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CAT Race
Aayush, a fresh engineering graduate, realizes that idling, snoozing, internet addiction and motorcycle spins don't really qualify as skills to build a successful career. Goaded by parents, trounced by top-achieving buddies and encouraged by stray incidents, Aayush takes a plunge into the dog-eat-dog rat race called CAT - a nationwide, competitive test to make it to the top business schools.
What follows is a simple, everyday motley of events as Aayush enrolls himself at a CAT coaching center, where he comes across interesting characters, ¬including an eccentric tutor with a penchant for fancy dress and an exquisite temptress, Nakshatra.
Set in the serene backdrop of Manipal, a student-dominated township in coastal Karnataka, CAT Race is a simple, short and comfortable tale that highlights the struggles and aspirations of every B-school aspirant, providing insightful yet light-hearted views on the many stages of successful enrollment to management institutes.
CAT Race is reminiscent of the struggles that students across all streams of academics have inevitably undergone and is a tribute to the indecisions, unpreparedness, uncertainty, impudence and insouciance so characteristic of student life.
What follows is a simple, everyday motley of events as Aayush enrolls himself at a CAT coaching center, where he comes across interesting characters, ¬including an eccentric tutor with a penchant for fancy dress and an exquisite temptress, Nakshatra.
Set in the serene backdrop of Manipal, a student-dominated township in coastal Karnataka, CAT Race is a simple, short and comfortable tale that highlights the struggles and aspirations of every B-school aspirant, providing insightful yet light-hearted views on the many stages of successful enrollment to management institutes.
CAT Race is reminiscent of the struggles that students across all streams of academics have inevitably undergone and is a tribute to the indecisions, unpreparedness, uncertainty, impudence and insouciance so characteristic of student life.
160 pages, Paperback
First published November 21, 2016
12 people want to read
About the author
Hriday Ram Shenoy
1 book28 followersHriday Ram Shenoy, a 40-something recliner-stuck dreamer, has the potential to look younger if he dyes his hair...which he tried a few times and gave up since he doesn't believe in making L'Oreal richer when there are a lot of local start-ups that can be encouraged with all that hair-color money - like the neighborhood biryani joint for instance.
Faced with the Shakespearean dilemma of 'To B.E or not to B.E', right after class 12, he chose to B.E in Electronics and Communication and went on to do his MBA in Marketing and Systems. He currently works for an IT multinational and has had stints in marketing, innovation experience design and pre-sales.
Off work, he dabbles in cryptic crosswords, classical piano, chess, design, movies, fantasy and sci-fi books and gaming. Currently, he lives somewhere between Hogwarts, Neverwhere, Middle Earth, The Matrix and Studio Ghibli with his Alienware gaming desktop and about 200 books.
CAT Race is his first book.
Faced with the Shakespearean dilemma of 'To B.E or not to B.E', right after class 12, he chose to B.E in Electronics and Communication and went on to do his MBA in Marketing and Systems. He currently works for an IT multinational and has had stints in marketing, innovation experience design and pre-sales.
Off work, he dabbles in cryptic crosswords, classical piano, chess, design, movies, fantasy and sci-fi books and gaming. Currently, he lives somewhere between Hogwarts, Neverwhere, Middle Earth, The Matrix and Studio Ghibli with his Alienware gaming desktop and about 200 books.
CAT Race is his first book.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 9, 2017
Hriday Ram Shenoy's CAT Race was a book I read in 1 day and that speaks to the quality of writing! Ayush's thoughts about "what next" is something all of us can relate to. We've all been there at some point and Hriday has narrated this journey of Ayush perfectly!
Anyone who has been to Manipal can relate instantly to how Hriday has so beautifully described it and that also talks about the author's ability to write in a language that transports you there without much effort.
I was also glad the book did not have the usual run-of-the-mill ending.
All in all, I found this book to be a good read and would recommend it to friends and family. Oh and one of my cousins did manage to read this overnight and said it was enjoyable!
Anyone who has been to Manipal can relate instantly to how Hriday has so beautifully described it and that also talks about the author's ability to write in a language that transports you there without much effort.
I was also glad the book did not have the usual run-of-the-mill ending.
All in all, I found this book to be a good read and would recommend it to friends and family. Oh and one of my cousins did manage to read this overnight and said it was enjoyable!
January 8, 2017
Very well written book by first time author Hridayram Shenoy. A journey down memory lane for all Manipal alumni - tiger circle, kamath hotel, dollops, venugopal temple, end point, malpe beach and the likes! Story of typical CAT aspirants that many Indian MBAs will relate to. This Chetan Bhagat genre, written in simple but eloquent language, will likely be the script for a much delayed but deserved Bollywood flick set in Manipal.
February 7, 2017
A gripping, feel good, breezy story. The story didn’t pace down or drag anywhere, unlike many other books that may slack, at the start or the middle or have an abrupt and distasteful ending, this book kept me engaged all along, which was a delight.
As the name suggests, the story is of an Engineering graduate (an student who was not placed), who had to decide on what next, in his life, and on finalizing that perceiving MBA and getting into one of the top business schools was the goal, and to reach that, preparing and appearing for CAT, was the way…
The scenarios and characters felt real, the four main characters, Aayush (shrewd and tactful), Nakshatra (bold and chirpy), Hansmukh (a friend everyone wants) and Mr. Shah (learned and experienced), come to life, very easily, as you read…
It is not just another love story, sure, that is a part of this story as well, but that is not the whole angle. The Author’s analyzed and educated decision making is seen in Aayush’s character, who towards the last quarter, thinks through and makes a few choices, at some instances, which are brilliant and may be of great value, to people in similar situations, in real as well.
I feel, any good read, should have a brief, but good description of the locations, the story is happening, so it can be imagined as you read, similarly here, the author has done a good job describing them. In case Manipal was part of you for a month or more, at the least, it surely will bring back some great memories and take you down the nostalgic lane.
If CAT is what one is planning to do next, then it is must read, will really guide you through. If CAT was part of your past, then too, it’s a must read, will take you down the memory lane. If Manipal was or is a part of your life, then too, it’s a must read, will take you back there or show you the Manipal, you know, in a different presentation. Finally, if none of the above relates to you, still it’s a great read, one can experience all the above plus, it’s a good story handled very sensibly! To windup, I honestly enjoyed the book, even though CAT or business schools are not a part of my past, present or future.
As the name suggests, the story is of an Engineering graduate (an student who was not placed), who had to decide on what next, in his life, and on finalizing that perceiving MBA and getting into one of the top business schools was the goal, and to reach that, preparing and appearing for CAT, was the way…
The scenarios and characters felt real, the four main characters, Aayush (shrewd and tactful), Nakshatra (bold and chirpy), Hansmukh (a friend everyone wants) and Mr. Shah (learned and experienced), come to life, very easily, as you read…
It is not just another love story, sure, that is a part of this story as well, but that is not the whole angle. The Author’s analyzed and educated decision making is seen in Aayush’s character, who towards the last quarter, thinks through and makes a few choices, at some instances, which are brilliant and may be of great value, to people in similar situations, in real as well.
I feel, any good read, should have a brief, but good description of the locations, the story is happening, so it can be imagined as you read, similarly here, the author has done a good job describing them. In case Manipal was part of you for a month or more, at the least, it surely will bring back some great memories and take you down the nostalgic lane.
If CAT is what one is planning to do next, then it is must read, will really guide you through. If CAT was part of your past, then too, it’s a must read, will take you down the memory lane. If Manipal was or is a part of your life, then too, it’s a must read, will take you back there or show you the Manipal, you know, in a different presentation. Finally, if none of the above relates to you, still it’s a great read, one can experience all the above plus, it’s a good story handled very sensibly! To windup, I honestly enjoyed the book, even though CAT or business schools are not a part of my past, present or future.
August 26, 2017
“CAT RACE – The Rat Race Called Cat” Profound title and nothing else can do justice to the story of a boy named Ayush who is preparing for the entrance exam called CAT.
The author in a very simple and interesting way has brought about the contradictions between the comforts of an imaginative and creative world and the stark realities of life.
Ayush also faces the same struggle when he decides to prepare for the exam called CAT.
It’s a very good guide to all the students writing the exam. It deals well with all the emotional and logical decision making milestones that are encountered in an life of an MBA aspirant.
The Author beautifully takes us through the scenic places of Manipal and at the same time touches upon very crucial questions of life like “To BE or NOT TO BE” and the dilemma of “understanding what our heart desires” to list a few . So even though the story revolves around an MBA aspirant but still it well connects to everyone’s life in general, and the reader cannot escape but see his own story being told. And that’s where Author succeeds in making you one with the story line. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and enjoyed the philosophy brought forward.
The story does end abruptly, but so does life. It keeps the reader pondering and thinking even after the novel is over .
The author in a very simple and interesting way has brought about the contradictions between the comforts of an imaginative and creative world and the stark realities of life.
Ayush also faces the same struggle when he decides to prepare for the exam called CAT.
It’s a very good guide to all the students writing the exam. It deals well with all the emotional and logical decision making milestones that are encountered in an life of an MBA aspirant.
The Author beautifully takes us through the scenic places of Manipal and at the same time touches upon very crucial questions of life like “To BE or NOT TO BE” and the dilemma of “understanding what our heart desires” to list a few . So even though the story revolves around an MBA aspirant but still it well connects to everyone’s life in general, and the reader cannot escape but see his own story being told. And that’s where Author succeeds in making you one with the story line. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and enjoyed the philosophy brought forward.
The story does end abruptly, but so does life. It keeps the reader pondering and thinking even after the novel is over .
December 16, 2016
I mostly judge a book by how unputdownable it is! This, I finished in one sitting; so, straight away added a point for that.
Another point for the language. No surprises there as I have read a lot of Hriday Ram Shenoy in FB reviews, letters, chats etc. Loved it so much that I have decided to read the book again just to savour the words! Its unlike how most Indian authors sound and yet has a lovely aamchi flavour to it.
Third point for the story. Here I was pleasantly surprised. I did not expect it to be so free-flowing and uniformly paced. Full marks for keeping it simple.
Fourth point for the preface- loved it!
Fifth point for putting my name on print! :-P How glad am I to be featured in your debut!
Lastly, if I could rate 10 on 5 I would gladly add 5 points for you my little bro! Am very proud of your work!
It was breezy, light and enjoyable! Loved it!
Another point for the language. No surprises there as I have read a lot of Hriday Ram Shenoy in FB reviews, letters, chats etc. Loved it so much that I have decided to read the book again just to savour the words! Its unlike how most Indian authors sound and yet has a lovely aamchi flavour to it.
Third point for the story. Here I was pleasantly surprised. I did not expect it to be so free-flowing and uniformly paced. Full marks for keeping it simple.
Fourth point for the preface- loved it!
Fifth point for putting my name on print! :-P How glad am I to be featured in your debut!
Lastly, if I could rate 10 on 5 I would gladly add 5 points for you my little bro! Am very proud of your work!
It was breezy, light and enjoyable! Loved it!
December 11, 2016
Hriday's first novel CAT RACE is an enjoyable page-turner catering mainly to the Indian millennial readers. It was a quick, easy read and that was a welcome change for me after spending the last few months with some heavy non-fiction reading related to history, space science and philosophy. The plot, set in the quaint university town of Manipal, is something which every middle class Indian can relate to and hence evokes a sense of nostalgia for those who have gone through that confused phase in life. On the downside, the plot follows a predictable rom-com formula with a confused protagonist, nagging parents, boy meets girl and their trails & tribulations. But the author's witty and simple narrative style makes it a satisfying read - 3 Stars from me.
February 11, 2017
Hriday wrote the "How to prepare yourself for CAT exam" manual with the light romance in a foreground. He picked the right words for the right moments and he discussed the hardship and dilemma faced by the people who prepares for competitive exams like CAT.
Hriday reenacted a memories that are associated with the Manipal town without garbling the story-line.
PS People who want to learn about CAT exam and procedures read this book.
PSS People who want to reminiscence Manipal, do read it.
Hriday reenacted a memories that are associated with the Manipal town without garbling the story-line.
PS People who want to learn about CAT exam and procedures read this book.
PSS People who want to reminiscence Manipal, do read it.
December 18, 2016
CAT Race is a delightful and breezy read on the situations that a CAT aspirant faces. For a Manipal student, the added bonus is the beautiful memories this book is surely going to evoke in you the moment you open its pages. I, personally loved this story and would cherish the authors personally signed copy.
For more detailed review visit: http://manipalblog.com/2016/12/17/cat...
For more detailed review visit: http://manipalblog.com/2016/12/17/cat...
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December 13, 2017Loved this book. Simple and entertaining. Manipal has been described so well, I wouldn't be surprised if it becomes the next sought after holiday destination. Looking forward to more books from this author :)
Well done Hriday Ram Shenoy!!
Well done Hriday Ram Shenoy!!
February 4, 2017
We have all known people who have taken CAT or other entrance exams and we have all known an Aayush, Nakshatra or Hansmukh - the main characters in CAT Race. Yet the brilliance of this book is in keeping the reader engaged completely, till the epilogue.
Cat Race is wonderfully well-narrated book. The description of characters, events, scenery is refreshingly original with helpful doses of situational humour. The author's muse - Manipal, is described vividly and reminiscent of how Ruskin Bond described Dehradun.
Read it on a flight/train/bus journey, read it to take a break from work or read it on a quiet weekend at home. Cat Race is a book that will likely leave a smile on your face.
Cat Race is wonderfully well-narrated book. The description of characters, events, scenery is refreshingly original with helpful doses of situational humour. The author's muse - Manipal, is described vividly and reminiscent of how Ruskin Bond described Dehradun.
Read it on a flight/train/bus journey, read it to take a break from work or read it on a quiet weekend at home. Cat Race is a book that will likely leave a smile on your face.
December 24, 2017
CAT Race has a little bit of everything that you’d want from a book—romance, suspense, and a how-to guide to figuring out life’s quirky questions. It is also a tourist’s guide to the student town of Manipal to boot!
As you traverse through Aayush’s dilemmas, frustrations, and triumphs as he pursues his elusive CAT quest, you cannot help but turn the page to find out how he navigates yet another new hurdle. I, for one, especially enjoyed how, amidst all the drama, Aayush manages to discover and pursue his passion.
Interspersed with quite a few colourful and well-rounded characters, the novel moves along at a merry pace, doling out a balanced diet of humor, life-gyan, and the best restaurants Manipal has to offer. I really hope a sequel is in the pipeline. Meanwhile, do yourself a favor and pick up CAT Race. It makes for a perfect break from your own routine race!
As you traverse through Aayush’s dilemmas, frustrations, and triumphs as he pursues his elusive CAT quest, you cannot help but turn the page to find out how he navigates yet another new hurdle. I, for one, especially enjoyed how, amidst all the drama, Aayush manages to discover and pursue his passion.
Interspersed with quite a few colourful and well-rounded characters, the novel moves along at a merry pace, doling out a balanced diet of humor, life-gyan, and the best restaurants Manipal has to offer. I really hope a sequel is in the pipeline. Meanwhile, do yourself a favor and pick up CAT Race. It makes for a perfect break from your own routine race!
December 9, 2016
Aayush's story is something everyone who has ever prepared for a competitive exam can relate to, even if it isnt CAT. And even more so with CAT. True to its title, the plot is centered around the trials and tribulations of aspirants and it doesnt deviate or distract. CAT Race is a short and simple story with Manipal as the background. For those who have lived or visited Manipal, the book would surely bring out fond memories. Any story is only as good as the ending, and this one pretty much nails it down to the last page. Definitely a thumbs up from me!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews