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The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky
Kashmir — 1991
In between the insurgency and the exodus, Inayat finds solace in the company of Gul, a Kashmiri pundit, and Aaqib. She blooms under the eyes of her father, Maqbool — an alcoholic poet, and her mother — Wahida, who is fraught with sanguinity. They spend their days listening to The Doors in Gul’s backyard and attending Shakes-Peer’s English lessons at the school. However, as they leave behind their childhood, they realize that the future holds things for them that they have never even imagined.
Inayat comes face to face with loss as bereavement engulfs Kashmir. The echoing of the machine guns, the wails of her loved ones and the silence that she is bequeathed with is all that is left. The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky is the story of a skirmish with life and the perseverance in the dark times
In between the insurgency and the exodus, Inayat finds solace in the company of Gul, a Kashmiri pundit, and Aaqib. She blooms under the eyes of her father, Maqbool — an alcoholic poet, and her mother — Wahida, who is fraught with sanguinity. They spend their days listening to The Doors in Gul’s backyard and attending Shakes-Peer’s English lessons at the school. However, as they leave behind their childhood, they realize that the future holds things for them that they have never even imagined.
Inayat comes face to face with loss as bereavement engulfs Kashmir. The echoing of the machine guns, the wails of her loved ones and the silence that she is bequeathed with is all that is left. The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky is the story of a skirmish with life and the perseverance in the dark times
249 pages, Paperback
First published April 18, 2016
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May 7, 2016
I'm cynical and apprehensive almost as a rule when picking up books written by new, young authors. It is with a sense of foreboding that I open up these books, for I have been faced too often, too much, with half formed, lazy sentences, and superficial, cringeworthy characters and plot written in a (usually) grammatically incorrect pseudo language. (I might have flown off the rails a little here, but I have been disappointed just once too often). It is with the same frame of mind that I picked up this book - prepared for the worst.
I was proven wrong.
Let not the fact that I was prepared for the worst take away from the credibility of the novel. Had I not been prepared for the worst, I would have enjoyed it all the same, but seeing that it came from a first time, twenty-two year old author just added to its charm.
Essentially, the novel is about a girl living in Kashmir, a war-torn province in India (The geography and technicalities of the status of Kashmir can be argued or corrected at a later stage). Novels about Kashmir have a tendency to become political and war novels because of the conflict in the region, however the author made sure Kashmir remained a setting for the novel, and didn't let it overshadow the plot or characters. The protagonist, Inayat, is just a normal eighteen year old girl (as normal as normal goes), and the novel explores her relationship with her family and friends, and the effect of the insurgency on her life. Again, the author has very cleverly refrained from politicising the novel, which worked in his favor, and neither does he pick sides in the war, nor get into any details.
However, the politics of Kashmir are the only details the author hasn't gotten into. The book is written in an extremely descriptive manner, describing everything from the color of Inayat's slippers to the entire layout of the house. It might be a bit too descriptive at times, launching into a film reel spinning in your head, but it's worth it. The description gives you room to immerse yourself in the story, in the Kashmiri environment, with the chinar leaves, and snow, and the slowly developing emotions of the characters.
The characters seemed a bit superfluous initially, and for the first few pages, I was worried they were going to stay the same. Inayat seems to have almost no character at all, Gul just seems like a somewhat feisty, but pleasant girl, and Aaqib, the quintessential football loving guy, whose only distinct quality I thought was his curly hair. But then the plot starts unraveling, and as you course through page after page, you start feeling at home with the characters. You're with them, secretly listening to The Doors' cassette in your parents' room, you're going on long walks to the ruin, you're there on Boulevard Road with the tourists, in the characters' own little world. The character development is a tad naive, but halfway through Part Two, the novel is in full bloom, and you're already best friends with Inayat and craving kehwa.
My favorite character was Maqbool, Inayat's alcoholic poet of a father. Maqbool is the perfect paradox for Kashmir - a Muslim who is not only a poet and publisher, but also a sceptic and an alcoholic. He is obviously frowned on by society, and begrudged by his wife and daughter. There's a loving yet exasperating relationship between him and his family, just like the relationship between him and Kashmir, and Islam. His relationship with Inayat and Wahida can also be a metaphor for the relationship between the Kashmiris and Kashmir - befuddled with hope and disappointment; loving, nurturing, yet overridden with nuances.
Hidden underneath the simple language and the occasional naivete that creeps in, the author has constructed a rather complex plot, and very subtle sub-plots. The book is divided into three parts, each introduced by a poem (which I shall discuss a little later). Every part seems to have a certain theme, a certain climax, that it builds up to. I will avoid giving spoilers and thus won't get into the specific themes or situations. If you can just patiently make it through the first few pages (they can get a bit tedious, and you might have to trudge through them, but you shall be rewarded), you will sail through the rest of the novel, blinding turning pages through the night. I think the author, like the readers, found himself, too, getting more and more immersed as the story went by, and you can clearly see the style and intensity of the writing thickening and maturing as the story progresses. I don't know if that was intentional or simply the writer himself actually maturing, but it made for good storytelling.
The title of the book, 'The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky', suggests a bleak, morose story, and I'd be lying if I said it isn't a little depressing, but it is far from bleak and morose. Loss and moral dilemmas play a large role in the story, but the child-like innocence of the characters and the narration, the richness of Kashmir and the complexity of the plot keep it from turning into a Bela Tarr film. Also, 'Hope' (yes, there is a reason I write 'Hope' in that specific manner) is a prevalent theme and symbol in the novel, a very realistic theme when it comes to teenagers who haven't headed out in the real world and tried to find a job or home in the urban twenty-first century, yet.
I was, as you can see from the review so far, very pleasantly surprised by the book. I absolutely loved the poetry used at the start of each part (the poem written by the author himself, too, did reasonably well in comparison). Once you read each part, go back and read the poem assigned to each specific part, and you'll realise just how appropriate and beautiful those lines are. The author also beautifully captures the experience of loss, surprisingly mature for such a young writer, especially when his fellow writers are too busy writing about vampires and high school flings.
In summary, the novel made for an enjoyable, easy read. A tad naive, a touch slow in parts, riddled with description, but the beautiful motifs from Kashmir, the complexity of the plot, the development of the characters, the poetry, and the long pages with exploration of the darker human emotions just sold the book to me. (Also, references to The Doors and a certain sub-plot. How can one resist The Doors)
I was proven wrong.
Let not the fact that I was prepared for the worst take away from the credibility of the novel. Had I not been prepared for the worst, I would have enjoyed it all the same, but seeing that it came from a first time, twenty-two year old author just added to its charm.
Essentially, the novel is about a girl living in Kashmir, a war-torn province in India (The geography and technicalities of the status of Kashmir can be argued or corrected at a later stage). Novels about Kashmir have a tendency to become political and war novels because of the conflict in the region, however the author made sure Kashmir remained a setting for the novel, and didn't let it overshadow the plot or characters. The protagonist, Inayat, is just a normal eighteen year old girl (as normal as normal goes), and the novel explores her relationship with her family and friends, and the effect of the insurgency on her life. Again, the author has very cleverly refrained from politicising the novel, which worked in his favor, and neither does he pick sides in the war, nor get into any details.
However, the politics of Kashmir are the only details the author hasn't gotten into. The book is written in an extremely descriptive manner, describing everything from the color of Inayat's slippers to the entire layout of the house. It might be a bit too descriptive at times, launching into a film reel spinning in your head, but it's worth it. The description gives you room to immerse yourself in the story, in the Kashmiri environment, with the chinar leaves, and snow, and the slowly developing emotions of the characters.
The characters seemed a bit superfluous initially, and for the first few pages, I was worried they were going to stay the same. Inayat seems to have almost no character at all, Gul just seems like a somewhat feisty, but pleasant girl, and Aaqib, the quintessential football loving guy, whose only distinct quality I thought was his curly hair. But then the plot starts unraveling, and as you course through page after page, you start feeling at home with the characters. You're with them, secretly listening to The Doors' cassette in your parents' room, you're going on long walks to the ruin, you're there on Boulevard Road with the tourists, in the characters' own little world. The character development is a tad naive, but halfway through Part Two, the novel is in full bloom, and you're already best friends with Inayat and craving kehwa.
My favorite character was Maqbool, Inayat's alcoholic poet of a father. Maqbool is the perfect paradox for Kashmir - a Muslim who is not only a poet and publisher, but also a sceptic and an alcoholic. He is obviously frowned on by society, and begrudged by his wife and daughter. There's a loving yet exasperating relationship between him and his family, just like the relationship between him and Kashmir, and Islam. His relationship with Inayat and Wahida can also be a metaphor for the relationship between the Kashmiris and Kashmir - befuddled with hope and disappointment; loving, nurturing, yet overridden with nuances.
Hidden underneath the simple language and the occasional naivete that creeps in, the author has constructed a rather complex plot, and very subtle sub-plots. The book is divided into three parts, each introduced by a poem (which I shall discuss a little later). Every part seems to have a certain theme, a certain climax, that it builds up to. I will avoid giving spoilers and thus won't get into the specific themes or situations. If you can just patiently make it through the first few pages (they can get a bit tedious, and you might have to trudge through them, but you shall be rewarded), you will sail through the rest of the novel, blinding turning pages through the night. I think the author, like the readers, found himself, too, getting more and more immersed as the story went by, and you can clearly see the style and intensity of the writing thickening and maturing as the story progresses. I don't know if that was intentional or simply the writer himself actually maturing, but it made for good storytelling.
The title of the book, 'The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky', suggests a bleak, morose story, and I'd be lying if I said it isn't a little depressing, but it is far from bleak and morose. Loss and moral dilemmas play a large role in the story, but the child-like innocence of the characters and the narration, the richness of Kashmir and the complexity of the plot keep it from turning into a Bela Tarr film. Also, 'Hope' (yes, there is a reason I write 'Hope' in that specific manner) is a prevalent theme and symbol in the novel, a very realistic theme when it comes to teenagers who haven't headed out in the real world and tried to find a job or home in the urban twenty-first century, yet.
I was, as you can see from the review so far, very pleasantly surprised by the book. I absolutely loved the poetry used at the start of each part (the poem written by the author himself, too, did reasonably well in comparison). Once you read each part, go back and read the poem assigned to each specific part, and you'll realise just how appropriate and beautiful those lines are. The author also beautifully captures the experience of loss, surprisingly mature for such a young writer, especially when his fellow writers are too busy writing about vampires and high school flings.
In summary, the novel made for an enjoyable, easy read. A tad naive, a touch slow in parts, riddled with description, but the beautiful motifs from Kashmir, the complexity of the plot, the development of the characters, the poetry, and the long pages with exploration of the darker human emotions just sold the book to me. (Also, references to The Doors and a certain sub-plot. How can one resist The Doors)
May 8, 2016
The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky by Manan Kapoor is both a powerful and thought-provoking tale about growing up in war-torn Kashmir. In fact, powerful is an understatement. The book forces you to take pauses and creates a continuous sense of unease in your minds. The author has woven the plot expertly. Beautiful but also painful, the story directly hits your heart. While the story-line is not melodramatic, reading this book may bring lumps in your throat and tears in your eyes. So, be careful!
This book takes us to the time when ‘army’ and ‘militancy’ became the two contrasting pillars to distinguish one from the other in the region of Kashmir. While the book, by no means, provide a complete picture of issues faced by Kashmiri people during those days, the book skillfully portrays the daily struggles of the people of Kashmir under the relentless watch of both the army and the militants. The author neither takes the side of terrorists nor the army. He just strikingly builds up a picture of the lives of people who live there and leaves the judgment in the hands of the readers. The troubles faced by Kashmiri Pundits also features prominently in the book. And, most importantly, all of this has been told through the eyes of three young children. However, even more astounding than these characters is the setting of the novel. The author takes you to the beautiful landscape of Kashmir and gradually throws light on the burning issues of Kashmir. This is Manan Kapoor’s first book and I must say that he has done a brilliant job.
The story revolves around three Kashmiri children – Inayat, Gul and Aquib. They are having a happy childhood. They both enjoy and spend quality time with each other. They bunk classes to watch movies. Tuning snow into a snowman is one of their favourite winter activities. They love listening to the songs. However, as they gradually desert their childhood and enter into early years of their adult life, they realize bit by bit that the coming time is not what they had in their minds. They encounter misfortune as mourning inundates Kashmir. The continuous rumbling of the automatic rifles, the wails and cries of their close ones, and a quiet surrounding gradually envelop their lives. The Lamentations of a Somber Sky is the exploration of this conflict with life in the dark times in the region of Kashmir.
Story of Kashmir intrigues me and that’s why I chose to read this book. And, I am happy to tell you all that I really liked this book. The book under review won't just familiarize you with the Kashmiri Muslim and Kashmiri Pundit fraternity, but also gets you acquaint with the reasons of the battle of the Pundits in the region of Kashmir. It will certainly help you comprehend what happened in Kashmir, and on the off chance that you are a Kashmiri Pundit; it will help you comprehend your battle and your own identity.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
The review was originally posted on:
https://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2016/0...
