.

What I loved most is how naturally the author writes about simple, everyday things. The descriptions are so vivid that you can almost smell the fresh filter coffee and the crispy dosas being served. These small details make the setting feel alive and familiar, like a place you’ve visited before. The illustrations add even more charm and make the whole reading experience feel cozy and personal.

This is the kind of book that anyone can enjoy. Adults might read it and feel like they’re taking a gentle trip down memory lane, while younger readers can experience these sweet, everyday stories for the first time. It’s simple, heartfelt, and quietly emotional. By the end, it feels less like just a story and more like a warm reminder that the most ordinary moments in life often become the most meaningful ones.

[Givii .. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first chapter’s first paragraph made me want to have a good dosa so bad 😭 I could literally taste the town before I even understood it. That’s how vividly this book opens.
On the serious side, Once Upon a Town truly lives up to its blurb. It is a collection of short stories set in a town that feels like a living, breathing character. It is not just about the people, it is about the memories, the forgiveness, the quiet everyday moments that slowly shape a life.
One of my favourite lines was,
“The two flames, one from each store, danced against the night air… It was the light of forgiveness, calm and free of pride.”
So simple, yet so powerful.
And this stayed with me,
“Let the tree live… So what if it’s bending now? So am I, with age.”
That metaphor felt tender and deeply rooted.
The illustrations were beautiful and added so much warmth to the reading experience. They made the town feel even more real.
This is the kind of book you sit with, slowly, and carry with you long after you close it. 💛

[Mini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished Once Upon a Town, and this book felt like home. From the very first page, the book transported me to a small town. The town here is not just a setting—it feels alive. Its narrow streets hold memories, and after reading this book, it felt like you belonged to this town.

This is a beautiful collection of short stories set in a town. Each story reveals how a small remark can leave a long-lasting impact on someone’s life. The writing is simple and easy to read, making the emotions feel real.

What stood out to me the most is the book’s warmth. There are no heavy twists or drama; instead, it focuses on everyday people and their small moments.

The illustrations in each chapter enhance the reading experience, making the book more comforting. They feel inviting to readers, like something I found in my old school books.

Among the stories, the story of the old couple under the Cassia tree stood out the most.

By the time you finish reading the book, it becomes a memory you don’t want to leave. Once Upon a Town is a celebration of life’s small moments.

[Akansha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once upon a town by Priya Sharma is a collection of 12 short stories that feels like a celebration of childhood and the memories that will always have space in our hearts.

These stories are reminders of human connections and how beautiful an ordinary day in our life can be if seen through the right eyes. The book is entirely set around a small town, from the rides an old couple shares in the soothing wind of a summer evening to the stories we grew up with because that used to be the favorite time pass in a pre digital world.

Priya Sharma's writing beautifully blends the ordinary life in a lyrical way that can make you fall in love with the most ordinary days in your life where you don’t even do anything that can be counted as productive in today's time.

Add in the illustrations Abhijeet Kini has done that reminds you of your favorite childhood comics, each story is carefully built with lots of love and understanding of human emotions.

The fact that this is her debut book only proves her talent of storytelling. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. 💫

[Yashika Doshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some towns don’t exist on maps.
They exist in memory.

Once Upon a Town is a collection of stories that gently opens the doors to a place filled with familiar voices, old houses, shared meals, and quiet love. The town isn’t just a backdrop — it breathes through every story.

One of my favourite images from the book is Ajji and Thatha sitting on a swing beneath a cassia tree — a simple moment, yet it carries decades of companionship in its silence. No grand declarations, just presence. 

In “The Famous Indira Bhavana,” you can almost smell the filter coffee and masala dosa, hear the steel tumblers clink, and feel how food becomes memory, and memory becomes belonging.

There’s also a thread of storytellers — people like Rakesh — who remind you how every town survives through the stories it keeps telling. Through them, we see how ordinary lives hold extraordinary tenderness.

This isn’t a dramatic, plot-heavy read.
It’s a feeling.
A remembering.

If you’ve ever missed a place that shaped you, this book will feel like coming home. 🌿

[Mugdha Mahajan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

I just finished reading Once Upon a Town by Priya Sharma and it was such a cozy experience. The stories are quite short and sweet which makes it a perfect pick for beginners or anyone with a busy schedule. I could easily finish a story during my tea break and feel like I had stepped into a different world for a few minutes.

The book feels very nostalgic and reminded me of summers spent in my own hometown. It captures those small moments of life that we usually ignore. While it is not a groundbreaking masterpiece or anything too great, it is a very pleasant and comforting read.

If you are looking for something simple and heartwarming to relax with, this is a solid choice. It does not demand too much from you but still leaves you with a nice feeling. It is like a gentle walk down memory lane.

[Ajay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gentle, authentic, and deeply nostalgic

I picked this up expecting a simple collection of stories, but I ended up feeling like I was visiting my own childhood. There is something so incredibly gentle about Priya Sharma’s writing. It doesn't rush you. I particularly loved the story about Ajji and Thatha on the swing (The Swing Under the Cassia Tree). It captured that quiet, comfortable love of grandparents so perfectly.

Honest warning: The description of the masala dosas and filter coffee in 'The Famous Indira Bhavana' will make you hungry immediately. What I appreciate most about Once Upon a Town is the atmosphere. The author has a way of making you hear the rain and smell the jasmine. It feels very authentic. Not a polished, fake version of a town, but a real one with nosey neighbors and local legends (Rakesh the storyteller was hilarious and reminded me of someone I know).

If you grew up in a small town, or just miss a simpler time, read this. It’s not a fast-paced thriller, and that’s exactly why I loved it. It’s a pause button for a busy life

[Rahul Vishnoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

-An Icecream Sandwich of a book-
Review of ‘Once Upon a Town' by Priya Sharma

Quote Alert
✒️📖
"𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧, 𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐡𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐛𝐨𝐰𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐚𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐚, 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧, 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧. 𝐔𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦, 𝐮𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐰."

Have you ever tried to visit the hidden, darkened recesses of your mind? These attics, musty with memories, carpeted with nostalgia, are easily accessible to a storyteller. Have you ever tried to open them and go through the photographs strewn upon the floor of your past? Tried to let the memories go? Tried to revisit and meet the older 'you'? This is what Priya Sharma has done in hr debut book.

'Once Upon a Town' has a beating heart at its centre and, dare I say, quite a smart head that supports the said heart. Sharma has packed the book with enough heart (and heartbeats), ably supported by her clever storytelling and heartfelt style of forming dialogues and sentences that sound as if she has not just written them, but her characters have spoken the very words right into my ears.
These are the stories that reflect not only life but the humans who live that life too. The time they spend, the emotions they nurse, the love they experience, the hopes they nurture, the regrets they hide, the hope that burns in their hearts, and the loss they try to shed.

In last two years, there have been two Indian literary fiction books that, according to me, carried beating hearts in their pages and told the story of a city: The Secret of More and Minor disturbances at Grand Life Apartments. This year, Once Upon a Town is first such beating-heart-book of 2026 for me. You could also call it an icecream sandwich of a book- a comfort read for you to curl up in the bed with.

This book, it's for you and for your mother. If you are 90s kid or a Gen-Z, if your mother is an 80s gal, you now have something common to bond over. Soothing prose, light-hearted, banter-filled stories, anecdotes that sound lived rather than written. For instance, do you know that this reviewer went missing in the city of Lucknow while on an outing with family. Yes that's me. And I found a similar story here in the book. An easy story that quickly glides into panic that sent a chill down my spine.
Have a look:
"Stepping out of the house, the four of them moved into the narrow lane, their eyes scanning every familiar shadow. The streetlamp at the corner flickered weakly, casting long, uncertain silhouettes on the uneven ground. Tara called out the children's names, not too loudly at first, almost as though she didn't want to disturb the peaceful silence that usually lived in that lane after nine."

Sharma addresses her readers like an old companion would. Her writing is sharp but endearing. She knows when to hold back and when to turn up the tear dials. She plays her readers like a fiddle. Her dialogue writing game is solid, highlighting easy exchange and bonhomie. Have a look:
"Leelakka, you still didn't have your lunch, no?"
came a voice from over the short stone boundary wall, its surface mottled with a thin layer of moss that grew in the shade between the houses.
"No, Sudha... see, I'm still sorting the rice," she replied, in the easy, habitual tone of a conversation shared many times before.
"Excellent," replied Sudha, secretly relieved that Leela hadn't eaten yet."I've prepared hot-hot green gram curry. Wait, I'll get it for you," she said, rushing indoors."

Barely one page into every story, and Sharma makes me care for the characters I don't know. I sat with the book and my heart went out for the parents whose kids went missing; I was anxious for a fragmented family; wary of a discord between the neighbours.
Have a look:
"Leela greased the chakli press with ghee and
packed the tiny space with the fragrant dough. Spirals of chaklis emerged in perfect curls and were lined neatly on the banana leaf spread across the floor. She then picked up each uncooked chakli carefully and lowered it gently into hot coconut oil. The oil sizzled instantly, and within minutes, the chaklis turned golden and crispy. The smell of the fried goodness spread across the kitchen."

One of the most heartwarming stories is the one that kickstarts the collection. Sharma has a knack for choosing people who have been looked through and not looked at. How many times have you been rude to a server in a restaurant? She goes with this theme and highlights one of the most unseen characters from our lives: a server in a restaurant. After a man casually disrespects Ramnath, his mannerisms are covered skillfully in these lines where just body language is used to mirror sadness:
"Ramnath stepped back respectfully. But as he
turned away, a faint tightness formed in his throat; not quite sadness, not exactly frustration. Something quieter, something that came from being unseen for too long. He walked back to the side station, wiped his hands on the towel that hung on his shoulder and adjusted the neatly folded notepad in his pocket."

