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Hunger
Adam Lyons is a successful New Yorker who never knew his mother except that her life ended moments before his began. An unexpected letter from his Pakistani grandmother sends him on a quest he doesn’t know he needs, on a path towards satisfying his spiritual hunger.
Iman, who lives on the other side of east river, can never predict the turns her life takes. In her search for peace, she must submit to a fate she is desperate to escape.
Max has his own plans. His entire life, he has been waiting to give them what they deserve rather than what they desire. He did it before. Now, he has to end things once and for all. His problem? He has to survive two life sentences to fulfil his hunger.
Iman, who lives on the other side of east river, can never predict the turns her life takes. In her search for peace, she must submit to a fate she is desperate to escape.
Max has his own plans. His entire life, he has been waiting to give them what they deserve rather than what they desire. He did it before. Now, he has to end things once and for all. His problem? He has to survive two life sentences to fulfil his hunger.
136 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
About the author
Tanzeela K. Hassan
16 books49 followersTanzeela k. Hassan, is an emerging Pakistani novelist. After finishing her Postgraduate degree in Foods and Nutrition with a baby in her hands, she's now a mother of four and currently a stay-at-home manager.
Art is in her blood, from her parents to her siblings each and every being in her family excels in some kind of art. When she was asked about how she discovered her talent as a writer she replied with,
“My parents managed to take us on many expeditions across Pakistan, accompanied with a personal diary and a sketch book along with his advice to take notes and draw what we saw, he always encouraged us to write about our trip, saying that we should use all are experiences to increase our creativity.”
Being a citizen of a third world country. She finds it her duty to let the world know about the positivity and beauty her native country possess.
Tag along with her upcoming books based on adventure, thrill and suspense and to gain the knowledge about the region that is already marked as a terrorist territory.
She is also a proud lead compiler of the anthology 'Thazbook's Anthology Journal'
Art is in her blood, from her parents to her siblings each and every being in her family excels in some kind of art. When she was asked about how she discovered her talent as a writer she replied with,
“My parents managed to take us on many expeditions across Pakistan, accompanied with a personal diary and a sketch book along with his advice to take notes and draw what we saw, he always encouraged us to write about our trip, saying that we should use all are experiences to increase our creativity.”
Being a citizen of a third world country. She finds it her duty to let the world know about the positivity and beauty her native country possess.
Tag along with her upcoming books based on adventure, thrill and suspense and to gain the knowledge about the region that is already marked as a terrorist territory.
She is also a proud lead compiler of the anthology 'Thazbook's Anthology Journal'
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 28, 2017
Little did he knew that the hunger wasn't physical, he was hungry, starving for the truth yet to be knownHunger has become my best read of 2017. What a marvellous read it was! I couldn't help thinking about the plot and characters all the time. Most of all, I liked the characterization. It seemed just soo real plus natural. I had completely fallen in love with them. Especially: Adam's and Mujahid's were very adorable. Mujahid was cute plus very nice. Adam was just...beyond excellent.
OVERVIEW
Adam is an american egocentric whose parents are dead now. Architect by profession. He cares about no one. One day he learns from a letter, given by his lawyer, that his only relation, his grandma, is alive and lives in Pakistan. His grandma's letter tells him that if he wants to know his mother's past which isn't really good but a horrible nightmare, he has to come to Pakistan. To her.
Adam doesn't know about his mother because she died after she birthed him. His father also doesn't tell him anything about his mother. Eventually he gets shocked to know that his parents were Muslim. Then why he isn't?!
THINGS I LIKED
=> The title of every chapter. Those were very good to make the readers more curious.
=> As we all know, Pakistan is considered as a country of terrorists. *Thanks to our Media* This book shows that Pakistanis are not terrorists. Muslims are not terrorists. Terrorists have no religion. This book tries to eliminate this increasing misunderstanding of Pakistan. I am not saying that there is no terrorism in Pakistan. But Violence is present in every country. No country is 100% safe.
=> Journey of Adam to his Grandma's house. I really enjoyed it. I haven't seen Gilgit, but this book made me feel that I was travelling with him.
* IF YOU WANT TO READ IT THEN DON'T OPEN THE SPOILER. IT MAY SPOIL MAJOR PARTS OF THE BOOK
Nevertheless, I adored this book even with the things I didn't like. In my opinion, the main purpose of book was excellently conveyed.
I highly recommend this book to every Pakistani. I read its wattpad version which wasn't well edited. I mean paragraphs weren't well managed or things like that. I can't complain about it because author has already told this fact in the very first page of wattpad version of book. I assume its amazon version is well edited. :)
Still I highly recommend this book. It's easily readable though.
For the author's debut:
Grear job! Consider me your fan now. Write more. I will always be there to read. (^_^)
♡♡4.5 Stars♡♡
[-0.5 star for the 1st thing I didn't like]
March 28, 2017
March 28, 2017
Hunger is a contradiction in itself. It is the most beautiful mixture of light and dark, of happiness and sorrow, of slow and fast. The way word flow, the scenery changes, and the characters develop, is an art by any comparison. It takes its reader through an emotional roller coaster, making the reader laugh and cry as the story progress. It is truly unputdownable.
Being Tanzeela Hassan first work as an emerging novelist, published or otherwise, it exceeds all expectations, it is extremely lovable and truly inspiring. just like the author.
The story revolves around Adam Lambert, a misanthrope of a young adult, on a quest to fulfill his inner hunger and Iman Mansoor ,a God fearing girl, struggling against a broken marriage
Hunger provides a mystery, an adventure, a trilling suspense that leaves the reader Hungry for more
Being Tanzeela Hassan first work as an emerging novelist, published or otherwise, it exceeds all expectations, it is extremely lovable and truly inspiring. just like the author.
The story revolves around Adam Lambert, a misanthrope of a young adult, on a quest to fulfill his inner hunger and Iman Mansoor ,a God fearing girl, struggling against a broken marriage
Hunger provides a mystery, an adventure, a trilling suspense that leaves the reader Hungry for more
May 5, 2017
Good effort.
I'll write a detailed review later.
I'll write a detailed review later.
June 25, 2017
Left me HUNGRY for thrills and suspense.
Tanzeela, please forgive me, but I couldn't finish the book. I got through 62% of the book and aside from the Prologue, there wasn't anything that was remotely thrilling or suspenseful to me. I felt like this was more of a cultural lesson on Muslims and Pakistanis rather than a story about a young man who is discovering what happened to his mother.
One of the biggest concerns I had when reading this was all of the grammatical errors. There were so many that it really felt as though I was editing the book. Adam is an American, and as such, his dialogue should read like an American. For example, Adam states "What about the place we are going, how safe that is?" As an American we would say "What about the place we are going, how safe is it?" This is just one example, but there were many.
The words "Alhamdulillah" and "Assalamualaikum" are spoken several times throughout the novel, but their meaning is never given. It's as if Adam already knows what they mean... or for that matter... everyone knows what they mean. I actually had to look them up. You have to remember that not all your readers are going to understand this language.
There are some other areas of the book that I found to be distracting also, on page 64 (Kindle Edition) Adam says "I don't know how to pray", I found this to be a ridiculous statement. I could understand someone saying "I don't pray", but for someone to say they don't know how is pretty far-fetched. Everyone at the very least has a vague understanding of how to pray even if they are not religious. The other thing I found to be confusing is why was it that his mother's diary contained dialogue? This seemed very odd to me. I have never kept a diary in my life where I have kept detailed conversations. It's always just been a summary of the days events and how I felt about them. Also, within the diary it's mentioned that his mother lived in Sterling, but went to Stirling University? Should this not have been Sterling University?
So again, I'm sorry I couldn't finish it, but the story wasn't holding my interest and the lack of editing was too much for me. My husband even insisted I stop, he just couldn't listen to me trying to read a phrase out loud to make sense of it any longer.
All that said, I do think that there's some hidden talent there. I have never written a novel or even thought about it, so kudos to you. If you're considering your next, I would recommend spending more time on character development, refining the dialogue, making sure your storyline is captivating, and for heaven's sake, make sure you have an editor on your side! Best of luck to you!
Tanzeela, please forgive me, but I couldn't finish the book. I got through 62% of the book and aside from the Prologue, there wasn't anything that was remotely thrilling or suspenseful to me. I felt like this was more of a cultural lesson on Muslims and Pakistanis rather than a story about a young man who is discovering what happened to his mother.
One of the biggest concerns I had when reading this was all of the grammatical errors. There were so many that it really felt as though I was editing the book. Adam is an American, and as such, his dialogue should read like an American. For example, Adam states "What about the place we are going, how safe that is?" As an American we would say "What about the place we are going, how safe is it?" This is just one example, but there were many.
The words "Alhamdulillah" and "Assalamualaikum" are spoken several times throughout the novel, but their meaning is never given. It's as if Adam already knows what they mean... or for that matter... everyone knows what they mean. I actually had to look them up. You have to remember that not all your readers are going to understand this language.
There are some other areas of the book that I found to be distracting also, on page 64 (Kindle Edition) Adam says "I don't know how to pray", I found this to be a ridiculous statement. I could understand someone saying "I don't pray", but for someone to say they don't know how is pretty far-fetched. Everyone at the very least has a vague understanding of how to pray even if they are not religious. The other thing I found to be confusing is why was it that his mother's diary contained dialogue? This seemed very odd to me. I have never kept a diary in my life where I have kept detailed conversations. It's always just been a summary of the days events and how I felt about them. Also, within the diary it's mentioned that his mother lived in Sterling, but went to Stirling University? Should this not have been Sterling University?
So again, I'm sorry I couldn't finish it, but the story wasn't holding my interest and the lack of editing was too much for me. My husband even insisted I stop, he just couldn't listen to me trying to read a phrase out loud to make sense of it any longer.
All that said, I do think that there's some hidden talent there. I have never written a novel or even thought about it, so kudos to you. If you're considering your next, I would recommend spending more time on character development, refining the dialogue, making sure your storyline is captivating, and for heaven's sake, make sure you have an editor on your side! Best of luck to you!
March 27, 2017
Its awesome I loved each and every part of it, the amazing thing is its a thriller yet with lots of adventure and family love. I was confused when it started with a dark setup then it took drastic turns towards brightness, peace and love..
its action pack thriller simply don't want to spoil its suspense... READ IT and enjoy reading...!
its action pack thriller simply don't want to spoil its suspense... READ IT and enjoy reading...!
September 14, 2020
It’s a lovely book with a wonderful story and beautiful characters. Character development was phenomenal. I loved how the protagonists’ stories unfolded and merged. I really enjoyed the scenic description of the northern areas of Pakistan. It was a truly charming book.
June 2, 2023
Last month I won two signed copies by our dear Authors, Hunger by Tanzeela K. Hassan and The Sky We Own by Halima Malik,(Thank you so much) in #pbrcgiveaway competition. I finished HUNGER yesterday and started reading The Sky we Own right after.
SO:
𝗟𝗘𝗧'𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪::::
𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍
by 𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗞 𝗛𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗡
Okay I get it. I'm too late and I'm sorry, sorry that I never pick it up this book early.
It's a story of 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬, 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟, 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥-𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟/𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩.
this was such a beautiful journey from the very first page to the last. I enjoyed everything about this book. and for a debut, I think Author did a great job. To convey such a strong message. I won't complain about the writing as it's her first book.
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐀 𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬."
As we all know, Pakistan's image in the international media has always been tarnished.pakistan has been declared a terrorist country. that's why people are terrified to set their foot in pakistan.They see Pakistan as the epicenter of terrorism. And knwo we that No country in the world is 100% safe. Love that message in this book.
Same with our main character Adam who was terrified by the thought of pakistan, but as soon as he set his foot in, he start getting regret every thought against pakistan.
"𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝. 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐌𝐞𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐦. 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐒𝐋𝐀𝐌."
There are times, however, when we are forcefully separated from our loved ones. Coping with loss can be one of the most difficult things we ever have to do. Everyone copes with the grief differently, and some of us never do. When we lose someone we love, it distorts our universe and our peace, and nothing seems right. There is a future that will never exist and a past that we want to go back to, and we feel like we can’t be further from the present moment and reality. Knowing that the person you love the most is not gone,but rather changed into something we don't understand makes it easier to accept the reality it gives us peace of mind. We know that nothing can bring them back, nothing can undo that happens in life. We have to move forward and accept the change.
"𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬; 𝐭𝐡𝐞��� 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭, 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬."
And MUJAHID, the most sweet, loveable,refreshing, understanding character in this book. I just love his character, he is my favourite.
I can't say much about Adam it will spoil the whole thing for those who haven't read this book yet. It was the most beautiful thing in this whole book. And for this alone I gave this book all the stars ⭐. all I wanna say is that I love this book so much, it's short, fast paced, page Turner and I finished it in one sitting. Please read it.
To be honest I wanted this book a bit longer maybe a 100 pages more. For a better character development (I don't have complaints about the characters). I really enjoyed it.
I would like to thanks the Author for highlighting 𝙄𝙎𝙇𝘼𝙈 in this book.
SO:
𝗟𝗘𝗧'𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪::::
𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍
by 𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗞 𝗛𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗡
Okay I get it. I'm too late and I'm sorry, sorry that I never pick it up this book early.
It's a story of 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬, 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟, 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥-𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟/𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩.
this was such a beautiful journey from the very first page to the last. I enjoyed everything about this book. and for a debut, I think Author did a great job. To convey such a strong message. I won't complain about the writing as it's her first book.
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐀 𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬."
As we all know, Pakistan's image in the international media has always been tarnished.pakistan has been declared a terrorist country. that's why people are terrified to set their foot in pakistan.They see Pakistan as the epicenter of terrorism. And knwo we that No country in the world is 100% safe. Love that message in this book.
Same with our main character Adam who was terrified by the thought of pakistan, but as soon as he set his foot in, he start getting regret every thought against pakistan.
"𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝. 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐌𝐞𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐦. 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐒𝐋𝐀𝐌."
There are times, however, when we are forcefully separated from our loved ones. Coping with loss can be one of the most difficult things we ever have to do. Everyone copes with the grief differently, and some of us never do. When we lose someone we love, it distorts our universe and our peace, and nothing seems right. There is a future that will never exist and a past that we want to go back to, and we feel like we can’t be further from the present moment and reality. Knowing that the person you love the most is not gone,but rather changed into something we don't understand makes it easier to accept the reality it gives us peace of mind. We know that nothing can bring them back, nothing can undo that happens in life. We have to move forward and accept the change.
"𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬; 𝐭𝐡𝐞��� 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭, 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬."
And MUJAHID, the most sweet, loveable,refreshing, understanding character in this book. I just love his character, he is my favourite.
I can't say much about Adam it will spoil the whole thing for those who haven't read this book yet. It was the most beautiful thing in this whole book. And for this alone I gave this book all the stars ⭐. all I wanna say is that I love this book so much, it's short, fast paced, page Turner and I finished it in one sitting. Please read it.
To be honest I wanted this book a bit longer maybe a 100 pages more. For a better character development (I don't have complaints about the characters). I really enjoyed it.
I would like to thanks the Author for highlighting 𝙄𝙎𝙇𝘼𝙈 in this book.
July 16, 2017
BOOK REVIEW OF- hunger: A thrilling suspense
By- TANZEELA K. HASSAN
• Paperback: 136 pages
• Publisher: Create Space Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (March 17, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1544673191
• ISBN-13: 978-1544673196
THE PLOT IN BRIEF-
Adam was arrogant and egocentric New Yorker. He loved to live alone and cherished his life a lot. No boundaries. No limitations. No one to answer to. Yet he felt hollow. There was something missing from his life, and the insatiable hunger was killing him. Then came the day that changed everything. Adam received a suspect able letter from his grandmother in Pakistan, requesting him to visit her, offering him to learn about his late parents. She was his only family he had left, though he never knew anything about her before then. Will he fulfil her wish? What will happen if he does? Will he be able to fulfil his Hunger? Iman was dejected by her life. Yet she wanted to try hard to save her marriage, Deal with such situations positively was her one way ticket to happiness. Will she be able to cope with the hardships of her new life? The BOOK deals with lots of thrilling suspense mixed together with the most adventurous expedition that one could ever enjoy. So the readers looking for realistic thriller with lots of suspense here's your chance
THE TITLE-
For the last several days I've had the sudden and general urge to buy a new book. I've stopped off at a few bookstores around the city, and while I've looked at hundreds and hundreds of books in that time, I have not found the one book that will satisfy my urge. It's not as if I don't have anything to read; there's a tower of perfectly good unread books next to my bed, not to mention the shelves of books in the living room I've been meaning to reread. I find myself, maddeningly, hungry for the next one, as yet unknown. I no longer try to analyze this hunger; I capitulated long ago to the book lust that's afflicted me most of my life. I know enough about the course of the disease to know I'll discover something soon. That’s hunger all about. The title itself gives us a prologue of the suspense with adventure. The author has very beautifully portrayed the title giving us a hint of creativity and at the same time suspense. Creativity is paradoxical. To create, a person must have knowledge but forget the knowledge, must see unexpected connections in things but not have a mental disorder, must work hard but spend time doing nothing as information incubates, must create many ideas yet most of them are useless, must look at the same thing as everyone else, yet see something different, must desire success but embrace failure, must be persistent but not stubborn, and must listen to experts but know how to disregard them.
REVIEW OF THE BOOK-
I have managed not to finish certain books. With barely a twinge of conscience, I hurl down what bores me or doesn't give what I crave: ecstasy, transcendence, a thrill of mysterious connection. For, more than anything else, readers are thrill-seekers, though I don't read thrillers, not the kind sold under that label, anyway. They don't thrill; only language thrills. yes it’s true that The only life worth living is the adventurous life. Of such a life the dominant characteristic is that it is unafraid. It is unafraid of what other people think. It does not adapt either its pace or its objectives to the pace and objectives of its neighbours. It thinks its own thoughts; it reads its own books. It develops its own hobbies, and it is governed by its own conscience. The herd may graze where it pleases or stampede where it pleases, but he who lives the adventurous life will remain unafraid when he finds himself alone. I really loved the atmosphere which the author creates using Adam as the catalyst. To err is to wander and wandering is the way we discover the world and lost in thought it is the also the way we discover ourselves. Being right might be gratifying but in the end it is static a mere statement. Being wrong is hard and humbling and sometimes even dangerous but in the end it is a journey and a story. Who really wants to stay at home and be right when you can don your armor spring up on your steed and go forth to explore the world True you might get lost along get stranded in a swamp have a scare at the edge of a cliff thieves might steal your gold brigands might imprison you in a cave sorcerers might turn you into a toad but what of what To mess up is to find adventure: it is in the spirit that this book is written.
Another element portrayed throughout the plot is Mystery. Our ignorance can be divided into problems and mysteries. When we face a problem, we may not know its solution, but we have insight, increasing knowledge, and an inkling of what we are looking for. When we face a mystery, however, we can only stare in wonder and bewilderment, not knowing what an explanation would even look like. I had read somewhere that Fasting from any nourishment, activity, involvement or pursuit—for any season—sets the stage for God to appear. Fasting is not a tool to pry wisdom out of God's hands or to force needed insight about a decision. Fasting is not a tool for gaining discipline or developing piety (whatever that might be). Instead, fasting is the bulimic act of ridding ourselves of our fullness to attune our senses to the mysteries that swirl in and around us.
Excepting a few editing errors I loved the plot and the sense of adventure amalgamated with thrill in it.
RATINGS-
Overall I would like to rate the book 45 on a scale of 50.
4 stars out of 5
1. Originality of the plot and sub plots- 9/10
2. Net emotions in the story- 9/10
3. Usage of words and phrases-8/10
4. The title, cover and the illustration-10/10
5. The net impact on the readers- 9/10
KUDOS TO TANZEELA K. HASSAN - It was really a beautiful plot.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tanzeela k. Hassan, is an emerging Pakistani novelist. After finishing her Postgraduate degree in Foods and Nutrition with a baby in her hands, she's now a mother of four and currently a stay-at-home manager. Art is in her blood, from her parents to her siblings each and every being in her family excels in some kind of art. When asked about how she developed a her taste for writing, she replied, “Our father, who's an artists turned writer himself, encouraged us to take our sketchbooks and notepads wherever we travelled and to make important notes of our travel details, as well as to sketch scenes along our way. He would then encourage us to write something on our trip, saying that we should use all our experiences to increase our creativity.” Being a citizen of a third world country. She finds it her duty to let the world know about the positivity and beauty her native country possess. Her upcoming projects includes her very first Travelogue across Pakistan, RoadTrip.pk to be published at amazon, a humor story, Her Jinn for a webazine and not to mention a sequel to Hunger, KHAN - A Mujahid khan Thriller.
Reviewed by-
Sayan Basak
Kolkata
By- TANZEELA K. HASSAN
• Paperback: 136 pages
• Publisher: Create Space Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (March 17, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1544673191
• ISBN-13: 978-1544673196
THE PLOT IN BRIEF-
Adam was arrogant and egocentric New Yorker. He loved to live alone and cherished his life a lot. No boundaries. No limitations. No one to answer to. Yet he felt hollow. There was something missing from his life, and the insatiable hunger was killing him. Then came the day that changed everything. Adam received a suspect able letter from his grandmother in Pakistan, requesting him to visit her, offering him to learn about his late parents. She was his only family he had left, though he never knew anything about her before then. Will he fulfil her wish? What will happen if he does? Will he be able to fulfil his Hunger? Iman was dejected by her life. Yet she wanted to try hard to save her marriage, Deal with such situations positively was her one way ticket to happiness. Will she be able to cope with the hardships of her new life? The BOOK deals with lots of thrilling suspense mixed together with the most adventurous expedition that one could ever enjoy. So the readers looking for realistic thriller with lots of suspense here's your chance
THE TITLE-
For the last several days I've had the sudden and general urge to buy a new book. I've stopped off at a few bookstores around the city, and while I've looked at hundreds and hundreds of books in that time, I have not found the one book that will satisfy my urge. It's not as if I don't have anything to read; there's a tower of perfectly good unread books next to my bed, not to mention the shelves of books in the living room I've been meaning to reread. I find myself, maddeningly, hungry for the next one, as yet unknown. I no longer try to analyze this hunger; I capitulated long ago to the book lust that's afflicted me most of my life. I know enough about the course of the disease to know I'll discover something soon. That’s hunger all about. The title itself gives us a prologue of the suspense with adventure. The author has very beautifully portrayed the title giving us a hint of creativity and at the same time suspense. Creativity is paradoxical. To create, a person must have knowledge but forget the knowledge, must see unexpected connections in things but not have a mental disorder, must work hard but spend time doing nothing as information incubates, must create many ideas yet most of them are useless, must look at the same thing as everyone else, yet see something different, must desire success but embrace failure, must be persistent but not stubborn, and must listen to experts but know how to disregard them.
REVIEW OF THE BOOK-
I have managed not to finish certain books. With barely a twinge of conscience, I hurl down what bores me or doesn't give what I crave: ecstasy, transcendence, a thrill of mysterious connection. For, more than anything else, readers are thrill-seekers, though I don't read thrillers, not the kind sold under that label, anyway. They don't thrill; only language thrills. yes it’s true that The only life worth living is the adventurous life. Of such a life the dominant characteristic is that it is unafraid. It is unafraid of what other people think. It does not adapt either its pace or its objectives to the pace and objectives of its neighbours. It thinks its own thoughts; it reads its own books. It develops its own hobbies, and it is governed by its own conscience. The herd may graze where it pleases or stampede where it pleases, but he who lives the adventurous life will remain unafraid when he finds himself alone. I really loved the atmosphere which the author creates using Adam as the catalyst. To err is to wander and wandering is the way we discover the world and lost in thought it is the also the way we discover ourselves. Being right might be gratifying but in the end it is static a mere statement. Being wrong is hard and humbling and sometimes even dangerous but in the end it is a journey and a story. Who really wants to stay at home and be right when you can don your armor spring up on your steed and go forth to explore the world True you might get lost along get stranded in a swamp have a scare at the edge of a cliff thieves might steal your gold brigands might imprison you in a cave sorcerers might turn you into a toad but what of what To mess up is to find adventure: it is in the spirit that this book is written.
Another element portrayed throughout the plot is Mystery. Our ignorance can be divided into problems and mysteries. When we face a problem, we may not know its solution, but we have insight, increasing knowledge, and an inkling of what we are looking for. When we face a mystery, however, we can only stare in wonder and bewilderment, not knowing what an explanation would even look like. I had read somewhere that Fasting from any nourishment, activity, involvement or pursuit—for any season—sets the stage for God to appear. Fasting is not a tool to pry wisdom out of God's hands or to force needed insight about a decision. Fasting is not a tool for gaining discipline or developing piety (whatever that might be). Instead, fasting is the bulimic act of ridding ourselves of our fullness to attune our senses to the mysteries that swirl in and around us.
Excepting a few editing errors I loved the plot and the sense of adventure amalgamated with thrill in it.
RATINGS-
Overall I would like to rate the book 45 on a scale of 50.
4 stars out of 5
1. Originality of the plot and sub plots- 9/10
2. Net emotions in the story- 9/10
3. Usage of words and phrases-8/10
4. The title, cover and the illustration-10/10
5. The net impact on the readers- 9/10
KUDOS TO TANZEELA K. HASSAN - It was really a beautiful plot.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tanzeela k. Hassan, is an emerging Pakistani novelist. After finishing her Postgraduate degree in Foods and Nutrition with a baby in her hands, she's now a mother of four and currently a stay-at-home manager. Art is in her blood, from her parents to her siblings each and every being in her family excels in some kind of art. When asked about how she developed a her taste for writing, she replied, “Our father, who's an artists turned writer himself, encouraged us to take our sketchbooks and notepads wherever we travelled and to make important notes of our travel details, as well as to sketch scenes along our way. He would then encourage us to write something on our trip, saying that we should use all our experiences to increase our creativity.” Being a citizen of a third world country. She finds it her duty to let the world know about the positivity and beauty her native country possess. Her upcoming projects includes her very first Travelogue across Pakistan, RoadTrip.pk to be published at amazon, a humor story, Her Jinn for a webazine and not to mention a sequel to Hunger, KHAN - A Mujahid khan Thriller.
Reviewed by-
Sayan Basak
Kolkata
August 3, 2020
What a wonderful read this book was. The author has such a wonderful way of describing the sceneries and characters that one cannot help but get mesmerized. Each character was beautifully written and the intricate details with which the author has described the beauty of Northern Pakistan and Islam is commendable. I was sucked right into this book from the very first page, this book is a mixture of happiness and sorrow, light and darkness. This book has mystery, suspense and lots of family love one cannot help but smile while reading it. Each and every character felt real. I really loved Adam's journey to fulfill his spiritual hunger. The character of Maxwell was pure genius. I felt for him, he just needed the right kind of help which sadly, he never got. The way the author has described his past was amazing. And Iman, I could feel her pain, author has described her pain so beautifully and I am so glad that she found her happiness. Even the supporting characters were written really well, so charming and full of life. The pacing of this book was perfect, not slow and not to fast. This book was a beautiful journey and I am so glad that I read it. Hidden gem for sure.
August 5, 2020
Thrilling story with twists and turns keeping the reader engaged to keep turning the pages. I have been reading non-fiction books for a number of
years now. When I was recommended this book, I was skeptical about reading a thriller after a long time but I decided to put myself to test with the genre change. For extra precaution, I thought of taking my paperback on the upcoming flight with me. When I have nothing to do, I would somehow push myself to finish it even if I didn’t like it.
When I picked it up 3 days before my trip just to have a quick scan of the first few pages, I was hooked. Amazingly, I ended up finishing it in a few hours.
I found the language a bit weak at a few places but the plot and the story were so well-put and well-paced that I couldn’t stop reading. For that matter, I have given it 5 stars. It will interest some-one who is interested in other faiths, multi-race and multi-cultural stories and knowing more about Pakistan. Already dreaming about the next book filled with Mujahid’s adventures.
years now. When I was recommended this book, I was skeptical about reading a thriller after a long time but I decided to put myself to test with the genre change. For extra precaution, I thought of taking my paperback on the upcoming flight with me. When I have nothing to do, I would somehow push myself to finish it even if I didn’t like it.
When I picked it up 3 days before my trip just to have a quick scan of the first few pages, I was hooked. Amazingly, I ended up finishing it in a few hours.
I found the language a bit weak at a few places but the plot and the story were so well-put and well-paced that I couldn’t stop reading. For that matter, I have given it 5 stars. It will interest some-one who is interested in other faiths, multi-race and multi-cultural stories and knowing more about Pakistan. Already dreaming about the next book filled with Mujahid’s adventures.
August 25, 2018
It is the most interesting job to read a book that pulls you in from the very start. A book that has a good lot of suspense mixed with an equivalent amount of thriller. The author has done quite a praiseworthy task regarding thriller and mystery.
From the very first scene, I was hooked. I wanted to find out what was going on, what were the connections in between and what actually led to it happening. You can predict how much intrigued I was when I tell you that I forgot there was something such as 'sleep' and finished the book in about three hours.
I loved the author's writing style and the way she described the beauty of Gilgit. The description was so breathtakingly beautiful that I could actually see it all in my imagination! I could feel myself in the book, watching Adam and the others! Wow! I love how this book made me feel! Such a good read it is!
From the very first scene, I was hooked. I wanted to find out what was going on, what were the connections in between and what actually led to it happening. You can predict how much intrigued I was when I tell you that I forgot there was something such as 'sleep' and finished the book in about three hours.
I loved the author's writing style and the way she described the beauty of Gilgit. The description was so breathtakingly beautiful that I could actually see it all in my imagination! I could feel myself in the book, watching Adam and the others! Wow! I love how this book made me feel! Such a good read it is!
July 12, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this masterpiece, a thriller, The Hunger. With loads of twists and turns in the story / plot, you will be unable to put it down before you finish it. Characters sounded too real for a piece of fiction. The setting - the place was being painted in my mind as if I was watching a movie. I would love to visit Gilgit-Baltistan someday in near future. The story and the ideas behind the story were great. I believe the media has brainwashed millions of brains against Muslims and Pakistanis, and this novel is good in the sense that it clarifies many of the misconceptions people have about Islam and Pakistan. I totally recommend reading it!
Want to Read
May 5, 2017Oh my god I'm dying just reading this blurb. Just slowly slowly dying while also laughing hysterically because the cliches! the cheesiness! It's all just SO BAD. Oh my god I can't wait to read this book. I await that moment with equal parts dread and glee.
June 17, 2017
It was the first chapter that spiked my curiosity for the book .I thought I will finish it no time but the more I read it the charm started fading .The pace it started just went flat for me .Writer has the potential to do great .Looking for amazing read from her next .
Read
February 24, 2019Everything was on point. So obviously loved it. Recommended. I might read it some time again soon. A fan! Can I have your autograph please?
Please do advice me more stories like these to read. Keep writing! And inspiring! More power to you! R u sure this is your first though?
Please do advice me more stories like these to read. Keep writing! And inspiring! More power to you! R u sure this is your first though?
July 29, 2020
This book is so good. All those places described are as if you're already there experiencing the beauty, the suspense is really good as it keeps you turning the pages, and how it makes you anxious when you reach the end and can't wait to see what happens. It's very good! I loved it!
August 24, 2018
A unique thriller that takes you on a voyage you'll never forget!
September 6, 2018
Nice Book! Loved the story and characters.
December 13, 2019
Pulls you in right from the start. A very interesting read. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 26, 2022
📚 Name: 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍
📚Author's Name: 𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗞 𝗛𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗡
📚Number of Pages: 265
📚Genre: Spiritual Thriller
First of all,tons of gratitude to both PBRC team and the author herself for sending me this book and I'll try to be as honest as I am expected to be while reviewing this debut novel of said Author.
𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 encompasses many themes just in one book. It's about, loss, grief,faith, madness, love and above all spiritual awakening. Adam here is our protagonist who has a rather vague past with many details he himself is not aware of. These details unveil themselves to him one by one and he ends up in a remote village in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Here he meets not ony his only lost family but also finds himself on the path he apparently feared or avoided all his life. Iman on the other hand is caught up in rather complicated circumstances than Adam and finds true happiness in an unexpected and unanticipated way. In between these two characters there is Max, a maniac who has his own agenda solely based on blind hate and Mujahid, an epitome of faith,love and courage.
Now let's start from:
🔴 What I like about the novel.
🇵🇰The Significance of the title:
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐀 𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬."
⭐ 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍⭐ is a very well chosen and well suited title for the book as the novel basically revolves around the huger of three main characters. For Adam, it's the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to find his true self. For Max it is the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to see his shady rather dangerous plan done. For Iman , the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to get rid of constant fear and guilt and live happily again.
🇵🇰Unapologetic Description of the basics of Islam: Mehrem/Namehrem, Parda, Creation of Universe, Prayers etc, Tanzeela explained them with utmost honesty and confidence without unnecessary sugarcoating aur defensive tone.
🇵🇰 Beautiful scenic descriptions of Northern areas of Pakistan especially Gilgit: The descriptions that are provided not only show her love for our homeland but also get really poetic at some points.
For example read this passage:
"Stars winked at him from the endless arch of
black void. In places there were birthstone-blue and beautiful,all the glitter in their heavenly finery. The ones furthest away almost outside the span of human comprehension were like flashing pinpricks in a veil of darkness. They had a faint silver tint."
She should write a travelogue someday, so we can read those descriptions a bit more.
🇵🇰 Characters are very interesting, powerful and vivid especially Mujahid and Iman. The way Mujahid presented Islam to Adam is exactly the way it should be presented to anyone who is interested: in a calm, open and gradual way and especially only upon asking.
🇵🇰 The structure of the story is very strong and well built leaving no loophole or confusion.
🇵🇰Toxic Parenting is aslo a subtopic of this novel. I appriciate Tanzeela to bring it up because it ruins the lives of innocent kids leaving lasting impacts on their personalities,as it did in Maxwell's case. Read what he concludes about life:
"𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬; 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭, 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬."
🔴What I have reservations about:
🇵🇰 The novel seems in kind of a rush. The pace is way too fast that the reader is left with the thirst to know more about the predicaments of certain characters. For example a little account of how Adam's circle in New York took his decision to convert. It could give a picture of how embracing Islam is taken in West and how hard it actually is. Similarly the 7 years jump at the end of the story could've been filled with a few details about Iman and how she got over her remorse over her actions(as justified as they can be). Also the story ended up quite abruptly leaving Max look like a fool at the end(whereas he was portrayed as a skilled criminal throughout the story)and also the heroic intervention of Mujahid seemed too good to be true.
🇵🇰 At many points, story was pretty predictable. I got 3 of my guesses right and one of them was made at first 50 pages.
🇵🇰 Do something about the binding in next edition as well. It's almost impossible to keep the book open without both hands being engaged 🙈
Overall it's a really good book considering that it's Tanzeela's debut novel and it serves a much larger purpose than just a story. It may help many youngsters who want to revive their faith in Islam and also those who want a brief introduction of Islam.
📚Author's Name: 𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗔 𝗞 𝗛𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗡
📚Number of Pages: 265
📚Genre: Spiritual Thriller
First of all,tons of gratitude to both PBRC team and the author herself for sending me this book and I'll try to be as honest as I am expected to be while reviewing this debut novel of said Author.
𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 encompasses many themes just in one book. It's about, loss, grief,faith, madness, love and above all spiritual awakening. Adam here is our protagonist who has a rather vague past with many details he himself is not aware of. These details unveil themselves to him one by one and he ends up in a remote village in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Here he meets not ony his only lost family but also finds himself on the path he apparently feared or avoided all his life. Iman on the other hand is caught up in rather complicated circumstances than Adam and finds true happiness in an unexpected and unanticipated way. In between these two characters there is Max, a maniac who has his own agenda solely based on blind hate and Mujahid, an epitome of faith,love and courage.
Now let's start from:
🔴 What I like about the novel.
🇵🇰The Significance of the title:
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐀 𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬."
⭐ 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍⭐ is a very well chosen and well suited title for the book as the novel basically revolves around the huger of three main characters. For Adam, it's the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to find his true self. For Max it is the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to see his shady rather dangerous plan done. For Iman , the 𝙃𝙐𝙉𝙂𝙀𝙍 to get rid of constant fear and guilt and live happily again.
🇵🇰Unapologetic Description of the basics of Islam: Mehrem/Namehrem, Parda, Creation of Universe, Prayers etc, Tanzeela explained them with utmost honesty and confidence without unnecessary sugarcoating aur defensive tone.
🇵🇰 Beautiful scenic descriptions of Northern areas of Pakistan especially Gilgit: The descriptions that are provided not only show her love for our homeland but also get really poetic at some points.
For example read this passage:
"Stars winked at him from the endless arch of
black void. In places there were birthstone-blue and beautiful,all the glitter in their heavenly finery. The ones furthest away almost outside the span of human comprehension were like flashing pinpricks in a veil of darkness. They had a faint silver tint."
She should write a travelogue someday, so we can read those descriptions a bit more.
🇵🇰 Characters are very interesting, powerful and vivid especially Mujahid and Iman. The way Mujahid presented Islam to Adam is exactly the way it should be presented to anyone who is interested: in a calm, open and gradual way and especially only upon asking.
🇵🇰 The structure of the story is very strong and well built leaving no loophole or confusion.
🇵🇰Toxic Parenting is aslo a subtopic of this novel. I appriciate Tanzeela to bring it up because it ruins the lives of innocent kids leaving lasting impacts on their personalities,as it did in Maxwell's case. Read what he concludes about life:
"𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬; 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭, 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬."
🔴What I have reservations about:
🇵🇰 The novel seems in kind of a rush. The pace is way too fast that the reader is left with the thirst to know more about the predicaments of certain characters. For example a little account of how Adam's circle in New York took his decision to convert. It could give a picture of how embracing Islam is taken in West and how hard it actually is. Similarly the 7 years jump at the end of the story could've been filled with a few details about Iman and how she got over her remorse over her actions(as justified as they can be). Also the story ended up quite abruptly leaving Max look like a fool at the end(whereas he was portrayed as a skilled criminal throughout the story)and also the heroic intervention of Mujahid seemed too good to be true.
🇵🇰 At many points, story was pretty predictable. I got 3 of my guesses right and one of them was made at first 50 pages.
🇵🇰 Do something about the binding in next edition as well. It's almost impossible to keep the book open without both hands being engaged 🙈
Overall it's a really good book considering that it's Tanzeela's debut novel and it serves a much larger purpose than just a story. It may help many youngsters who want to revive their faith in Islam and also those who want a brief introduction of Islam.
January 24, 2023
I was fortunate to receive a copy of Hunger by the author herself, for which I’m very grateful. I’d been seeing posts and reviews for it for quite a few years so reading this one was long overdue. The story follows well-to-do New Yorker Adam Lyons who enters a listless phase of life following the death of his father. Having grown up without a sound moral compass and thrust into a more self-centered life, Adam finds himself a fish out of water when he discovers the truth about his mother which takes him to Gilgit Baltistan in Pakistan. The more time Adam spends in the region with his grandmother, the more he is amazed to know more about not just his mom but also his father who had kept several secrets from his son.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the locales and the journey Adam takes toward discovering his origins both figuratively and literally. His conversations with the different characters such as Mamma and Mujahid Khan show a great deal of camaraderie, rapport, and bonding over common interests. The sights and sounds of the beautiful scenery, exotic locales, and tantalizing cuisine—particularly as I read this in winter—were even more engrossing. There is also a great deal of breaking down stigmas concerning sensitive matters such as faith, self-identity, overcoming depression and loss, and more. The author has also broached the sensitive topic of stigmatization due to Islamophobia which has been tackled with a deft hand.
There are some inconsistencies, though. Firstly, it would have been helpful if the story could have been set in a chronological context. Considering that the story sounds like a lot of time has passed between it and 9/11, it’s hard to imagine how conventional opinions about Muslims and Pakistan would be too narrow-minded now, particularly with social media having provided greater penetration and exposure. Moreover, while the author tried to flesh out the story of Iman, I felt that it should have either been given the right amount of page-time or should have been used more as flashbacks. In the beginning, it felt that both Adam’s and Iman’s stories were moving in lock-step with each other till they both should have converged, but apparently, her story unsatisfyingly fizzles out in between.
Still, it’s a commendable effort from the author and there is room for improvement in terms of storytelling and editing. Hunger is a welcome addition to the #MadeInPakistanBooks and I’d be glad to read more from the author.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the locales and the journey Adam takes toward discovering his origins both figuratively and literally. His conversations with the different characters such as Mamma and Mujahid Khan show a great deal of camaraderie, rapport, and bonding over common interests. The sights and sounds of the beautiful scenery, exotic locales, and tantalizing cuisine—particularly as I read this in winter—were even more engrossing. There is also a great deal of breaking down stigmas concerning sensitive matters such as faith, self-identity, overcoming depression and loss, and more. The author has also broached the sensitive topic of stigmatization due to Islamophobia which has been tackled with a deft hand.
There are some inconsistencies, though. Firstly, it would have been helpful if the story could have been set in a chronological context. Considering that the story sounds like a lot of time has passed between it and 9/11, it’s hard to imagine how conventional opinions about Muslims and Pakistan would be too narrow-minded now, particularly with social media having provided greater penetration and exposure. Moreover, while the author tried to flesh out the story of Iman, I felt that it should have either been given the right amount of page-time or should have been used more as flashbacks. In the beginning, it felt that both Adam’s and Iman’s stories were moving in lock-step with each other till they both should have converged, but apparently, her story unsatisfyingly fizzles out in between.
Still, it’s a commendable effort from the author and there is room for improvement in terms of storytelling and editing. Hunger is a welcome addition to the #MadeInPakistanBooks and I’d be glad to read more from the author.
September 26, 2023
I absolutely love Ms. Hasan’s descriptions of the places and the surroundings that I can visualise as I read. And while I have visited Pakistan’s North and seen the stunning beauty and peace firsthand, I do want to know if the castle of Adam’s grandmother actually exists and if I can visit it too and stay there. The suspense of who Max is and if there is any connection between him and the other characters or not is gripping and so is finding out what exactly was Iman’s husband involved in and about Adam’s parents past. Why his father hid so much about his mother, her family and her faith.
What was a let down for me in Hunger was the pace of the story and dialogues. I feel Hunger could have been a longer novel. The ending few chapters seemed rushed. I want to know what happened in between and how? I want to see more of the journey, the connection developed between Iman and Adam. I loved the side characters of Adam’s grandmother and Mujahid and the friendship that developed between them. Iman’s development, on the other hand, was not given enough attention which was a slight disappointment.
It is also refreshing to see how the author has incorporated our beliefs and values in the story. We may read a lot about other faiths in books but rarely ever about islam and without glossing it over so people won’t feel offended. On the other hand, I also felt lots of things seemed rushed and a person who didn’t know even the basics about these things like Adam might feel confused about the progression of things. While some instances are described beautifully, others things seem vague and left me wanting more.
All in all, I believe Hunger is an excellent start to Tanzeela K. Hasan’s journey as an author. She has the potential to make us feel the world she has created and feel the characters struggle with right and wrong. Hunger is especially recommended for all those who wish to read a clean suspense novel with a refreshing point of view, experience a spiritual journey and learn about one of the most infamous countries, its people and their religion.
What was a let down for me in Hunger was the pace of the story and dialogues. I feel Hunger could have been a longer novel. The ending few chapters seemed rushed. I want to know what happened in between and how? I want to see more of the journey, the connection developed between Iman and Adam. I loved the side characters of Adam’s grandmother and Mujahid and the friendship that developed between them. Iman’s development, on the other hand, was not given enough attention which was a slight disappointment.
It is also refreshing to see how the author has incorporated our beliefs and values in the story. We may read a lot about other faiths in books but rarely ever about islam and without glossing it over so people won’t feel offended. On the other hand, I also felt lots of things seemed rushed and a person who didn’t know even the basics about these things like Adam might feel confused about the progression of things. While some instances are described beautifully, others things seem vague and left me wanting more.
All in all, I believe Hunger is an excellent start to Tanzeela K. Hasan’s journey as an author. She has the potential to make us feel the world she has created and feel the characters struggle with right and wrong. Hunger is especially recommended for all those who wish to read a clean suspense novel with a refreshing point of view, experience a spiritual journey and learn about one of the most infamous countries, its people and their religion.
December 1, 2020
Adam never found out who his mother was or if he has any maternal relation alive until his father dies. That's when he comes to know about his grandmother living in Northern Area of Pakistan through his best friend mark - as his journey to find his roots start, he discovers that we was a born Muslim and he needs to embrace it.
Also, He learns through hidden letters/journal that his mother was murdered right in front of his father by someone he trusted the most.
His story is intertwined with Aimen - a practicing muslim who returned to Pakistan from America with an aching heart and as a widow.
Tanzeela has done a splendid job incorporating beauty of the Religion islam with beauty of Pakistan, making the reader live every moment. It's a quick paced, thrilling story which everyone must read.
Do i recommend this? YAAAAAASS ✌️
Also, He learns through hidden letters/journal that his mother was murdered right in front of his father by someone he trusted the most.
His story is intertwined with Aimen - a practicing muslim who returned to Pakistan from America with an aching heart and as a widow.
Tanzeela has done a splendid job incorporating beauty of the Religion islam with beauty of Pakistan, making the reader live every moment. It's a quick paced, thrilling story which everyone must read.
Do i recommend this? YAAAAAASS ✌️
April 28, 2021
Hunger by Tanzeela.K.Hassan
.
So i received this from the author a month ago and guys she's the sweetest person ever, apart from sending it my way she was kind enought to sign it for me 💐 thankyou again 💫
I wasn't able to finish this earlier due to other commitments but now that i have, here's my review of Hunger by Tanzeela Hassan.
.
The story is based in Newyork and mainly in the beautiful valley of chillas, Gilgit. It's the story of Adam; a fancy architect with a lavish yet empty life, Iman; a kind soul torn between the intimacies and loneliness of Married life and Max; a spirited but vicious soul hell bent on freeing those that are supressed in his opinion. The story explores the Hunger of each character , for Fulfillment , Revenge and Happiness.
The description of the beautiful and picturesque valley of Gilgit in the book, makes you fall in love with the place if you not already are. It's a treat for the ignorant 💫
.
What made it an exciting read was that it starts as any regular story but unexpectedly ends up being a psychological thriller 💯 The flow in passages and the easy language used by the author makes it easier for young readers to understand it and a best read for beginners to start with.
.
So i received this from the author a month ago and guys she's the sweetest person ever, apart from sending it my way she was kind enought to sign it for me 💐 thankyou again 💫
I wasn't able to finish this earlier due to other commitments but now that i have, here's my review of Hunger by Tanzeela Hassan.
.
The story is based in Newyork and mainly in the beautiful valley of chillas, Gilgit. It's the story of Adam; a fancy architect with a lavish yet empty life, Iman; a kind soul torn between the intimacies and loneliness of Married life and Max; a spirited but vicious soul hell bent on freeing those that are supressed in his opinion. The story explores the Hunger of each character , for Fulfillment , Revenge and Happiness.
The description of the beautiful and picturesque valley of Gilgit in the book, makes you fall in love with the place if you not already are. It's a treat for the ignorant 💫
.
What made it an exciting read was that it starts as any regular story but unexpectedly ends up being a psychological thriller 💯 The flow in passages and the easy language used by the author makes it easier for young readers to understand it and a best read for beginners to start with.
October 9, 2019
Fascinating ,Distinct deliverance !
May 19, 2022
Awesome book!
Really loved it
Highly Recommended !
Its a very excellent book!!
Really loved it
Highly Recommended !
Its a very excellent book!!
June 26, 2023
i really loved the book and how it was set in Pakistan. makes me feel proud of my country even more.
March 15, 2019
I loved this book because of the fact that I never read a novel from a Pakistani who used foreign setting so artfully that never for a second I felt out of place. I read this book in three sittings a while back and this review is overdue. The book was a riveting read, a real page-turner and that is not an exaggeration, trust me! I was highly engrossed in it since the beginning. The plot and sub-plot and the character development were very well thought-out and intricately designed. The story was well-connected without any open ends though the plot was very complex. The main Protagonists Adam and Iman had parallel worlds in the first quarter of the book. It accelerated my curiosity and busied my mind in connecting the two; finding how could they bump into each other if they ever would? I had lot of nagging questions at that point which could only be answered by delving more into the story.
That Max character, is expertly portrayed as a psychopath. I have profound interest in knowing psychopaths and criminal mindset. The Author didn’t miss a shade in painting the real picture of a psychopath. His transformation into a convict and those merciless killings by his hands give you a passage to enter and observe a psychopath’s mind from a close proximity.
The character of Mujahid was rich and well-aligned with the persona of a modern day Muslim but he failed to catch my interest as compared to Adam.
The ending was shocking and emotional and contained a very strong message for every Muslim.
Parts I enjoyed reading the most which touched me deeply and left me teary-eyed and flabbergasted were: the story of Adam’s parents; his mother’s account of her days and the ending scene when Adam’s world was about to be blown into pieces and how he responded to it.
The writer should work a bit on grammar and vocabulary, rest it was a masterpiece.
That Max character, is expertly portrayed as a psychopath. I have profound interest in knowing psychopaths and criminal mindset. The Author didn’t miss a shade in painting the real picture of a psychopath. His transformation into a convict and those merciless killings by his hands give you a passage to enter and observe a psychopath’s mind from a close proximity.
The character of Mujahid was rich and well-aligned with the persona of a modern day Muslim but he failed to catch my interest as compared to Adam.
The ending was shocking and emotional and contained a very strong message for every Muslim.
Parts I enjoyed reading the most which touched me deeply and left me teary-eyed and flabbergasted were: the story of Adam’s parents; his mother’s account of her days and the ending scene when Adam’s world was about to be blown into pieces and how he responded to it.
The writer should work a bit on grammar and vocabulary, rest it was a masterpiece.
August 30, 2024
Book Review: Hunger
Author: Tanzeela K. Hassan, is an emerging Pakistani novelist. After finishing her Postgraduate degree in Foods and Nutrition with a baby in her hands, she's now a mother of four and a stay-at-home manager.
Genre: Thriller and Suspense
Publication Date: July 25, 2020
Publisher: Thazbooks
Review:
The story of Hunger is based on Fulfillment, Revenge, and Happiness in the magnificent valley of Chillas, Gilgit. Adam Lyons; is a fancy architect with a lavish yet empty life. Iman; caught between the sanctity of her marriage and the malevolent grip of Max, Iman struggled with an inner turmoil that threatened to consume her. The author, Tanzeela K. Hassan has rectified the misperception among foreigners that Pakistan is not associated with terrorism nor does it condone terrorist activities.I appreciate this because, as you're aware, many foreigners believe that visiting Pakistan entails not returning alive to their homeland, a misconception I find perplexing. I not only cherish this aspect, but the author has also elucidated the splendour of Islam. Well, there are some inaccuracies, or might say it contains some grammatical errors like; as you that Adam is American and the dialogue should go "What about the place we are going, how safe is it?" but it went something like this "What about the place we are going, how safe that is?” Another error is that the words "Alhamdulillah" and "Assalamualaikum" are recurrent throughout the novel yet their meaning are never elucidated that not all your readers will comprehend this language. Overall the plot and the story went smoothly and I would like to rate this book 6 stars and recommend it to read as this book depicts the beauty of Islam, the beauty of the Valley of Chillas, Gilgit and more.
Review by: Sharmeen Javed (@pages_sharmeen)
Author: Tanzeela K. Hassan, is an emerging Pakistani novelist. After finishing her Postgraduate degree in Foods and Nutrition with a baby in her hands, she's now a mother of four and a stay-at-home manager.
Genre: Thriller and Suspense
Publication Date: July 25, 2020
Publisher: Thazbooks
Review:
The story of Hunger is based on Fulfillment, Revenge, and Happiness in the magnificent valley of Chillas, Gilgit. Adam Lyons; is a fancy architect with a lavish yet empty life. Iman; caught between the sanctity of her marriage and the malevolent grip of Max, Iman struggled with an inner turmoil that threatened to consume her. The author, Tanzeela K. Hassan has rectified the misperception among foreigners that Pakistan is not associated with terrorism nor does it condone terrorist activities.I appreciate this because, as you're aware, many foreigners believe that visiting Pakistan entails not returning alive to their homeland, a misconception I find perplexing. I not only cherish this aspect, but the author has also elucidated the splendour of Islam. Well, there are some inaccuracies, or might say it contains some grammatical errors like; as you that Adam is American and the dialogue should go "What about the place we are going, how safe is it?" but it went something like this "What about the place we are going, how safe that is?” Another error is that the words "Alhamdulillah" and "Assalamualaikum" are recurrent throughout the novel yet their meaning are never elucidated that not all your readers will comprehend this language. Overall the plot and the story went smoothly and I would like to rate this book 6 stars and recommend it to read as this book depicts the beauty of Islam, the beauty of the Valley of Chillas, Gilgit and more.
Review by: Sharmeen Javed (@pages_sharmeen)
June 9, 2019
Virulently homophobic, transphobic, and queer-phobic writer. Please avoid.
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