This book takes us to the time when ‘army’ and ‘militancy’ became the two contrasting pillars to distinguish one from the other in the region of Kashmir. While the book, by no means, provide a complete picture of issues faced by Kashmiri people during those days, the book skillfully portrays the daily struggles of the people of Kashmir under the relentless watch of both the army and the militants. The author neither takes the side of terrorists nor the army. He just strikingly builds up a picture of the lives of people who live there and leaves the judgment in the hands of the readers. The troubles faced by Kashmiri Pundits also features prominently in the book. And, most importantly, all of this has been told through the eyes of three young children. However, even more astounding than these characters is the setting of the novel. The author takes you to the beautiful landscape of Kashmir and gradually throws light on the burning issues of Kashmir. This is Manan Kapoor’s first book and I must say that he has done a brilliant job.
The story revolves around three Kashmiri children – Inayat, Gul and Aquib. They are having a happy childhood. They both enjoy and spend quality time with each other. They bunk classes to watch movies. Tuning snow into a snowman is one of their favourite winter activities. They love listening to the songs. However, as they gradually desert their childhood and enter into early years of their adult life, they realize bit by bit that the coming time is not what they had in their minds. They encounter misfortune as mourning inundates Kashmir. The continuous rumbling of the automatic rifles, the wails and cries of their close ones, and a quiet surrounding gradually envelop their lives. The Lamentations of a Somber Sky is the exploration of this conflict with life in the dark times in the region of Kashmir.
Story of Kashmir intrigues me and that’s why I chose to read this book. And, I am happy to tell you all that I really liked this book. The book under review won't just familiarize you with the Kashmiri Muslim and Kashmiri Pundit fraternity, but also gets you acquaint with the reasons of the battle of the Pundits in the region of Kashmir. It will certainly help you comprehend what happened in Kashmir, and on the off chance that you are a Kashmiri Pundit; it will help you comprehend your battle and your own identity.
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
The review was originally posted on:
https://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2016/0...
July 22, 2016
Actual rating- 4.5
When I first heard of The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky, I was really interested because even though I have always been curious, I had never read a book set in Kashmir. The only exposure I had to a fictionalised Kashmir was the recent movie, Fitoor. There was no way I was going to skip this book; and while it took me a long time to get to it and even more time to finish it, it was worth it because this book is exceptionally beautiful. The only disadvantage (or that's what I consider it) is that Manan Kapoor has really set up my expectations for books set in Kashmir, so the similar books that I will read in the future better be just as beautiful.
The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky follows the story of Inayat, her parents, Maqbool and Wahida and her friends, Gul and Aaqib. Every character in the book is very uniquely made and wonderfully portrayed with a slight glimpse from almost every point of view, every once in a while. A true gem of historical fiction, this book gives us a realistic and raw look into the socio-political scenario of Kashmir and more than just that, it tells us what a few people went through because of that. Books like these teach you more than what history textbooks or even Google ever could, because they explicitly show us pain and suffering, something that- although difficult to digest, is very, very real.
For such a young writer, Manan Kapoor is very talented. His writing is beautiful and his storytelling is extremely addictive because I never wanted the book to end. With just one book, the author has already made his way to my auto-read list because I am very much looking forward to anything and everything that he will write next as I'm sure it'll be beautiful. There was a wonderful and very smooth flow to his words- almost similar to Khaled Hosseini, who is one of my most favourite writers, so that's definitely something special. Manan Kapoor is definitely an author to watch out for.
I don't want to get into the story because this is one of those stories that is better read than told. What I can promise is that The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky will leave you feeling a hundred and ten feelings because it is a beautifully sad book that will stay in your heart forever. It is, hands down, one of the best books I have read so far in 2016. Also, not to forget, the book cover is just as beautiful as the story itself, so this is one of those rarities where judging the book by it's cover will actually prove you right, because everything- and trust me- everything about this book is beautiful.
*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the Leadstart Publications in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.
When I first heard of The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky, I was really interested because even though I have always been curious, I had never read a book set in Kashmir. The only exposure I had to a fictionalised Kashmir was the recent movie, Fitoor. There was no way I was going to skip this book; and while it took me a long time to get to it and even more time to finish it, it was worth it because this book is exceptionally beautiful. The only disadvantage (or that's what I consider it) is that Manan Kapoor has really set up my expectations for books set in Kashmir, so the similar books that I will read in the future better be just as beautiful.
The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky follows the story of Inayat, her parents, Maqbool and Wahida and her friends, Gul and Aaqib. Every character in the book is very uniquely made and wonderfully portrayed with a slight glimpse from almost every point of view, every once in a while. A true gem of historical fiction, this book gives us a realistic and raw look into the socio-political scenario of Kashmir and more than just that, it tells us what a few people went through because of that. Books like these teach you more than what history textbooks or even Google ever could, because they explicitly show us pain and suffering, something that- although difficult to digest, is very, very real.
