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Like a Pinprick to the Heart
Anando Sen's father can smell death, his uncle can see ghosts, his sister can communicate with spirits. Anando himself is able to tell futures and spin mantras to get what he wants. Gifts that are perhaps the natural by-product of being a highly spiritual family.
While travelling to immerse his grandmother's ashes after her death, Anando discovers the great secret about his family, which his grandmother kept hidden from them. The secret that explains just how the family came to their gifts. This revelation makes him question everything he knows, and has grown up believing and starts unravelling something within Anando.
In a fit of depression, he quits his job and wanders in a flux for many months, coming to his senses on the banks of the Ganga in Haridwar.
In a fortuitous turn of events he goes from being a beggar to becoming a godman with many devotees. One day, when he is credited with working a miracle that is clearly not one, he sees his entire life as an insidious joke spun by God. He decides that he must hurt God in return.
Since God is love, he tells us, to really hurt God he has to destroy love--to prick God where it hurts most....
While travelling to immerse his grandmother's ashes after her death, Anando discovers the great secret about his family, which his grandmother kept hidden from them. The secret that explains just how the family came to their gifts. This revelation makes him question everything he knows, and has grown up believing and starts unravelling something within Anando.
In a fit of depression, he quits his job and wanders in a flux for many months, coming to his senses on the banks of the Ganga in Haridwar.
In a fortuitous turn of events he goes from being a beggar to becoming a godman with many devotees. One day, when he is credited with working a miracle that is clearly not one, he sees his entire life as an insidious joke spun by God. He decides that he must hurt God in return.
Since God is love, he tells us, to really hurt God he has to destroy love--to prick God where it hurts most....
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
2 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 2, 2016
We all have heard movie stars say- "I don't want to get slotted into a genre". This book is similar. It is fictional, yet very real at times. Is happy, grim, racy, pacy, sleazy, funny, satirical, morose, all at the same time. What a total roller-coaster!
I am a television buff. And for me, reading a book is being "away from TV". Did not feel like that for this book. I looked forward to being with Anando soon as I got back from work. I find the journey of the protagonist very real. He is vulnerable, has faults, yearns perfection, believes he has got it, only to realise how far he is from it.
Very engaging. In one word, fairly unpredictable. Especially the end.
Wish it gets made into a movie. Someone really accomplished will have to do it, to achieve the multiple textures. Unlike many other books available right now by Indian authors, this book is not to be read with a bowl of popcorn while some random music plays away in the background. This one is to be consumed with a beer, with yourself and with a box of tissues.
Mr Shujoy Dutta, let us read more of where this came from. My mind wants to slot you as a particular kind of writer, but I am not sure. Maybe your identity is best defined by the lack of stereotype.
Will try and see the pattern once I have read 2-3 books from you. And the TV keeps calling me back. So hurry!
Can't wait.
As an aside, loved the cover design.
I am a television buff. And for me, reading a book is being "away from TV". Did not feel like that for this book. I looked forward to being with Anando soon as I got back from work. I find the journey of the protagonist very real. He is vulnerable, has faults, yearns perfection, believes he has got it, only to realise how far he is from it.
Very engaging. In one word, fairly unpredictable. Especially the end.
Wish it gets made into a movie. Someone really accomplished will have to do it, to achieve the multiple textures. Unlike many other books available right now by Indian authors, this book is not to be read with a bowl of popcorn while some random music plays away in the background. This one is to be consumed with a beer, with yourself and with a box of tissues.
Mr Shujoy Dutta, let us read more of where this came from. My mind wants to slot you as a particular kind of writer, but I am not sure. Maybe your identity is best defined by the lack of stereotype.
Will try and see the pattern once I have read 2-3 books from you. And the TV keeps calling me back. So hurry!
Can't wait.
As an aside, loved the cover design.
December 29, 2015
Shujoy Dutta delights with his debut novel Like A Pinprick to the Heart. This is confident and skilled story telling at its best- from the first page, Anando's thoughts beckons and draw you in. It starts as a coming of age tale set in the Delhi of the 80s- a familiar time for many of us, captured in exquisite detail. But it is not just a coming of age story. It quickly branches off in many different directions, surprising you at every turn, and keeping you engrossed till the final, satisfying end.
