WinterMoon

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Peak Confidence, Minimal Awareness

The three of us walked into a local restaurant in Gujarat, feeling all fancy and adventurous and ordered Chinese food (because obviously 😄). This was in the last year of my B.Tech, so confidence level = sky high, awareness level = questionable! Meal done, happy faces, full stomachs; life was good 😌 Then suddenly, the waiter brings this mysterious bowl to our table. I looked at it, confused, and confidently said, “Excuse me… what is this? We didn’t order this.” My two friends? Frozen. Staring at me like I had just committed a social crime. The waiter? Equally shocked. But silently placed it on the table and walked away with a poker face, probably rethinking his career choices! Then one of my friends leaned in and said, “why ask the waiter? If you have any doubts, just ask me!” And that’s when I felt so embarrassed! Apparently, it was lemon water to wash hands. Not a bonus dish. Not a chef’s special; just basic table manners I clearly didn’t learn.😅 And honestly? That moment lives in ...

Life Is What You Make It - By Preeti Shenoy

“If you have not made somebody's day happier… you have wasted that day.” One book that has always stayed close to my heart is Life Is What You Make It by Preeti Shenoy, I have never been able to forget its storyline, the main character Ankita, or her journey through life, struggles, and resilience. Earlier, I thought maybe it impacted me so deeply because of the age at which I first read it. But even after a decade, it continues to hold the same place in my heart. It’s not just a book, it’s an experience that truly stays with you! This book is an easy, heartfelt piece that revolves around Ankita Sharma, a bright, ambitious, and independent young girl who dreams big and isn’t afraid to chase them. She starts off as confident and full of life, excelling in studies, enjoying college, and embracing love; but as emotional challenges and personal setbacks begin to pile up, her life takes a drastic turn when she is diagnosed with bipolar disorder. What makes Ankita’s charac...

Revolution 2020 - By Chetan Bhagat

“In a country obsessed with ranks and marks, people often forget the value of character.” Revolution 2020 by Chetan Bhagat is a story that feels very close to the life of a college student navigating dreams, friendships, and tough choices. Set in Varanasi, the novel follows three friends- Gopal, Raghav, and Aarti; whose lives take very different paths as they chase success and love. This was my first novel by Chetan Bhagat. Initially, I wasn’t very fascinated, but as I started reading, it gradually became quite captivating. Because I read it during my college days, many moments in the story felt very relatable, which kept me thinking about it for quite a while. Through Gopal’s struggles with failure and his eventual involvement in corruption to build an engineering college, the book reflects the harsh realities many students face in India’s competitive education system. At the same time, Raghav represents the courage to stand for honesty, while Aarti becomes the emotional ...

A Man Called Ove - By Fredrik Backman

“People said Ove saw the world in black and white. But she was color. All the color he had.” A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman is a beautifully written story that mixes humor with deep emotions. In the beginning, the book may feel a little slow and not very interesting, but as you continue reading, each chapter reveals a new side of Ove’s personality. It feels like peeling an onion- layer by layer you understand him better. At first he seems like a grumpy and strict old man who thinks the world has lost its values, but slowly you realize there is much more to him. His character makes you like him more with every chapter, and at times you even feel sympathy for him. The story becomes very touching when new neighbours move in and slowly become a part of his life. Through small moments of kindness, friendship, and community, the book shows how human connections can heal loneliness. In many ways, the story feels similar to many emotional Hollywood movies put together. Simple...

The Silent Patient - By Alex Michaelides

“Alicia Berenson was thirty-three years old when she killed her husband.” I read The Silent Patient in a single Sunday; it’s the only book I have ever finished in just a few hours! That’s how gripping it is. It pulls you in from the very first page and doesn’t let go. This was also my first thriller novel, and I truly enjoyed it. The story follows Alicia Berenson, a successful painter who is accused of killing her husband. After the incident, she stops speaking completely. Her silence becomes a huge mystery and attracts a lot of attention. Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist, becomes determined to find out why she stopped talking. He joins the psychiatric facility where Alicia is admitted and tries to help her speak again. As Theo works with Alicia, secrets slowly start to come out; about her past, her marriage, and even about Theo himself. The story moves between therapy sessions and Alicia’s diary, which keeps building suspense. In the end, there is a shocking twist that changes...