For such a young writer, Manan Kapoor is very talented. His writing is beautiful and his storytelling is extremely addictive because I never wanted the book to end. With just one book, the author has already made his way to my auto-read list because I am very much looking forward to anything and everything that he will write next as I'm sure it'll be beautiful. There was a wonderful and very smooth flow to his words- almost similar to Khaled Hosseini, who is one of my most favourite writers, so that's definitely something special. Manan Kapoor is definitely an author to watch out for.
I don't want to get into the story because this is one of those stories that is better read than told. What I can promise is that The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky will leave you feeling a hundred and ten feelings because it is a beautifully sad book that will stay in your heart forever. It is, hands down, one of the best books I have read so far in 2016. Also, not to forget, the book cover is just as beautiful as the story itself, so this is one of those rarities where judging the book by it's cover will actually prove you right, because everything- and trust me- everything about this book is beautiful.
*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the Leadstart Publications in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.
May 13, 2016
Manan Kapoor is gifted with the ability to write beautifully. You read some books for the plot and others for the sheer love of language. This novel fulfills both the needs. It takes some time for the novel to grow on you (about 25 pages) but once the plot is set, you cannot keep it down. I kept delaying it for a while but when I finally picked it up I couldn't keep it down even after I'd finished it. laden with so many emotions, memories and situations that you face in the real life. The way he has presented Inayat's story is something that I cannot describe. Because If I could tell you exactly how the author achieved the effects he did, I'd be a best-selling author myself. Beautiful prose and complex. I will want to re-read parts again just to have the writing (especially towards the end) wash over me and remind me what humanity really is.
July 23, 2016
I received this book from Manan Kapoor, the author, in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.
The book is set in 1991, in war-torn Kashmir, and tells the story of three friends Inayat,Gul and Aaqib, their life through the "insurgency and exodus". It's really a very good novel, and that too a debut one.
The title was well crafted too. Though the cover picture is not much important aspect, but here that too is well thought.
Overall its a 4-4.5 * experience for me.
[And I don't know if my timing of reading this could be anymore appropriate (maybe poor choice of word). Reading this and listening to the current Kashmir affair in news at the same time period]
The book is set in 1991, in war-torn Kashmir, and tells the story of three friends Inayat,Gul and Aaqib, their life through the "insurgency and exodus". It's really a very good novel, and that too a debut one.
The title was well crafted too. Though the cover picture is not much important aspect, but here that too is well thought.
Overall its a 4-4.5 * experience for me.
[And I don't know if my timing of reading this could be anymore appropriate (maybe poor choice of word). Reading this and listening to the current Kashmir affair in news at the same time period]
June 27, 2016
I'm speechless. It's a remarkable and ambitious novel – an amazing feat, even more so as a first novel. I admit it is slow going at the beginning but I enjoyed settling into the mood and geography of it. I relished the small revelations and flash forwards we get with the large cast of characters that was delightful. A war book about those trying to get from one day to the next. The humanity and love in this book was breathtaking. This book is about the power of the human spirit to endure, find love and treat others with compassion. I was close to tears at the end of it.
April 2, 2020
This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book Starts in Kashmir of 1991. It's the tale of three friends who go through their lives when things become difficult with the arrival of terrorism in Kashmir and departure of Kashmiri Pandits. Our heroine goes through life with her two friends one Kashmiri pandit and another Muslim boy,
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
This book Starts in Kashmir of 1991. It's the tale of three friends who go through their lives when things become difficult with the arrival of terrorism in Kashmir and departure of Kashmiri Pandits. Our heroine goes through life with her two friends one Kashmiri pandit and another Muslim boy,
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
August 18, 2018
This book is a worth a read.
The title does justice to the book, set in the beautiful but war torn Kashmir this is a story of Inyat and how her life is a bouquet of Grey flowers, with bad memories and good memories. Inayat's life is affected by the war but not as one would have precieved. She gets separated from her friend Gul due to the growing hatred for the Kashmiri Pandits. And this is just the the beginning of the miseries that follow her. The book captures grief beautifully, how grief has a different facade for everyone. And with time the void within you fills though you never overcome loss you learn to live with the new realities.
Some of my the most captivating lines from the novel for me were :
The only aristocracy I believe in, is the aristocracy of the intellect
Grief, it forever dwells in a small part of your head, a souvenir of loss, feeding on the cheerful memories of yesterday.
However, while the plot was good, some paragraphs felt like repetitions and some ideas too dragged and forced. Due to which I would rate it 3.5.
The title does justice to the book, set in the beautiful but war torn Kashmir this is a story of Inyat and how her life is a bouquet of Grey flowers, with bad memories and good memories. Inayat's life is affected by the war but not as one would have precieved. She gets separated from her friend Gul due to the growing hatred for the Kashmiri Pandits. And this is just the the beginning of the miseries that follow her. The book captures grief beautifully, how grief has a different facade for everyone. And with time the void within you fills though you never overcome loss you learn to live with the new realities.
Some of my the most captivating lines from the novel for me were :
The only aristocracy I believe in, is the aristocracy of the intellect
Grief, it forever dwells in a small part of your head, a souvenir of loss, feeding on the cheerful memories of yesterday.
However, while the plot was good, some paragraphs felt like repetitions and some ideas too dragged and forced. Due to which I would rate it 3.5.
January 12, 2020
This book took me by surprise! The author has done a really good job in painting a picture of the life of people in war torn Kashmir, without a single mention of politics that prevail. The author's choice of words to describe emotions of love, friendship, hate, winter, spring and unrest in the valley seem very close to heart. It makes you pause and ponder about several emotions that unravel throughout the book. Hope!
March 22, 2017
Simple, easy and quick read. I read couple of books based on Kashmir. What made me enjoy this book is its portrayal of the life of a family, death, real life, hope and life in general. The story revolves around the 1990s.
November 4, 2018
I was planning to visit Kashmir and wanted to read a book which was set in Kashmir before the visit . So I might have some familiarity and nostalgia during the visit . It so happened that I chose this one, I should say I was not disappoint that the book helped me understand what Kashmir was in the past and what the people have gone through .
But for someone who just wanted to read this for what it is and not with an alterier motive like I had . I wouldn't recommend this. I found the characters which were built beatuifly till the first half of the book were left hanging and the book's ending made me feel abrubt and forced.
But for someone who just wanted to read this for what it is and not with an alterier motive like I had . I wouldn't recommend this. I found the characters which were built beatuifly till the first half of the book were left hanging and the book's ending made me feel abrubt and forced.
July 12, 2017
3.5/4
The book is a true labor of love. In languid and powerful prose, the love he (Manan Kapoor) feels for his characters, and also the love they feel for each other, shines through every page of the book and makes it a thoroughly absorbing read of the year for me.
The book is a true labor of love. In languid and powerful prose, the love he (Manan Kapoor) feels for his characters, and also the love they feel for each other, shines through every page of the book and makes it a thoroughly absorbing read of the year for me.
October 5, 2016
A thought-provoking book. It brings tears to your eyes at the end & gives you some unexpected events. Written in a simple language, Lamentations Of A Sombre Sky is that Indian authored book that surprised me beyond my imagination. It will break your heart in some parts, make you visual the episodes/events & leave you with a lot of thoughts.
A must read for all.
A must read for all.
July 9, 2016
I received a physical copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
“The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky” is a 248 page novel written by Manan Kapoor, which is divided into three distinct parts (each beginning with a short poem). The book is very hard not to rate highly because of the author’s writing style, which I could draw parallels to C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia”. To elaborate, both of the authors’ narrative style is very descriptive, in third person, and is initially very slow, but it gradually picks up speed and is very hard to put down. Though I enjoy this style (and hence I absolutely love The Lord of the Rings, a series that I’m currently reading), I know for a fact that not many people out there would be patient enough to bother with minute details and descriptions.
Moving on, the book essentially revolves around three teenagers in war-prone Kashmir zone during the 90’s – Inayat, Aaquib and Gul. I like the religious diversity of the three characters: Inayat’s father being a sceptic, Aaquib’s father a fundamental Imam, and Gul coming from a Kashmiri Pundit family. The only quibble I had with this book was that I found Inayat to be too dull and boring as a lead character. I’m someone who loves exploration more than plot: deducing theories and coming up with headcanons is something I always do after I’m done with a particular book. But I felt like I didn’t have enough information or backstory on Inayat to be able to do that, to say the very least.