Rarely does a debut novel seem so complete. It combines characters that you want to stay with and learn more of (I wish there were more of Mitali, who appears exclusively through Anando's mind), a story line that is both unusual yet believable, and a commentary on faith in its many forms, as well as a reflection on how that faith meanders through the lives of people otherwise unconnected with each other. But above all it is the originality of the writing and the storyline that holds your interest from start to finish. Shujoy with humor and sarcasm sprinkled in between masterful prose- but the real revelation is his skill as an old fashioned story teller, in the best tradition. He grips you from page one, and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. What more can one ask for? Highly recommended, together with an expectation of much more from this author. Next book soon please!!
Rarely does a debut novel seem so complete. It combines characters that you want to stay with and learn more of (I wish there were more of Mitali, who appears exclusively through Anando's mind), a story line that is both unusual yet believable, and a commentary on faith in its many forms, as well as a reflection on how that faith meanders through the lives of people otherwise unconnected with each other. But above all it is the originality of the writing and the storyline that holds your interest from start to finish. Shujoy with humor and sarcasm sprinkled in between masterful prose- but the real revelation is his skill as an old fashioned story teller, in the best tradition. He grips you from page one, and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. What more can one ask for? Highly recommended, together with an expectation of much more from this author. Next book soon please!!
December 14, 2015
Anando Sen’s family has many gifts – the ability to smell death, to see spirits, to communicate with the dead, to see the future, and to invoke powerful mantras. And Anando is special among them – he is perhaps the most gifted of them all, and keen to sharpen this skill to the fullest.
And right from the powerful opening to this book, where we’re introduced to Anando and his family, I was hooked - to see him on his journey, following him as he slowly discovers and hones his special talents. But this is also a journey of the growing pains of a young Bengali boy in Delhi, as he discovers himself in this world, learning to deal with girls, the Indian educational rat race, and his entry into the first rungs of corporate world thereafter. A path familiar to so many of us, with the added mix of Anando’s spiritual discoveries and his delightful inner monologue.
And that to me, was the the best thing about the book A Pinprick to my Heart - the honest voice of Anando as we follow his adolescent innocence. This is an unlikely hero you’ll find in a book, as much as it’s an unusual ride you undertake with him. And all through, Anando’s brutal honesty rings true as we traverse through life and its darkness with him.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, would highly recommend it!!
And right from the powerful opening to this book, where we’re introduced to Anando and his family, I was hooked - to see him on his journey, following him as he slowly discovers and hones his special talents. But this is also a journey of the growing pains of a young Bengali boy in Delhi, as he discovers himself in this world, learning to deal with girls, the Indian educational rat race, and his entry into the first rungs of corporate world thereafter. A path familiar to so many of us, with the added mix of Anando’s spiritual discoveries and his delightful inner monologue.
And that to me, was the the best thing about the book A Pinprick to my Heart - the honest voice of Anando as we follow his adolescent innocence. This is an unlikely hero you’ll find in a book, as much as it’s an unusual ride you undertake with him. And all through, Anando’s brutal honesty rings true as we traverse through life and its darkness with him.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, would highly recommend it!!
December 15, 2015
'Pinprick' is an unexpected, pacy, endearing, nostalgic, thrilling, heart-warming, honest, lustful, philosophical, tragic, humorous, spooky and spiritual story. You might add a few more adjectives of your own. Flows easy, well-etched out characters and a mindf**k at many junctures.
Splendid debut novel by Shujoy Dutta. Hope he writes more.
Splendid debut novel by Shujoy Dutta. Hope he writes more.
December 3, 2015
Like a Pinprick to the Heart
And pause. That phrase itself, the title of the book, makes you want to pause.
It’s a fabulous phrase. Almost as silently visual as one of my favourite lines from Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights: “I have dreamt in my life, dreams that have…….. gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.” That image of a trickle of thick red wine slowly piercing through transparent water and changing it: ‘a pinprick to the heart’ has that same sense of quiet force. You can almost see that sharp glinting pin pierce through the soft flesh of the heart. Causing a catastrophe in a diastole.
When the name of a book draws you in like that, it’s a double-edged sword. You are already hooked that is true, but it also means your expectations are sky high. Debut author Shujoy Dutta delivers on the promise of the title: the book is astonishingly riveting.
As a Bengali who has grown up in South Delhi, I could relate to so many of the phrases, moments, incidents and interactions that I found myself smiling quite often. The protagonist Anando, his family, his megalopolis friends and colleagues in Delhi and Mumbai are finely etched out characters who stay with you and remind you of people you have known. Big or small, each character has been imagined in detail and that is why none of them are cardboard. The plot is rich but tight, and holds you with a hint of “this isn’t really what you think it is” kind of a lure – and delivers on it at the end, in a freaked out twist that leaves you quite struck.
In parts the book was reminiscent of Geoff Dyer’s Jeff in Venice, Death in Varanasi. Anando’s journey is similar yet dissimilar to Jeff’s.
India is about family, which on its bad side can lead to claustrophobia and lack of privacy. The West is about individualism which, on its bad side, can lead to loneliness and isolation. And then there is an entire generation of Westernised Indians who experience both, bizarrely, simultaneously. Like a Pinprick to the Heart identifies, and then captures this very unique phenomenon really well.
The book and its characters stay with you for a while after you reach the last page, like the thrum of cello after the last note has been played. For me personally, that is a big indication on whether a book has worked for me or not. If I don't take the characters around with me for the next few days then I feel the book has failed me. But in this case, you do find yourself accompanied by Anando, and Didi, and Mitali and Ruma and Bhaskar - to meetings, to office, to lunches, to bed. And yes, you most definitely make a mental note to look out for the author’s second book.
There is an economy of language that I personally like. The understatement and the dry wit - both of which challenge you to keep up - are probably legacies of us having been ruled by the Brits. I personally prefer it to the lushness of French or South American writers. And finally, call me a snoot, but not stumbling across any "Indian English" gaffs in grammar, syntax and phraseology was a definite added bonus.
And pause. That phrase itself, the title of the book, makes you want to pause.
It’s a fabulous phrase. Almost as silently visual as one of my favourite lines from Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights: “I have dreamt in my life, dreams that have…….. gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.” That image of a trickle of thick red wine slowly piercing through transparent water and changing it: ‘a pinprick to the heart’ has that same sense of quiet force. You can almost see that sharp glinting pin pierce through the soft flesh of the heart. Causing a catastrophe in a diastole.
When the name of a book draws you in like that, it’s a double-edged sword. You are already hooked that is true, but it also means your expectations are sky high. Debut author Shujoy Dutta delivers on the promise of the title: the book is astonishingly riveting.
As a Bengali who has grown up in South Delhi, I could relate to so many of the phrases, moments, incidents and interactions that I found myself smiling quite often. The protagonist Anando, his family, his megalopolis friends and colleagues in Delhi and Mumbai are finely etched out characters who stay with you and remind you of people you have known. Big or small, each character has been imagined in detail and that is why none of them are cardboard. The plot is rich but tight, and holds you with a hint of “this isn’t really what you think it is” kind of a lure – and delivers on it at the end, in a freaked out twist that leaves you quite struck.
In parts the book was reminiscent of Geoff Dyer’s Jeff in Venice, Death in Varanasi. Anando’s journey is similar yet dissimilar to Jeff’s.
India is about family, which on its bad side can lead to claustrophobia and lack of privacy. The West is about individualism which, on its bad side, can lead to loneliness and isolation. And then there is an entire generation of Westernised Indians who experience both, bizarrely, simultaneously. Like a Pinprick to the Heart identifies, and then captures this very unique phenomenon really well.
The book and its characters stay with you for a while after you reach the last page, like the thrum of cello after the last note has been played. For me personally, that is a big indication on whether a book has worked for me or not. If I don't take the characters around with me for the next few days then I feel the book has failed me. But in this case, you do find yourself accompanied by Anando, and Didi, and Mitali and Ruma and Bhaskar - to meetings, to office, to lunches, to bed. And yes, you most definitely make a mental note to look out for the author’s second book.
There is an economy of language that I personally like. The understatement and the dry wit - both of which challenge you to keep up - are probably legacies of us having been ruled by the Brits. I personally prefer it to the lushness of French or South American writers. And finally, call me a snoot, but not stumbling across any "Indian English" gaffs in grammar, syntax and phraseology was a definite added bonus.
December 25, 2015
Anando Sen is like a celibate Zen monk who happens to nurse a greenstick fracture of a boyhood romantic interest. Fractured, in the manner of encountering a snapped twig under one's foot along one's path, which although stirs passions within the protagonist, never overshadows the love affair he has with his own supernatural powers, until of course it destroys them!
The story is about a Bengali boy growing up in New Delhi at the cusp of the dawn of the Information Age. There are chronological landmarks in the tale that makes one wonder if the story isn't part autobiographical. Parts of it appear as mundane as an old chum sharing a memory with you at a coffee shop, and then there are esoteric sequences that give us a glimpse into the deeply philosophical imagination of the author. Shujoy makes no concessions for your lack of knowledge of colloquial Bengali terms that he peppers his narrative with, nor does he go out of his way to condescendingly italicise them for you, while he does adequately fill you in with cultural contexts to let the story flow.
He leads you on with a virtual smorgasbord of the protagonist's experiences that build up your curiosity, fascinating side-turns and (seemingly) blind alleys leading from one schema to another, and then - a masterful twist in the tale - one landscape cross-fading into another, in a quintessentially Delhiite manner, like driving through the Ridge to end up in Karol Bagh.
Shujoy Dutta, in this coming-of-age tale about a boy, has woven a hilarious black satire of self-reflection that will hook you in from the first page and won’t let go till it’s done. Unputdownable is an understatement. This is a book that will leave you yearning to read more. Like a pinprick.
The story is about a Bengali boy growing up in New Delhi at the cusp of the dawn of the Information Age. There are chronological landmarks in the tale that makes one wonder if the story isn't part autobiographical. Parts of it appear as mundane as an old chum sharing a memory with you at a coffee shop, and then there are esoteric sequences that give us a glimpse into the deeply philosophical imagination of the author. Shujoy makes no concessions for your lack of knowledge of colloquial Bengali terms that he peppers his narrative with, nor does he go out of his way to condescendingly italicise them for you, while he does adequately fill you in with cultural contexts to let the story flow.
He leads you on with a virtual smorgasbord of the protagonist's experiences that build up your curiosity, fascinating side-turns and (seemingly) blind alleys leading from one schema to another, and then - a masterful twist in the tale - one landscape cross-fading into another, in a quintessentially Delhiite manner, like driving through the Ridge to end up in Karol Bagh.
Shujoy Dutta, in this coming-of-age tale about a boy, has woven a hilarious black satire of self-reflection that will hook you in from the first page and won’t let go till it’s done. Unputdownable is an understatement. This is a book that will leave you yearning to read more. Like a pinprick.
February 29, 2016
This book is as much about a boy's growing up as it is about change - change of generations, expectation, perception, attitude, faith, desire, cities, means of communication and even jobs in a fast changing India in the 2000s.
The boy in question - Anando - is seen as supernaturally gifted by certain people. He has to live up to the expectations of these people and also the expectations he sets for himself. His gift (or his and others' preception of his gifts) affects how he interacts with others around him and how others perceive him. It is the primary driver behind his worldview and affects almost alll his actions, including his attitude towards women, his room mate, friends and even his colleagues (across a few vocations).
In following the triumphs and travails of Anando, the reader is drawn into his deep and complex world and finds oneself rejoicing with him for his successes and empathising with him for those goals that he cannot achieve often as a result of events that are beyond his control.
The pace of action is quick and some of the backdrop shifts are quite dramatic. So it is quite a feat that the author manages to keep the right level of tension throughout the book in spite of all the meanderings until the final denouement (hehe not giving that away).
In the end, Anando's journey reminded me of a long Indian train journey - not of the airconditioned sanitized variety but of the overnight ones in second class mail or express trains - where there are characters, happenings, sights, sounds and smells some pleasant and some unpleasant and at last upon alighting at the destination one wonders if it wouldn't have been better if the journey had continued on.
A great first book but a sequel is definitely called for.
The boy in question - Anando - is seen as supernaturally gifted by certain people. He has to live up to the expectations of these people and also the expectations he sets for himself. His gift (or his and others' preception of his gifts) affects how he interacts with others around him and how others perceive him. It is the primary driver behind his worldview and affects almost alll his actions, including his attitude towards women, his room mate, friends and even his colleagues (across a few vocations).
In following the triumphs and travails of Anando, the reader is drawn into his deep and complex world and finds oneself rejoicing with him for his successes and empathising with him for those goals that he cannot achieve often as a result of events that are beyond his control.
The pace of action is quick and some of the backdrop shifts are quite dramatic. So it is quite a feat that the author manages to keep the right level of tension throughout the book in spite of all the meanderings until the final denouement (hehe not giving that away).
In the end, Anando's journey reminded me of a long Indian train journey - not of the airconditioned sanitized variety but of the overnight ones in second class mail or express trains - where there are characters, happenings, sights, sounds and smells some pleasant and some unpleasant and at last upon alighting at the destination one wonders if it wouldn't have been better if the journey had continued on.
A great first book but a sequel is definitely called for.
December 9, 2015
I haven't enjoyed a homegrown story this much since reading English August in school. Pinprick has been an enjoyable read without the burden most Indian authors seem to carry. The book opens, you're in Anando's head and there begins a tale of psychic readings, ghost sightings, family truths and those random yet relatable events we’ve all grown up with, captured really well - like the time his sisters call spirits - stray lines thrown in that crack you up if you catch them, and are as easily lost in the chaos of the scene. There’s a vulnerable relationship with a girl played out in interesting uncertainty. Then just when you've begun to think you have it all figured out you're smacked in the face mid-story. As you regain consciousness and realize what has occurred you're as disoriented as perhaps the protagonist is and once the story moves into its seemingly inevitable end you find yourself hoping you haven’t figured it all out. I think drawing that kind of feeling from a reader is where the book's strength lies. Written in clever wit and an observational humour with pauses for philosophies and perspectives, there were lines that made me laugh out loud, some that made me lament out loud, and in all of this I ended up reading it far too quickly.
February 2, 2016
There are books that you read knowing they are fictitious stories, and then there are characters who become a little more real than that. I found myself running home after work and clearing my schedule so that I could spend time with Anando Sen, the protagonist in Like a Pinprick to the Heart. Somehow he started existing for me, the book read itself to me in his voice, I lived his journey in all its eccentricities and illusions, based in a very relatable Bengali household in South Delhi. The book is fantastical, ironic, darkly witty, very savagely human in its travails, and dabbles in the supernatural which gives it a particular theme. But all of this makes you think, about identity, about existence, about belief systems, about how everything and yet nothing really matters in the grand scheme of things.
January 4, 2016
‘Like a Pinprick to the heart’ sucks you in into its world, makes you want to be friends with its surreal characters and wish you had had a role to play in it too. Shujoy Datta’s effortless writing and captivating story-telling makes this a book with magnetic powers. Apart from the tight storyline, the book is peppered with witty one liners that make you pause and wonder why you hadn’t thought of it before. The twist in the end is heart wrenching and leaves you hungering for more. I am eagerly awaiting Shujoy’s next book, I hope that it’s already in its brewing stage.
December 2, 2015
You know there are times when a book captivates you from page one and you don't want the spell to end. This is such a book. Spooky, witty and sardonic but hiding a lot of subtle commentaries on life. Shujoy Dutta surprises throughout the book and when you think there cant be any more, he springs another one.Very enjoyable read . highly recommend it to anyone looking to read a very original and evocative story set in contemporary urban India
April 26, 2016
‘Like a pinprick to the heart’ Is a light, frank, insightful, surprising, humorous, philosophical and most importantly relatable piece of work. For somebody like me who have lived in Delhi in late 80s, it’s more like a walk down the memory lane. The last chapter appears little hasty exit, to me. Overall, beautiful storytelling and flawless language. For a debutant, it’s a brilliant attempt.
Looking forward to more from Shujoy.
Looking forward to more from Shujoy.
April 27, 2016
There are stories that allow you to read them, then there are a few that you participate in. Like a Pinprick to the Heart travels seamlessly from reality to realms above it, asks you to walk with characters and befriend them. The narrative is nimble and engaging. What shines out for me, is the command and love for the English language. The craft, sentence constructions are excellent. After long, a fiction that restores faith in contemporary Indian English literature.
November 29, 2015
It's hard to do an objective review for a book that scares you, makes you sad, makes you smile & then spend an entire evening debating with yourself - about your own beliefs & about your feelings for Anando (the main character)
The book grips you from page one and doesn't let you go much after you've finished reading it.
An absolute must read.
The book grips you from page one and doesn't let you go much after you've finished reading it.
An absolute must read.
June 21, 2016
Suspense-filled, intriguing and well-written, this book is a good literary debut by an adman. Filled with authentic Bengali flavour, and yet not insular, it grips the reader and is genuinely a page-turner. Well-plotted, and filled with twists and turns, it straddles a few genres: family story, mystery and coming of age tale all together. Worth your time.
February 26, 2016
god god god ! love love love !
absolutely loved this confident, tight and controlled debut by writer shujoy dutta !
and the core of the heart of it lies a love triangle of rarity , of man , god and woman !
absolutely loved this confident, tight and controlled debut by writer shujoy dutta !
and the core of the heart of it lies a love triangle of rarity , of man , god and woman !
March 4, 2023
Thamma believes that every one of the Sen family possesses some gifts, and Anondo, her “devoted” grandson, being “the youngest or further down in the evolutionary chain”, is fully convinced that his gift is “special”. His gift is that he can read palms from a very young age. Even right before her death, Thamma advises him not to waste away his gift by marrying. The reason behind the cautiousness is her belief that the Sens are touched by God, an idea that has gained ground in the hearsay that Anondo’s grandfather became a sadhu. However, he is disillusioned as soon as Thamma dies. Kaku reveals the truth about his parent’s marriage. Anondo also eventually realizes that he cannot really read people’s minds or anything like that. Insane with grief, he keeps wandering for months and walks all the way to Har-ki-pauri where he atones for himself, Thamma, and the whole family by weeping profusely. Although thoroughly underlain by a masculine comic spirit, for me, herein lies in the novel’s pathos. However, the narrative and the protagonist refuse to submit to the pathos and God’s cruel joke without resistance. He first insults and mocks at God by deliberately being a fake sadhu – an episode that reminds me of the ending of R. K. Narayan’s The Guide. But, unlike Raju, Anondo does not give in but instead takes his revenge against God by seeking to kill his dearest, the inconstant Mitali and then himself. Although we do not know whether any of them dies, whether our anti-/hero really wins the battle against God – and I’m also not entirely convinced why Anondo should adopt such a drastic step at the end when he does not seem to be particularly inclined to commit such crimes – the novel is indeed a brutal attack at God and humans blinded by religions. Also, the narrative proves to be the tightest and most exciting in the last few chapters, leaving the reader both shocked and moved. I immensely enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more novels by Shujoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2017
I was engrossed in the book from the get-go… The writing is easy, fast paced and very engaging: it draws you into the protagonist’s world. The story seems very real, and one can relate to a number of aspects of the lead characters. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The story is about the occult and different “gifts” (read extra senses) that Anando’s family members possess. Anando struggles to come to terms with his own “gifts”, as well as those of his other family members. Add a frustrated, one-sided love story, and it turns into a heady mix of pre-pubescent, adolescent and young adult (auto)biography with a sixth-sense twist.
It is set in Delhi and Mumbai, and has strong Bengali references throughout. It touches upon the professional challenges young professionals from the skewed perspective of an occult obsessed mind, in love with an unattainable childhood crush.
The twist in the tale is unexpected, and does take your breath away… Highly recommended!!!!
The story is about the occult and different “gifts” (read extra senses) that Anando’s family members possess. Anando struggles to come to terms with his own “gifts”, as well as those of his other family members. Add a frustrated, one-sided love story, and it turns into a heady mix of pre-pubescent, adolescent and young adult (auto)biography with a sixth-sense twist.
It is set in Delhi and Mumbai, and has strong Bengali references throughout. It touches upon the professional challenges young professionals from the skewed perspective of an occult obsessed mind, in love with an unattainable childhood crush.
The twist in the tale is unexpected, and does take your breath away… Highly recommended!!!!
February 20, 2021
Not your usual novel you can expect. The novel starts slow but takes a speed in the half, That are lots of unexpected twists in the end.
December 9, 2015
On a wintry Delhi afternoon in outdoor Habitat Center, Shujoy Dutta at his book launch says, in reply to some question, “Well, I don’t know if I can write, my readers will have to tell me”.
Really, Shujoy?
“Like a Pinprick to the Heart” is an easy read… weaving flashback and now, family and strangers, love and spirituality, childhood, adolescence and adulthood, Bengaliness and Bengalis in Delhi-ness, cynical marketer and cynical babaji, insights and irony, Mumbai and Haridwar, understated-ness and sudden shocks, and most of all sudden laughs that just come from nowhere and hit you with a guffaw.
Particularly loved the constant search for meaning and looking for signals.
The story of Anando and his belief in psychic powers feels so real, that I had to put out my palm to Shujoy, and said “ say something”.Some of my favourite scenes include his sister and her friends calling spirits, and scenes where he suddenly understands old signals that were predicting something - or perhaps not.
Any more gushing, and Shujoy will probably stroke his beard and read something with his psychic powers, which I am now convinced he possesses.
I must say I found the ratio between prose and dialogue a little too much on the side of prose, and I was personally disappointed with the ending. Ok, no spoilers.
If you are interested in human behaviour, palmistry or channeling or inner gifts or in family or in Bengali, or in just reading, pick up a copy.
And do let Shujoy know, can he write?
Really, Shujoy?
Really, Shujoy?
“Like a Pinprick to the Heart” is an easy read… weaving flashback and now, family and strangers, love and spirituality, childhood, adolescence and adulthood, Bengaliness and Bengalis in Delhi-ness, cynical marketer and cynical babaji, insights and irony, Mumbai and Haridwar, understated-ness and sudden shocks, and most of all sudden laughs that just come from nowhere and hit you with a guffaw.
Particularly loved the constant search for meaning and looking for signals.
The story of Anando and his belief in psychic powers feels so real, that I had to put out my palm to Shujoy, and said “ say something”.Some of my favourite scenes include his sister and her friends calling spirits, and scenes where he suddenly understands old signals that were predicting something - or perhaps not.
Any more gushing, and Shujoy will probably stroke his beard and read something with his psychic powers, which I am now convinced he possesses.
I must say I found the ratio between prose and dialogue a little too much on the side of prose, and I was personally disappointed with the ending. Ok, no spoilers.
If you are interested in human behaviour, palmistry or channeling or inner gifts or in family or in Bengali, or in just reading, pick up a copy.
And do let Shujoy know, can he write?
Really, Shujoy?
January 14, 2016
I'm a slow reader - I like to savour sentences and stuff like that. And what I like most about 'Pinprick...' is that gives you plenty to savour. It's a delight to read something so well-written. It's intelligent, witty and breezy, without ever becoming self-important.
The story flits back and forth effortlessly, and you go along eager to find out what's around the next bend. It's not an edge-of-the-seat kind of page turner; how it works is that the story conjures up a surprising, endearing and sometimes mystical world that you want to explore and spend time in.
The colliding worlds of mysticism and the modern executive lifestyle make a deadly combo that surprises and amuses. And you can relate to it too - if you're a metro-dweller whose roots are somewhere else, you'll probably find some memories coming alive.
I didn't like the ending too much, but it didn't matter because this isn't a whodunnit and by the time the ending came along I'd already got adequate doses of joy from the book.
Over all, a very enjoyable read.
The story flits back and forth effortlessly, and you go along eager to find out what's around the next bend. It's not an edge-of-the-seat kind of page turner; how it works is that the story conjures up a surprising, endearing and sometimes mystical world that you want to explore and spend time in.
The colliding worlds of mysticism and the modern executive lifestyle make a deadly combo that surprises and amuses. And you can relate to it too - if you're a metro-dweller whose roots are somewhere else, you'll probably find some memories coming alive.
I didn't like the ending too much, but it didn't matter because this isn't a whodunnit and by the time the ending came along I'd already got adequate doses of joy from the book.
Over all, a very enjoyable read.
December 3, 2015
A compelling read full of witty comebacks. Besides perfect grammar and prose, the book will make you break into hearty laughs (don't judge a book by it's cover).
The author has effortlessly shared all the character's lives in great detail, yet crafted succintly.
Anando is simple hearted boy who most of us can relate to, what goes on in his head is complex. How he evaluates decade old incidents, how we do it too. How he justifies happenings one way or the other, as best suited to move on (don't we all do that as well).
All the characters are crafted out well in the book, especially Prannoy Uncle, Thumma (Dadi), Mitali and Anando every now and then. The sexy Mitali will enterain you more than you can imagine.
God, ghosts, angels, roomies, bosses, aunts, girlfriends, partners, saints & sinners — they are all there waiting for you in this book, "Like a Pinprick to The Heart".
Bet you will enjoy dealing with the Maverick Anando.
The author has effortlessly shared all the character's lives in great detail, yet crafted succintly.
Anando is simple hearted boy who most of us can relate to, what goes on in his head is complex. How he evaluates decade old incidents, how we do it too. How he justifies happenings one way or the other, as best suited to move on (don't we all do that as well).
All the characters are crafted out well in the book, especially Prannoy Uncle, Thumma (Dadi), Mitali and Anando every now and then. The sexy Mitali will enterain you more than you can imagine.
God, ghosts, angels, roomies, bosses, aunts, girlfriends, partners, saints & sinners — they are all there waiting for you in this book, "Like a Pinprick to The Heart".
Bet you will enjoy dealing with the Maverick Anando.
February 11, 2016
Shujoy Dutta weaves a story of magic and make believe, of the simplicity of pre-liberalisation days and the confused web of consumerism that surrounds us today. Of life as a Delhi-ite rooted in Bengali traditions, as a Bombay-ite who never truly belonged and as a Haridwari, who feels more caught in the trappings of flesh and blood than he ever did before. Shujoy spins a story that at first, you will refuse to believe in. And then, when it has caught you unawares and turned you into a believer, make you question everything you've believed in. You will hate the protagonist, then love him, abhor him and then sympathise with him. But one thing is for sure... you just won't be able to ignore him, and Shujoy will make you turn one page after another, until you reach the end. And then, will leave you yearning for more.
January 5, 2016
I’m not a frequent reader of fiction and this may be the first Indian fiction I have read since a long time. What I enjoyed about the book was the fact that it’s a quick and great read. Doesn’t belabour and the author hasn’t tried to inject all sorts of language jugglery, my biggest grouse with others in this genre. What is I enjoyed the most was the fact that this could be a story of any ordinary person born in the 70’s going through vagaries of life. Hope there will be another one from Shujoy around the corner, not sure if he plans for a sequel but it would be good to know what happens next.
March 22, 2016
This was an absolute stunner of a book for many reasons. Unlike every other first time author I've ever read, Shujoy's first book reads seamlessly. There are no dull sections, no chapters lacking conviction and never a dull moment. The story is beautiful, crafted well and definitely ends with a corker of a twist. It's a hard book to put down and I enjoyed every moment of it immensely. If there is anything to complain about, it is this, I wish he'd written a few more books, ready to be published right after, because I'm going to be in a constant state of annoyance until I can get my hands on his next work. Go buy a copy NOW!
January 21, 2016
i thoroughly enjoyed reading thia novel. Very descriptive that you feel you are in it yourself. He has covered almost every aspect of life,besides being spooky which made very interesting reading that I could not put it down the second time and had to complete it.
The part about being made the godman was both hilarious and frightening wondering if he could get out of the situation. Was disappointed at the ending though - after all that the guy went thru, could it not have been a better end?
Nevertheless great reading.
The part about being made the godman was both hilarious and frightening wondering if he could get out of the situation. Was disappointed at the ending though - after all that the guy went thru, could it not have been a better end?
Nevertheless great reading.
January 22, 2016
I enjoyed reading this book. That's saying a lot given the surfeit of books out there, all with reviews that read better than the books themselves. Here is a character you connect with. Not perfect. Not a hero. But very relatable. Everybody thinks they are special. Supported by the steady fandom of mother and grandmother. But Anando had proof that he really was. His journey through the occult, love, spirituality, and heartbreak is a rollercoaster ride. Witty one moment, poignant the next. Definitely worth the time spent reading.
January 24, 2016
Like a pinprick to the heart... is an unstoppable roller coaster ride; with its ups and downs, the twists in the story took me through an unanticipated and exciting journey - The life story of Anando makes the adrenaline rush. With my heart in my mouth, I just had to know what happened next – each time. Everything else took a backseat until I had devoured the book. Each section of the story was unique and the multifaceted Anando was very familiar and yet mystifying. Just wish I had a sequel to go on to...
June 19, 2016
I had very high hopes from this book and thought it would be deep, open up a new world. But it was just a breezy read about superficial psychic powers. Superficial because it wasn't too much into it, just floating above. But yes, if I would not have had hopes about psychic powers and occult practices, this book would have been a good romantic novel about a boy trying to persue a girl for a decade. Add to it the Delhi and Bengali elements and I liked it more (not because I am Bengali but because I have many close Bengali friends).
January 13, 2016
It took me just two days to finish this wit infused book about God, Goof and Gifted Souls. Anando, Oh you bloody crazy guy! You have scared me with your stories, You have made me laugh, made me pity you and the very next moment made me envious of your 'gift'. I have said what the hell is wrong with you and I have said What the hell is wrong with Mitali for not going for you! I have loved you. I have disliked you. All in the same book. A book I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
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