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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Queerly Beloved: A Love Story for All Seasons by Farhad J Dadyburjor

 Queerly Beloved: A Love Story for All Seasons by Farhad J Dadyburjor

Queerly Beloved is a warm, glamorous, and fast-paced story. Set against the backdrop of a big Indian wedding, the story follows Ved Mehra, a Mumbai-based industrialist. He is ready to marry the love of his life, Carlos. But as wedding preparations begin, Ved is surrounded by much chaos. The family secrets, complicated relationships, and an unexpected return from the past make things far more chaotic than planned.

Ved carries so much emotional weight beneath his calm surface. I could feel him trying to reconcile what he wants with what he was taught to want. Carlos stands steady beside him with warmth and clarity, grounding all the chaos. Together, they just feel safe.

The writing is accessible and affectionate. He weaves the story with utter rawness, balancing the emotional depth and Indian family chaos so swiftly. The book covers the queer aspects flawlessly with a mix of support from family, romance and representation of two sides of the same coin.

I loved how the book balances emotional depth with classic Indian family drama: the divorced mother finding love again, the ex who won't stay in the past, and the wedding planning madness. I wondered how each person is in quest for true love and ethics of life, but what follows is complete humour and wit to do it. 

Overall, it covers the queer experience with authenticity, showing both struggle and joy, family support and vulnerability. It is a sparkling romcom about love in all its messy, complicated glory.

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Seal the Deal: Close Sales Like a Pro! by Subhash Bhaskaran

 Seal the Deal: Close Sales Like a Pro! | Leverage AI to Close More Deals | Modern Sales Tactics | Proven Systems, Tools & Strategies by Subhash Bhaskaran

Seal the Deal' isn't just another sales manual; it's our edge in a fast-changing battlefield. It makes the reader realise that sales is the lifeblood of any company, as sales is an endless pursuit.

In this book I gathered powerful insights from every lead using frameworks like SEDUCE and mastered negotiations with SNIPER-like precision. With proper exercises I was able to sharpen up whatever theory was guided.

What I liked the most is that AI is not our enemy but our biggest ally in this modern-day sales battlefield. The author clearly explains the attitude one must possess in sales. He guides that every lead must be done justice with complete preparation. Even the Valiant archetype helps to enlighten the readers with spiritual strength and win like Vali.

Overall, this book is packed with powerful insights, practical exercises, case studies, and honest lessons from the trenches. I loved reading and gaining from it and winning a legacy.

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