The initial parts of the book slowly introduce us to the setting, Inayat’s family and her friends. The budding love between her pals Gul and Aaquib whose family’s religious ideologies do not align, their English lessons with Shakes-Peer (an inside joke that all the classmates share), discovering a “haunted” place that turns out to be a family’s house who “moved away”, the trio’s exploration with their musical inclinations in Gul’s backyard, Inayat’s soldier love interest, and so on. Later, the book suddenly turns grim when they’re mature enough to realise the deaths and the overpowering sadness that inundates Kashmir. I really liked the fact that the book was neutral and not too heavily depended on political ideologies and the history. It is a well-researched novel with no grammatical or punctuation errors from what I noticed.
To conclude, "The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky" is not about highbrow thematic concepts or epic heroism. While it is partially these two things, it is also something better and simpler: a story for you and me, centred not solely on the political shortcomings or struggles of the said state, but on three young dynamic people-- reshaped for the common folk. I would recommend this book to anyone who wishes to further understand the Kashmir crisis, or someone who just wants to read something different from an Indian author, something that isn’t necessarily all wound up around love in the modern age.
“The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky” is a 248 page novel written by Manan Kapoor, which is divided into three distinct parts (each beginning with a short poem). The book is very hard not to rate highly because of the author’s writing style, which I could draw parallels to C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia”. To elaborate, both of the authors’ narrative style is very descriptive, in third person, and is initially very slow, but it gradually picks up speed and is very hard to put down. Though I enjoy this style (and hence I absolutely love The Lord of the Rings, a series that I’m currently reading), I know for a fact that not many people out there would be patient enough to bother with minute details and descriptions.
Moving on, the book essentially revolves around three teenagers in war-prone Kashmir zone during the 90’s – Inayat, Aaquib and Gul. I like the religious diversity of the three characters: Inayat’s father being a sceptic, Aaquib’s father a fundamental Imam, and Gul coming from a Kashmiri Pundit family. The only quibble I had with this book was that I found Inayat to be too dull and boring as a lead character. I’m someone who loves exploration more than plot: deducing theories and coming up with headcanons is something I always do after I’m done with a particular book. But I felt like I didn’t have enough information or backstory on Inayat to be able to do that, to say the very least.
The initial parts of the book slowly introduce us to the setting, Inayat’s family and her friends. The budding love between her pals Gul and Aaquib whose family’s religious ideologies do not align, their English lessons with Shakes-Peer (an inside joke that all the classmates share), discovering a “haunted” place that turns out to be a family’s house who “moved away”, the trio’s exploration with their musical inclinations in Gul’s backyard, Inayat’s soldier love interest, and so on. Later, the book suddenly turns grim when they’re mature enough to realise the deaths and the overpowering sadness that inundates Kashmir. I really liked the fact that the book was neutral and not too heavily depended on political ideologies and the history. It is a well-researched novel with no grammatical or punctuation errors from what I noticed.
To conclude, "The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky" is not about highbrow thematic concepts or epic heroism. While it is partially these two things, it is also something better and simpler: a story for you and me, centred not solely on the political shortcomings or struggles of the said state, but on three young dynamic people-- reshaped for the common folk. I would recommend this book to anyone who wishes to further understand the Kashmir crisis, or someone who just wants to read something different from an Indian author, something that isn’t necessarily all wound up around love in the modern age.
December 19, 2016
I'm generally apprehensive of picking up books by new authors, especially one so young as Manan Kapoor. But I made an exception for this one after reading the reviews and also because there are very few works of fiction set in the Kashmir valley. At a time when the fiction scene in India has become synonymous with the tripe peddled by the likes of Durjoy Dutta and Chetan Bhagat, Manan Kapoor's 'The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky' comes as a fresh whiff of air.
I've to concede that Manan Kapoor has a flair for writing without sounding too grandiloquent. The book seems interesting from the first page and hooks you once you are a couple of pages into it. But somewhere in the middle, the book becomes too predictive and at times the plot reminds you of a tear-jerker Bollywood drama which is also evident from the ending of the book.
Overall, it is a decent debut by a writer who holds a great potential. It would be too harsh to dismiss Manan Kapoor judging by just this book.
I've to concede that Manan Kapoor has a flair for writing without sounding too grandiloquent. The book seems interesting from the first page and hooks you once you are a couple of pages into it. But somewhere in the middle, the book becomes too predictive and at times the plot reminds you of a tear-jerker Bollywood drama which is also evident from the ending of the book.
Overall, it is a decent debut by a writer who holds a great potential. It would be too harsh to dismiss Manan Kapoor judging by just this book.
February 24, 2017
Usually, a book starts with its cover and title. The title "The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky" and the cover with a fading view of snowfall and a kid on its front, is exceptionally well crafted. Lamentation means a cry of sorrow and grief. The word selection for the title is wonderful. A book is judge by its cover, It's bitter but true. And, this book scores full marks for its cover and title.