And have a look at these moving lines too:
"He kept his face steady, expressionless, almost,
but inside, a faint sting spread through him. It wasn't the mix-up that bothered him; anyone could make a mistake once in decades. It was the way the man's words lingered in the air like smoke, making even the children look at him with amusement. He drew in a slow breath, straightened his back and walked towards the kitchen with careful steps. No matter how he felt, the tray in his hand had to remain steady."

Another story, where two brothers find a rift drawing between them upon the prospect of 'technology' is another of my favourites:
"Anna,' he began, "I was thinking... if we could add a fridge to the shop. The icebox feels a little dated, and a fridge would make the sodas colder. People would like that"
The ceiling fan above creaked in lazy circles as Gopal continued eating, his expression unreadable."

A collection of stories dipped in memories, it took me back to my childhood days of old ambassador cars and succulent jalebis. Written with a nostalgic ink, these stories at once take you back to the times when you were in school or watching cartoons on Sunday on Doordarshan, now known as DD1. Tell me, didn't your town wake up like this:
"The mornings in the laid-back town of Maheshnagar always began unhurried, with the gentle clang of temple bells floating across tiled rooftops, the rhythmic clinking of bicycle bells echoing down narrow lanes, and the faint strains of bhajans leaking from old transistor radios. The smell of wet earth lingered everywhere, as if the town had just been freshly washed."

And one last time, has off to these characters that will remain rent free in my head and heart for a long time:
"Sudha waited a moment, watching Leela lift the bowl with the edge of her saree. For a second, the simple act felt like a return to the old days, the easy give and take, the unspoken comfort of knowing someone was thinking of you without reason. Leela smiled up at her from behind her glasses, and Sudha felt a familiar warmth settle in her chest."

This is storytelling at its best. Pick it up today.

[♡ Diyasha ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝘖𝘕𝘊𝘌 𝘜𝘗𝘖𝘕 𝘈 𝘛𝘖𝘞𝘕
𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳: 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘺𝘢 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘢

𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘴, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘦'𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘳 𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘬𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘯, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘭𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘰 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘰𝘰𝘯. 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥, 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘥.

🥀 My childhood days are back with this prominent book. Can you remember when you start reading 𝘔𝘈𝘓𝘎𝘜𝘋𝘐 𝘋𝘈𝘠𝘚 - that feeling of immense happiness we carried with us after reading the stories? I felt that after so many years for this book.

🥀 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘺𝘢 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘢's 𝘖𝘕𝘊𝘌 𝘜𝘗𝘖𝘕 𝘈 𝘛𝘖𝘞𝘕 shows an evocative journey through the heart of a small town India, capturing the essence of human connection and the lingering echoes of the past. It's actually the tapestry of everyday life, nostalgia, memories and the quiet resilience of the human spirit.

🥀 The beauty of the book lies with its simplicity - simplicity like a small crowd around a tea stall at the end of the evening. There's a small noise - but not of interference but of joy and the smell of longing. The author invites us into a fiction yet a deep familiar setting where the town itself serves as a silent observer to the lives of its inhabitants. In the ear of a fast paced chaos of urban life, the author takes a step back to bring back the peace of human society to us.

𝘚𝘶𝘥𝘩𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘓𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘸𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘦. 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯.

🥀 The narrative of the book structured as a series of interconnected parts, each focusing on different characters whose lives intersect within the boundaries of the town. The author shows the geographical area of the town - the Old banyan tree, the bustling marketplace, the quiet lanes - with much detailed human relations. There's an immersive atmosphere that makes the readers feel like a residents rather than a visitor.

🥀 The main plot of the book revolves around the human connection. Whether it's a budding romance or a lifelong friendship or a fleeting encounter with a stranger - the stories highlight how these interactions define our sense of belonging.

🥀 I found a bittersweet quality of her writing. Characters often grapple with the passage of time, looking back at "𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯" while trying to find peace with "𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴". The author has a knack of taking mundane situations - a cup of tea, a rainy afternoon, a walk to the post office and infusing them with psychological depth and emotional weight.

🥀 The writing style of the book is lyrical and gentle. Author's prose is easily accessible but doesn't shy away from being poetic when the moment call for it. Booknerds who love Indian literature that focuses on "𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘪𝘭", her voice feels authentic and grounded.

🥀 If there's any critique to be made on the narrative, then it's about the pacing which is deliberately slow. It is quiet but not out of the place. If you're someone who wants to read a high note thriller, then maybe you'll find it a little shifted. But those who love atmospheric storytelling, they'll love this book the most.

🥀 𝘖𝘕𝘊𝘌 𝘜𝘗𝘖𝘕 𝘈 𝘛𝘖𝘞𝘕 is a heartwarming and thoughtful read that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘺𝘢 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘢 succeeds in making the reader feel a profound sense of "𝘨𝘩𝘢𝘳", even if they have never lived in the settings she describes. It is a testament to the fact that while towns may change and people may move on, the stories we leave behind become the foundation of the places we once loved.

[Neer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book presents a collection of stories that revolve around the quiet rhythm of life in a small town. Each story focuses on moments that people usually overlook. Yet through these moments, Priya reveals how deeply connected people are to their surroundings and to each other. The streets, houses, and familiar spots in the town create a setting that feels as real as a memory. The stories show that life is not always about big dramatic events. Often, it is the small daily experiences that stay in our minds for the longest time.

The people who appear in these stories feel very real. They are ordinary individuals we meet in everyday life. Their actions, thoughts, and emotions feel authentic. Some characters show warmth and kindness, while others show quiet struggles or hidden emotions.

The book is extremely nostalgic. It brought back memories of how life was before technology took over. Having a television was not very common. Even when there was one, the picture quality depended on how well the antenna was placed. Someone in the family would climb up and slowly move the antenna while another person shouted from inside the room saying that the picture was clear now. Music during that period also had its own unique charm. Instead of modern streaming platforms, people used audio cassettes and Walkmans to listen to songs. Listening to music required patience because sometimes the cassette would get stuck and needed to be fixed with a pencil.

There are many relatable illustrations in the book. One such was the image of the entire family sitting together in one room and watching television. Those evenings felt lively because everyone watched the same program together while making comments, laughing, and sometimes arguing about what should be watched next. Another moment that felt very familiar was going to the sweet shop after finishing all the household shopping and bringing a box of sweets back home.

Among all the stories in the collection, the second story titled The Swing Under the Cassia Tree stayed with me the most. The emotional connection between Ajja, Thatha, and the tree was so heartwarming. The tree was a gift to Ajji from her father in law. Ajji cared deeply for the tree, and this love was clearly visible. At the same time, Thatha also cared for the tree, but he expressed his feelings quietly. That story beautifully showed how love and memories often become attached to simple objects.

Overall, the book reminds us of the warmth of family, the joy that exists in simple pleasures, and the importance of memories that stay with people for years. The stories show that meaningful experiences do not always come from extraordinary events. Often, they appear in the form of small everyday moments of life. The book is especially recommended to those who remember how life was in the 90s and early 00s.

[Medha Banerjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t ready for how much this book would hurt, in the soft, slow way that real life hurts. Priya Sharma didn’t write flashy drama or twists that make you gasp; she wrote the kind of quiet that settles in your throat and stays. The town, Vikrantpur or whatever name it carries in your own memory, isn’t backdrop. It’s alive, breathing through cracked walls, temple shadows, the smell of rain on red earth, the way light slants across a neighbor’s doorstep at dusk. It holds every whispered dream, every swallowed regret, every unsaid “I love you” like it’s carrying the weight of all its people at once.

Each story peels back layers of ordinary lives until you see the extraordinary ache underneath. There’s the elderly couple on the swing, Ajji and Thatha, whose silences speak louder than any argument ever could; decades of companionship folded into the creak of wood and the brush of hands that no longer need words. There’s the child whose small rebellions feel like the only way to claim space in a world that’s already moving on without them. There’s forgiveness that arrives not with fanfare but as two faint flames dancing between shop lights in the dark, fragile, stubborn, human. And that opening craving for a crispy masala dosa? It hit me like a memory I didn’t know I still carried; suddenly I could taste the ghee, feel the heat of the griddle, remember exactly who sat across from me the last time I ate one like that.

This book made me miss people who are still alive, places I’ve left behind, versions of myself I outgrew without meaning to. It reminded me how much we carry in the small things, the chai someone pours without asking, the way a neighbor’s bicycle bell sounds like home, the apology that never quite makes it out loud but changes everything anyway. Sharma’s prose is gentle but unflinching; it doesn’t let you look away from the tenderness and the loss tangled together.

Abhijeet Kini’s illustrations are like old family photos that make your eyes sting, soft watercolor streets, kids with scraped knees, an old woman’s sari edge fluttering. They don’t just decorate; they make the ache visual.

In the end, “Once Upon a Town” didn’t just make me nostalgic. It made me grieve a little, for time that slipped away, for connections I let fade, for all the quiet magic I stopped noticing. And yet it left me softer, more grateful, more human. If a book can make you feel seen in your loneliest memories and hold space for your quiet hurts, this is it. Read it when you’re ready to feel everything. It will stay with you long after the last page, like the echo of a familiar voice calling you home.

One of the most emotionally honest reads I’ve had in years. Thank you, Priya Sharma, for reminding me that the smallest lives hold the biggest hearts.

[Priyanka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town by Priya Sharma is a heartwarming collection of short stories set in a small town that feels alive - almost like a character itself. Through everyday moments and quiet emotions, the book captures dreams, regrets, laughter, and unspoken feelings that shape ordinary lives in the most meaningful ways.

As I read the book, I felt as though I was walking through a town as real as memory itself. Each story reveals how even the smallest, most unremarkable moments leave a lasting impact on who we become. The writing is lyrical yet simple, drawing you into a world that feels familiar and deeply comforting.

What stood out to me most was the warmth that runs through every story. The characters feel like people we have known all our lives - neighbors, shopkeepers, friends, and family. From the innocence of children to the quiet companionship of an old couple sitting under a tree, each tale reflects the beauty of living in a close-knit community. There is a gentle charm in how relationships unfold, whether it’s women sharing a wall and bonding over cups of tea or people standing by each other through life’s big and small moments.

The author does not rely on dramatic twists or heavy conflicts. Instead, the stories are built on emotions that come straight from the heart. Their simplicity and relatability make them deeply moving. These are situations we have lived, witnessed, or heard about - visits to the corner sweet shop, errands to the local grocery store, and the slow, comforting rhythm of small-town life. Every story leaves you feeling content, as if you’ve paused for a moment to breathe and reflect.

One story, in particular, stayed with me - the final one. It beautifully captures the innocence of an unspoken teenage love, tender and bittersweet. Through this quiet story, the author also sheds light on how job transfers from one city to another carry different emotions and challenges for different people, making the experience deeply relatable.

The illustrations that accompany each chapter add another layer of charm to the book. They enhance the stories beautifully and feel so inviting that you almost want to take out a box of crayons and bring them to life with color.

Overall, Once Upon a Town is a book I know I will return to again and again. It offers warmth, comfort, and nostalgia in the simplest yet most powerful way. It reminds us that there is beauty in ordinary lives and magic in everyday moments - and sometimes, that is all we need.

[Kiran K Adharapuram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Priya Sharma's 'Once Upon a Town' is a nostalgic rekindling ft. an adorable assortment of short allegories, written with a light blend of emotional insight. Most of us have benevolent connections with hometowns; this book is a heartfelt attempt to take us back to our roots, where many of us vacationed during childhood. Priya evokes a mood of reminiscence as we dive into the book's chapters, one at a time. She masterfully showcases her storytelling skills by weaving an immersive dream filled with love, laughter, and unspoken moments.

Priya accomplished the task of rebuilding human connection through this writing. We all live in a world dictated by gadgets, technology, and urbanization; this book is a healthy attempt to transport us to days of simple joy, tranquil vitality, and unpretentious living. Thanks to Priya, your work took me back to my childhood summer vacation days, when my parents would take my younger sibling and me to my ajja/ajji mane (grandparents' house). I especially remember Ajji's warmth as she took me to places around the town, flooding my little tummy with cassata ice creams, fruit salads, malai khaja (sweet), and piping hot idlis dipped in spicy sambar. Most importantly, I recall the perks we received when leaving them behind for school reopening and the tempestuous tears echoing their absence.

The narrative flow is so intense that you'll feel like one of the characters evoked in Priya's book. This book can be called a celebration of living amidst the chaos we all endure. In our search for life's serenity, it serves as a meaningful gesture, reechoing the echoes of everyday glee. My favorite in this endearing collection is "Missing Sweetness"; the famous Komal Sweets and Raghuanna are those frequently seen and experienced in every individual's childhood days. This presentation isn't complete without the adorable illustrations by 'Abhijeet Kini'; appending the sketches to the relevant chapters brought additional glam to the book.

If you're in the mood to reinvite forgotten memories, softened reminiscences, balmy embraces, and the resilience of everyday living, celebrating the livelihood of delightful remembrances, this book is the right choice. I'm sure Priya's writing will linger in readers' hearts as a dote of tranquility forever.

[Nivi G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe its high time all bookish people start recommending this book "Once upon a time", by Priya Sharma and make this one of the books in their "best cozy reads" list. Because, honestly, it deserves that place. It was definitely a cozy, nostalgic read and also, at the same time, every short story in the book kindled in me some emotions I thought I never really had, like, yearning to go back in time and relive those days like, those days where I take a short tour at local farm market every week without fail, and make sure to buy those crispy, hot onion samosas sold by an old paati (ajji, granny, daadi maa) on the road side, those days where I would sneak away a 2 rupee coin or 5 rupee coin to school to relish different flavors of tube-ice, to smother my mouth with the softest soan-papdi one can get from the school canteen, and those days when I visited my grandparents' home in the summer holidays, anticipating my cousins arrival to enjoy every minute of every day we spend there playing all the games we knew back then, from lock and key, hide and seek, ludo, snakes and ladders (on physical boards, of course!) - the list is too long to write down everything here.

What I'm trying to say is, this book is just a collection of short stories revolving around different people of different ages, yet there was something in each story that did not fail to tug at my heart and make me want to go back to my childhood days in the past - the pre-smartphone era. The author has wonderfully captured the essence of a small town and its people in each story in this book. Although I loved reading all of its short stories, my personal favorites were,
-The famous Indira Bhavana
-Missing sweetness
-Tea time before dusk
-Tall tales (this one, I did not expect I would laugh out loud at a point!)

If you are looking for not just a cozy read, but something that could transport you to a place where things do not feel rushed, but slower, quieter, and like the author has aptly described the small town essence in the preface, "Their charm lies not in what happens, but in how things happen", this has to be your go-to book. Do grab this, and immerse yourselves in this charming town!

And I absolutely loved the illustrations in the book, radiating it's own authenticity.

It's definitely a 5 out of 5 book for me!!

[Shruti k · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever opened a book and suddenly caught the phantom scent of your parents' home, or felt that specific, golden-hour warmth of a veranda from twenty years ago? That’s exactly what happened to me with Once Upon a Town. It isn’t just a collection of stories; it’s a total sensory trip back to the sun-drenched corners of my childhood. Reading about the rhythmic creak of Ajji and Ajja’s favorite swing or that vivid memory of the whole family sitting down to eat traditional festival food together actually made me stop. The nostalgia was so thick and beautiful that I just had to sit there for a minute and live in my own memories.

The author perfectly captures that evening atmosphere I remember so well: the hum of the TV bringing the family into a single circle, and that sacred hour of chai right before the light fades. These weren't just daily routines; they were the anchors of our lives. Reading chapters like "The Nine O’Clock News" and "Tea Time Before Dusk," I could almost hear the clink of the steel cups and the muffled voices of neighbors. It reminded me of a time when the world felt smaller, safer, and so much more connected.

What I loved most is how she finds the extraordinary in the ordinary. Whether it’s the quiet wisdom of a local shopkeeper or the mischief of the neighborhood kids, every character feels so real. You don’t just read about them; you start caring about their small wins and heartbreaks like they’re your actual neighbors. Plus, Abhijeet Kini’s illustrations are just the perfect touch—stories like "The Famous Indira Bhavan" really come to life, reminding us that happiness back then wasn't something you bought, it was something you shared over a fence.

Honestly, finishing this book was a gentle reality check. In our fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to forget the value of a real conversation or the simple joy of belonging somewhere. It captures a time when being "together" was the greatest luxury we had. If you’ve ever felt a pang of longing for the house you grew up in or the neighborhood that raised you, please read this. It’s a heart-tugging reminder of who we are and where we come from. I absolutely loved it.

[Neeti Bhatia · Rating 5 out of 5]

🍀Book - Once Upon A Town
🍀 Author - Priya Sharma

🍀 Between the pages -
“Here, Amma... sweet laddu to go with your coffee.
And before you say anything, just taste it. I'll explain everything later."
Amma picked a laddu from the box. It was still faintly warm. She took a bite, and for a moment, a brief, beautiful moment, the bitter lines on her face softened. Her eyes closed, and a familiar, blissful smile spread across her lips, the very smile Arun had missed for weeks.
And just like that, the house felt sweet again “

🍀 Review -
Small town, simple people , close bonds, neighbours and warm neighbourhoods … this book is filled with heart touching moments that took me back to my childhood days .
The book is a collection of short stories that give a glimpse of small town life .
Where there is no social media , where families sit together and watch television, where families share their pains, where a small candy becomes a biggest gift for a child, where neighbours are family, where brothers stay together.
Though these stories author takes you into a world filled with love , warmth, compassion and being together.
The stories like The Swing Under the Cassia tree , The Famous Indira Bhawan , Missing sweetness not only touches your heart but also coney powerful message is a very gentle way.
Though the author has touched very aspect of human emotions like pain, togetherness, friendship, gratitude happiness , love and care through the stories , they all are beautifully narrated but my favourite is “ The Nine O’clock News” as it took me back to my old days were we use to sit and watch the 9 O’clock news and the innocence of the two boys in the story just made me smile .
This beautiful bouquet of stories brings a wave of fresh air filled with those nostalgic moments that everyone keeps close to their heart.
The simple language and beautiful illustrations add to the narrative and makes it a memorable read .
If you are looking for a simple yet impactful read, pick this one .

[Shrestha Dey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town' by Priya Sharma is a story of a town. But before talking about the book I want to take a moment to look at the cover, you aren't just looking at a book, you're looking at a portal.' With its soft watercolor palette and hand-drawn charm, the cover immediately reminds us of R.K. Narayan's Malgudi Days. It's an immediate signal to your heart that you're about to step into a world where time moves slower and the air smells like jasmine and nostalgia.
In a literary world obsessed with "the next big twist," Priya Sharma opts for the path of beautiful subtlety. This isn't a book of grand plots, and it's a book of heart beats. Set in a town that breathes, remembers, and whispers, these stories turn the mundane into the magical. It's like a literary version of a warm cup of chai on a rainy afternoon comforting, familiar, and deeply soul-filling.
Priya Sharma proves that our lives aren't defined by loud milestones, but by the quiet choices we make. Whether it's the tender companionship of "The Swing Under the Cassia Tree" or the bittersweet nuances of a teenage job transfer, each vignette feels like a conversation with an old friend. The characters aren't "fictional entities" but are your neighbors, your grandparents, the version of you you left behind in your hometown.
The illustrations by Abhijeet Kini have this "old school textbook" aesthetic simplicity to them-evocative sketches that make you want to reach for a box of crayons. They don't just illustrate the scenes, they evoke the feeling of a childhood vacation at your grandparent's house, making the reading experience tactile and immersive.
If you're recovering from a reading slump or just tired of the digital noise, here's your sanctuary. It's a "Slice-of-Life" masterpiece of celebrating human connection, quiet resilience, and the beauty of "unremarkable" moments. It's a reminder that every town has a soul, and every soul has a story worth telling.

[Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment I saw the cover and the title of this book, I felt it would be a nostalgic read. Growing up in a small town myself, I am familiar with the way life moves there, the people, their stories, and most importantly, the strong human connections. As I started reading, I realised that my guess was absolutely right.
From the very first story about Ramnath, the veteran waiter at the famous Indira Bhavana, the book draws you into the life of the town. Each story feels warm and genuine. By the time I reached the last story about the quiet friendship and unspoken sweet moments between a group of teenagers, I was completely absorbed in the world the author had created.
The stories are short, but the characters are memorable and meaningful. Even in a few pages, the author manages to bring out their personalities and emotions beautifully. Many moments in the book reminded me of my own childhood, and that made the reading experience even more special. Almost every chapter carries a touch of nostalgia.
The author has captured the small-town atmosphere very well, the simple lives, the unique personalities of the townspeople, and the strong values and relationships that bind them together. Everything feels natural and believable. In many places, I felt a sense of familiarity, as if I had met these people somewhere before.
The illustrations in the book also deserve a special mention. They beautifully bring the characters and the setting to life and add an extra charm to the reading experience.
If you enjoy the writing style of R. K. Narayan, love stories that bring back memories, or simply want a warm and comforting weekend read, this book is a wonderful choice. It is simple, heartfelt, and very satisfying. I am sure readers who enjoy nostalgic stories will surely love this one.

[Sherry Gaur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town is a quiet masterpiece that finds deep meaning in the small, everyday moments we often overlook. Rather than relying on big drama or high-stakes action, the stories treat the town itself as a living, breathing character that connects its residents through shared dreams, regrets, and those quiet, unspoken memories that define a life. The author’s strength lies in a gentle and lyrical style that turns a simple street corner or a passing look between neighbors into something truly profound. It is the kind of book that invites you to slow down and find pieces of your own life hidden within its pages, proving that no person or moment is truly "unremarkable" if you look closely enough. Each chapter acts as a window into a different soul, yet they all feel intrinsically linked by the geography of the town and the universal nature of the human experience.

By the time you reach the final page, the characters feel less like fictional figures and more like old friends you have known for years. The collection serves as a beautiful and poignant reminder that every person we pass on the street carries a whole library of stories inside them, just waiting to be discovered. The pacing is deliberate and thoughtful, mirroring the slow rhythm of a small town where everyone is connected by invisible threads of history and emotion. If you enjoy prose that feels like a shared secret or a whispered conversation, this book is a perfect companion that will stay with you long after you have put it down. The words are so beautiful that you actually imagine the characters imagine living their daily life. What adds beauty to the book are the graphics in between the stories. Overall,this is a no age restriction book ,if you are looking for a warm hug and cozy read this is the one....

[Ishani Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Review
Have you ever read a book that doesn’t just tell a story, but actually breathes? 🌿✨ I recently picked up "Once Upon a Town" by Priya Sharma, and it felt less like reading and more like coming home. It is a lyrically woven collection of stories where the town itself is the main character, holding onto the whispered dreams and quiet regrets of everyone who walks its streets. From the very first page, I was transported by the sensory details the vivid craving for a masala dosa, the rhythmic creak of a swing, and the sacred, golden hour of chai before the sun dips below the horizon. ☕🌅

What makes this collection so special is its ability to find the extraordinary within the most ordinary moments. It’s a "pause button" for our busy lives, reminding us that happiness isn't always something big or bought; sometimes, it’s just something shared over a fence with a neighbor. The stories are anchored by such tender, deeply rooted metaphors that stayed with me long after I closed the book. One line that particularly touched my heart was:

"Repay?" he said gently. "We've shared the same roof, the same rice, and the same mother. There is nothing to repay."🌳👵

It captures that quiet wisdom and acceptance that flows through the entire book.

The experience was made even more immersive by Abhijeet Kini’s beautiful illustrations, which add a layer of warmth and make the characters feel like people you’ve known your whole life. 🎨📖 Whether it’s the mischief of neighborhood kids or the "light of forgiveness" dancing between two shop lights in the dark, every story feels like a piece of a mirror where you might just find a bit of yourself. If you are looking for a "healing" read that is atmospheric, evocative, and deeply human, please do yourself a favor and wander through the streets of this town. It’s a gentle reminder that our smallest, most unremarkable moments are often the ones that shape us the most. 🤍🏘️

[Booksandsurpass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town is a collection of small, quiet stories — stories of small towns, simple lives, and everyday moments that many of us have lived or seen around us. Nothing here is dramatic or loud. Instead, the book focuses on the kind of moments we often ignore or take for granted.

Reading this book felt like coming home.

There’s a certain warmth in these stories that wraps around you like a soft blanket. As someone living in a city away from home, this book hit me with a strong wave of nostalgia. While reading, I kept thinking about home — the people, the small routines, the feeling of belonging. And yes, I realized how much I missed it.

The stories are simple, but that’s exactly their strength. Priya writes about ordinary lives in such a natural way that it feels like you are living alongside the characters. It never feels forced or overly dramatic. Instead, it quietly pulls you in and makes you stay.

One of the most beautiful parts of the book is the illustrations. They truly stand out and add so much charm to the reading experience. They make the stories feel even more intimate, almost like flipping through memories.

This book reminded me of the stories I used to read as a child. The difference is that now, reading them as an adult who lives away from home, they feel even more meaningful. It’s not just reading anymore — it’s feeling every page.

The very first story made me a little emotional, and I can say the same about the last one. I was secretly hoping for a last-minute confession at the end, but I’m happy with the way Priya chose to close the story.

It’s a lovely, comforting book — the kind you return to when you want something warm, familiar, and heartfelt. Definitely one I’ll keep going back to whenever I need a comfort read. ❤️

[DIPTISHA SARKAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He read the lines again. Then, again. Each sentence pressed gently into him, like a hand placed on a tired shoulder. A lump rose in his throat, unfamiliar, sudden and impossible to swallow. His eyes glistened with tears, fogging his vision."

'Once Upon a Town' by Priya Sharma is the wholesome collection of short stories full of memories and emotions. I was lost in a town which I have never visited, while reading this book. The stories are beautifully woven in such a way that readers can portray the scenes in front of their eyes. I just knew I was going to love this book when I started reading the first chapter one fine afternoon. The first story is my favourite. The silent struggles a person goes through and the little happiness, adorable moments have been presented in a subtle yet expressive way. We come across so many Ramu uncles in our everyday life, but it's not everyday that someone like Arvind Rao brightens up some Ramu uncle's day.

Not just the first story, all the 12 stories feel special in a certain way. The stories are written with love and care. The language used is easy to follow. The stories leave a deep mark on the heart that it will linger the readers' mind long after they have finished reading the book.

"For a brief second, Naina stood frozen. The hall erupted in cheers and claps. Her friends club dance shouted her name, even Ms. Manohari's stern face softened into a smile."

The illustrations add more to the beauty of the book. The book made me feel happy after I finished reading the stories. If you're not feeling good, this book will leave you gently pleased.

[Pori Goswami · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town by Priya Sharma is a heartwarming collection of short stories that beautifully captures the quiet charm of small-town life. Each story unfolds with a gentle simplicity, focusing on everyday people, familiar streets, and moments that might seem ordinary at first but slowly reveal deep emotional meaning. The town itself feels alive throughout the book, almost like a silent witness to the lives, memories, and relationships that shape its people. The writing carries a soft, reflective tone that makes the reading experience feel calm and immersive.

What makes this collection truly special is how effortlessly it connects with the reader. The characters feel authentic and recognizable, like people one might have grown up seeing in their own neighborhood. Through small interactions and subtle observations, the stories highlight themes of memory, relationships, and the beauty hidden in routine life. The book also offers glimpses of real social dynamics, presented in a thoughtful and understated way, which adds depth without taking away from its comforting atmosphere.

Another delightful aspect of the book is the presence of simple illustrations that add a nostalgic charm to the reading experience. They complement the stories perfectly and make the book feel warm and personal. Overall, Once Upon a Town is a gentle, nostalgic read that celebrates the emotional richness of everyday life. It’s the kind of book that encourages readers to slow down, reflect on their own memories, and appreciate the quiet moments that often mean the most. A truly comforting and memorable collection deserving of five stars.

[Ruqaiyya Mohammed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Town is a heartwarming and insightful read that captures the simplicity and charm of small town life. Priya Sharma beautifully weaves together everyday moments, turning them into meaningful stories that resonate with readers of all ages.And I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The illustrations made it interesting and one sitting reading for an adult too!

Set in a close knit community, the book explores themes of friendship, kindness, and human connection. The characters feel real and relatable whether it’s the friendly shopkeeper, the curious child, or the wise elders who pass down stories and values. Through these interactions, the author highlights the importance of empathy and togetherness in a rapidly changing world.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is its storytelling style. The narrative is simple yet engaging, making it accessible while still carrying emotional depth. The gentle humor and vivid descriptions bring the town to life, allowing readers to visualize its streets, homes, and daily routines. The illustrations by Abhijeet Kini further enhance the reading experience, adding warmth and personality to the story!

The book also subtly conveys life lessons without feeling preachy. It reminds readers to appreciate the little things, value relationships, and stay grounded despite modern pressures.

Overall, Once Upon a Town is a delightful and meaningful read. It is especially suitable for young readers, but its universal themes make it enjoyable for adults as well. This book leaves a lasting impression, encouraging readers to reflect on their own communities and the simple joys of life.