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 character compelling is her vulnerability, she’s not perfect, she makes mistakes, she breaks down; but she also shows immense strength in picking herself back up.

The story captures her journey from being carefree to struggling deeply, and eventually to healing and rediscovering herself.

Preeti Shenoy writes in a simple and relatable manner, making the emotions easy to connect with, even if the plot feels a bit predictable at times.

Overall, it’s an inspiring and meaningful read that reminds you that no matter how hard life gets, resilience and the will to move forward can truly reshape your story.

“There are no buts and no ifs in life. Life is what you make it.” Isn't it a lovely line!

AS: Happy Reading! 😃

Comments

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...

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...

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...

WinterMoon

Search This Blog