It's a dark, emotional and deep intellectual art, written by the author Manan Kapoor. The instances happening in the book shakes a reader's soul and pushes a person to think. At instances, you just close the book and start thinking what's happening, metaphorically.
The poems written on the inception of each part, is quite interesting. The language used is simple and makes the novel easy to read. The story is gripping, and the plot made this novel a page turner.
The characterization of various individuals done in the book, is well drafted.
The book is an intriguing and interesting one, and surely a well crafted one, having no grammatical issues at all. (This being a problem for debut authors these days.)
Manan Kapoor, the author, has delivered a promising debut novel, in the form of "The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky" and we expect more of such stories from the author, in the coming future.
Read complete review on my blog- http://dipanshuwrites.blogspot.com/20...
It's a dark, emotional and deep intellectual art, written by the author Manan Kapoor. The instances happening in the book shakes a reader's soul and pushes a person to think. At instances, you just close the book and start thinking what's happening, metaphorically.
The poems written on the inception of each part, is quite interesting. The language used is simple and makes the novel easy to read. The story is gripping, and the plot made this novel a page turner.
The characterization of various individuals done in the book, is well drafted.
The book is an intriguing and interesting one, and surely a well crafted one, having no grammatical issues at all. (This being a problem for debut authors these days.)
Manan Kapoor, the author, has delivered a promising debut novel, in the form of "The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky" and we expect more of such stories from the author, in the coming future.
Read complete review on my blog- http://dipanshuwrites.blogspot.com/20...
July 30, 2016
Lamentations of a sombre sky is a heart wrenching story of a little girl, Inayat who is succumbed to losses in war. This novel revolves around the war in state of Kashmir but thankfully it doesn't go into too much detailing about the war. It is a little slow at first but as you keep reading, the story grows on you. The novel is so beautifully written with every minute detail intact that it takes you to Inayat's world.
After I finished reading the novel, it hadn't really ended for me. It took me time to come back to the normality of life. At a few stages in the novel, the story gets so real that I actually had tears in my eyes thinking "oh my god, i hope things get better".
After I finished reading the novel, it hadn't really ended for me. It took me time to come back to the normality of life. At a few stages in the novel, the story gets so real that I actually had tears in my eyes thinking "oh my god, i hope things get better".
April 21, 2016
A thought provoking work by the author. It is a tale of three young children, growing in the war zone of Kashmir between the insurgency and the exodus of the Kashmiri Pundits. Their hopes, joys, and sorrows are well woven throughout the narrative. Be it their cheerful smile when love knocks in their hearts or the endless tears when they lose their loved ones - all the emotions feel real as if the reader has undergone all these experiences. The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky is a beautiful narrative intertwined with the conflict of Kashmir.
May 6, 2016
It's amazing how the author has expressed the tragedy in such an extraordinary writing. A heartbreaking hopeful beautiful amazing lovely novel. The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky tells the story of Inayat, and her relationships, focusing mainly on her friends, her father Maqbool, and mother Wahida. The author tells the story of not only the loss of her childhood but the loss of the surroundings as well. It is a wonderfully horrific story!
June 27, 2016
I was drawn towards the book as soon as I read the title. Manan Kapoor paints such a vivid picture of the war-torn state of Kashmir, the danger that both characters face and the gradual discovery of the characters’ respective personalities. The author has exquisitely created characters who try to survive in the depressing, deplorable conditions that war so often brings. This is a dark, complex story, but one that transcends the experience of reading itself.
May 6, 2016
The Lamentations of a Sombre Sky is a beautiful story. The story is gripping and moves really fast, you cannot just put it down - at least not after the first forty pages. It all seems too real. It seems to be coming from the heart of someone who has dealt with it from very close. Brilliant
July 22, 2016
Such a young author, writing about subjects this intense. Went in expecting a flick. But I loved to have been proven wrong. The best thing was that I was kept asking for more to the story. A sure sign of a good book.
January 25, 2018
When Manan told me that everyone who had read his book cried, I thought it was just a selling pitch.
But that was only until I'd read it myself.
But that was only until I'd read it myself.
May 11, 2016
Good work bro!! KEEP IT UP!!
September 28, 2025
Grieving of a sorrow sky.
Really hits your emotions throughout the story and compels you to think, the people who really suffer in war are the ones who want peace.
Really hits your emotions throughout the story and compels you to think, the people who really suffer in war are the ones who want peace.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews