The War of Worth: A deeply personal memoir on Body Image, Anxiety and the Healing Journey to Self-Love by Nisha Shenoy

 The War of Worth: A deeply personal memoir on Body Image, Anxiety and the Healing Journey to Self-Love by Nisha Shenoy

Living a life with too much weight involves a lot of peer pressure, societal pressure or pressure from family. Though none are directly involved with the person, still, they want you to change. They are indirectly or face-to-face making fun of you and your obesity. Such a heartfelt story relatable to me is this book.

I could feel the pain and anguish of the author when she was sent to a detoxification centre at a mere age of 16 just to protect the family's image. The little food served and mockery done by other same-age mates or elder women is heart-touching and definitely life-changing.

I liked the subtle reflections of these incidents that changed her perspective. Though she started admiring herself as a person long after, these moments still haunt her.

Quote from the book:
❤️ Life doesn't always give us what we need. But it certainly gives us what we deserve."

I enjoyed reading the insightful Part 3 where the author learns to love herself before complaining about her body. Her 10 micro-habits are worth reading and imbibing in our lives too.

Overall, it is an adorable and inspiring read.

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Making [I]t Personal by Dr. Ritu Garg Rastogi

 Making [I]t Personal by Dr. Ritu Garg Rastogi

We all could feel the changes occurring in the weather or environment around us. But how many of us do anything or try at least? This book acts as the first step to evoke awareness among people so that they understand it as their problem and do something. The fact is that we are a part of this change, and if we could bring about a little change, it would do wonders.

It begins with the quote from the Bhagavad Gita that the environment is not ours to take or leave; it is ours to make. It is a human community to protect the environment for their survival. Here I get to know about 17 sustainable development goals in detail.

Learning about the technosphere and biosphere was alarming. I was shocked to know about the global boiling era that has begun. The author clearly states that technology should be used to enhance our lives rather than us becoming enslaved in the hands of technology.

I relished the thought-provoking questions given after each chapter. What I liked the most was how to prepare bio-enzymes. The 9R's added to my knowledge and made me a way to rethink and work efficiently.

Overall, this is a commendable get-together of facts and actionable ideas to collectively work on.

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Mysteries, Mountains and Mythology: Uttarakhand’s Folktales Retold by Supriya Bansal

 Mysteries, Mountains and Mythology: Uttarakhand’s Folktales Retold by Supriya Bansal

Folktales make me reminded of the rich heritage and culture of our country. I liked the cover of the book and so picked it up. The beautiful hilly region and people trekking over it make it more captivating.

This book is a compilation of ten short stories that narrate the history of Uttarakhand and its people in a fresh manner. Each story has a reference to some traditional tale narrated by our ancestors many times. I was mesmerised by these stories and could relive the moments of fresh air, innocence and loyalty towards people.

Each story has its own aroma, but I liked "When the banana plant is blessed for bravery", "Pure putti, pure pur", and "Call for the forest". What I liked the most is why the pyoli flower is named after a young girl raised in the Himalayan foothills. I get to know about the kafaal fruit that only ripens in the summer.

I loved how the stories are intertwined with the traditions, beliefs and innocent locals. The inclusion of local customs, recipes, and mythological references added real depth to the narrative. I was completely immersed in these folktales, so I read these in one go.

The writing is clear, smooth, and easy to follow. The author has well penned the stories, making them accessible without losing their emotional weight or cultural richness. Each tale has a distinct presence and meaning, leaving a lasting impression even after the last page.

Overall, it is a revisit to our glorious ancient past. 

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Good night, Baba: A Daughter and her father Growing up between Bedtime and Sleep by Sayan Dutta

 Good night, Baba: A Daughter and her father Growing up between Bedtime and Sleep by Sayan Dutta

This is a quiet depiction of sweet moments that are temporary where a father recites bedtime stories to his daughter. Though the kids grow, the essence of these sweet memories stays long.

These nighttime rituals do fade away with time, but a strong bond of love and affection is carved. I acknowledged the difference between weeknights and weekends. What struck me the most was the closing notes provided by the author. Each chapter evolved as a new lesson.

The writing is very simple and easy to read. At times, it felt like I was sitting beside them in that room, watching the scene unfold and remembering similar moments from my own life.

The writing style is intimate and minimalistic. It doesn’t overwhelm you with heavy prose; instead, it gently nudges your emotions, allowing you to fill in the gaps with your own memories.

Overall, it is a heartwarming read.

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RAMAYANA - The Epic Retold for the Modern Reader by Nityanand Charan Das

 RAMAYANA - The Epic Retold for the Modern Reader by Nityanand Charan Das

After reading so many retellings of the Ramayana, this book got fixed in my eye. I could not stop staring at the book cover as if it were calling me to reread through your eyes. I could personally feel the whole story through the beautiful illustrations of the story itself. Each illustration was a remarkable picture in itself, as if rejoicing in the story.

The story began in a very simplified version and in a very innovative manner that even a child could read and understand. I was mesmerised by the storytelling and easy-way manner. Beginning with the birth of Lord Rama to their upbringing. Each chapter was taking me along the path of how Lord Rama turned into a warrior and a saviour.

Each chapter begins with the name "JAI SHRI RAM", which made me realise the path that teaches us how to live with courage, kindness and honour. It helped me understand how to stand by what's right and how to love with all our heart. 

I was so absorbed in the narrative that I finished the book in one sitting. The part where Shurpanakha misleads Ravana, the search for Sita, the great battle begins and Hanuman's unwavering devotion. Each part made me feel the pain and sacrifice of each person.

The author has penned it well in a very easy and simple language. He has made the story precise and crystal clear. His systematic approach and beautiful illustrations of the tale make it more attractive.

Overall, it is an emotional and insightful read. 

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The Great Indian Medico Masala by Dr Kumar Nirbhay

 The Great Indian Medico Masala by Dr Kumar Nirbhay

"The Great Indian Medico Masala" is a delightful prescription for wry, warm, and deeply human stories. These stories prove that medicine is not about treating diseases but about understanding people.

I liked all the stories, but the best stories were "The Lone Alcoholic", "The Lion Gets a Heart Attack", and "God is Watching Everything". I was amazed by the beginning quote of each chapter that provoked me to read more. The beautiful yet innovative hospital pictures added to its narrative.

What struck me the most was the SHRAVAN SYNDROME and four bachchas a day. It made me realise that many people only quit drinking during the Shravan month out of fear of Lord Shiva, as if He would not look at them again afterwards. What an irony!

The author brings to life the absurdities, emotions, and quiet truths of medical life just as we experience them. His simple yet engaging collection brings forward many insights altogether.

Overall, it is a humorous read. 

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Whispers of the Buried Past by Harshali Singh

 Whispers of the Buried Past by Harshali Singh

"Secrets can be buried, like seeds, but rarely do they grow into trees that are a source of strength. Instead, they are burdens that destroy the one who guards them."

"Whispers of the Buried Past" is a haunting story of Dheeraj, who is the only heir of the Haveli. His quest to find what's behind the doors of the haveli is worth breathtaking. He is taken aback by the storm of secrets coming on him one over the other. He is unwillingly dragged into a past that seems to recognise him more intensely.

I was breath taken by the anger inherent in him when he saw the ghost or the hidden corpse. The raw anguish of a father getting short of any hopes increased the curiosity level of mine.

It presents guilt not only as an emotion but also almost as an eerie presence that moves through the story alongside the supernatural. 

I loved how it highlights that generational secrets, guilt, and past decisions come to haunt us in the present and the future. Besides being scary, it felt real and more humane. I loved the mystery, the suspense, the secrets of the past, and how intriguing the story was. 

The author has well penned the suspense level in the story, making the reader quest for more. I was thoroughly intrigued by the story throughout and was looking for the next move of the characters.

Overall, I liked the book, and it beautifully blends history, secrets, inner battles, family drama, and slow-burn horror.

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