It Starts With Us - By Colleen Hoover

“Sometimes the right person for you was there all along. You just didn’t know it yet.” What an ending to the book “It Starts with Us”! You simply can’t help but get emotional while reading it- just like its connected novel, “It Ends with Us”. I had heard that “It Starts with Us” wasn’t as impactful as “It Ends with Us”, but honestly, I enjoyed both equally (even though I read them with a gap of one year). I absolutely loved the characters Atlas and Lily. “It Starts with Us” follows the events of “It Ends with Us”, so it’s best to read “It Ends with Us” first. I bought both together and followed the recommended order. I finished “It Ends with Us” in January 2025 and picked up the second book almost a year later(February 2026). While “It Ends with Us” is intense and heartbreaking, “It Starts with Us” feels softer and more hopeful. The story is subtle, focusing on emotional healing and growth rather than crisis. After leaving her abusive marriage with Ryle, Lily reconnects with her firs...

Before the Coffee Gets Cold - By Toshikazu Kawaguchi

“And if the chair can change someone’s heart, it clearly has its purpose.” Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is a soft, heartwarming novel set in a small Tokyo cafe where people can travel back in time-but only until their coffee turns cold. With strict rules in place and no power to change the present, each visitor returns to the past seeking something deeply personal: closure, love, forgiveness, or understanding. Honestly, I had this book in my wish-list. But eventually a very dear friend gifted this to me! Told through simple and heart touching stories, the book gently reminds us that while the past cannot be changed, the way we come to terms with it can transform us. Quiet, reflective, and emotionally moving, the story stays with you! The concept itself is refreshing: “Time Travel” contained within the calm space of a cafe. Simply beautiful! The characters are seamlessly intertwined together, each story unfolding effortlessly. I was drawn to every character a...

A Princess Remembers - By Gayatri Devi

After hearing influencer and actor Prajakta Koli recommend this book in several interviews and podcasts, I decided to read it to see what it really brings to the reader! A Princess Remembers is a beautifully written autobiography that gives a close and personal look into the life of Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur. Written in a warm and easy style, the book feels as if the princess is speaking directly to the reader, sharing her memories in a calm and graceful way. The book brings out the richness of royal life; its traditions, comfort, and lifestyle, while also focusing on the people and relationships that mattered most to her. Each person and event is described with care, making the past feel real and alive! Maharani Gayatri Devi comes across as a rare mix of beauty and intelligence. The storytelling is smooth and personal, with every incident unfolding like a precious memory connected to the past. She describes the lives of her great-grandparents, parents, and her own with vivid de...

Manual of The Warrior of Light - By Paulo Coelho

Another Paulo Coelho book review! This was one of the earliest books of his that I picked up. Most people usually start with The Alchemist when they hear his name. I did it a little differently; I read a few of his other books first, and The Alchemist came only as my third read. This book too feels like a masterpiece- truly a light at the end of the tunnel. Like most Paulo Coelho books, this one feels like guidance. But this is more direct. Unlike his other works, which guide you through stories, this book speaks to you straight and honest. Every page carries its own meaning, and it’s hard not to find answers to the questions you are quietly asking yourself. It teaches you to trust your own journey, listen to your instincts, and accept life as it comes. Each one of us is a warrior, moving forward despite fear, doubt, or the possibility of failure. No warrior is perfect, they fall, make mistakes, feel scared; yet they still take risks and keep going. Just like The Boy, the Mole, t...

A Quiet Trance

I don’t clearly remember what I felt back in 2018. It was night, and I was travelling somewhere. I was sitting in a car or maybe a bus, my head tilted against the window, resting on the cold glass. Without my specs on, I could see vehicles passing by, the lights outside appeared blurred and hazy. That soft blur did something strange- it gently played with my eyes and slowly quietened my mind, pulling me into a calm, almost like trance. “I open my eyes to this immense universe, I catch those minute details, I let them enter my brain, I learn, memorise, recall and re-live whenever I want.” These thoughts came to me while I was sitting in the car or bus. Later, after I reached my destination and reflected on what I had experienced, I wrote these lines- “I cross the line of life; And feel the delight in that flight, In the blur of darkness and daylight, I embrace the beauty of life” Summers of 2018 AS: Happy Observing! 😀 Picture Credit : Pinterest

The Fifth Mountain - By Paulo Coelho

“Everything that happens once can never happen again. But everything that happens twice will surely happen a third time.” Another book by Paulo Coelho, one of my most loved authors. I am always naturally drawn to his books; they feel like small life lessons rather than just stories. I read The Fifth Mountain during the Covid time, and strangely, I finished the whole book while walking. I didn’t sit in one place to read it. I don’t know why, but that’s how this book stayed with me. Paulo Coelho’s writing always takes you closer to your inner self. His books gently guide you on a spiritual path and make you think about your own life while reading. This story is based on the divine prophet Elijah and feels more real and emotional than Coelho’s usual style. It shows Elijah facing ban, loneliness, love, loss, and many struggles. Through his journey, the book shows that faith is not about believing without questions. Doubt, pain, and confusion are also part of growing. The language is simple...

The Alchemist - By Paulo Coelho

My friend Rachyita introduced me to Paulo Coelho in 2017, when I read “ Veronika Decides to Die” for the first time. I loved it instantly. Soon after, “I read By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept” , and that’s when his writing truly began to stay with me. Slowly, his words started to feel personal. I connected deeply with his thoughts, his simplicity, and the way he talks about life and purpose. Over time, I ended up buying his entire collection—and honestly, it remains one of the best decisions I have made. Among all his books, there is one I have read more than once, and it truly deserves both a review and a heartfelt recommendation- “The Alchemist!” The Alchemist is a calm yet powerful story about finding yourself- by learning to listen to your heart and to the signs life quietly places before you. It may look like a story about treasure, but at its heart, it’s about purpose, belief, and inner truth. Through Santiago’s journey, we learn about omens; small signs, repeated t...

The Guava and The Pause

Today, I noticed a man in his early 50s waiting for the metro, chewing slowly and with intent. When he sat inside, I realised what he was enjoying - a big guava. He took generous bites, paused to chew, and let out quiet sighs of contentment. There was a deep sense of satisfaction on his face. It felt like he had momentarily stepped out of the box that corporate life often puts us in- a space where we show up as our professional selves, not always as our most comfortable or real selves. Watching him simply enjoy his guava felt grounding. There was calm, ease, and an honesty in that moment. 17:55 PM | 17th December 2025 AS: Happy Observing!! 😀 Picture Credit : Pinterest

Letters to a Young Poet - By Rainer Maria Rilke

“To love is good too: love being difficult. For one human being to love another: that is perhaps the most difficult task entrusted to us.” A wonderful friend gifted this to me. It felt like it reached me at the perfect moment; as if the universe conspired with her to place it in my hands. The letters in this book are so honest, deep, and comforting. They reminded me of Letters to Milena by Franz Kafka , which also held raw truths that felt personal and real. This is one of those books where even a random page can give you an answer or a small sign. It’s truly a go-to book. The language is simple, the emotions relatable, and the guidance magical. When the author talks about solitude, relationships, love, sex, and the responsibilities we carry, he does it with such ease; without judging anything, just observing life the way it is. Letters to a Young Poet feels like a warm, intellectual friend speaking straight to your heart. Through ten letters, Rainer gently encourages to look within,...

Awakening the Divine Feminine (The Pancha Prakriti Goddesses) – By Adi Krsna Rama

Lately, I have been listening to a lot of spiritual podcasts on YouTube, and spirituality as a topic has always fascinated me, since childhood. Everyone defines it differently and seeks something unique through it. Maybe this ongoing curiosity led me to this book. Interestingly, this is the only book I have ever bought without any recommendation; no reviews, no prior knowledge, nothing. I just came across it while browsing books on Amazon and instantly felt attracted to it. Sometimes, energies guide you toward certain things, they speak to you, help you make choices—and this book was one of those moments. I am really glad I trusted that instinct. The book explores the divine feminine through goddesses and their energies—how each goddess resides within us, how we can awaken their energies, and how our personalities often resonate their traits. It beautifully reminds us that spirituality is everywhere—in everything we do and everything around us. All it takes is awareness and a willingne...

The Secret to Love, Health and Money – By Rhonda Byrne

How many of you have read The Secret? I’m sure many of us have either read it, heard about it, or watched the movie! This book is a part of that same series. It may not be as powerful as The Secret, but I still liked it. I’ve always believed in manifestation, so any book that talks about the Law of Attraction instantly connects with me. “Manifestation is not about forcing things to happen; it’s about aligning your energy so they flow to you.” The Secret to Love, Health, and Money is a simple reminder that our thoughts and beliefs have the power to shape our lives. Rhonda Byrne explains beautifully that whatever we think and feel is what we attract — that’s the true power of manifestation. When we focus on gratitude, positivity, and abundance instead of fear or doubt, life naturally starts to change for the better. The book makes you pause, believe in the good, and trust that what you wish for can really come true. It’s a calm and inspiring read that reminds you how your thoughts quietl...

The Rudest Book Ever - By Shwetabh Gangwar

He argues: Many people have kids not because they are ready, but because society tells them “that’s what you do,” or because they believe a baby will suddenly make life happy and perfect. He’s clear—bringing a child into the world just to fix your own problems or to fit in is unfair to the child. His main message is simple: a child isn’t your happiness button, it’s a huge responsibility that deserves serious thought. Shwetabh uses this example to show how people often make life’s biggest choices without really thinking. I am not a fan of any self-help books, but this one surprised me with its style, and I came to know later that the genre is self help book; otherwise I might not have picked up! The book feels like a wake-up call. Author’s blunt, direct way of writing grabs your attention. He talks on topics like rejection, self-worth, avoiding society’s traps, and the difference between chasing short-term happiness and building real, lasting contentment. Reading it feels like sitting w...

Brief Answers to the Big Questions - By Stephen Hawking

I first saw this book when my brother was reading it, and I couldn’t wait for him to finish so I could start! We have all heard the name Stephen Hawking in school, movies, or documentaries. And who doesn’t find the universe exciting? That’s why I wanted to read this book. Brief Answers to the Big Questions is Hawking’s last book, where he talks about some of the biggest questions—about God, the universe, black holes, time travel, artificial intelligence, and even the future of our planet. The best part is how simply he explains such tough topics, sometimes even with a bit of humor. He doesn’t just talk about science, but also about hope, curiosity, and why we should keep asking questions. It almost feels like Hawking is talking directly to you, making the mysteries of the universe easier to understand. A must-read for anyone curious about life, science, and the future. “So, remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about wh...

IKIGAI - By Hector Garcia & Francesc Mirallales

Isn’t Ikigai such a magical word? Even its sound feels as magical as its meaning! Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life is a soothing book that reflects the Japanese idea of “ikigai” — your reason for being, the very thing that makes you look forward to each day. I find this concept so fascinating! I’ve already read the book twice, and I know I’ll pick it up again. One quote that deeply resonates with me is: “Concentrate on what gives meaning to your days and let go of what drains your spirit.” The authors, Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, take us to Okinawa, Japan—a place known for its cheerful and long-living people—and share their simple secrets to living a fulfilling life. The book beautifully explains how true happiness comes from balance: doing what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what can sustain you. Through stories and research, it highlights small but powerful habits like eating in moderation, an active lifestyle , finding flow and ...

To Kill a Mockingbird - By Harper Lee

I first came across this book in 2018, when my painting class friends gifted it to me. The most special part was that each of them signed it and left a lovely message inside. That’s how this book was introduced to me. To Kill a Mockingbird is a story about childhood, kindness, and the unfairness that exists in society. This book is set in a small American town during the 1930s, it is told through the eyes of a little girl, Scout Finch. (It reminded me of The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank) Through Scout’s lenses, we experience both the light of childhood joys and the dark reality of racism that still prevails. The core of the story is the trial of Tom Robinson, a Black man wrongly accused of a crime. Atticus Finch, Scout’s father, stands up for him, showing us what courage, fairness, and integrity truly mean. What makes this book unforgettable is how effortlessly it shows deep truths. The playful acts of Scout and her brother Jem bring warmth, while the trial reveals the harshness...

Rumi – Tales to Live By - By Kamla K. Kapur

Oh my God!—this is the first thing that comes to my mind whenever I think of this book. It feels like one of those comforting songs on your playlist that—you keep going back to again and again. I’m in love with this book in the same way I adore Elif Shafak’s “Forty Rules of Love”. I have already read it a couple of times and I know I’ll keep rereading it. Kamla K. Kapur retells Rumi’s wisdom through stories that are warm, engaging, and so easy to connect with. She doesn’t present Rumi in a heavy way—instead, she makes his lessons so easy to connect with-through simple tales that feel close to our own lives. One story is about a parrot longing to be free from its cage—not just a bird’s story, but a reminder of our own hidden cages and the yearning we all carry for freedom. Another story talks about a humble water carrier, whose sincerity and love shine brighter than power or wealth, teaching us that true value lies in the heart. There is also one story of a rich man who only realises th...

The Company of Women - By Khushwant Singh

“Marriages, I concluded, are not made in heaven; they are made on earth by earthlings for earthly reasons.” One of the most thought provoking lines from the book. I bought this book almost 6 years ago and, unlike most of the books I own that keep waiting for their turn, I read and finished this one right away! It was quick, and to my surprise, this also turned out to be the first—and so far the only—book I have read by Khushwant Singh. And I must say, it was worth it. The Company of Women is one of his most famous and also most debated works. (How some of the most amazing personalities and writers have controversial lives or works—Amrita Pritam comes to my mind here.) The book tells the story of Mohan Kumar, a rich businessman who, after an unhappy marriage, decides to live life purely for pleasure. He surrounds himself with women from different backgrounds, and each woman brings something new into his world. The book dives into themes of love, desire, loneliness, and human weakn...

Rasidi Ticket - By Amrita Pritam

Amrita Pritam or as I like to call her, Amrita Imroz, because that part of her life is my favourite — has always been special to me. She is not just my favourite Indian author and poet, but also a personality I deeply admire and an inspiration I carry in my heart. Through her books, poems, and even documentaries, I have come to understand her love, her struggles, her depth, and her strength. She is one of the most fascinating human beings I have ever read about, someone who leaves an impact long after you hear her name. That is why this book became important to me — it is the first book of hers I have read. Rasidi Ticket is not just an autobiography; it feels like Amrita Pritam’s heart written on paper. As you read, it feels as if she is sitting next to you, speaking directly — sometimes with pain, sometimes with love. She does not tell her life as a simple list of events, but as the story of a woman who chose courage over silence, and love even when society stood against her. Amrita w...

Borderless - By Namrata Poddar

I received Borderless as a gift from a friend back in 2022, and I finally thought of reading it in 2025. I'm so glad I did—this book is truly amazing! It's light, funny, and filled with everyday moments that are so relatable. Namrata Poddar has a great sense of humour and captures even serious situations in a way that makes them feel light and real, without taking away their meaning. What I loved most was the simplicity of her writing—it's easy to read yet carries so much depth. I often found myself smiling, completely engrossed in the warmth and honesty of the stories. At the centre of the book is Dia Mittal, a woman from Mumbai who works at an airline call centre and moves to California, bringing with her the dreams, habits, and chaos of her big Indian family. Around her are many colourful and familiar voices—maids, shopkeepers, strong-willed aunties, and young immigrants—each sharing their own emotional and humorous stories rooted in Indian culture. The author brings to...

The Three Musketeers - By Alexandre Dumas

I finished this book in less than 4 hours. It’s such a cute edition with big font and pictures, which instantly reminded me of childhood books where images and words go hand in hand, making reading fun and easy to imagine. I first heard about The Three Musketeers in the movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara , and that’s what made me curious to finally read it. This copy was also gifted to me, which made it even more special. Reading this story felt like going on a big adventure with the most loyal and fun friends one could have. D’Artagnan comes to Paris full of dreams and soon meets Athos, Porthos, and Aramis — three amazing characters who fight, tease, and argue like siblings, but always stand together when it really matters. Their friendship is so charming. They treat sword fights like games, face danger with laughter, and keep secrets that make you both smile and worry for them. The book beautifully reflects friendship, courage, and a little romance, all set in the 17th-century Paris. Wh...

Madhushala - By Harivansh Rai Bachchan

“Mitti ka tan, masti ka man, kshan-bhar jeevan — mera parichay.” I think most of us have heard of Madhushala since childhood — though many may not have actually read it. I remember watching Amitabh Bachchan recite its verses on award shows, reality shows, and even on KBC. A few years ago, I finally decided to pick up a copy for myself, and to my surprise, I realised it might be the longest poem I’ve ever read — or will ever read. A true gem of Indian literature, Madhushala has 135 verses, each one as thoughtful as the next. Recently, while looking for another book on my shelf, I came across it again, read through a few pages, and felt like sharing it here. Madhushala is one of the most celebrated works in Hindi poetry, written by the legendary Harivansh Rai Bachchan. While it speaks of wine, taverns, and cups, it is not about drinking in the literal sense. These are thoughtful metaphors used to reflect on life, emotions, struggles, and dreams. For Indian readers, Madhushala holds a spe...

A Thousand Splendid Suns - By Khaled Hosseini

“One could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs, or the thousand splendid suns that hide behind her walls.” This one was long due! I had read it almost 6 years ago, and it’s still one of my all-time favourites. Mariam’s story touched me deeply — it’s impossible not to feel her pain and connect with her. Reading this book felt like going through a journey of emotions. I haven’t picked it up again since, but I know that if I read it now, even after all these years, it will take me through the same powerful experience once more. A Thousand Splendid Suns is a strong and emotional story set in Afghanistan. It tells the story of two women — Mariam and Laila — who come from very different lives but end up sharing the same house, the same struggles, and later, the same love. Mariam is born outside of marriage and grows up feeling unwanted. After a sad turn of events, she is forced to marry Rasheed, an older man who treats her badly. Years later, Laila — a smart and kind girl from Kabu...

Animal Farm - By George Orwell

This was my first book by George Orwell, and it truly felt like a reality check — making me reflect on life, our thoughts, and our ability (or inability) to question what’s happening around us! The first chapter instantly takes you back to childhood — animals talking, sharing their thoughts, just like the cartoons we once loved. It makes you wonder, “Why did we stop imagining like that?” Now coming back to the book — it’s definitely an interesting read. One powerful moment is when the animals say: “Man is the only creature that consumes without producing. He doesn’t give milk, doesn’t lay eggs, can’t pull the plough, and can’t even run fast enough to catch rabbits. Yet he is the master of all animals. He makes them work, gives them just enough to survive, and keeps the rest for himself.” That really hits hard. “Four legs good, two legs bad.” The book starts off like a simple tale, but as you go deeper, you realise it’s anything but that. The animals overthrow their human master, set th...

The Diary of A Young Girl - By Anne Frank

“We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same.” The book begins with a moment that felt very personal to me—Anne getting a diary from her father on her birthday. It reminded me of when I got my first diary at the age of 11. That’s how I started writing too. Today we call it journaling, but the feelings are still the same. Anne’s writing is simple and full of innocence. She writes the date, shares small details about her day, and talks like any young girl would. While reading, I felt like I was right there with her. Her honesty and the way she sees the world made me feel calm and connected. What stood out to me was how openly she spoke about her thoughts—especially about her parents, her relationship with her mother, and her feelings as she went through puberty. She didn’t hold back. It made me think about how, no matter where we live or what time we’re in, our emotions as humans are very similar. That really touched me. At times, I did fin...

Sapiens - By Yuval Noah Harari

Can you believe it took me almost seven years to finish -Sapiens? It's true! This book is absolutely filled with amazing facts about how humans evolved. But honestly, sometimes it felt so slow it was like a sleeping pill. Still, sticking with it totally was worth it in the end. "Homo sapiens rules the world because it is the only animal that can cooperate flexibly in large numbers." Sapiens tells the incredible story of how humans went from being just another animal to becoming the most powerful species on Earth. It walks you through our journey: from living in small groups to building huge cities, using money, creating governments, and developing awesome technology. The book talks about human history categorised into four main big changes: The Cognitive Revolution: This is when we learned to think, imagine, and talk in more complex ways. It really set us apart. The Agricultural Revolution: This was a huge shift! We stopped hunting and gathering food and started farming i...

The Kite Runner - By Khaled Hosseini

“A man can’t count the times he’s hurt someone he loves. That’s part of what it means to be human.” Here’s one of those rare books that stays with you—forever and always. I had first read The Kite Runner a few years back, probably in 2019, and even after all this time, I haven’t been able to forget it. I later found out that there’s a movie based on the book too, but I chose not to watch it. I didn’t want anything to disturb the powerful impact the book had on me and the way it made me feel back then. Just a few months ago, I came across the 20th anniversary edition and bought it instantly. And now, after reading it again, I find myself filled with the same emotions and thoughts all over again. Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner is a powerful and emotional story about friendship, guilt, regeneration , and the deep bond between fathers and sons. The story is set in Afghanistan and later moves to the United States. It talks about the life of Amir, a privileged boy, and his childhood frien...

It’s All in The Planets- By Preeti Shenoy

“Sometimes, you don’t realize the weight of something you’ve been carrying until you finally set it down.” I’ve read this book many times. It’s quicker to read a book you’ve already read because you know what’s going to happen. But even then, the emotions still hit the same way. I first read it back in 2017, and since then, it’s been one of my go-to books—a feel-good story I keep coming back to. The book is a light and engaging romance by Indian author Preeti Shenoy. It follows Aniket, a techie stuck in a not-so-great relationship with Trish, and Nidhi, a woman who’s left her corporate job to follow her passion for writing and pottery. Their lives cross paths in unexpected ways, and slowly, they help each other grow. The story shows how fate, choices, and a little help from the stars can change everything. Preeti Shenoy writes in a simple and relatable way. Her characters feel real, and the situations are easy to connect with. The book talks about self-discovery, unhealthy relationship...

The Palace of Illusions - By Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

“You will question my actions. But then, that is the nature of stories, isn’t it? The truth often lies beneath layers of what we call the truth.” The Palace of Illusions is a retelling of the Indian epic Mahabharata, told from the point of view of Draupadi—a strong and complex queen who usually stays in the background of the original story. In this book, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni gives Draupadi a voice and lets us see her thoughts, feelings, and struggles. The story follows Draupadi from her magical birth from fire, to her marriage to the five Pandava brothers, and through the big war that changed everything. What makes this book special is how it shows Draupadi not just as a character from mythology, but as a real woman—curious, intelligent, emotional, and strong. What I liked most was how unexpected it was. The author begins with the idea that Draupadi should have chosen Karna—a bold twist that gives the story a fresh angle. Their imagined connection brings emotional depth and adds ...

Shiva Triology- By Amish Tripathi

“There is your truth and there is my truth. As for the universal truth, it does not exist.” I read this triology by Amish Tripathi in 2020, but its impact stayed with me, inspiring me to write this review today after 5 years! It tells the story of Lord Shiva, but in a very different way. Instead of showing him as a god from the start, the author presents him as a simple man – a tribal leader from Tibet – who becomes a legend because of his actions, choices, and beliefs. (Includes The Immortals of Meluha, The Secret of the Nagas, and The Oath of the Vayuputras) The first book, The Immortals of Meluha, introduces us to the land of Meluha, a perfect kingdom that believes Shiva is the ‘Neelkanth’, their saviour. The story is fast-paced and filled with interesting characters and ancient Indian philosophies. “Har har Mahadev – Every man is a Mahadev.”(A powerful line showing that divinity lies in all of us.) In the second book, The Secret of the Nagas, Shiva goes on a journey to find out the...

Brida - By Paulo Coelho

“Choosing a path means having to miss out on others.” This is a common idea, but the way it is written in Brida makes it truly powerful. Paulo Coelho’s Brida is a story about self-discovery, love, and finding one’s true purpose. It follows Brida, a young Irish woman interested in magic and spirituality. She learns from two mentors—a wise Magus, who follows the Tradition of the Sun (focused on knowledge and learning), and a powerful witch, Wicca, who follows the Tradition of the Moon (based on intuition and emotions). As Brida explores magic, she discovers her past lives and the idea of soulmates. She realizes she has a deep connection with both her boyfriend, Lorens, and the Magus. Torn between love, destiny, and her spiritual journey, she finally understands that true happiness comes from following her own path and making her own choices. I first read this book in 2019 and found it interesting and unique. However, some readers might not enjoy it as much because of its mystical themes....

One Day - By David Nicholls

I finished this wonderful book today (February 23, 2025) after watching the movie One Day, starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, for the first time in 2019. Since then, I have watched it every year, so I had to read the book! Reading after watching the movie can be a little distracting because you already know the story and imagine the characters as they were on screen instead of how they are described in the book. But no matter what, the book always tells the story in a better and deeper way than the movie. One Day by David Nicholls is an emotional and beautifully written novel that tells the story of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew over 20 years. The book checks in on them every year on July 15th, showing how their relationship, dreams, and lives change over time. Emma is smart, witty, and hardworking, while Dexter is charming, carefree, and privileged. They are complete opposites, but their bond is strong, making their story engaging and real. The novel is about love, timing, miss...

Eleven Minutes - By Paulo Coelho

"No one loses anyone, because no one owns anyone. That is the true experience of freedom: having the most important thing in the world without owning it." Paulo Coelho’s this piece has always been one of my favourites in every way. It’s a thought provoking novel about love, desire and self discovery. Eleven Minutes is a deeply moving story about Maria, a young woman from a small town in Brazil who dares to dream beyond the life she knows. With hopes of adventure and a brighter future, she sets out on a journey that takes her to Geneva, where she believes success awaits. But reality is crueler than she imagined, and when her dreams slip through her fingers, she finds herself drawn into the world of prostitution—not out of choice, but out of necessity. To protect herself from pain, Maria detaches from her emotions, convincing herself that love is nothing more than an illusion and that intimacy is merely a transaction. Yet, even in the darkness, she refuses to let go of her drea...

Kafka on The Shore - By Haruki Murakami

“The dead have their own world, and the living have theirs. All the dead do is wait. They wait for a soul to come from the living world to take them to the other side.” Once you're a Murakami fan, you're a fan for life, and his books truly stand as a genre of their own! It's often said that those new to Murakami should begin with Norwegian Wood since it’s more subtle compared to his other works. However, when you’re not aware of that suggestion, you just pick books as they come—like I did in 2021 when I chose Kafka on the Shore . That turned out to be a fantastic decision, and I had an incredible experience immersing myself in the story. Murakami’s imagination is wild and dark, filled with ideas that are hard to even picture. His stories can really mess with your mind and pull you in so completely that you can’t help but become a "Murakami fan"—and that’s how I feel too. It’s also worth mentioning that Murakami’s books need your full attention. You can’t read the...