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A Fallen Leaf
Fall - a simple word with many meanings. It is as beautiful as a season or falling in love and as unpleasant as a misfortune. But like seasons that come and go, misfortunes and tribulations have their beginnings and ends as well. All leave us with one thing: experience. Experiences that can be spun into distinct stories. And this anthology, ‘A Fallen Leaf’, is a colourful testament to that.
Join in as fifteen fallen leaves embark on a lifetime of unique adventures and timeless lessons, intertwined with relatable characters and impeccable narration, all tied into a neat and captivating collection.
Join in as fifteen fallen leaves embark on a lifetime of unique adventures and timeless lessons, intertwined with relatable characters and impeccable narration, all tied into a neat and captivating collection.
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First published July 17, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 7, 2020
What a beautiful collection of stories that traverse through various aspects of life. The writers have managed to weave some beautiful translations of the theme "fall" into this collection. Each story so carefully showcasing a different aspect. Another wonderful thing that is noticeable is how each story is introduced through a poem contributed by one of the writers of the anthology. This book clearly showcases the careful attention and affection with which it is brought together. Wishing it all the success!
July 1, 2022
A Fallen Leaf is a collection of short stories written by the amazing authors of Penmancy. The best part is-the synopsis of each story was presented in the form of a poem. Each one added essence to each story as they were adorned with words so apt. The book is a must-read. Each story will touch the reader's mind and they perfectly complement the title. The stories are bound to tug at your heartstrings and knock your cranium. They will make you wonder and wander. And you will return to the poems several times; for, once won’t definitely be enough.
Canary in a Coal Mine
As the story unfolded, I found myself walking down the corridor, to the royal courtyard. And that happened ‘cause of the well-done descriptions. The closing lines simply touched me. A perfect and happy ending. A story with no fights; no conspiracies; no arguments. This fact impressed me the most. The language was lucid; the narration was smooth with no exaggerations. A healthy encounter between Priyamvada and Riddhiman highlighted the mature character trait of both. This is how it should be; was the thought that popped inside my head. She chose well for herself and for the king to be. Rianka Bose is a wonderful storyteller and this story was done in good taste.
The (Mis)fit
The description of the messy room made me wonder... And the author's words made me visualise the “confusing laundry,” and I guess I too, heard the kettle speak. What a mess it was! I loved how Saravjot took care of Sheena’s thoughts, actions and reactions. An inspiring story with a beautiful message. The touch of reality made the story special. It’s fun to stand out than to fit in. The father-daughter relationship was beautifully portrayed throughout the story. I liked the choice of words too. They fitted perfectly to the story and the emotions embedded within. What a meaningful story! Simply touched. Every detail was well taken care of. The ending line said it all. An absolutely lovely piece of a story.
A Mosaic on the Garden Floor
A grand start with beautiful descriptions of Fall, by Kaia. I applaud Sharanya for executing the plot carefully while taking care of the minor details. Wow! What an amazing journey she had. The incidents she witnessed; the emotions she observed in different humans...her own flight... What a thoughtful concept for ‘A Fallen Leaf.’ The mention of one of my favourite books ‘Wuthering Heights and the thoughts of the bride, expressing her feelings for her dad... almost brought tears. The warmth could be felt throughout her narration. I was hooked till the end. The closing line was just perfect; the luscious cherry on a yummy cake.
Refugee
A heart-wrenching story! The devastating war, struggle to survive, hope for a new beginning, grief, loss...this story had every element essential for the plot. The plot was excellent; a true-to-life story which affects numerous humans every day, worldwide. Sam’s assurance and Wahid’s decision turned out to be fatal. Last Hope failed to transport them safely. Millions of people take such risks with hope in their hearts, but only a few make it till the end. Koushik highlighted the facts of a major crisis and narrated the story well. The closing lines were beautiful too. I missed spotting the plot's connection to the title like in the other stories. The unsuccessful journey, and the loss of his children was a fall, yet I was looking for a more precise connection. Overall, a good story.
Hope
A fantastic message is shared through the story. Indeed, it's not easy to get over a dreadful experience, but once we fight our fears, and those demons that lurk within, we come out victorious. A very important lesson was shared through the story by Srikanth Singha Ray. Overcoming fear, through the very same thing that we are scared of, has been well highlighted by the writer. I was holding my breath the entire time till Gaurav went out of the water holding Diya. The writer made me visualise the entire event through his impressive storytelling skill. I could feel Gaurav and his dilemma, but the way he came out victorious was applaudable. An inspiring story.
Useless
Nothing and no one is useless. And that’s what this story is all about. Very tactfully handled plot, with a fine example of transformation through teaching. Indeed, when we advise others, the same help us indirectly. A teacher holds great responsibility; they can make or break. This story has brought forth an important message. Nisha did a wonderful job through her message to Rahul. Bullying, and humiliation can have adverse effects and can be damaging. Nisha found her way out which was quite inspiring. She found her lost self and at the same time helped Rahul to grow strong. Smooth narration, lucid language and a wonderful story by Shailaja Pai.
The Torchbearer
I could well connect with Rumeli, a thoroughly city-bred girl moving to a remote village. The descriptions of the cart journey, the welcoming, and her thoughts and reactions were penned beautifully. Sreemati Sen, a master storyteller, and spooky tales being her forte, this story too, raised my goosebumps. Lucid language, simple dialogues, and crisp narration made the story a very interesting read. I was engrossed till the end. Rumeli’s encounter with Rani, the way the past unfolded, and the minute details – everything was perfectly taken care of. The family reunion and start of Durga Puja in that premise, how she gave mukti- added charm to the story. The epilogue was well used to conclude the story. Interesting it was to read how Rumeli was brought into her old village, for a purpose. Just a point that struck- Rani was still sane enough to recognize her daughter so quickly, after years of suffering and the shock she went through. Nonetheless, I enjoyed every bit of the story.
Varied Moods, Varied Seasons
A heart-wrenching story by Sitharaam Jayakumar. The varied shades of life were well presented through the story. The title of the story and the book were justified through the plot. The tricks of fate are unknown to humans, but life goes on. The essence of every season was well blended with that of our lives. I felt that the narration could’ve been a bit crisp. The end seemed hurried. I would have loved to read more on ‘The warmth of Summer.’ And more about the incident, the shock and his pain. Seemed like he recovered too soon. The thought behind the plot was definitely noble. I liked Iqbal’s character. The reconciliation at the end was a good way to wrap the story. Overall, a good story with a message.
The Funeral
The author Nilutpal Gohain has penned an entertaining story. A bit funny and portrayed the human emotions related to an old family member's death. The long wait, the mishaps, the doctor's verdicts, and the actions and reactions of the relatives and neighbours made it a fun read. I felt the story around his grandfather’s death was dragged for a bit long and sounded quite monotonous. I would’ve liked it if there were some twists...an incident related to rigor mortis would’ve made it more interesting I think. I couldn’t connect it to the main title too. Not bad but could’ve been a better story.
Behind The Bars
A heart-wrenching story of two convicts waiting for their own kind of freedom. Kajal Kapur’s narration brought Bishen’s character alive. I could feel the emotions he was going through. The descriptions of the jail life, the proceedings that a convict faces, and their dilemmas and emotional turmoil were carefully brought forth. The line –“Our conscience is bound to kill us a million times each day” was portrayed thoughtfully through the reactions of the two characters. Each character played their role perfectly. Crisp narration, lucid language and an interesting plot made the story a good read. The protagonist’s name was another interesting aspect of the story and made me wonder if he would be lucky enough to get the freedom he wished for. Or freedom from the guilt of the crime he committed mistakenly. Overall, a gripping story that will make the readers feel and ponder.
Second Chances
This is one story which I wished could just go on and on. The narration made me flow with the events. Each of the characters played their roles perfectly. No exaggerations, crisp narration and a beautiful plot. The title ‘A Fallen Leaf’ was blended into the story smoothly and at the right places. Loved this story. The emotions were subtle and justified. The start was very welcoming. The author, Kavitha Kandaswamy’s storytelling took me to Verona. I wish there was a bit of description about the beautiful picturesque city. A story that got my complete attention. Kenia and Siam’s characters were portrayed rightly and were given the right amount of space in the plot. Second chances can just be so beautiful. That’s what the story made me feel. The closing lines were simply touching. Overall, a lovely, heart-warming story that will leave a mark on the reader's mind.
All for the Blossoms
A beautiful story about family relations, memories, and ancestral connections well blended with modern-day perceptions. The descriptions about the Wada were well written and the author made me see it all. I liked the way Em Kay portrayed the relationship between Rajji and Dev. Rajji’s excitement to visit her ancestral home to reminisce the events of the past could be felt through the descriptions. The thought of the poem (the opening lines) was beautiful, yet I think it should’ve been –‘Stay strong in heavy showers / Stay grounded through wild winds. I think the line-“Rajji started a monologue” wasn’t necessary. The story ended on a beautiful note but somehow it seemed rushed. I didn’t realise that the story was nearing an end. Overall, a good plot, sprinkled with heartwarming emotions, and the title was well justified.
The House
A good concept for a story. The house being the protagonist was interesting. True, that every house has a story to tell and the introduction gradually carried me forward. I’m touched by the narration that made me feel and witness all that happened inside that house. It felt as if the house was literally speaking to me. The personification was executed very carefully considering the details we readers needed to know. Human relations, complications, the tyranny of a mother, and how the new generation planned for the reunion. The emotions of Sundari and the other characters played their part well. Overall, a wonderful story for “A Fallen Leaf.”
A Tryst with a Twist
This sounded like a mixture of cult practices, science, the human mind and relationships. I found it highly interesting and engaging. The weird process of placing one's consciousness into another was a fantastic thought. His conscience was alive, so he had to feel unhappy about the loss and change. I liked the thought- “Most humans were born with a mismatched combination.” Guess, this is why, consciously or unconsciously, we keep searching for something throughout our lives. A brilliant take by the author Olinda Braganza. A suspense thriller kind of a story that eventually blended into something spiritual yet, in the presence of science. The story suited well to the concept of ‘A Fallen Leaf.’
Two Pilgrims
This story reminded me of John Bunyan’s ‘Pilgrim’s Progress.” The road to heaven isn’t easy and one needs to pay a huge price to attain salvation. Peter’s journey was the toughest but then his humble nature and the journey he took helped him to reach the gates of Heaven. Not only did he have company, but he also died peacefully too. A wonderful message was shared by the author Rham Dhel. A great lesson for us to learn and realise the truth of life. People rush to shrines and donate money thinking they are pleasing God, while throughout their life, they overlook the gifts of nature and ignore their fellow beings. There are many like Charles who are misguided by the concept and that has been well brought out by the author. The language and narration were simple and gripping. Characterization, vivid details of their journeys and the entire setting of St Pious added a special charm to the story. For a moment, it felt as if I was right there beside the bear, witnessing Peter’s ascend to Heaven. A thought-provoking, heart-touching, and interesting story that will stay with me for long.
A Fallen Leaf, is a must-read if you wish to enjoy a perfect blend of prose and poetry in one book. The stories will poke your brain and stir your soul. If you are yet to read the book, I say, go grab it today. You won’t regret it.
Canary in a Coal Mine
As the story unfolded, I found myself walking down the corridor, to the royal courtyard. And that happened ‘cause of the well-done descriptions. The closing lines simply touched me. A perfect and happy ending. A story with no fights; no conspiracies; no arguments. This fact impressed me the most. The language was lucid; the narration was smooth with no exaggerations. A healthy encounter between Priyamvada and Riddhiman highlighted the mature character trait of both. This is how it should be; was the thought that popped inside my head. She chose well for herself and for the king to be. Rianka Bose is a wonderful storyteller and this story was done in good taste.
The (Mis)fit
The description of the messy room made me wonder... And the author's words made me visualise the “confusing laundry,” and I guess I too, heard the kettle speak. What a mess it was! I loved how Saravjot took care of Sheena’s thoughts, actions and reactions. An inspiring story with a beautiful message. The touch of reality made the story special. It’s fun to stand out than to fit in. The father-daughter relationship was beautifully portrayed throughout the story. I liked the choice of words too. They fitted perfectly to the story and the emotions embedded within. What a meaningful story! Simply touched. Every detail was well taken care of. The ending line said it all. An absolutely lovely piece of a story.
A Mosaic on the Garden Floor
A grand start with beautiful descriptions of Fall, by Kaia. I applaud Sharanya for executing the plot carefully while taking care of the minor details. Wow! What an amazing journey she had. The incidents she witnessed; the emotions she observed in different humans...her own flight... What a thoughtful concept for ‘A Fallen Leaf.’ The mention of one of my favourite books ‘Wuthering Heights and the thoughts of the bride, expressing her feelings for her dad... almost brought tears. The warmth could be felt throughout her narration. I was hooked till the end. The closing line was just perfect; the luscious cherry on a yummy cake.
Refugee
A heart-wrenching story! The devastating war, struggle to survive, hope for a new beginning, grief, loss...this story had every element essential for the plot. The plot was excellent; a true-to-life story which affects numerous humans every day, worldwide. Sam’s assurance and Wahid’s decision turned out to be fatal. Last Hope failed to transport them safely. Millions of people take such risks with hope in their hearts, but only a few make it till the end. Koushik highlighted the facts of a major crisis and narrated the story well. The closing lines were beautiful too. I missed spotting the plot's connection to the title like in the other stories. The unsuccessful journey, and the loss of his children was a fall, yet I was looking for a more precise connection. Overall, a good story.
Hope
A fantastic message is shared through the story. Indeed, it's not easy to get over a dreadful experience, but once we fight our fears, and those demons that lurk within, we come out victorious. A very important lesson was shared through the story by Srikanth Singha Ray. Overcoming fear, through the very same thing that we are scared of, has been well highlighted by the writer. I was holding my breath the entire time till Gaurav went out of the water holding Diya. The writer made me visualise the entire event through his impressive storytelling skill. I could feel Gaurav and his dilemma, but the way he came out victorious was applaudable. An inspiring story.
Useless
Nothing and no one is useless. And that’s what this story is all about. Very tactfully handled plot, with a fine example of transformation through teaching. Indeed, when we advise others, the same help us indirectly. A teacher holds great responsibility; they can make or break. This story has brought forth an important message. Nisha did a wonderful job through her message to Rahul. Bullying, and humiliation can have adverse effects and can be damaging. Nisha found her way out which was quite inspiring. She found her lost self and at the same time helped Rahul to grow strong. Smooth narration, lucid language and a wonderful story by Shailaja Pai.
The Torchbearer
I could well connect with Rumeli, a thoroughly city-bred girl moving to a remote village. The descriptions of the cart journey, the welcoming, and her thoughts and reactions were penned beautifully. Sreemati Sen, a master storyteller, and spooky tales being her forte, this story too, raised my goosebumps. Lucid language, simple dialogues, and crisp narration made the story a very interesting read. I was engrossed till the end. Rumeli’s encounter with Rani, the way the past unfolded, and the minute details – everything was perfectly taken care of. The family reunion and start of Durga Puja in that premise, how she gave mukti- added charm to the story. The epilogue was well used to conclude the story. Interesting it was to read how Rumeli was brought into her old village, for a purpose. Just a point that struck- Rani was still sane enough to recognize her daughter so quickly, after years of suffering and the shock she went through. Nonetheless, I enjoyed every bit of the story.
Varied Moods, Varied Seasons
A heart-wrenching story by Sitharaam Jayakumar. The varied shades of life were well presented through the story. The title of the story and the book were justified through the plot. The tricks of fate are unknown to humans, but life goes on. The essence of every season was well blended with that of our lives. I felt that the narration could’ve been a bit crisp. The end seemed hurried. I would have loved to read more on ‘The warmth of Summer.’ And more about the incident, the shock and his pain. Seemed like he recovered too soon. The thought behind the plot was definitely noble. I liked Iqbal’s character. The reconciliation at the end was a good way to wrap the story. Overall, a good story with a message.
The Funeral
The author Nilutpal Gohain has penned an entertaining story. A bit funny and portrayed the human emotions related to an old family member's death. The long wait, the mishaps, the doctor's verdicts, and the actions and reactions of the relatives and neighbours made it a fun read. I felt the story around his grandfather’s death was dragged for a bit long and sounded quite monotonous. I would’ve liked it if there were some twists...an incident related to rigor mortis would’ve made it more interesting I think. I couldn’t connect it to the main title too. Not bad but could’ve been a better story.
Behind The Bars
A heart-wrenching story of two convicts waiting for their own kind of freedom. Kajal Kapur’s narration brought Bishen’s character alive. I could feel the emotions he was going through. The descriptions of the jail life, the proceedings that a convict faces, and their dilemmas and emotional turmoil were carefully brought forth. The line –“Our conscience is bound to kill us a million times each day” was portrayed thoughtfully through the reactions of the two characters. Each character played their role perfectly. Crisp narration, lucid language and an interesting plot made the story a good read. The protagonist’s name was another interesting aspect of the story and made me wonder if he would be lucky enough to get the freedom he wished for. Or freedom from the guilt of the crime he committed mistakenly. Overall, a gripping story that will make the readers feel and ponder.
Second Chances
This is one story which I wished could just go on and on. The narration made me flow with the events. Each of the characters played their roles perfectly. No exaggerations, crisp narration and a beautiful plot. The title ‘A Fallen Leaf’ was blended into the story smoothly and at the right places. Loved this story. The emotions were subtle and justified. The start was very welcoming. The author, Kavitha Kandaswamy’s storytelling took me to Verona. I wish there was a bit of description about the beautiful picturesque city. A story that got my complete attention. Kenia and Siam’s characters were portrayed rightly and were given the right amount of space in the plot. Second chances can just be so beautiful. That’s what the story made me feel. The closing lines were simply touching. Overall, a lovely, heart-warming story that will leave a mark on the reader's mind.
All for the Blossoms
A beautiful story about family relations, memories, and ancestral connections well blended with modern-day perceptions. The descriptions about the Wada were well written and the author made me see it all. I liked the way Em Kay portrayed the relationship between Rajji and Dev. Rajji’s excitement to visit her ancestral home to reminisce the events of the past could be felt through the descriptions. The thought of the poem (the opening lines) was beautiful, yet I think it should’ve been –‘Stay strong in heavy showers / Stay grounded through wild winds. I think the line-“Rajji started a monologue” wasn’t necessary. The story ended on a beautiful note but somehow it seemed rushed. I didn’t realise that the story was nearing an end. Overall, a good plot, sprinkled with heartwarming emotions, and the title was well justified.
The House
A good concept for a story. The house being the protagonist was interesting. True, that every house has a story to tell and the introduction gradually carried me forward. I’m touched by the narration that made me feel and witness all that happened inside that house. It felt as if the house was literally speaking to me. The personification was executed very carefully considering the details we readers needed to know. Human relations, complications, the tyranny of a mother, and how the new generation planned for the reunion. The emotions of Sundari and the other characters played their part well. Overall, a wonderful story for “A Fallen Leaf.”
A Tryst with a Twist
This sounded like a mixture of cult practices, science, the human mind and relationships. I found it highly interesting and engaging. The weird process of placing one's consciousness into another was a fantastic thought. His conscience was alive, so he had to feel unhappy about the loss and change. I liked the thought- “Most humans were born with a mismatched combination.” Guess, this is why, consciously or unconsciously, we keep searching for something throughout our lives. A brilliant take by the author Olinda Braganza. A suspense thriller kind of a story that eventually blended into something spiritual yet, in the presence of science. The story suited well to the concept of ‘A Fallen Leaf.’
Two Pilgrims
This story reminded me of John Bunyan’s ‘Pilgrim’s Progress.” The road to heaven isn’t easy and one needs to pay a huge price to attain salvation. Peter’s journey was the toughest but then his humble nature and the journey he took helped him to reach the gates of Heaven. Not only did he have company, but he also died peacefully too. A wonderful message was shared by the author Rham Dhel. A great lesson for us to learn and realise the truth of life. People rush to shrines and donate money thinking they are pleasing God, while throughout their life, they overlook the gifts of nature and ignore their fellow beings. There are many like Charles who are misguided by the concept and that has been well brought out by the author. The language and narration were simple and gripping. Characterization, vivid details of their journeys and the entire setting of St Pious added a special charm to the story. For a moment, it felt as if I was right there beside the bear, witnessing Peter’s ascend to Heaven. A thought-provoking, heart-touching, and interesting story that will stay with me for long.
A Fallen Leaf, is a must-read if you wish to enjoy a perfect blend of prose and poetry in one book. The stories will poke your brain and stir your soul. If you are yet to read the book, I say, go grab it today. You won’t regret it.
June 19, 2021
Penmancy team – ‘fall’ can mean many things to many people because we’re all leaves, hanging on a tree, and like leaves we grow in time and change colours through seasons revealing the true nature of ourselves.
All of us, at least once in our lives, have faced a situation wherein we felt like a fallen leaf. We felt like a rudderless raft in the sea, propelled solely by the wind. The wind took us in directions that were unchartered or maybe unintended. But, in the process of discovering that direction, we changed, we grew and we evolved. And, these are the directions that have taught us the most about life, are they not?
A fallen leaf is an anthology of fifteen short stories that revolve around the above theme. These are stories of normal human beings living their mundane, boring lives. The characters are real life people whom you can relate to for they are the ones that we meet in our everyday lives and yet tend to ignore. Tell me, how often is it that we stop and give a second thought to the stories of the people around us? Almost never, right? And, we never think from the perspective of an abandoned house or even a fallen leaf. If they could speak then would they have a story to tell?
I warrant that if we ever paused to look at the life around us then we would find stories of fortitude, strength of character, true grit and unconditional love. That is exactly what the book is about. Without meaning to, it still teaches you the true meaning of always ‘rising above your circumstances’.
Although, this is an anthology by fifteen wonderful writers, yet the language of the book is pretty even toned and easy to understand. It’s a well edited book and it is evident that care has been taken to present stories that capture the essence of life even though they remain individually unique. The deep emotional connect that you feel as you read the book, gives you hope. It reinstates your belief in the fact that there is something better out there even in the most inclement of circumstances.
Another beautiful part that I loved about the book is the brilliant poems written by Olinda Briganza to introduce each story. They set the tone of the story and orient a reader about what to expect. To me, they were instrumental in connecting the multiple stories together. The poems, strung the stories up for me like different flowers bound in a wreath by a common wire. That gave the book a more novel like appeal.
The book is a short compilation and is perfect for some weekend reading or to carry with you during your travels. My favourite stories in the book are – A mosaic on the garden floor by Sharanya Mishra and a Tryst with a twist by Olinda Briganza.
All of us, at least once in our lives, have faced a situation wherein we felt like a fallen leaf. We felt like a rudderless raft in the sea, propelled solely by the wind. The wind took us in directions that were unchartered or maybe unintended. But, in the process of discovering that direction, we changed, we grew and we evolved. And, these are the directions that have taught us the most about life, are they not?
A fallen leaf is an anthology of fifteen short stories that revolve around the above theme. These are stories of normal human beings living their mundane, boring lives. The characters are real life people whom you can relate to for they are the ones that we meet in our everyday lives and yet tend to ignore. Tell me, how often is it that we stop and give a second thought to the stories of the people around us? Almost never, right? And, we never think from the perspective of an abandoned house or even a fallen leaf. If they could speak then would they have a story to tell?
I warrant that if we ever paused to look at the life around us then we would find stories of fortitude, strength of character, true grit and unconditional love. That is exactly what the book is about. Without meaning to, it still teaches you the true meaning of always ‘rising above your circumstances’.
Although, this is an anthology by fifteen wonderful writers, yet the language of the book is pretty even toned and easy to understand. It’s a well edited book and it is evident that care has been taken to present stories that capture the essence of life even though they remain individually unique. The deep emotional connect that you feel as you read the book, gives you hope. It reinstates your belief in the fact that there is something better out there even in the most inclement of circumstances.
Another beautiful part that I loved about the book is the brilliant poems written by Olinda Briganza to introduce each story. They set the tone of the story and orient a reader about what to expect. To me, they were instrumental in connecting the multiple stories together. The poems, strung the stories up for me like different flowers bound in a wreath by a common wire. That gave the book a more novel like appeal.
The book is a short compilation and is perfect for some weekend reading or to carry with you during your travels. My favourite stories in the book are – A mosaic on the garden floor by Sharanya Mishra and a Tryst with a twist by Olinda Briganza.
August 18, 2020
Book title - A fallen leaf
An anthology of short stories
Author - various
No. Of pages - 132
A Fallen leaf is a collection of 15 short stories by 15 different writers. True to its title, there are various aspects to each story but all dwelling upon myriad emotions.
After a fall, whether it is a physical fall or an emotional one, it is the inherent nature of a human being to try and get up and move on.
The anthology is a combination of stories of hope, of romance, of drama and some comic. Some stories connect with the reader instantly whereas some need time to savour them.
I will start with my favourite one; All for the blossoms by Em Kay which tells the story of a protagonist who spares his valuable time for the most important person in his life and how this gesture enriches both their lives.
A mosaic on the Garden floor by Sharanya Mishra is a story told from the point of view of a fallen maple leaf, as it flies from the life of one family to another, each facing it's own challenges, some facing them with strength while some breaking down.
Two Pilgrims by Rham Dhel is a thought provoking story of two Pilgrims coming from opposite social background. Read it to savour it's message of living in tune with nature, of becoming one with it.
Refugee by Kaushik Mujumdar is gut wrenching, highlighting the futility of war where no one is the winner.
Varied Moods, Varied Seasons by Sitharaam Jayakumar is a take on seasons where parallels are drawn with the human life which moves from good times to not so good times and the importance of maintaining sustainable relationships with near and dear ones.
The Mis(fit) by Saravjot Hansrao highlights the importance of having confidence in one's own abilities irrespective of outward appearances when you are being subjected to body shaming.
Hope by Srikant Singha Ray is a story of overcoming one's own fears.
The funeral by Nilutpal Gohain, contrary to its title is a comic take on a generally serious situation.
Behind the Bars by Kajal Kapur captures the fatalistic emotional state of life behind bars through the eyes of two inmates.
The other stories in this anthology are good too and overall the anothology achieves what it set out to do.
The poems composed by Olinda Braganza to introduce each story are an added attraction in A fallen leaf to poetry enthusiasts.
Yatindra Tawde
An anthology of short stories
Author - various
No. Of pages - 132
A Fallen leaf is a collection of 15 short stories by 15 different writers. True to its title, there are various aspects to each story but all dwelling upon myriad emotions.
After a fall, whether it is a physical fall or an emotional one, it is the inherent nature of a human being to try and get up and move on.
The anthology is a combination of stories of hope, of romance, of drama and some comic. Some stories connect with the reader instantly whereas some need time to savour them.
I will start with my favourite one; All for the blossoms by Em Kay which tells the story of a protagonist who spares his valuable time for the most important person in his life and how this gesture enriches both their lives.
A mosaic on the Garden floor by Sharanya Mishra is a story told from the point of view of a fallen maple leaf, as it flies from the life of one family to another, each facing it's own challenges, some facing them with strength while some breaking down.
Two Pilgrims by Rham Dhel is a thought provoking story of two Pilgrims coming from opposite social background. Read it to savour it's message of living in tune with nature, of becoming one with it.
Refugee by Kaushik Mujumdar is gut wrenching, highlighting the futility of war where no one is the winner.
Varied Moods, Varied Seasons by Sitharaam Jayakumar is a take on seasons where parallels are drawn with the human life which moves from good times to not so good times and the importance of maintaining sustainable relationships with near and dear ones.
The Mis(fit) by Saravjot Hansrao highlights the importance of having confidence in one's own abilities irrespective of outward appearances when you are being subjected to body shaming.
Hope by Srikant Singha Ray is a story of overcoming one's own fears.
The funeral by Nilutpal Gohain, contrary to its title is a comic take on a generally serious situation.
Behind the Bars by Kajal Kapur captures the fatalistic emotional state of life behind bars through the eyes of two inmates.
The other stories in this anthology are good too and overall the anothology achieves what it set out to do.
The poems composed by Olinda Braganza to introduce each story are an added attraction in A fallen leaf to poetry enthusiasts.
Yatindra Tawde
November 28, 2021
A Fallen Leaf is a collection of short stories written by the amazing authors of Penmancy. The best part is-the synopsis of each story was presented in the form of a poem. Each one added essence to each story as they were adorned with words so apt. Each story will touch the reader's mind and they perfectly complement the title. The stories are bound to tug at your heartstrings and knock your cranium. They will make you wonder and wander. And you will return to the poems several times; for, once won’t definitely be enough.
Stories like Canary in a Coal Mine, The (Mis)fit, A Mosaic on the Garden Floor, Behind The Bars, Two Pilgrims, and a few others will keep you hooked. A Fallen Leaf, is a must-read if you wish to enjoy a perfect blend of prose and poetry in one book. The stories will poke your brain and stir your soul. If you are yet to read the book, I say, go grab it today. You won’t regret it.
Stories like Canary in a Coal Mine, The (Mis)fit, A Mosaic on the Garden Floor, Behind The Bars, Two Pilgrims, and a few others will keep you hooked. A Fallen Leaf, is a must-read if you wish to enjoy a perfect blend of prose and poetry in one book. The stories will poke your brain and stir your soul. If you are yet to read the book, I say, go grab it today. You won’t regret it.
August 11, 2020
‘A Fallen Leaf’ is a varied, ornate short story collection that navigates the inner lives and outer experiences of characters whose origins are outside of what’s ordinary. So beautifully written that you can just slip into these gentle stories, wander through the lives of ordinary people, and surround yourself with their warming atmosphere.
These intricate stories traverse through various times and lands. Each story begins with a beautiful and heartfelt poem which was a cherry on the top.
Leavened with well-observed and intricate details, and peppered with moments of pathos and poignant reflections on the life of ordinary people, A Fallen Leaf is a stimulating and varied collection. The authors have woven beautiful & touching stories.
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These intricate stories traverse through various times and lands. Each story begins with a beautiful and heartfelt poem which was a cherry on the top.
Leavened with well-observed and intricate details, and peppered with moments of pathos and poignant reflections on the life of ordinary people, A Fallen Leaf is a stimulating and varied collection. The authors have woven beautiful & touching stories.
Read the full review on:
https://readreactreview21.wordpress.c...
August 26, 2020
À FALLEN LEAF
The books contains 15 short stories by 15 different young writers.
Each story has anthology of the word Fall.
Fall a simple word with many meanings. It is as beautiful as season or falling in love and as unpleasant as a misfortune. A fallen leaf is Colorful testament to that.
Each fallen leaves embark on a lifetime of unique adventures and timeless lessons all tied up with a neat and captivating collection.
Some stories are heart warming while some are heart breaking. But each and every story showcases the word Fall.
♡ Language is too simple to understand
♡ Every authors are appreciated.
♡ Recommended and must read
♡ Great work by @pen.mancy
Title: A FALLEN LEAF
Publisher : HALF BAKED BEANS
Pages: 132
Rating: 4.5/5
The books contains 15 short stories by 15 different young writers.
Each story has anthology of the word Fall.
Fall a simple word with many meanings. It is as beautiful as season or falling in love and as unpleasant as a misfortune. A fallen leaf is Colorful testament to that.
Each fallen leaves embark on a lifetime of unique adventures and timeless lessons all tied up with a neat and captivating collection.
Some stories are heart warming while some are heart breaking. But each and every story showcases the word Fall.
♡ Language is too simple to understand
♡ Every authors are appreciated.
♡ Recommended and must read
♡ Great work by @pen.mancy
Title: A FALLEN LEAF
Publisher : HALF BAKED BEANS
Pages: 132
Rating: 4.5/5
August 12, 2020
The book is an anthology of 15 short stories by young writers around the word 'Fall.'the word fall has been interpreted differently by different writers as per their myriad experience of love.some have interpreted it as a fall leading to despair while others have taken it as an enabling experience to rise again .
The varied thoughts /experience gives the reader a plethora of thoughts and an intense satisfaction at the end of book to experience the life fully.
The language is easy and themes varied but are bound by common thread and will appeal to all
The varied thoughts /experience gives the reader a plethora of thoughts and an intense satisfaction at the end of book to experience the life fully.
The language is easy and themes varied but are bound by common thread and will appeal to all
August 2, 2020
This book has an excellent heart warming collection of stories.The stories have great emotional depth. They really touch your heart and make one think about the vicissitudes of life. The stories reflect life in a variety of shades. They deal with a range of emotions like joy, anger, sorrow, misery and so on. The stories are not black and white and reflect shades of grey. Wishing the book all success!!
August 2, 2020
Just like weather, life has many seasons too. Some make us happy, some tug at the darkest corners of our heart. Whether it is the nostalgia emanating from a previous birth or struggle for 'fall' in weight. Fall has different connotations and each writer has skillfully interpreted that in his own mind. Beautiful and picturesque stories !
August 2, 2020
Fifteen short stories are skilfully written to create an impact that is bigger than the length of a story. The 'fall' in every story has a different flavour. Sweet, savoury, bitter, spicy...all flavours come together to make a perfect dish and the reader enjoys every bite.
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