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A Tale of Two Homes
This is a fictional narrative based on real events at two ends of the spectrum, playing out concurrently:
a) Living in Mumbai and trying to build a house in the Nilgiris
b) Facing the prospect of the house one is living in being demolished
People without any experience in house construction would be considered foolish to try and build a house in the mountains thousand kilometers from where they live. People living in a building which has been earmarked for demolition would be on an emotional roller coaster ride as the tension of not having a roof over one's head is unimaginable
This story intertwines the two events with anecdotes and flashbacks.
The practical difficulties and adventures of buying the land, choosing an appropriate name, deciding on what to do with the property and finally building the house are one side of the coin, while the legal tangles, web of intrigue, mental stress that is unique to a high profile building demolition is the other side.
These two aspects form the basis of this story which does not follow the principles of "textbook creative writing"
a) Living in Mumbai and trying to build a house in the Nilgiris
b) Facing the prospect of the house one is living in being demolished
People without any experience in house construction would be considered foolish to try and build a house in the mountains thousand kilometers from where they live. People living in a building which has been earmarked for demolition would be on an emotional roller coaster ride as the tension of not having a roof over one's head is unimaginable
This story intertwines the two events with anecdotes and flashbacks.
The practical difficulties and adventures of buying the land, choosing an appropriate name, deciding on what to do with the property and finally building the house are one side of the coin, while the legal tangles, web of intrigue, mental stress that is unique to a high profile building demolition is the other side.
These two aspects form the basis of this story which does not follow the principles of "textbook creative writing"
260 pages, Paperback
Published October 28, 2017
5 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 25, 2017
It's difficult to believe that a busy uro-onco-surgeon found time to pen down such a humorous and informative book. The story is so entwined that in a matter of seconds you are taken from the humdum chaotic life in Mumbai to the calm peaceful life in the Nilgiris where the air is pure, and there are lovely elderflowers lining the driveway to Raven's Nest beckoning you.
Within moments you are transported back to Mumbai, amidst problems faced by law-abiding citizens when their house is served with a demolition notice. Learning from the difficulties faced, the story of how a perfect home is eventually constructed miles away fascinates me.
Anyone reading the book will definitely want to go and visit the Raven's Nest just to enjoy the beauty of the place and to appreciate the hard work the Lady of the house has put in and meet her in person at the home stay.
'A Tale of Two Homes' is so interestingly written that it is hard to put down once you've started reading it.
Highly recommended!
Within moments you are transported back to Mumbai, amidst problems faced by law-abiding citizens when their house is served with a demolition notice. Learning from the difficulties faced, the story of how a perfect home is eventually constructed miles away fascinates me.
Anyone reading the book will definitely want to go and visit the Raven's Nest just to enjoy the beauty of the place and to appreciate the hard work the Lady of the house has put in and meet her in person at the home stay.
'A Tale of Two Homes' is so interestingly written that it is hard to put down once you've started reading it.
Highly recommended!
November 13, 2019
It is not always that you meet an individual who puts you at ease with their unassuming ways and simple talks. And if this individual is a doctor who is treating you for a rather serious ailment, you redeem hope, positivity and confidence. And the fact remains he is the best in his field and he has indeed successfully delivered to us what he promised he would. Then you wonder how someone like him who is so stretched for time found the momentum to write and infact publish a book.
His book 'A tale of two homes' reflects his personality - uncomplicated, straight forward, warm and not to forget very accomplished. All through the book, he entertains the readers with his simple yet effective narrative and a nonchalant comic timing. It is an art to state things clearly but lightly and without the slightest hint of discomfiture. Also you recognise the attempt to get the world to reflect about the struggles of a common Indian who endeavours to build and have a house of his own. If one wishes to build or buy a house, s/he should most definitely read this book. Along with being a good read there is a lot of information right there about houses, regulations, laws, rules etc that seem unheard of to someone who is new to the idea and to the rather long process. It could be quite educative and could help avoid miscalculations arising out of ignorance. Our doctor has lived the episodes elucidated in the book. It is realistic and therefore touching, as one can completely relate and empathize with it. If you are not in the process of buying or constructing a house, still go ahead and read it.. enjoy it for its spontaneity and light heartedness.
Dr Srinivas' earnestness and warmth are evident both when you interact with him and when you read the book. As a person who has experienced both I can say that he is truly a class apart.
His book 'A tale of two homes' reflects his personality - uncomplicated, straight forward, warm and not to forget very accomplished. All through the book, he entertains the readers with his simple yet effective narrative and a nonchalant comic timing. It is an art to state things clearly but lightly and without the slightest hint of discomfiture. Also you recognise the attempt to get the world to reflect about the struggles of a common Indian who endeavours to build and have a house of his own. If one wishes to build or buy a house, s/he should most definitely read this book. Along with being a good read there is a lot of information right there about houses, regulations, laws, rules etc that seem unheard of to someone who is new to the idea and to the rather long process. It could be quite educative and could help avoid miscalculations arising out of ignorance. Our doctor has lived the episodes elucidated in the book. It is realistic and therefore touching, as one can completely relate and empathize with it. If you are not in the process of buying or constructing a house, still go ahead and read it.. enjoy it for its spontaneity and light heartedness.
Dr Srinivas' earnestness and warmth are evident both when you interact with him and when you read the book. As a person who has experienced both I can say that he is truly a class apart.
December 8, 2017
I personally came to know Dr V. Srinivas as an uro-onco surgeon who eventually operated on me on 15th of Nov.
I was fortunate to have his book at the hospital on 17th itself and I could not give up reading, even though I was only on saline drip at that time.
I realized that Dr Srinivas not only cuts and stitches people but he also has another tool through his pen for healing his patients while they are still convalescent.
By profession, I was an advocate practising in the High Court and Supreme Court. And I am amazed at how he has got all those facts about the Indian judiciary so straight.
By reading "The Tale of Two Homes" I feel the itch of visiting his homestay property "Raven's Nest" as soon as I am fit enough to start traveling.
Keep it up Dr Srinivas. I earnestly request you not to give up writing.
I have recommended all the nurses and the other doctors at the Hinduja hospital to read this book. And I can openly recommend everyone to have a copy. It has all the material to become a thriller movie.
From Subrata Ray.
I was fortunate to have his book at the hospital on 17th itself and I could not give up reading, even though I was only on saline drip at that time.
I realized that Dr Srinivas not only cuts and stitches people but he also has another tool through his pen for healing his patients while they are still convalescent.
By profession, I was an advocate practising in the High Court and Supreme Court. And I am amazed at how he has got all those facts about the Indian judiciary so straight.
By reading "The Tale of Two Homes" I feel the itch of visiting his homestay property "Raven's Nest" as soon as I am fit enough to start traveling.
Keep it up Dr Srinivas. I earnestly request you not to give up writing.
I have recommended all the nurses and the other doctors at the Hinduja hospital to read this book. And I can openly recommend everyone to have a copy. It has all the material to become a thriller movie.
From Subrata Ray.
January 5, 2018
I have the privilege of knowing Dr. V. Srinivas, a well-known uro-oncologist, for almost 20 years. What has stood out is a man who is very precise, punctual, disciplined and a man of few words.
This is the first time I have been called upon to give a book review. Putting pen to paper needs time to organize ones thoughts. Knowing the busy schedule of a doctor, I wonder how Dr. Srinivas has found the time to sit and write a novel.
‘A Tale of Two Homes' is so interestingly written that it is hard to put down once you've started reading it. This is saying a lot since I can hardly read any article uninterrupted. I enjoyed reading this book. It makes me wonder why people refuse to leave the city when one can make choices of a better quality of life elsewhere.
This is a book I will definitely recommend to anyone planning to build a home or set up a new place. It gives a new perspective to the saying “ The home is where the heart is”.
Bindu Jacob
October 15, 2018
It surely is a great literary effort by renowned surgeon Dr.V Srinivas to produce a simple yet fascinating novel:A Tale of Two Homes. It makes the reader to think whether this novel is fiction or non fiction. Cleverly, with wit and humor, the Author has treated the subject with clarity.
Novel begins with single ‘why’ which subsequently leads to another two ‘whys’.The novel then embarks on a cool journey through the beautiful by lanes of mountains Nilgiri hills and to the hurly-burly lanes of Worli in Mumbai. Though Raven’s nest & RRR threw different challenges, it is the author who finally emerges victorious.
As a maiden literary venture this quite praise-worthy and we readers look forward to more novels from the author.Even taking up full time writing,like our great author V.S.Naipaul is also not a bad idea,but the medical world will be the loser.
(P.P:I am not able to understand why author is reading only ‘obituary’ column in Times of India)
Novel begins with single ‘why’ which subsequently leads to another two ‘whys’.The novel then embarks on a cool journey through the beautiful by lanes of mountains Nilgiri hills and to the hurly-burly lanes of Worli in Mumbai. Though Raven’s nest & RRR threw different challenges, it is the author who finally emerges victorious.
As a maiden literary venture this quite praise-worthy and we readers look forward to more novels from the author.Even taking up full time writing,like our great author V.S.Naipaul is also not a bad idea,but the medical world will be the loser.
(P.P:I am not able to understand why author is reading only ‘obituary’ column in Times of India)
November 20, 2017
Very well written by a Doctor who will now be well known for his writing skills too. His way of articulation really needs a three cheer as his own character in real life. It will certainly help many who have / are dreaming of their own house in a city like Mumbai or a second home in some remote location in the lap of nature. His experience to create his dream house in the Nilgiris with pertinence is worth appreciating and reveals the challenges he surpassed to create his dream home.
On the other hand the tale of experience to save his own house in Mumbai is an eye opener again for many who are willing / are on verge of buying one for self.
Disclaimer - you may not or seldom get to read such clear feed/ direction in many portals or by any professional for real estate in today's world.
Thanks Dr. Srinivas for this lovely book.
On the other hand the tale of experience to save his own house in Mumbai is an eye opener again for many who are willing / are on verge of buying one for self.
Disclaimer - you may not or seldom get to read such clear feed/ direction in many portals or by any professional for real estate in today's world.
Thanks Dr. Srinivas for this lovely book.
December 6, 2017
"A tale of Two Homes by Dr. V Srinivas is a thoroughly enjoyable read. The author has inter-twined two stories in one with great alacrity, made easy by using different fonts for each story so that you do not lose the thread. The prose is so matter of fact and simple that it is such an easy read but still has great attention to detail. The triumphs and travails in the two projects and the character of the central figure - the wife - who has essentially stitched together the whole book has been brought out in graphic detail and a joy to read.
So anyone, who would rather not watch some of the dreadful movies that are being dished out these days , would be well advised to buy the book and have three hours of pure enjoyment."
So anyone, who would rather not watch some of the dreadful movies that are being dished out these days , would be well advised to buy the book and have three hours of pure enjoyment."
July 9, 2018
A tale of myriad emotions - yeh mera ghar, woh mera ghar!
Set in the backdrop of the preposterous Campa cola housing society controversy, the book is a delightful journey into an eventful part of the life of an eminent yet extremely self effacing, top class human being. Having a quality roof on top is an aspirational dream for most Indians. Getting a dream house constructed in India is in itself a nightmare. Managing a construction some 1000 km away while simultaneously dealing with another threat of demolition is in a totally different league altogether. One can not help but marvel at the positivity, enthusiasm and the never say die attitude of the awesome couple.
Lucidly written, brilliant in its simplicity, it’s a hard to put down story. A highly recommended book.
Set in the backdrop of the preposterous Campa cola housing society controversy, the book is a delightful journey into an eventful part of the life of an eminent yet extremely self effacing, top class human being. Having a quality roof on top is an aspirational dream for most Indians. Getting a dream house constructed in India is in itself a nightmare. Managing a construction some 1000 km away while simultaneously dealing with another threat of demolition is in a totally different league altogether. One can not help but marvel at the positivity, enthusiasm and the never say die attitude of the awesome couple.
Lucidly written, brilliant in its simplicity, it’s a hard to put down story. A highly recommended book.
November 30, 2017
That a leading Onco-surgeon could pen down such an interesting book from his own experiences shows his writing skill is as good as his operating skills. He has a great sense of humour and is adept in describing two major events which were taking place simultaneously. His wife a novice in building construction had to face major problems and how well she tackled them is brought out so well in the book. If you want to get new ideas in building a house in a Hill station or face legal problems in getting municipal sanctions in a big city you must read this book.
November 27, 2017
Amazing creative insight for making a book index through the eyes of a doctor. From pregnancy to birth a lovely story.
An entertaining light read with an insiders take on the trials and tribulations that honest citizens face in a corrupted nation. It is a MUST READ for anyone wishing to buy property or build a house in India. Reading the book makes one want to visit the glorious Ravens Nest and admire the attention put into every corner of this abode.
An entertaining light read with an insiders take on the trials and tribulations that honest citizens face in a corrupted nation. It is a MUST READ for anyone wishing to buy property or build a house in India. Reading the book makes one want to visit the glorious Ravens Nest and admire the attention put into every corner of this abode.
November 22, 2017
Loved the light, breezy writing style and the back and forth between the 2 homes in Kotagiri and Mumbai. A real easy-to-read first book by Dr. Srinivas. I would advise anyone building a home in the hills to read this book; you will get so many useful and of course interesting insights. This book sets Dr. Srinivas well on his way to a new career in writing!
January 6, 2018
A book not to be kept down....it has all elements of hope, anxiety, passion, strength and perseverance weaved beautifully with humour and facts. The reader is instantly transported to the blue hills of Nilgiri, and the disturbing chaos at RRR. Well Done!!
It is a skill that Dr. Srinivas can hone after retirement.
It is a skill that Dr. Srinivas can hone after retirement.
January 10, 2020
A great light read. I could finish the book in one day. Having had a chance to know him in person i could actually visualise and enjoy the book even more. The author through his writing takes us on a great adventure filled with humour!!!! I would definitely recommend you to read and be a part of his journey through his book.
November 20, 2017
The book was well written bringing out the humor of the various situations described so refreshingly well and keeping the reader absorbed and in splits right to the very end.
January 27, 2018
This book is absolutely " unputdownable" and so interesting that one just wants to read it completely in one go. The book tackles issues that range from frustrations pertaining to RRR to exhilaration after completion of Raven's Nest in the sylvan surroundings of the Nilgiris. This book must be read in order to experience the joys and sorrows the good Doctor and his beloved wife went through in order to convert their dreams into reality.
Parvez and Meher Sutaria.
Parvez and Meher Sutaria.
January 24, 2018
The book has a driving narrative that keeps you hooked all the way! Refreshingly original and I was charmed by the author's unique voice. Of a certain time and place which resonates with this reader.
February 5, 2018
This is a funny, light and joy read! Enjoy the beautiful mental images of the Nilgiri mountains!
Read
November 9, 2017It is a collection of events put in an extremely friendly and simple order so that people living in own house, rented house, people who are planning to build a house and people who are in the curing process can relate with thier life experiences.
Couldn't put the book down. Very moving.
Appreciate the author's truthful telling of his eventful happenings in Mumbai, USA and Kotagiri. Finally the author mentioning his better half in this complete book, reveals each reader that they are " Made for each other ".
Couldn't put the book down. Very moving.
Appreciate the author's truthful telling of his eventful happenings in Mumbai, USA and Kotagiri. Finally the author mentioning his better half in this complete book, reveals each reader that they are " Made for each other ".
November 17, 2017
Read the Book “A Tale of Two Homes” by Dr. Srinivas. Very light and interesting reading! All actual experiences, humorous and informative. All in all a MUST READ!!
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November 19, 2017I spotted this book in my friends house in Goa ( recently built).
The very cover picture attracted me to read, I was not disappointed to make that choice.
Dr.Srinivas has covered all the events in small chapters and given correct headings.
I strongly recommend this book who love humour and are waiting to build an house
The very cover picture attracted me to read, I was not disappointed to make that choice.
Dr.Srinivas has covered all the events in small chapters and given correct headings.
I strongly recommend this book who love humour and are waiting to build an house
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2017
The author disarms you straight off - saying that he avoids NO cliches and has NO pretensions to any literary expertise. If you can stick with Srinivas, you'll be treated to a fast pace thriller entwining two stories into one. There are side-splitting anecdotes on every other page- often describing the merciless attack of the Indian bureaucracy on the average Indian citizen. The book reads like a 70's gun slinging movie and the author's love of that genre can be seen strewn all over the pages. Personally, this is an eye-opener to the inner workings of the Indian court system all the way to the very top. But, it's not all gloomy, the good guys do win at the very end almost by sheer chance or by grit like a good Bollywood movie. And not for the obvious reason. This gang wins by using media rather than millions. The format is, again, a little like a Clint Eastwood western - sweeping shots of Indian politics cut in with close-ups of corrupt lawyers, goondas, thugs and bumbling civil servants. How the author got away with writing this book is a testament to his true grit and thatI suspect is the real reason for the book. Kudos- go and get a copy
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December 17, 2017Dear Doc,
We must say your wife has done a splendid job in the making of RN, and its all because you were a docile sweet natured husband, who fell along the wayside, while the great lady went about her dreams and schemes.
We thoroughly enjoyed the humorous journey, and shared a bellyful of laughter. The book gave us a lot of insight into the RRR saga.
We hope the Landscape Architect was able to trap (not shoot) atleast one good sized wild pig, so that he could enjoy his pork curry for Christmas and New Year, and drink to your health and wealth and the future of RN.
Cheers and best wishes to you and your dear family !! Looking forward to reading about Chalet Mon Ami😁
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Many hugs
Warren and Maggie Oliver
We must say your wife has done a splendid job in the making of RN, and its all because you were a docile sweet natured husband, who fell along the wayside, while the great lady went about her dreams and schemes.
We thoroughly enjoyed the humorous journey, and shared a bellyful of laughter. The book gave us a lot of insight into the RRR saga.
We hope the Landscape Architect was able to trap (not shoot) atleast one good sized wild pig, so that he could enjoy his pork curry for Christmas and New Year, and drink to your health and wealth and the future of RN.
Cheers and best wishes to you and your dear family !! Looking forward to reading about Chalet Mon Ami😁
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Many hugs
Warren and Maggie Oliver
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews