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Gift of Life
Gift of Life is Shyamala’s story. A seventy-year-old women, living alone in the small coastal town of Perdur. She is simple and relatable. Yet there is something bold and impressive about the way she lives her life alone, refusing to depend on anyone.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
This beautifully narrated, deeply felt story is told with an innate understanding of both the frailty and the strength of human experience. Based on the nationwide lockdown of 2020, Gift of Life is a story of acceptance, hope and healing in times of great uncertainty.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
This beautifully narrated, deeply felt story is told with an innate understanding of both the frailty and the strength of human experience. Based on the nationwide lockdown of 2020, Gift of Life is a story of acceptance, hope and healing in times of great uncertainty.
- GenresFiction
237 pages, Paperback
Published December 25, 2021
1 person is currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 6, 2025
If you want a breather between heavy reads you can pick this.
The story goes in the same tone from starting till end.
Story of a 70 year old lady during Covid times staying alone in one of the small town of Karnataka.
How she makes peace with her past, how she makes her present better is the whole storyline.
There are a couple of really good one liners in the book.
However at places, just for name sake most complicated synonyms for a simple word is used (this is what o felt) and I didn't like it.
The story goes in the same tone from starting till end.
Story of a 70 year old lady during Covid times staying alone in one of the small town of Karnataka.
How she makes peace with her past, how she makes her present better is the whole storyline.
There are a couple of really good one liners in the book.
However at places, just for name sake most complicated synonyms for a simple word is used (this is what o felt) and I didn't like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2022
Very well written. Loved reading this book. It kept me glued to the story.. Gift of life is a story about a elderly woman. Author has beautifully pictured the story. Story depicts how an elderly lady faced lockdown what went through her mental state in those days and how she overcomes her own fears.. must read.
January 24, 2022
There are some books which are not mere pastime readings but live with you literally, when you are sitting, eating, sleeping. Gift of Life by Ashwini Shenoy is one such book.
Before talking about the book, I would like to bring up the Covid-19 Pandemic which has impacted every single soul on earth - be it kids or adults, sick or healthy, businessman or worker, govt or NGO. But i think the most impacted lot is women. Their worlds have altered for the worse. Their burden of work has increased manifolds to manage houses while doing other things they were responsible for outside homes. You might say, I agree with working women but what has changed for housewives. Isn't it the same for them? My view is that yes, their work might have not changed drastically but those things they used to do/enjoy outside of their homes are not the same anymore. In addition to the physical work, the mental burden has certainly increased for women in the past couple of years. Gift of Life is a breather to all those who are going through this burden, specific to Covid-19 Pandemic but in general to everyone who is going through this pressure. This book is, many self-help guides bundled into one. While it is a healing guide to scarred, depressed souls, it is a refreshing reminder for everyone else on how it is important to preserve what beautiful things one already has.
Book is based on the new normal posed by Covid lockdown but subtly talks about every human mind which has built and is living in its own lockdowns. Above all, Gift of Life is a story of the ever -pulsating heart of a woman who rediscovers herself in her own ways, on her own. Everyone can relate with Shyamala the protagonist and to her ordeals easily. Shyamala’s triumph in the end becomes every individual's triumph who has gone through pain, suffering and lost a dear one.
As I started reading the book, I grew closer to the characters and its surroundings or should i say it took me back to my childhood days when the hamlet (Mangalore in particular, Dakshina Kannada in general) mentioned in the book described familiar customs, food, people, surroundings and things like Coconut peeler, Copper Vessels, cloth washing stone etc.
While reading, it also gave me the feel of reading yesteryear Kannada novels by Triveni and Saisute which were rooted in the traditions and the protagonist was mostly a woman.
Story is minimalistic just like the other protagonist of the story - Perdur Town. There are no unnecessary characters or characteristics described in the novel. There are no sub plots or alternate storylines trying to engross the reader. Like the determination of Tortoise who is slow and steady to win the race, Writer Ashwini Shenoy chooses to engage the reader slowly and steadily with the story. While there are no unnecessary details in the story, Ashwini ensures every aspect of the story and ingredients are detailed to the T to give the authentic experience the reader should get. Ashwini uses quotes at the beginning of every chapter which takes the life of its own within that chapter and makes it more relatable to our own selves and situations. Ashwini also blends the rural and urban aspects without giving a hint to the reader. Reader never gets alienated irrespective of their locations - be it a city, small town, or a village.
This novel could be an authentic reference point for the coming generations who would be trying to find out the details of the Covid 19 Pandemic and lockdown impact. This book tries to detail out all necessary aspects of the Pandemic and lockdown without boring the reader and also brings forth the humane aspects related to the impact.
Above all this book shows the hope in human endeavors even if they seem simple, mundane, and silly. And how one can come out of our own shells with our own effort and in our own way.
Thank You Ashiwni Shenoy for this Gift of Life!
Before talking about the book, I would like to bring up the Covid-19 Pandemic which has impacted every single soul on earth - be it kids or adults, sick or healthy, businessman or worker, govt or NGO. But i think the most impacted lot is women. Their worlds have altered for the worse. Their burden of work has increased manifolds to manage houses while doing other things they were responsible for outside homes. You might say, I agree with working women but what has changed for housewives. Isn't it the same for them? My view is that yes, their work might have not changed drastically but those things they used to do/enjoy outside of their homes are not the same anymore. In addition to the physical work, the mental burden has certainly increased for women in the past couple of years. Gift of Life is a breather to all those who are going through this burden, specific to Covid-19 Pandemic but in general to everyone who is going through this pressure. This book is, many self-help guides bundled into one. While it is a healing guide to scarred, depressed souls, it is a refreshing reminder for everyone else on how it is important to preserve what beautiful things one already has.
Book is based on the new normal posed by Covid lockdown but subtly talks about every human mind which has built and is living in its own lockdowns. Above all, Gift of Life is a story of the ever -pulsating heart of a woman who rediscovers herself in her own ways, on her own. Everyone can relate with Shyamala the protagonist and to her ordeals easily. Shyamala’s triumph in the end becomes every individual's triumph who has gone through pain, suffering and lost a dear one.
As I started reading the book, I grew closer to the characters and its surroundings or should i say it took me back to my childhood days when the hamlet (Mangalore in particular, Dakshina Kannada in general) mentioned in the book described familiar customs, food, people, surroundings and things like Coconut peeler, Copper Vessels, cloth washing stone etc.
While reading, it also gave me the feel of reading yesteryear Kannada novels by Triveni and Saisute which were rooted in the traditions and the protagonist was mostly a woman.
Story is minimalistic just like the other protagonist of the story - Perdur Town. There are no unnecessary characters or characteristics described in the novel. There are no sub plots or alternate storylines trying to engross the reader. Like the determination of Tortoise who is slow and steady to win the race, Writer Ashwini Shenoy chooses to engage the reader slowly and steadily with the story. While there are no unnecessary details in the story, Ashwini ensures every aspect of the story and ingredients are detailed to the T to give the authentic experience the reader should get. Ashwini uses quotes at the beginning of every chapter which takes the life of its own within that chapter and makes it more relatable to our own selves and situations. Ashwini also blends the rural and urban aspects without giving a hint to the reader. Reader never gets alienated irrespective of their locations - be it a city, small town, or a village.
This novel could be an authentic reference point for the coming generations who would be trying to find out the details of the Covid 19 Pandemic and lockdown impact. This book tries to detail out all necessary aspects of the Pandemic and lockdown without boring the reader and also brings forth the humane aspects related to the impact.
Above all this book shows the hope in human endeavors even if they seem simple, mundane, and silly. And how one can come out of our own shells with our own effort and in our own way.
Thank You Ashiwni Shenoy for this Gift of Life!
December 29, 2024
At what point in our lives do our struggles end and get the credit for surviving the worst? At which age in our life, does the troubles end and we wake up to an equilibrium, a semblance of paradise? How do you motivate yourself to fight it out when there is no fight left and fighting is the only thing left to do?
These questions often came in my mind when I was reading the story of Shyamala, a near Septuagenarian, in Ashwini Shenoy's 2nd novel 'Gift of Life'. Shyamala lives in her beloved home, in the small town of Perdur, with emotional baggage and traumas as her companions. And since these guests have overstayed their welcome, Shyamala avoids them by being out of home, for as long as she can can and as often as she can. "If you can't chase away, stay away(
But, turmoil are just like boomerangs- they have a way of coming back. It is March 2020, and there is COVID everywhere and therefore a 21 day nationwide lockdown is imposed on the people, forcing everyone to stay indoors. Shyamala is distraught. For the next 21 days, at least, she has to stay with the turmoil. It is unavoidable.
And this is where the true strength of the writing prowess of Ashwini Shenoy comes to the fore. She manages to highlight brilliantly the vulnerability of Shyamala, invoking compassion towards her and not pity, thereby making us readers, her supporter. You get this feeling that Shyamala will not be giving up, and she would muster some courage to put up a fight- and that is what she does. A small fights, winning small victories, then slightly bigger one and then bigger battles and finally, the war. And then you realise that the war is not against anyone else but with herself, with her inner inhibitions and doubts, and you also realise that it is the same kind of war that you yourselves are fighting- winning some, losing some.
Gift of Life, is a not a self help book, nor is it a heavy philosophical introspection of the human mind. It is quite simply, a relatable story narrated with the help of relatable everyday characters and that is why the book works, mostly.
The polaroid shot of an "after" works only if there is comparative shot of the "before". If not, the resultant change would be satisfactory at best, and the true journey is lost in the context. I would have enjoyed the highs of Shyamala much more if I was with her lows as well. While we get a brief snapshots of her lows, I would have preferred a video of a longer duration. This way, we could really see and understand how low, her lows really were and we could properly ascertain how high she actually went. And because the depth of the lows aren't quantifiable in the case of Shyamala, her highs are underappreciated.
Having said that, the book is indeed a celebration of the 'Let's keep fighting' apothegm and for that I would give this a 3.5/5 stars rating.
Ashwini Shenoy is indeed here to stay.
These questions often came in my mind when I was reading the story of Shyamala, a near Septuagenarian, in Ashwini Shenoy's 2nd novel 'Gift of Life'. Shyamala lives in her beloved home, in the small town of Perdur, with emotional baggage and traumas as her companions. And since these guests have overstayed their welcome, Shyamala avoids them by being out of home, for as long as she can can and as often as she can. "If you can't chase away, stay away(
But, turmoil are just like boomerangs- they have a way of coming back. It is March 2020, and there is COVID everywhere and therefore a 21 day nationwide lockdown is imposed on the people, forcing everyone to stay indoors. Shyamala is distraught. For the next 21 days, at least, she has to stay with the turmoil. It is unavoidable.
And this is where the true strength of the writing prowess of Ashwini Shenoy comes to the fore. She manages to highlight brilliantly the vulnerability of Shyamala, invoking compassion towards her and not pity, thereby making us readers, her supporter. You get this feeling that Shyamala will not be giving up, and she would muster some courage to put up a fight- and that is what she does. A small fights, winning small victories, then slightly bigger one and then bigger battles and finally, the war. And then you realise that the war is not against anyone else but with herself, with her inner inhibitions and doubts, and you also realise that it is the same kind of war that you yourselves are fighting- winning some, losing some.
Gift of Life, is a not a self help book, nor is it a heavy philosophical introspection of the human mind. It is quite simply, a relatable story narrated with the help of relatable everyday characters and that is why the book works, mostly.
The polaroid shot of an "after" works only if there is comparative shot of the "before". If not, the resultant change would be satisfactory at best, and the true journey is lost in the context. I would have enjoyed the highs of Shyamala much more if I was with her lows as well. While we get a brief snapshots of her lows, I would have preferred a video of a longer duration. This way, we could really see and understand how low, her lows really were and we could properly ascertain how high she actually went. And because the depth of the lows aren't quantifiable in the case of Shyamala, her highs are underappreciated.
Having said that, the book is indeed a celebration of the 'Let's keep fighting' apothegm and for that I would give this a 3.5/5 stars rating.
Ashwini Shenoy is indeed here to stay.
February 7, 2022
Love ❤,
Noor.
newrelease2022
🎁 GIFT OF LIFE
Genre contemporayfiction
⚘Thankyou ashwinishenoym for the hand- signed gifted copy, I simply adore it. The story & the writing, touched me deeply.
______
Many of you know, I have recently moved back to my hometown. I lived for around 5 years in a different city & then a different state. The landlady was a widow, her daughter lived out of India & son, in some other city. There was no dearth of money, pensions, rent & al, she was financially sound & mobile, even at the age of 75. She had an activa & she used to zoom around all day & come back home 🏡 at night. I always used to wonder & marvel at her strength. Gradually when we interacted, I became aware of her insecurities, past Demons & her ways/ strategies to deal with them & also vile her time away by keeping herself busy. Feeding stray dogs, helping the househelp financially & in kind, cooking & giving food to neighbors, spending time chatting in the park, regular walks, taking care of her health, meditation, reading, fidgeting with her smartphone were some of her ways.. Reading this book, reminded me of her & helped me understand her better.
Also my paternal uncle lost his wife & then his son.. I never quite figured out what gave him the strength to move on. This story gave me an insight & closure w.r.t that too.
________
This is the story of 70 year old Shyamala. It begins in the timeline when the 1st #lockdown was announced & ends with the announcement of an extension. But within these few days, Shyamala's life changed drastically, for the better. The author has magically weaved an unputdownable, heartwarming story of love, loss, grief & then a complete turnaround with love, gratitude & zeal for life. The story keeps on jumping timelines between past & present but the transition is smooth. Shyamala who lives alone in her home, has broken ties with her only son, lost her daughter & husband & tries to keep her busy out of the house to stay away from her past & it's memories.
... but when the lock down is announced, she is bound in her home.. within the same sanctuary that reminds her of her past, of her loss..of good times & when everything got ruined.. what will she do now..how will she survive or will she lose all hope & let herself ruin in her grief? This story encapsulates some very important topics like 👍 pressure & high expectations from children..depression..suicide. ✌listening. The importance of listening to minimize misunderstandings. 👆 loneliness. Self love. Gratitude. Kindness. Being human. ✅how technology is a boon & sometimes a lifeline, if used judiciously. ⚘ handicap or disability. How God covers up a disability with a greater talent..💫 and it tells us to be your own best friend. Also reading books, keeping in touch with loved ones, with nature, exercising, being kind to stray animals & giving back to the society is so so important. And yes donot keep regrets, try to sort out misunderstandings or communicate your feelings/ thoughts before it is too late. The book also talks about an NGO Pratyarpana. If you need more details, you can ping the author about it. ❤ all in all, a hearttouching, inspiring story. Viable for all age groups & yes, your writing style reminded me of #preetishenoy .
Blurb:
Gift of Life is Shyamala’s story. A seventy-year-old women, living alone in the small coastal town of Perdur. She is simple and relatable. Yet there is something bold and impressive about the way she lives her life alone, refusing to depend on anyone.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
This beautifully narrated, deeply felt story is told with an innate understanding of both the frailty and the strength of human experience. Based on the nationwide lockdown of 2020, Gift of Life is a story of acceptance, hope and healing in times of great uncertainty.
Noor.
newrelease2022
🎁 GIFT OF LIFE
Genre contemporayfiction
⚘Thankyou ashwinishenoym for the hand- signed gifted copy, I simply adore it. The story & the writing, touched me deeply.
______
Many of you know, I have recently moved back to my hometown. I lived for around 5 years in a different city & then a different state. The landlady was a widow, her daughter lived out of India & son, in some other city. There was no dearth of money, pensions, rent & al, she was financially sound & mobile, even at the age of 75. She had an activa & she used to zoom around all day & come back home 🏡 at night. I always used to wonder & marvel at her strength. Gradually when we interacted, I became aware of her insecurities, past Demons & her ways/ strategies to deal with them & also vile her time away by keeping herself busy. Feeding stray dogs, helping the househelp financially & in kind, cooking & giving food to neighbors, spending time chatting in the park, regular walks, taking care of her health, meditation, reading, fidgeting with her smartphone were some of her ways.. Reading this book, reminded me of her & helped me understand her better.
Also my paternal uncle lost his wife & then his son.. I never quite figured out what gave him the strength to move on. This story gave me an insight & closure w.r.t that too.
________
This is the story of 70 year old Shyamala. It begins in the timeline when the 1st #lockdown was announced & ends with the announcement of an extension. But within these few days, Shyamala's life changed drastically, for the better. The author has magically weaved an unputdownable, heartwarming story of love, loss, grief & then a complete turnaround with love, gratitude & zeal for life. The story keeps on jumping timelines between past & present but the transition is smooth. Shyamala who lives alone in her home, has broken ties with her only son, lost her daughter & husband & tries to keep her busy out of the house to stay away from her past & it's memories.
... but when the lock down is announced, she is bound in her home.. within the same sanctuary that reminds her of her past, of her loss..of good times & when everything got ruined.. what will she do now..how will she survive or will she lose all hope & let herself ruin in her grief? This story encapsulates some very important topics like 👍 pressure & high expectations from children..depression..suicide. ✌listening. The importance of listening to minimize misunderstandings. 👆 loneliness. Self love. Gratitude. Kindness. Being human. ✅how technology is a boon & sometimes a lifeline, if used judiciously. ⚘ handicap or disability. How God covers up a disability with a greater talent..💫 and it tells us to be your own best friend. Also reading books, keeping in touch with loved ones, with nature, exercising, being kind to stray animals & giving back to the society is so so important. And yes donot keep regrets, try to sort out misunderstandings or communicate your feelings/ thoughts before it is too late. The book also talks about an NGO Pratyarpana. If you need more details, you can ping the author about it. ❤ all in all, a hearttouching, inspiring story. Viable for all age groups & yes, your writing style reminded me of #preetishenoy .
Blurb:
Gift of Life is Shyamala’s story. A seventy-year-old women, living alone in the small coastal town of Perdur. She is simple and relatable. Yet there is something bold and impressive about the way she lives her life alone, refusing to depend on anyone.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
This beautifully narrated, deeply felt story is told with an innate understanding of both the frailty and the strength of human experience. Based on the nationwide lockdown of 2020, Gift of Life is a story of acceptance, hope and healing in times of great uncertainty.
August 1, 2022
Such a beautiful book! Being a Mangalorean, I found many things relatable . The nuances and attention to detail is spot on. Simple things like placing phone on the refrigerator and descriptions of the humble lifestyle of Shyamala were endearing. I kept imagining my mother in Shyamala’s place and felt very emotional in some moments. By the end of the read, you are left with a feeling of hope. Ashwini’s story telling is genuine and comforting. I think she will go a long way as an author and a storyteller.
January 16, 2022
"Gift of life" is an apt book to be read by all of us enduring this pandemic. The author Ashwini Shenoy has gracefully written the character Shyamala with her ordeals, her weaknesses, the baggage which she had been carrying all along, getting transformed into a stronger person and she blooming into a new flower..Its a must read book for everyone!
April 3, 2022
A seventy-year-old women, living alone in the small coastal town of Perdur. She is simple and relatable. Yet there is something bold and impressive about the way she lives her life alone, refusing to depend on anyone.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
🦄🦄🦄
Gift Of Life by Ashwini Shenoy takes places during the 2020 lockdown and shows how Shyamala deals with it while trying to face her own demons. This is one of the stories where the author knows how to tell a beautiful tale without the need of embellishments. It's pure at heart and tackles a lot of the things we faced during the pandemic and when we read the story through the eyes of Shyamala, we see that while she seems to be living a normal life, the pandemic slowly started to open her up and reveal her in a different light given the new circumstances as it did for many of us. The pandemic effected us all in different ways and we aren't the same people who we were in the beginning of 2020. This book is a reflection of that and it's beautifully written while still being emotional.
🦄🦄🦄
9/10
Melina L.
Carrying the burden of a tragic past, Shyamala believes that the only way she can survive is to follow a routine that allows her to spend most of her time outside the house that is a constant reminder of the past. For years this routine is her anchor. But what happens when the whole world is confronted by a challenge that halts normal life and Shyamala is confined to the house that screams of everything she has lost? Does she surrender to her fate, or does she fight back and rediscover herself?
🦄🦄🦄
Gift Of Life by Ashwini Shenoy takes places during the 2020 lockdown and shows how Shyamala deals with it while trying to face her own demons. This is one of the stories where the author knows how to tell a beautiful tale without the need of embellishments. It's pure at heart and tackles a lot of the things we faced during the pandemic and when we read the story through the eyes of Shyamala, we see that while she seems to be living a normal life, the pandemic slowly started to open her up and reveal her in a different light given the new circumstances as it did for many of us. The pandemic effected us all in different ways and we aren't the same people who we were in the beginning of 2020. This book is a reflection of that and it's beautifully written while still being emotional.
🦄🦄🦄
9/10
Melina L.
January 10, 2022
'Gift of Life' is the most valuable gift you can give yourself and to all your close ones.
Ashwini Shenoy, the author of this beautiful book has narrated the story in a very realistic, positive and heartwarming way. Given the COVID pandemic situation we all are stuck in, this book truly inspired me to perceive life positively and appreciate the little things in life!!
Thank you Ashwini for this beautiful narration, instilling hope in these dark uncertain moments of our lives...
Ashwini Shenoy, the author of this beautiful book has narrated the story in a very realistic, positive and heartwarming way. Given the COVID pandemic situation we all are stuck in, this book truly inspired me to perceive life positively and appreciate the little things in life!!
Thank you Ashwini for this beautiful narration, instilling hope in these dark uncertain moments of our lives...
January 7, 2022
This book is a beautiful story set in the midst of the ongoing pandemic. The pandemic has impacted us all in various ways. In this story we trace the life of a 70 year old woman as to how she copes with the sudden disruption in her routine life. I love the way Ashwini has brought out the emotions in the characters. This can be your read on a wonderful rainy day with a cup of coffee or your perfect travel partner with a view. It's a feel good story that everyone can relate to and enjoy. Thank you for this beautiful story. More power to you Ashwini.
January 5, 2022
Beautiful book written by Ashwini and good way to start the reading journey in the year 2022.
The book starts out slow, by the 6th or 7th chapter - it starts to grow on you. You start to realize much like the protagonist - how small changes in day to day life can cause a huge impact on the mental well being of a person.
By the end, you feel the warmth exuded by the story and start feeling a little grateful for the life you have.
Recommend to read this book filled with stories depicting a 70 year old widowed woman finding little joys of life, rebuilding the family, finding courage to forgive and self-love.
The book starts out slow, by the 6th or 7th chapter - it starts to grow on you. You start to realize much like the protagonist - how small changes in day to day life can cause a huge impact on the mental well being of a person.
By the end, you feel the warmth exuded by the story and start feeling a little grateful for the life you have.
Recommend to read this book filled with stories depicting a 70 year old widowed woman finding little joys of life, rebuilding the family, finding courage to forgive and self-love.
December 26, 2024
Shenoy is an indie author with two books so far Shikandi (2019)- Indian Mythology , Gift of Life (2021)- Slice of life genre and her latest book is coming by the end of this month called ‘In the golden Mountain’ which is a coming of age Romance.She is a M.Tech, blogger and also holds a diploma in creative writing . She started writing only when she was 22 and so far has chosen 3 genres than sticking to one which I find quite impressive.
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Coming back to the book Gift of Life.
..
📚📚📚📚📚
Shyamla is a simple next door character but she hides deep scars of trauma and tragedy. Her only solace is her daily routine. Which is mundane but soothing. What happens when COVID strikes?. Which is the backdrop of this story, restricting her to the house she despises so much and why is that?
Well you will find out by the end of this novel
Now that I have summarised the same for you. Let me talk about the technical and creative aspects of this book.
📚📚📚📚📚
Author is able to narrate a story in a simple yet engaging narrative. A small criticism here, I would not call it a rollercoaster of emotions kinda narrative while engaging narrative is good , I wish it had more twist turns , so it felt like one is glued or hooked to it.
📚📚📚📚📚
All those who are beginners in the world of reading and as well as those who have read some really good content will enjoy it.
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The book well edited, professionally proffered and grammatically sound with always a little scope of improvement but overall the publishers @leadstart and author has a done good job.
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On the creative side, I would say since the author has a wide gambit of creativity as discussed above and this diversity shows in this one as well in the characters growth.
📚📚📚📚📚
To sum it up it’s a good poignant read that will leave you contemplating giving people a gift of life
📚📚📚📚📚
Coming back to the book Gift of Life.
..
📚📚📚📚📚
Shyamla is a simple next door character but she hides deep scars of trauma and tragedy. Her only solace is her daily routine. Which is mundane but soothing. What happens when COVID strikes?. Which is the backdrop of this story, restricting her to the house she despises so much and why is that?
Well you will find out by the end of this novel
Now that I have summarised the same for you. Let me talk about the technical and creative aspects of this book.
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Author is able to narrate a story in a simple yet engaging narrative. A small criticism here, I would not call it a rollercoaster of emotions kinda narrative while engaging narrative is good , I wish it had more twist turns , so it felt like one is glued or hooked to it.
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All those who are beginners in the world of reading and as well as those who have read some really good content will enjoy it.
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The book well edited, professionally proffered and grammatically sound with always a little scope of improvement but overall the publishers @leadstart and author has a done good job.
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On the creative side, I would say since the author has a wide gambit of creativity as discussed above and this diversity shows in this one as well in the characters growth.
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To sum it up it’s a good poignant read that will leave you contemplating giving people a gift of life
March 6, 2022
💕 I love reading Indian authors and books that have India as backdrop. Since you understand the story at a different altitude - the slangs, character names, location names, culture, climate conditions - all this makes you feel at home.
🔸 Gift of Life is about 70 year old widow Shyamala who lives in town of Perdur. She has isolated herself after the untimely demise of her husband and follows strict discipline just to drag through her mundane life. Until the point when pandemic strikes and her daily routine is thrown out of tandem. She is now confused, worried, anxious and depressed all at same time because she does not know what she wants in and from life. The story takes you through the journey of her transformation that happens during the lockdown.
We all have been through this, isn’t it? March 2020 threw all of us in a helpless situation. While some waded through it with less issues; it was not an easy ride for most of us. This book brings to forefront all of those fears which we started off with 2 years back and to where we stand today. I enjoyed reading this take from senior citizen’s POV.
Things I adored:
1. Contents (yes, a rarity nowadays that books have index 😁)
2. Every topic starts with an interesting saying which is quite relevant to that chapter
3. I enjoyed reading about Shyamala’s choice of breakfast she planned everyday. It was lovely to read mention of vermicelli upma, khichidi, kashaya, upkari, pongal, idli chutney, vangibhat…
4. Arrays of stuff covered in the book - long lasting friendship, power of forgiveness, acceptance of one’s mistakes, letting go of ego, self love, compassion towards less fortunate…
5. And I loved the cover. Every detail on the cover has relevance to the story..
Would recommend this to one and all..
🔸 Gift of Life is about 70 year old widow Shyamala who lives in town of Perdur. She has isolated herself after the untimely demise of her husband and follows strict discipline just to drag through her mundane life. Until the point when pandemic strikes and her daily routine is thrown out of tandem. She is now confused, worried, anxious and depressed all at same time because she does not know what she wants in and from life. The story takes you through the journey of her transformation that happens during the lockdown.
We all have been through this, isn’t it? March 2020 threw all of us in a helpless situation. While some waded through it with less issues; it was not an easy ride for most of us. This book brings to forefront all of those fears which we started off with 2 years back and to where we stand today. I enjoyed reading this take from senior citizen’s POV.
Things I adored:
1. Contents (yes, a rarity nowadays that books have index 😁)
2. Every topic starts with an interesting saying which is quite relevant to that chapter
3. I enjoyed reading about Shyamala’s choice of breakfast she planned everyday. It was lovely to read mention of vermicelli upma, khichidi, kashaya, upkari, pongal, idli chutney, vangibhat…
4. Arrays of stuff covered in the book - long lasting friendship, power of forgiveness, acceptance of one’s mistakes, letting go of ego, self love, compassion towards less fortunate…
5. And I loved the cover. Every detail on the cover has relevance to the story..
Would recommend this to one and all..
March 28, 2022
A Simple Beautiful and relatable story!
Ashwini Shenoy, the author of this beautiful and simple book has narrated the story in a very realistic, positive and heartwarming way. It kept me glued till the end. Each character is narrated in a meaningful manner with a moral behind.
The story took me back during the beginning of Covid times and the first ever 21 days lockdown ever witnessed. The way Shyamala started her schedule during the beginning of pandemic with least interest due to her past and how it evolved to the end is something that is very beautifully narrated. Life is all about finding joy and happiness in simple things is something Shyamala found peace in.
The story teaches a lot of values of like friendship, forgiveness, generosity etc.
One of the most important concept that really touched me and is so apt is that before judging a situation or a person it’s better we analyse the situation from both the ends and then come to a conclusion.
Thank you Ashwini for this AMAZING story.
Loved and enjoyed every bit of it!
Keep writing and inspiring! Wishing you the best!
God bless!
~ Melissa Dcosta
Ashwini Shenoy, the author of this beautiful and simple book has narrated the story in a very realistic, positive and heartwarming way. It kept me glued till the end. Each character is narrated in a meaningful manner with a moral behind.
The story took me back during the beginning of Covid times and the first ever 21 days lockdown ever witnessed. The way Shyamala started her schedule during the beginning of pandemic with least interest due to her past and how it evolved to the end is something that is very beautifully narrated. Life is all about finding joy and happiness in simple things is something Shyamala found peace in.
The story teaches a lot of values of like friendship, forgiveness, generosity etc.
One of the most important concept that really touched me and is so apt is that before judging a situation or a person it’s better we analyse the situation from both the ends and then come to a conclusion.
Thank you Ashwini for this AMAZING story.
Loved and enjoyed every bit of it!
Keep writing and inspiring! Wishing you the best!
God bless!
~ Melissa Dcosta
January 24, 2022
Loved 'Gift of Life' by Ashwini Shenoy! Picked it up as light read but it kept me on the edge throughout, wondering what would happen next. Given this pandemic and all that we've been going through for the last two years, you can definitely relate with this book, no matter what age you are coz you would've have felt some of the things, as aptly described in it, at some point in time.
There were also instances when I cried and also had goosebumps! With a positive outlook and the right approach, this book also inspired me to be a better version of myself :)
There were also instances when I cried and also had goosebumps! With a positive outlook and the right approach, this book also inspired me to be a better version of myself :)
January 25, 2022
An endearing tale!
The book chronicles the life of the lead protagonist through the pandemic. As the narrative of the protagonist's rollercoaster journey of life is depicted one cannot help but notice that one of the USP's of the book is it's relatability. It highlights the sheer magic of relationships and family while coping with our very real realities. The writing is crisp, engaging and implores you to have a positive outlook towards life. Kudos to the author for bringing out this delightful read which leaves your heart with inexplicable warmth. This one is highly recommended!
The book chronicles the life of the lead protagonist through the pandemic. As the narrative of the protagonist's rollercoaster journey of life is depicted one cannot help but notice that one of the USP's of the book is it's relatability. It highlights the sheer magic of relationships and family while coping with our very real realities. The writing is crisp, engaging and implores you to have a positive outlook towards life. Kudos to the author for bringing out this delightful read which leaves your heart with inexplicable warmth. This one is highly recommended!
January 27, 2022
A simple and nice read, the storyline keeps you glued and motivated to go until the last page (I had half expected something would happen to the lead character, Shyamala, but let's keep that a suspense). Chapters are well structured and content meticulously detailed. A lot of relatable moments and characters (specially the 2 opposites - Arundhati and Pushpalatha ;)), and overall an excellent topic to explore during the pandemic days (or should we say years now!). I also liked the 2-4 liner excerpt/quote at the beginning of each chapter, which sets the context nicely.
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