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Beginning with a Comma
A 'normal' boy with a curious childhood, tormenting fits, incomprehensible visions, an adolescence of action, friendship, demanding relationships that crumble on the basis of religion, fast forward to an aspirational army life and rewind!
Vishal finds himself caught up amidst myth, reality and religion, between Epiphany and nightmares and the Bildungsroman unfolds the ambiguity of life and decisions.
'Beginning with a Comma' is a story of metamorphosis. It is a 'boy to man journey'. It is about a constant struggle and constantly changing ideologies. It is an epiphany. It is a personal journey. The journey isn't a physical one alone, but one coupled with widened mental horizons.
Vishal finds himself caught up amidst myth, reality and religion, between Epiphany and nightmares and the Bildungsroman unfolds the ambiguity of life and decisions.
'Beginning with a Comma' is a story of metamorphosis. It is a 'boy to man journey'. It is about a constant struggle and constantly changing ideologies. It is an epiphany. It is a personal journey. The journey isn't a physical one alone, but one coupled with widened mental horizons.
207 pages, Paperback
First published March 18, 2015
13 people want to read
About the author
Amrit Sinha
3 books3 followers"Beginning with a Comma" and "Crossed and Knotted" to his credit, Amrit, 28, is an IIM alumni and walks a path traversed by Amish Tripathi and Chetan Bhagat. A jovial person with an amazing ability for storytelling, he believes that powerful stories can heal the deepest scars of the society. He is a regular blogger and blogs about the social issues plaguing India and the world. He brings in a fresh perspective on the nitty-gritties of daily living and some rare quick wit.
Some of his short stories have been a part of anthologies and his poems have been aired by Akashwani (Radio)
https://www.facebook.com/beginningwit...
Some of his short stories have been a part of anthologies and his poems have been aired by Akashwani (Radio)
https://www.facebook.com/beginningwit...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 30, 2015
Book is pretty good, keeps you bounded till th elast minute and the twist which arrived, i had never expected it... :)
March 19, 2015
I am not an avid reader and have limited my reading to largely philosophical books. But when I came across this book it stuck a chord with me. The book committed that it is a genre agnostic book and that is why I gave this book a chance and boy what a good decision it was. It turned out to be one of the good books I have read and the fact that it is by a débutante, is very impressive. The book has everything....Comedy, Drama and some life related Gyan in between.
You would be searching for the protagonist of the novel for a while reading the book, as she doesn’t show up until very late but it is worth the wait. The portrayal of her character and her role in the overall story has been beautifully done. The writer has done decent research on topics regarding the Indian Army, Kashmir, Pakistan’s creation and all of that add to the fictional story of a boy who wants to get into the army and a girl who is an army officer. Various other issues have been talked about in the book and the book like the author had promised entertains as well as informs. A love story, which serves as the background of the story is simple and good, (though at times a little repetitive). The book has three fundamental pillars it rests upon- Friendship, Love and Promise.
It is a story of changing ideologies. I definitely think it is a good read for all, irrespective of age. I would give the book 4 stars for what it has on offer and another star for the debutante. 5/5 stars!
You would be searching for the protagonist of the novel for a while reading the book, as she doesn’t show up until very late but it is worth the wait. The portrayal of her character and her role in the overall story has been beautifully done. The writer has done decent research on topics regarding the Indian Army, Kashmir, Pakistan’s creation and all of that add to the fictional story of a boy who wants to get into the army and a girl who is an army officer. Various other issues have been talked about in the book and the book like the author had promised entertains as well as informs. A love story, which serves as the background of the story is simple and good, (though at times a little repetitive). The book has three fundamental pillars it rests upon- Friendship, Love and Promise.
It is a story of changing ideologies. I definitely think it is a good read for all, irrespective of age. I would give the book 4 stars for what it has on offer and another star for the debutante. 5/5 stars!
March 28, 2015
An intriguing read.The author, new to the bestselling arena, calls the story a 'Metamorphosis' and goes on to awesomely build suspense and weaves a perfect life changing circumstance in a boy's journey of life. A connoisseur takes a bun of history and sandwiches humor between it before adding a layer of supernatural cream. The burger is "Beginning With A Comma."
This story keeps the adrenaline rush gushing all the way till the end and gives a beautiful message to youngsters to pave a good life. A 'goodread' indeed!
This story keeps the adrenaline rush gushing all the way till the end and gives a beautiful message to youngsters to pave a good life. A 'goodread' indeed!
July 8, 2015
Simple narration, with sharp observation. A story of clueless boy, how things changed quickly in his life that makes him a real character.
It not only tells regarding SSB entrance but also about courage , determination and friendship.
The author shows a great way to put hope in GOD's Decision Making process.
Good attempt !!!! Definitely recommend it to others..............
It not only tells regarding SSB entrance but also about courage , determination and friendship.
The author shows a great way to put hope in GOD's Decision Making process.
Good attempt !!!! Definitely recommend it to others..............
July 17, 2015
A fast paced book with all the ingredients for a Bollywood blockbuster ( in the hands of a very good screenwriter and director of course)
The book starts slow but gathers pace very quickly. For the complex subject material it covers, the book uses surprisingly simple language. I am probably not the best person to review this book. I am a friend of the author and as I was reading the book, I admit I had a more critical eye than I normally would. A neutral reader might enjoy this book even more. But as the book progressed I was genuinely impressed how the author brings together the physical, meta physical, mental and spiritual layers of life seamlessly in the story.
This book revealed a new side of Amrit to me - a new found respect. I wish I had a chance to read the first manuscript before it underwent the changes and editing. He is clearly a complex guy not the simple guy I thought he was. There is more to him than that meets the eye. He is a good story teller in the making and more writing will only make him better. Just like vishal went through his metamorphosis, I would expect Amrit to undergo his as an author. He needs to master various aspects of his craft and his grip on the story and his passion should guide him in the future.
"Gita, crusades, Khalsa or Jihad - it is not the physical combat these wars symbolise, but the inner conflicts. When you resolve the inner conflict, you evolve. This evolving, this self realization is an opportunity to be a part the greater consciousness. The body is a battlefield - when this is considered, religion and geographical based conquers stand dwarfed, so do guns and weapons. It is time we picked the right crusades"well said Ammy!
Kudos man! Eagerly waiting for your next.
P.S: the quality could have been a notch higher with better editing.
The book starts slow but gathers pace very quickly. For the complex subject material it covers, the book uses surprisingly simple language. I am probably not the best person to review this book. I am a friend of the author and as I was reading the book, I admit I had a more critical eye than I normally would. A neutral reader might enjoy this book even more. But as the book progressed I was genuinely impressed how the author brings together the physical, meta physical, mental and spiritual layers of life seamlessly in the story.
This book revealed a new side of Amrit to me - a new found respect. I wish I had a chance to read the first manuscript before it underwent the changes and editing. He is clearly a complex guy not the simple guy I thought he was. There is more to him than that meets the eye. He is a good story teller in the making and more writing will only make him better. Just like vishal went through his metamorphosis, I would expect Amrit to undergo his as an author. He needs to master various aspects of his craft and his grip on the story and his passion should guide him in the future.
"Gita, crusades, Khalsa or Jihad - it is not the physical combat these wars symbolise, but the inner conflicts. When you resolve the inner conflict, you evolve. This evolving, this self realization is an opportunity to be a part the greater consciousness. The body is a battlefield - when this is considered, religion and geographical based conquers stand dwarfed, so do guns and weapons. It is time we picked the right crusades"well said Ammy!
Kudos man! Eagerly waiting for your next.
P.S: the quality could have been a notch higher with better editing.
July 6, 2015
In times when many Indian writers of fiction novels are handing us out movie scripts rather than giving us true reading experience, this one novel gave me a exceptional reading experience. The way in which author narrates the story enhances the true essence of reading books. I suggest every avid reader out there if you really want a change from normal mediocre writing and try out something new then you must go for this book. Also don't feel that if writing and narration is advanced then this novel will not be entertaining, be rest assured that this novel is a complete package in addition to exceptional writing and narration this book also never falls short of entertainment which some readers seek for.For others like me who seek a better style of writing rather than entertainment this novel sure is a treat. Please friends do try out this novel, I am sure after reading this novel you will surely set more high standards for the next book you read.
As for the author I would personally like to say that Amrit please continue your endeavor as a writer and narrate us more stories in your unique way in future. I feel that your novel will strike perfect chord with all those avid readers out there, and surely your writing style will give other Indian authors run for their money ( for a matter of fact some of the authors have left writing and started judging dance shows after your novel came out :P ).
As for the author I would personally like to say that Amrit please continue your endeavor as a writer and narrate us more stories in your unique way in future. I feel that your novel will strike perfect chord with all those avid readers out there, and surely your writing style will give other Indian authors run for their money ( for a matter of fact some of the authors have left writing and started judging dance shows after your novel came out :P ).
August 20, 2015
A nice book with a very unique concept. A journey of a boy with full emotions that will make you laugh, sad and cry also. A book that will hooked you till the end.
Full Book Review: http://www.himanipassion.com/book-rev...
Full Book Review: http://www.himanipassion.com/book-rev...
September 19, 2016
Synopsis: Begins with a Comma, and ends with an Exclamation!
When I picked up the book, I was a bit apprehensive. Because, frankly, and quite erroneously, I had tried to judge the book by its not so attractive cover. But you see I was wrong, and how! Overlooking some obvious and not so obvious punctuation and grammatical errors, I was soon lost into the story that was gripping to say the least.
Initially a coming of age tale of a mostly good for nothing man from Ranchi trying to survive the tests that may get him into the Indian Army, I soon realized that the book was extremely well researched and authentic. It was also an amusing story I immediately warmed up to.
All of that however changed when the twist came, and I was literally blown away. Everything, including the title, was suddenly absolutely clear to me. That's when I had an overwhelming sense of pride (after all, Amrit and I had been co-authors), as well as fascination, for I realized how powerful a storyteller Amrit had, and how beautifully things were going to be tied together hereon.
When I had finally finished the book, I was left with a feeling of awe and admiration, for this is no ordinary book, and Amrit, no average writer. With a little bit of editorial help and maybe a glitzier cover, there isn’t much the book can’t achieve. In its present form, it will remain one of the few books that absolutely proved the adage ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ both right, as well as wrong in shockingly different ways.
An extra star and a half for the detailing, research, and fabulous twist. This one is a winner all right!
Warning: Not for puritanical perfectionists who are averse to a little leap of faith when it comes to storytelling.
When I picked up the book, I was a bit apprehensive. Because, frankly, and quite erroneously, I had tried to judge the book by its not so attractive cover. But you see I was wrong, and how! Overlooking some obvious and not so obvious punctuation and grammatical errors, I was soon lost into the story that was gripping to say the least.
Initially a coming of age tale of a mostly good for nothing man from Ranchi trying to survive the tests that may get him into the Indian Army, I soon realized that the book was extremely well researched and authentic. It was also an amusing story I immediately warmed up to.
All of that however changed when the twist came, and I was literally blown away. Everything, including the title, was suddenly absolutely clear to me. That's when I had an overwhelming sense of pride (after all, Amrit and I had been co-authors), as well as fascination, for I realized how powerful a storyteller Amrit had, and how beautifully things were going to be tied together hereon.
When I had finally finished the book, I was left with a feeling of awe and admiration, for this is no ordinary book, and Amrit, no average writer. With a little bit of editorial help and maybe a glitzier cover, there isn’t much the book can’t achieve. In its present form, it will remain one of the few books that absolutely proved the adage ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ both right, as well as wrong in shockingly different ways.
An extra star and a half for the detailing, research, and fabulous twist. This one is a winner all right!
Warning: Not for puritanical perfectionists who are averse to a little leap of faith when it comes to storytelling.
July 8, 2015
When you finish a book in 4 days you know that you are reading something interesting. At a time when market is flooded with books by first time novelists, is Amrit really managed to stand out from the crowd ? Definitely a BIG Yes. Story is very nice, not the usual love story BS which people write these days. It keeps you glued and forces you to keep turning the pages as you will want to know what's gonna happen next. The ending is really unexpected. Kudos to the author who has set very high standards for himself with his very first book. I will be keep looking out for more stories from Amrit. Its a must read for all.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews