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Chasing 33%
Did you hate the Board exams too? Yes, that struggle was REAL!
Two sixteen-year-old boys are all set to take on their board exams. Set in the lush greenery of the 1990’s Assam, this walk down the nostalgic lane is replete with references to the teenage years of any kid, tongue-in-cheek humor and laugh-out-loud moments. The narrative transports you to your own teenage years as you look back fondly reminisce on your own journey.
The boys are different – average in science and maths, but with their own equations for life, spirited yet sensitive, with a thousand questions and sassy answers.
Rendered through the eyes of a young lad who couldn’t be bothered by the rat race, Chasing the dreaded 33% is sure to leave you smiling and laughing your gut out with the writer’s wry sense of humor!
This book is a beautiful reminder that life is far more than just numbers that are ascribed to you after testing your memory against unfair standards.
Two sixteen-year-old boys are all set to take on their board exams. Set in the lush greenery of the 1990’s Assam, this walk down the nostalgic lane is replete with references to the teenage years of any kid, tongue-in-cheek humor and laugh-out-loud moments. The narrative transports you to your own teenage years as you look back fondly reminisce on your own journey.
The boys are different – average in science and maths, but with their own equations for life, spirited yet sensitive, with a thousand questions and sassy answers.
Rendered through the eyes of a young lad who couldn’t be bothered by the rat race, Chasing the dreaded 33% is sure to leave you smiling and laughing your gut out with the writer’s wry sense of humor!
This book is a beautiful reminder that life is far more than just numbers that are ascribed to you after testing your memory against unfair standards.
190 pages, Paperback
Published March 18, 2017
3 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 25, 2020
An entertaining read. Set in Assam, the books takes you through the life of a teen student and his battles needed to scrap through tenth boards with bare minimum marks. End of the day, marks aren't the only important things in life.. Live life to the fullest is the bottom line of this book.. 👍
May 9, 2017
Chasing 33% is a book which highlights the main struggle of any Indian teenager - the most horrific Board Examinations. The author takes a very witty take on the board examinations, the prevalent education system and the creativity killer that it has now turned into. Told as a story of 3 teenagers, the book is equal parts funny and thought-provoking.
Read the full review here - http://www.bookgeeks.in/chasing-33-ji...
Read the full review here - http://www.bookgeeks.in/chasing-33-ji...
July 28, 2024
"Chasing 33%" by Jitendra Jain presents itself as a nostalgic journey through the tumultuous teenage years, set against the backdrop of 1990s Assam. Despite the attempts of the author to embrace certain non-seriousness in the narration accompanied by philosophical musings on teenage years, it seems that sometimes it is not all that successful.
The main protagonist – the author did not give it a name, although they probably should have – a precocious yet indifferent student, embodies the quintessential struggle of youth caught in the relentless pursuit of scholastic validation. His refusal to be subsumed by the rat race is not only refreshing but also serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and curiosity innate in youthful exuberance.
The humor, touted as a highlight, sometimes feels contrived rather than organic. Observing the scenes intended as comical, the audience is able to announce stereotypical jokes and situational humor, which could be explained by a specific group of people familiar with cultural and regional references in the state of Assam in the 1990s. To other readers who do not belong to this certain kind of community or context, it could look like the humor is very specific, insular or even immodest and inaccessible.
The character dynamics, particularly the depiction of friendships—especially the dynamics between the protagonist and his two close confidants, Maggie and Swadhin—underscores the thematic emphasis on solidarity and the shared ordeal of adolescence. Maggie's earnestness juxtaposed with Swadhin's cavalier disposition provides a rich tapestry of character interactions, rendering the narrative both dynamic and resonant.
The author effectively used his linguistic hold and word power to paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. The narrative's tendency towards verbose descriptions occasionally detracts from the pacing, slowing down what should be moments of heightened tension or emotional resonance.
The ending of the book does not contain a climactic finale that is typical for the books of the genre, and it once again emphasizes that the most essential lessons in the life are not as strict as the lessons in the school. The author's writing is clear and elegant, but there is an ugly beauty to reminiscence and this book made me feel every bit of it while reading it and if like me the reader has survived their teenage years then this book is truly for them. Last but not least the book does not lack those moments of genuine self contemplation and a few episodes of teenage turmoil as it were, though those are not as deep as one might have thought.
In conclusion, it is psychologically funny and thought-provoking at times but unconvincing with its attempt to develop a cohesive and dramatic plot that would encapsulate its theme. It is an indispensable read for those seeking to relive the heady days of adolescence, replete with its attendant trials and triumphs.
The main protagonist – the author did not give it a name, although they probably should have – a precocious yet indifferent student, embodies the quintessential struggle of youth caught in the relentless pursuit of scholastic validation. His refusal to be subsumed by the rat race is not only refreshing but also serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and curiosity innate in youthful exuberance.
The humor, touted as a highlight, sometimes feels contrived rather than organic. Observing the scenes intended as comical, the audience is able to announce stereotypical jokes and situational humor, which could be explained by a specific group of people familiar with cultural and regional references in the state of Assam in the 1990s. To other readers who do not belong to this certain kind of community or context, it could look like the humor is very specific, insular or even immodest and inaccessible.
The character dynamics, particularly the depiction of friendships—especially the dynamics between the protagonist and his two close confidants, Maggie and Swadhin—underscores the thematic emphasis on solidarity and the shared ordeal of adolescence. Maggie's earnestness juxtaposed with Swadhin's cavalier disposition provides a rich tapestry of character interactions, rendering the narrative both dynamic and resonant.
The author effectively used his linguistic hold and word power to paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. The narrative's tendency towards verbose descriptions occasionally detracts from the pacing, slowing down what should be moments of heightened tension or emotional resonance.
The ending of the book does not contain a climactic finale that is typical for the books of the genre, and it once again emphasizes that the most essential lessons in the life are not as strict as the lessons in the school. The author's writing is clear and elegant, but there is an ugly beauty to reminiscence and this book made me feel every bit of it while reading it and if like me the reader has survived their teenage years then this book is truly for them. Last but not least the book does not lack those moments of genuine self contemplation and a few episodes of teenage turmoil as it were, though those are not as deep as one might have thought.
In conclusion, it is psychologically funny and thought-provoking at times but unconvincing with its attempt to develop a cohesive and dramatic plot that would encapsulate its theme. It is an indispensable read for those seeking to relive the heady days of adolescence, replete with its attendant trials and triumphs.
September 8, 2024
From the moment I started reading Chasing 33%, I was transported back to my own school days! Set against the beautiful backdrop of 1990s Assam, this story of two teens navigating their board exams is both nostalgic and refreshing. The plot follows their lighthearted yet nerve-wracking journey, filled with hilarious moments and a relatable struggle to just scrape by with 33%. The tongue-in-cheek humor makes it an enjoyable, quick read!
Jitendra Jain's writing style is witty and engaging, perfectly capturing the essence of teenage life. The boys, though average in school subjects, bring their own brand of smarts to life’s challenges. The book explores themes of stress, expectations, and the importance of not defining yourself by numbers alone. It’s a reminder that exams aren’t everything, but the experiences and memories we make along the way certainly are.
Personally, I loved the nostalgic vibe and the humor that kept me laughing throughout. Jain masterfully combines a coming-of-age story with important messages about self-worth and life’s bigger picture. A perfect read for anyone who’s ever struggled with school or simply loves to reminisce about their teenage years!
Jitendra Jain's writing style is witty and engaging, perfectly capturing the essence of teenage life. The boys, though average in school subjects, bring their own brand of smarts to life’s challenges. The book explores themes of stress, expectations, and the importance of not defining yourself by numbers alone. It’s a reminder that exams aren’t everything, but the experiences and memories we make along the way certainly are.
Personally, I loved the nostalgic vibe and the humor that kept me laughing throughout. Jain masterfully combines a coming-of-age story with important messages about self-worth and life’s bigger picture. A perfect read for anyone who’s ever struggled with school or simply loves to reminisce about their teenage years!
June 18, 2024
"Chasing 33%" is seriously a trip down memory lane! It dives into the chaos of board exams and teenage life in such a relatable way. The humor in the book is so on point; it had me laughing out loud and nodding along with the characters' antics. The nostalgic vibes are strong in this one, making it a delightful read for anyone who's been through the rollercoaster of adolescence. You gonna love the ending of this book for sure.
What I loved most is how it subtly reminds us that life's about more than just the grades and pressures we faced back then. It's a fun and light-hearted book that packs a punch with its insights and reflections on growing up. If you're looking for a book that entertains while tugging at your heartstrings with its relatability, "Chasing 33%" is definitely the one to pick up. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
What I loved most is how it subtly reminds us that life's about more than just the grades and pressures we faced back then. It's a fun and light-hearted book that packs a punch with its insights and reflections on growing up. If you're looking for a book that entertains while tugging at your heartstrings with its relatability, "Chasing 33%" is definitely the one to pick up. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
July 15, 2017
Chasing 33% - a must read for millennial and generation X
What a phenomenal read this book is!! I have just finished reading the book twice, and am still overwhelmed by it. I love Jitendra’ s ability to connect with his reader, his simple language flow just grips you. Living here in HK, miles away from home, every chapter, every paragraph took me back to my childhood/school days. A must read for generation X and millennial born in 80’s and 90’s especially in tier II/III cities. In a very witty way, Jitendra highlights pit fall of our education system. As many of us become parents after going through the education systems of those time (I hope it continues to evolve), a lot to learn as we raise our kids. Curiously waiting for next book….A must read this summer.
What a phenomenal read this book is!! I have just finished reading the book twice, and am still overwhelmed by it. I love Jitendra’ s ability to connect with his reader, his simple language flow just grips you. Living here in HK, miles away from home, every chapter, every paragraph took me back to my childhood/school days. A must read for generation X and millennial born in 80’s and 90’s especially in tier II/III cities. In a very witty way, Jitendra highlights pit fall of our education system. As many of us become parents after going through the education systems of those time (I hope it continues to evolve), a lot to learn as we raise our kids. Curiously waiting for next book….A must read this summer.
August 19, 2023
A recounting of a teenage boy about his life and the days of his ongoing board examination. The story is funny along with a witty banter which finds you laughing every now and then. I love how the teenager was viewing the world in an eccentric way while pissing off the people with the questions on conventionality which lands him in trouble with his teachers,friends and family members very often than not.
The narration has a lighter tone to it, which makes the reading pace as smooth as possible and you won't find the pace getting low or be bored anywhere in the book. It would be a good pick for anyone looking for a smooth read or to get out of a reading slump.
The narration has a lighter tone to it, which makes the reading pace as smooth as possible and you won't find the pace getting low or be bored anywhere in the book. It would be a good pick for anyone looking for a smooth read or to get out of a reading slump.
May 11, 2023
Bought the book at the airport as it seemed easy to read. It's quite an hilarious and enjoyable read. Though I feel it did end rather abruptly and I would have liked some closure to the protagonist's story. I guess the author was going for an end similar to 'The Catcher in The Rye'. Still I quite enjoyed this book and I give it 3.5/5 stars.
March 3, 2020
Average
Poorly written, didn't like much, not very engaging. I have no idea how so many positive reviews came up, you may like this book if you're already Bhagat's fan or something but definitely not otherwise.
Poorly written, didn't like much, not very engaging. I have no idea how so many positive reviews came up, you may like this book if you're already Bhagat's fan or something but definitely not otherwise.
September 18, 2020
Not up to the mark....quite unsatisfied with the story and it could have a better ending.
May 8, 2023
Cute!
September 13, 2024
• 𝕭𝖔𝖔𝖐 𝕽𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 •
In Chasing 33%, Jitendra Jain masterfully crafts a nostalgic narrative that whisks readers back to the angst-filled corridors of adolescence. Set against the lush backdrop of 1990s Assam, this coming-of-age tale follows two sixteen-year-old boys as they grapple with the pressures of board exams and the search for self.
With wit and humor, the author expertly captures the turbulent landscape of teenagehood, replete with tongue-in-cheek references and laugh-out-loud moments. The characters are skillfully etched, embodying the quintessential spirit of youth - spirited, sensitive, and questioning.
Through the eyes of a young protagonist who rebels against the monotony of academic expectations, the author delivers a scathing critique of a system that reduces life to mere numbers. The writing is elegant, with a wry sense of humor that will leave readers chuckling and nodding in recognition.
This book is a poignant reminder that life extends far beyond the confines of exam scores and societal expectations. It's a celebration of individuality, a testament to the power of self-discovery, and a gentle nudge to reevaluate our priorities. As we journey with the characters through the trials and tribulations of adolescence, we're forced to confront our own memories and the lessons we've learned along the way.
In short, Chasing 33% is a heartwarming, humorous, and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt the sting of conformity and the thrill of rebellion.
In Chasing 33%, Jitendra Jain masterfully crafts a nostalgic narrative that whisks readers back to the angst-filled corridors of adolescence. Set against the lush backdrop of 1990s Assam, this coming-of-age tale follows two sixteen-year-old boys as they grapple with the pressures of board exams and the search for self.
With wit and humor, the author expertly captures the turbulent landscape of teenagehood, replete with tongue-in-cheek references and laugh-out-loud moments. The characters are skillfully etched, embodying the quintessential spirit of youth - spirited, sensitive, and questioning.
Through the eyes of a young protagonist who rebels against the monotony of academic expectations, the author delivers a scathing critique of a system that reduces life to mere numbers. The writing is elegant, with a wry sense of humor that will leave readers chuckling and nodding in recognition.
This book is a poignant reminder that life extends far beyond the confines of exam scores and societal expectations. It's a celebration of individuality, a testament to the power of self-discovery, and a gentle nudge to reevaluate our priorities. As we journey with the characters through the trials and tribulations of adolescence, we're forced to confront our own memories and the lessons we've learned along the way.
In short, Chasing 33% is a heartwarming, humorous, and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt the sting of conformity and the thrill of rebellion.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews