Book Review: Amongst the Believers by Kochery Shibu

 

Name of the Book: Amongst The Believers

Author: Kochery C. Shibu

Publisher: Mishan Design point Private Limited

Copyright Year: 2024

Number of Pages: 277

Rating: : ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kochery Shibu’s Amongst the Believers is an enthralling, intense exploration of the complexities of faith, culture, and societal constructs that bind human lives. The novel offers readers an intimate look into the world of modern-day Kerala, where individuals are caught in the clash between religious beliefs, social expectations, and the personal search for meaning.

              

Image Source: Amazon.com

The story delves into the lives of characters who grapple with the pressures of their faith and the often-contradictory world around them. The central plot revolves around an investigation of a religious group, which brings to light deep-seated tensions in both personal relationships and larger societal structures. At its core, the novel is a reflection of human nature, its complexities, and its struggles between spiritual devotion and worldly desires.

Shibu’s writing is evocative, filled with gripping moments that keep the reader hooked. His portrayal of Kerala’s socio-political landscape is both nuanced and realistic. Through vibrant descriptions and sharp observations, he paints a compelling portrait of the tension between tradition and modernity. The interplay of cultural intricacies, personal dilemmas, and the search for truth makes the novel feel both timely and timeless.

The characters in Amongst the Believers are multi-dimensional, with each individual carrying a unique backstory that influences their decisions and worldview. Shibu skillfully allows readers to understand the motivations behind their actions, making their struggles relatable. Through his deft characterization, he shows how faith is not just a personal matter but a force that impacts entire communities.

At times, the narrative can be dense, requiring readers to engage thoughtfully with the text. I read and read the flow of events twice. However, the depth of the exploration makes the effort worthwhile. The way Shibu interweaves societal commentary with personal narrative invites readers to think critically about their own understanding of belief systems, identity, and the impact of external forces on personal freedoms.

What sets this novel apart is its bold approach to addressing issues like religious extremism, cultural conflict, and the pressure to conform. Shibu doesn’t shy away from controversy but uses it to illuminate the complexities of faith and human behavior. It is an evocative and thought-provoking work that urges readers to reflect on their place in the world.

Amongst the Believers is a novel that combines suspense with cultural insight, human emotion with philosophical exploration. For readers who appreciate literature that pushes boundaries and invites deeper reflection, it is a must-read. Kochery Shibu has truly crafted a masterpiece that speaks to both the mind and the soul.

P.S.: If you're a fan of thought-provoking narratives and complex character studies, this is a book you won’t want to miss. The novel’s deep dives into faith, identity, and societal expectation will make it an intriguing read for those looking to explore the intersections of culture and religion.

Note: I have received a free copy of the book from the author.

Book Review #22: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit is a fantasy novel by English author J. R. R. Tolkien. It was first published in 1937 and is a children's book, although it is popular with audiences of all ages. The novel follows the hobbit Bilbo Baggins, who sets off on a quest to find the Lost Treasure of Smaug the dragon, accompanied by a wizard, thirteen dwarves, and a troll.

The Hobbit is one of Tolkien's most famous works, and is considered a major influence on the development of modern fantasy literature. The novel has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, and has been adapted into several films, radio plays, and video games.

The Hobbit is a classic adventure story that is sure to appeal to readers of all ages. It is a tale of friendship, courage, and adventure, and is filled with humour and wonder. Tolkien's vivid descriptions of Middle-earth bring the story to life, and his characters are both relatable and memorable.

I highly recommend The Hobbit to anyone who is looking for an exciting and engaging read. It is a timeless classic that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Book Review #21: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi was a brilliant neurosurgeon on the cusp of a promising career when he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. In this poignant memoir, he chronicles his journey from doctor to patient, confronting the fragility of life and the meaning of existence.

A Moving and Thought-Provoking Reflection

Kalanithi's writing is both beautiful and profound. He interweaves his personal story with reflections on philosophy, medicine, and the human condition. His insights are both insightful and comforting, reminding us that even in the face of death, life is still worth living.

A Must-Read for Anyone Facing Life's Challenges

When Breath Becomes Air is a must-read for anyone facing life's challenges, whether it be an illness, a loss, or simply the weight of everyday life. Kalanithi's story is a reminder that we should all strive to live our lives to the fullest, and to cherish every moment we have.

The Book's Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Beautifully written and thought-provoking
• Insightful and comforting
• A must-read for anyone facing life's challenges

Weaknesses:

• Some readers may find the book to be too heavy

Overall, When Breath Becomes Air is a powerful and moving memoir that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Book Rating: 5/5 Stars

Who Should Read This Book?

• If you are facing a difficult time in your life, this book can offer some much-needed inspiration and comfort.
• If you are interested in the intersection of medicine, philosophy, and the human condition, this book is a must-read.
• If you are simply looking for a beautiful and well-written memoir, this book will not disappoint.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and inspiring read. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Book Review #20: The Comfort Zone: Create a Life You Really Love with Less Stress and More Flow by Kristen Butler and Hay House

In her empowering book, "The Comfort Zone: Create a Life You Really Love with Less Stress and More Flow," Kristen Butler challenges the widely held belief that stepping out of one's comfort zone is the sole path to personal growth and fulfilment. Instead, she presents a counterintuitive yet compelling argument that embracing and expanding your comfort zone is the key to unlocking your true potential and designing a life that aligns with your deepest desires.

Butler's approach is rooted in the understanding that the comfort zone is not a place of stagnation or complacency, but rather a foundation of security and self-acceptance from which growth can flourish organically. She guides readers through a process of self-discovery, encouraging them to identify their comfort zones, understand their underlying values, and cultivate a mindset of positivity and self-compassion.

Unlike traditional self-help books that emphasize pushing boundaries and stepping into fear, "The Comfort Zone" advocates for a gentler, more sustainable approach to personal transformation. Butler emphasizes the importance of creating a thriving comfort zone, one that nurtures your well-being, creativity, and resilience. From this place of inner peace, you can then gradually expand your boundaries, exploring new possibilities with a sense of confidence and ease.

The book is filled with practical tools and exercises that readers can apply to their daily lives, including:

• Identifying your personal comfort zones
• Recognizing your core values and beliefs
• Practicing self-compassion and self-acceptance
• Cultivating a positive mindset
• Creating a vision for your ideal life
• Expanding your comfort zone in a gradual and sustainable manner

"The Comfort Zone" is a refreshing and empowering read that challenges conventional wisdom about personal growth. Butler's message is one of hope, encouragement, and self-belief, empowering readers to create a life of fulfilment and joy, not through struggle and sacrifice, but through embracing their comfort zone and expanding it from a place of inner strength and resilience.

Book Review #19: Chowringhee by Sankar

Chowringhee by Sankar is a captivating and insightful novel that delves into the lives of the staff and guests of the Shahjahan Hotel, a grand establishment in 1950s Calcutta. Through the eyes of Shankar, a young man who joins the hotel as a receptionist, we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories, dreams, and struggles.

Sankar's narrative is both engaging and perceptive. He captures the essence of the hotel's bustling atmosphere, its hidden corners, and the private lives of those who inhabit it. He paints vivid portraits of the hotel's employees, from the enigmatic manager Marco Polo to the tragic hostess Karabi Guha, each character adding depth and complexity to the story.

As Shankar becomes immersed in the hotel's world, he witnesses the interconnectedness of the lives of its inhabitants. He observes the subtle interactions, unspoken desires, and hidden tensions that lie beneath the surface of their seemingly ordinary lives. Through his observations, he uncovers the underbelly of human existence, where ambition, love, loss, and betrayal intertwine in a complex tapestry of emotions.

Chowringhee is not merely a story about a hotel; it is a reflection of human nature itself. It explores the themes of love, loss, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships. Sankar's writing is both poignant and insightful, revealing the inner struggles and hidden motivations of his characters.

Overall, Chowringhee is a captivating and unforgettable novel that offers a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabit the Shahjahan Hotel, a microcosm of society itself. Sankar's masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and profound insights into human nature make it a must-read for fans of literary fiction and those seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Book Review #18: Coram Boy by Jamila Gavin

Jamila Gavin's Coram Boy is a powerful and poignant historical novel that delves into the harsh realities of 18th-century London, where poverty, abandonment, and social injustice were rampant. The story revolves around Meshak, a young boy abandoned at the Foundling Hospital, a place established to care for deserted children.

Meshak's life at the hospital is far from idyllic. He is subjected to harsh treatment and witnesses the tragic fate of many of his fellow foundlings. Despite these hardships, Meshak possesses an indomitable spirit and a strong sense of self-worth. He dreams of a better life, one where he can escape the confines of the hospital and forge his own destiny.

When Meshak encounters the Coram Man, a cunning and unscrupulous character who exploits the vulnerable, he is drawn into a web of deceit and danger. The Coram Man promises Meshak a life of freedom and adventure, but his true intentions are far more sinister.

As Meshak navigates the treacherous streets of London, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and aspirations. He befriends Aaron and Toby, fellow foundlings who share his dreams of a better life. He also crosses paths with Melissa, a young woman who has been wronged by society and forced to abandon her child.

Gavin's writing is both evocative and thought-provoking. She vividly portrays the harsh realities of 18th-century life, where poverty and social injustice were deeply ingrained. However, she also introduces characters who embody resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief in a better future.

Coram Boy is a story of hope and redemption, set against the backdrop of a society grappling with complex social issues. It is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find meaning in a world filled with challenges.

Book Review #17: The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman

The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman is a captivating historical mystery novel set in Victorian London. It follows the adventures of 16-year-old Sally Lockhart, an intelligent and resourceful young woman who is thrust into a dangerous world of intrigue and danger after her father's mysterious death.

Sally's quest to uncover the truth about her father's demise leads her down a twisting path filled with cryptic clues, hidden agendas, and treacherous encounters. She must navigate the dark underbelly of Victorian society, where she encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the enigmatic opium merchant Mr. Silas and the enigmatic street urchin Jim.

Pullman's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and historical fiction, creating a thrilling and immersive reading experience. He vividly depicts the grimy streets and foggy alleyways of Victorian London, immersing readers in a world of social inequality, moral ambiguity, and hidden secrets.

The Ruby in the Smoke is a captivating tale of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of truth. Sally Lockhart is a remarkable heroine, defying the expectations of Victorian society and demonstrating her intelligence, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination.

Here are some of the key aspects that make The Ruby in the Smoke a compelling read:

• A gripping plot: The story is full of twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

• A well-developed protagonist: Sally Lockhart is a complex and relatable character who grows and develops throughout the story.

• A vivid setting: Pullman's descriptions of Victorian London are rich and evocative, transporting readers to a different time and place.

• A thought-provoking exploration of social issues: The novel tackles themes of class, gender, and social justice, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Victorian society.

Overall, The Ruby in the Smoke is a captivating and unforgettable historical mystery novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. Pullman's masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and intriguing plot make it a must-read for fans of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure.

Book Review #15: Night in Shining Armour by Manali Desai

 

Title : Night in Shining Armour
Author : Manali Desai
Copyright: 2023
Language: English
Format : Kindle Edition
Pages : 84

Genre: Poetry

Shelving Location: Poetry / English

Dewey Decimal Classification: 808

Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cover/Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ratings : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The book - Night in Shining Armour by Manali Desai is a collection of 55 poems painting the canvas of the charisma of the night which follows the day. This collection is divided into two themes viz. Facets and Pursuits.

Facets reflect the starry sky, the phases of the moon (referred to as the dancing moon) and all the stellar and ethereal elements.

Pursuits captures the essence of all the nocturnal activities such as reading, writing, dancing, stargazing and falling in love.

The USP of this book is that they have apt references to relatable Hindi and English songs - a feature which I found as quite novel. There are also Video renditions and links to few poems throughout the book.

Although I am quite new to reading poetry books and this happens to be my first review for a poetry book, I am more than happy to mention that Manali has very beautifully managed to keep me engaged throughout the book reading. I could finish the book in one go.

The book has portrayed many unspoken emotions of loneliness, friendship, smell in the form of free verse. My personal favourite are "Not Alone", "The Light at the End of the Tunnel", "Readalong" and "Jasmine" and they truly left me feeling nostalgic.

In short, the book is a collection of heart-warming poetry and prose intertwined to create a beautiful literary read.

The title of the book - Night in Shining Armour truly captures the essence of the underlying idiom - Knight in Shining Armour.

Buy the book on Amazon.

P.S.: I have received a free e-copy (Kindle version) of the book from the author.

This book review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program.

Book Review #14: Kabir Sharma: Let the Games Begin

 

Title: Kabir Sharma: Let the Games Begin

Author: Ruthwik S M
Copyright: 2022
Language: English

Genre: Games Cricket Short Story
Shelving Location: Short Story

Dewey Decimal Classification: 823

Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cover/Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary from Pothi.com

The Kabir Sharma story continues as the little boy with the big dream enters the big world. Fame, glory, money and respect are on his feet as Kabir has now gained confidence to take on his biggest enemy of the past, Dhanraj Kapoor. More powerful than before and growing stronger every minute, Kapoor is backed by a powerful syndicate from behind the scenes.

As Kabir teams up with his trustworthy allies and friends to try and rid his favourite sport of its biggest cancer, he must do justice to all those wronged and affected by Dhanraj’s unscrupulousness. But will he be successful, or become another name in the list of people who failed trying to make a difference? Or will winning cost him a price that no one wants to pay when he starts playing the game behind the curtains?

Review:

Kabir Sharma: Let the Games Begin by Ruthwik S M is an exiting read about precarious relationships, the glamour of cricket and the rankling mystery surrounding these two elements.

The story goes forward from its prequel - Kabir Sharma and the Big Dream where Kabir has gone missing and assumed dead albeit suspiciously. The plot revolves around Kabir - the protagonist and his boundless love for the game of Cricket. A rich (by money and power) person - DK enters Kabir's life and the latter's dreams are shattered when he comes to know the stark reality of this big and charismatic game. But Kabir as we know him emerges more stronger than ever by all means. Now he has fame, money and power all at his feet. He has tasted victory at every game he has ever played - be it the sport or the real life. Harrowing experiences always fail to deter him from his single goal of expelling DK and his allies from his love - Cricket. DK proves him wrong all the time. Suddenly, things turn around and the puzzle pieces fit together one by one unraveling the mystery. Conspiracies boomerang but DK is prepared too and ready to retaliate.

Who will win ultimately? Kabir or DK? And if Kabir wins, what is the cost he has to pay for it - his passion or his childhood love? Read the book to find out.

Buy the book on Amazon.

I loved the plot. It's full of surprises. Firstly, the author - Ruthwik S M has used simple and yet interesting language with which one can easily connect. It is a short book which can be finished reading in a single seating. I liked the portrayal of relationships of love and friendships. The author has narrated the scenes very lucidly. The equation between Kabir and his female friends - Alisha, Jasmine and Riya is quite evolving. The pace and the tempo is good. The writing style is captivating.

The book is for teenagers or young Cricket lovers.

Note: I have received a free copy of the book from the author.

Book Review #13: Marginally Human by Vidyut Gore

 

Title: Marginally Human: Outliers in a post-apocalyptic utopia

Author: Vidyut Gore
Copyright: 2023
Language: English

Genre: Sci-Fi
Shelving Location: Adventure I Mystery

Dewey Decimal Classification: 823

Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cover/Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

Marginally Human: A Heart Pumping Adventure

Aaxyl and Aameh investigate unsolved kidnappings happening in the 25th century. Telepathic symbionts has resulted in increased immortality. An article on the unexplained missing of many persons intrigues Aameh and she is adamant on finding out more details. Curious as she is, she applies for a job in NUll Dorms. She zeroes in on D4F2. A spat of events follow taking the curious reader to the next level of adrenaline rush.

The book - Marginally Human is a page turner from the first sentence itself. Teleporting, symbionts, telepathy paramedics are discussed in a very novel manner. Marginally Human sets its tone in the Indian context with unexpected twists and turns.

It is a Sci-Fi novel which builds a story around Aaxyl, Aameh and Hirsh. The plot and the narration are completely different. The description of the characters and the flow of the story is lucid. Many characters are weaved together in this storyline. It is an engrossing read that you will enjoy if you love Sci-Fi. Don't miss it!

The book has some tricky plots and at some points, needs a re-read to pacify our understanding of the story. I personally liked the sentence - "Blink if you understand me."

Book Review #8: The Wanderers - The Sound of the Lake

Title: The Wanderers - The Sound of the Lake

Author: Sarthak Rathi
Publisher: Notion Press
Copyright: 2019
Language: English

Genre: Fiction Mystery Adventure Sci Fi

Shelving Location: Fiction / Story Books

Dewey Decimal Classification: 823

Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cover/Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

The Wanderers: The Sound of the Lake is an adventurous book to read for all those fond of sci-fi. The story revolves around the four friends - Sarthak, Pari, Anu and Yash. They are off to countryside - Hungertown on their bicycles accompanied by Striker - a cute little dog. The adventure begins here. Striker has a locket around its neck which carries the secret to the Lake Riveroir. What is it? Who will spill the beans?

Soundleek Hanginton - the foul minded queen has only one purpose to be fulfilled and it is to rule the world. She propels the machine to extract a certain stone from the Lake Riveroir which will eventually result in people going deaf in that area. She has also discovered another machine - Dream Transmitter which controls the brain of the victim. People will follow only her orders and she will be ruling queen.

Will Sarthak and his team be able to save the people and the World? Find out!

This book is food for the curious mind and you will not be able to put it down. Only follow one thumb rule - read it at one go. The plot, the characters and their slow unveiling, the narration; everything is in place. The story intertwined with dialogues gives a feeling of belonging to the imaginary world. The plot has various twists and turns and all are unexpected. That's the beauty!

I first read Sarthak Rathi's The Wanderers 3.0: The Ice on the Tower which is actually Book Number 3. 

I would request all those Sci Fi fans to read all of Sarthak Rathi's books in the order as follows:

Book 1 - The Wanderers - The Sound of the Lake

Book 2 - The Wanderers 2.0 - The Strike on the Satellite

Book 3 - The Wanderers 3.0 - The Ice on the Tower

Get your copy of the book "The Wanderers - The Sound of the Lake" - Amazon

Do read the Review of Book 3 - The Wanderers 3.0 - The Ice on the Tower

I would congratulate Sarthak Rathi for all his efforts and success in penning the stories for these books at a very tender age. He has a flair for writing sci-fi stories and make-believe scenarios. Not many of his age are blessed with such enduring visualization skills. God bless you Sarthak!

Excerpt from the Book:

She showed where we were on Google Maps (How the satellite tracked us, I don't know). We were just beneath the road, and according to the road, Lake Riveroir was 150 kilometers. It did not show the flight distance and the road twisted and turned in a positively nauseating manner, so we estimated that the road was 80 kilometers away, in a straight line.

This post is a part of #BlogchatterA2Z 2023

Book Review #4: The Wanderers 3.0: The Ice on the Tower

Title: The Wanderers 3.0: The Ice on the Tower
Author: Sarthak Rathi
Publisher: Notion Press
Copyright: 2023
ISBN: 9798888696408
Language: English


Genres: Fiction, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction, Space

Shelving Location: Novels, Leisure Reading

Dewey Decimal Classification: 823.8

Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cover/Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


Review:

The Wanderers 3.0 by Sarthak Rathi takes us on a breathless roller coaster ride filled with suspense and intrigue. It is an adventure which involves Pari, Sarthak, Anu and Yash. Their journey from one adventure to another is enthralling and captivating. We get engrossed by words such as Marsians, Jammari, Nameri, Whizari, Sakuris, Xinians. It is page turner and picks up pace after the first two chapters. The story proceeds as Hanginton captures these four teenagers for a mission which is really dangerous and can claim their lives. These kids have magical powers and they are always put in life endangering situations by their antagonist. They get hurt, wounded physically and emotionally and have irreversible injuries. But to their surprise, they are completely healed. But for this to happen, they have to be on a planet which will soon be destroyed. So what do they do now? Do they get involved in the mission or go back to school?

The book is a best example of the advancements in nanotech such as the anti artillery guns destroying emerging ships, rebuilding of defense equipment and the like. As the story unfolds itself, the characters also evolve.

In particular, I liked the portrayal of relation between the main characters - Pari, Sarthak, Anu and Yash. Their bond of trust intertwined with responsibility and maturity is something which is reflected in a very subtle manner.

If you are an ardent fan of Sci-Fi stories, this book is a must read for you. Do not risk not reading it!

Excerpts from the Book:

"There was a pin drop silence in the room. We would have to go through hell to get that magic out of us. We may even die. But for some reason, I wasn't afraid. I wanted to do it." - Page 93.


"I miss my mom. I miss my family". She gripped the gun she was holding tightly. "They were killed by the damn Hanginton's people 13 years ago. All because they opposed them." - Page 102.

About the Author:

Sarthak Rathi is an author at a very young age. He started writing some short stories and blogs at the age of 8. His first book, the Wanderers: The Sound of the Lake, was published last year in 2019 when he was only 12. His writings are appreciated by many industry stalwarts like Vijay Shekhar Sharma (Paytm), Manu Kumar Jain(Xiaomi India), Shradhha Sharma (Yourstory media) and many more.

Writing comes naturally to him and weaves his imagination around words. Sarthak also reads voraciously. He travels a lot to enjoy and enhance the stories he writes. He has travelled to national and international destinations such as Dubai and the USA. He runs half marathons, likes to play badminton and is part of his school team. He is fond of chocolates, video games, coding and reading.

Social Media:

Instagram

Personal Website