BookishJoys is a meticulous book review blog that endeavours to cater to literary enthusiasts of all genres. This blog offers well-written and insightful book reviews that delve deep into the essence of each work.
Featuring an extensive range of literary genres, BookishJoys provides readers with a diverse selection of reviews, ensuring there is something for everyone. The blog covers a wide spectrum of books that guarantees to captivate any reader.
Each review on BookishJoys is presenting a comprehensive analysis of the book's plot, characters, writing style, and overall themes. The reviews are informative, offering readers a clear understanding of the book's strengths and weaknesses, encouraging them to make an informed decision on whether to embark on that particular literary journey.
Moreover, BookishJoys incorporates a personal touch into the reviews, expressing my own thoughts and feelings about the books read.
Birth of a Butterfly chronicles the life of Sequoia, a young lady who immigrated to US with her mother and endures awful adversity. The narrative skillfully combines pain, resiliency, and the pursuit of identity and love. While Sequoia makes her way through the terrible realities of betrayal, loss, and poverty. The appearance of a dashing billionaire as a love interest heightens the suspense and mystery as their secrets clash and jeopardise Sequoia’s precarious existence.
The themes of deceit, trust, and the ability of love to both heal and destroy are expertly explored by the author.
Birth of a Butterfly seeks to motivate the reader by examining the human spirit and its capacity to triumph over the most difficult challenges. The story moves slowly, and I think it could have been told more effectively. Although I would suggest this book to those who enjoy good storytelling, it would also be a good choice for someone just starting out in this genre or trying to break through their reading slump.
An uplifting story of love, kindness, and tenacity can be found in “Start Living Again” by Saranya Umakanthan . Ananya, the protagonist of this story, is a young woman with dreams and a sparkle in her eyes. However, because of the unexpected turns life takes for everyone, all of Ananya’s dreams are lost in the grief that fills her eyes. On the other hand, Anshik was rescued from his deep despair and lack of confidence by Ananya’s positive outlook and her unwavering love for him, but when he sees Ananya again after three years, he discovers that she has completely changed.
Ananya’s hardships and her spontaneous reunion with Anshik weave a compelling story around the concept of overcoming unfulfilled goals. The victory of the human spirit, bravery, and optimism are all explored in this novel. It is a thought-provoking book that will inspire readers to consider their own goals and difficulties.
The two distinct personalities of the main characters, Ananya and Anshik, come together to encourage one another in following their goals and discover the strength of unity. The phrases at the start of each chapter and the story, although romantic, examine the power of relationships, self-esteem, and drive towards your goals.
Author Saranya has transmitted many thought-provoking and inspirational themes. Through the tale of Ananya and Anshik, the author hopes to rekindle faith in genuine, unconditional love—a love that never holds you down and always allows you to soar.
“Start Living Again” is a beautifully refreshing work of contemporary fiction that will have you turning pages until you find out how Ananya and Anshik’s lives concludes.
Do you have any favorite read from school syllabus?
This engrossing children’s book “Mystery of the Magic Mirror” by Shubira Prasad transports readers on an exciting journey full of charm, friendship, and the strength of teamwork. The narrative centres on a group of three children, Opal, Shailendra, and their cousin Krish, who move into a new home on the outskirts of the city and find a friendly ghost named Xoxo. When their elder cousin Krish arrives with his cute puppy, Chutney, the youngsters takes up an adventure to solve the mystery of the ghost and a strong, evil magic mirror in the neighbouring jungle. They must work together to make their way through the enigmatic and lush jungle, where they will come across obstacles and duplicate pictures.
The author expertly combines humour, mystery, and fantasy aspects to create a fun and captivating story that will enthral young readers. The novel gains depth and beauty from the detailed descriptions of the jungle environment and the distinctive characters, such as the gentle & kind spirit Xoxo. The story honours the strength of friendship, cooperation, and the victory of good over evil as the youngsters band together to assist Xoxo in finding and destroying the evil magic mirror. The children’s bravery and resourcefulness, combined with the fast-paced plot of the novel, make it a page-turner that keeps readers interested in finding out how their adventure ends.
Shubira Prasad’s “Mystery of the Magic Mirror” is a must-read for young readers who love imaginative, action-packed, and thrilling tales of the unknown. This charming book will grab children’s imaginations and encourage them to go on fantasy and real adventures of their own.
Rotten Little Devils, a riveting book by Bruno Beaches takes readers on a thought-provoking path into the shadowy realm of devils and their persistent quest of destruction. The struggle between good and evil has long been a matter of curiosity. The protagonist of the tale is a heavenly angel who, incensed by evil’s victory on Earth, decides to change into a demon. He leaves the safety and happiness of Heaven behind in an effort to comprehend the other side and starts down a treacherous path of trickery and manipulation with the help of an experienced demon.
Bruno demonstrates his narrative talent as he describes the Angel’s training under the guidance of his wicked tutor in exquisite detail. Bruno illustrates the thin line that separates morality from self-destruction through the conflict between virtue and sin in the lives of numerous individuals and their distorted teachings. What distinguishes Rotten Little Devils is Bruno’s skill at drawing readers in with his nuanced depiction of the opposing forces. The story takes on a thrilling tone that draws readers in and holds them there until the very end as the Angel-turned-demon digs further into his mentor’s lessons. Bruno skillfully combines themes of psychological manipulation, existential reflection, and temptation.
Rotten Little Devils, in summary, is a powerful and captivating book that presents a distinctive viewpoint on the never-ending struggle between good and evil. This mysterious and engrossing voyage is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers thanks to Bruno’s outstanding narrative and thought-provoking ideas.
What fictional character would you love to go on an adventure with?
In Saptarishis by Ramesh Arreja, a reader is led on an engrossing journey through the depths of human experience across the passage of time. The narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the enormous influence of our deeds, the interdependence of all existence, and the never-ending question which mankind grapples with- if our life is an outcome of fate, our free will or both.
Rudrah , the protagonist is travelling a path of self-discovery and exploration. He starts to realise how interwoven his existence is and the important roles he has played throughout history as he pieces together the memories of his previous lives and digs farther into ancient history.
Rudrah embarks on an enthralling journey across centuries and civilizations. He experiences love, grief, and profound moments of destiny throughout the journey. These encounters put his commitment to the test and prompt him to consider the meaning and purpose of his existence.With the burden of his legacy bearing down on him, Rudrah must make a crucial choice. He has to decide whether to follow his own course, unaffected by the echoes of eternity, or accept his place in the vast story of time. As he considers the weighty ramifications of his existence, this decision proves to be a pivotal moment in his journey. The narrative delves into themes of fate, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through his journey, Rudrah tackles the intricacies of his history and the boundless opportunities of his future, providing a lens through which to examine life’s eternal mysteries.Saptarishis, the novel is written with depth and proper research.
With it’s simple language and fantastic narration, the story will take your imagination to the realm of mystical and spiritual journey. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and looking forward to read further in this series. So step into the realms of ancient wonders and unravel the mysteries of the past with this captivating mytho-fiction journey. Dive into this enchanting tale where legends come alive and destinies are revealed.
What debuts are you most looking forward to reading?
As a reader I was completely drawn into unusual and fascinating world created by Pooja Kanwar right from the first chapter. The narrative follows Mr. Moon, the main character, as he becomes drawn into a paranormal conflict between good and evil. Along the way, he meets the mysterious Ms. Queen, who casts doubt on his understanding of the afterlife and reveals facts about the reality of heaven and hell.
Pooja Kanwar’s exciting fiction fantasy book The Hell Queen and Mr. Moon is full of eerie encounters that will keep readers captivated from start to finish. An amazing atmosphere is created by the book’s exploration of the worlds of dark shadows, devil spirits, ghosts, shadow-hunters, ghostbusters, and wolves.
The author’s skill to meticulously create each character and make sure they add to the broader story is what makes this book stand out. Throughout the narrative, Mr. Moon, the protagonist, develops into a very relatable and well-developed character. It’s engrossing to read about his experiences with the unearthly beings and his ultimate search for self-discovery.
The plot moves quickly and occasionally takes predictable but interesting twists and turns that keep readers engaged. Suspense, mystery, and fantasy are all expertly woven together by Pooja Kanwar, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s use of poetic words and vivid imagery further enriches the plot, drawing the reader farther into this magical world.
The clever quotations dotted throughout the book enhance the story’s contemplative elements.
Readers will surely be left with a lasting impression by the excellent story The Hell Queen and Mr. Moon. Pooja Kanwar has remarkable storytelling skills by building a universe full of terrifying creatures and supernatural marvels that keep readers captivated all the way to the very end. Fantasy and horror fiction readers will become fully engrossed in this eerie and exciting journey.
What inspired you to write “BE-com-ing Authentically Me” and what do you hope readers will take away from it?
The spark that ignited BE-com-ing Authentically Me came from a higher calling – my spirit guides sat me down and compelled me to write it, to help humanity awaken. My deepest hope is that you will feel empowered to rediscover self-love, letting go of illusions and unleashing your inner alchemist. Explore the conditioning that was pre-programmed into you, transcend the drama in your life, and journey beyond the here and now. The key to life is to open our hearts and mind, rather than walking throughout life like a horse with blinkers remaining in the discomfort of ourselves, because of the implemented status quo of the societal paradigm. We’re all here to expand and illuminate our consciousness and understand what life is really all about.
I hope that through the book’s pages, you’re reminded that you are love, and we’re all here to return to that love for ourselves and each other. Our experiences are not meant to weigh us down and drown us, but rather they are gifts to lighten our load and reveal life’s wholeness. Each moment carries with it an invitation to awaken, as we gently lift the veil of our awareness and understand the lessons we have been given for our souls to grow. With eyes open wide, rather than eyes wide shut, we begin to see and understandlife’s fascinating journey and our true essence.
Though the path may not always be straightforward, it rarely is, faith lights the way, step-by-step, as we come to know life for what it is: a chance to love, to learn, and to understand. My words are but seeds, waiting to take root in fertile soil and blossom in your heart, nourishing your spirit with gentle wisdom and insight into this remarkable adventure called life.
Can you tell us about your journey as a Soul Empowerment Coach and how you discovered your abilities?
My journey as a Soul Empowerment Coach began long before I discovered my abilities. It was a journey steeped with deep trauma that I had to wade through shoulder-deep at times. I endured so much, but realised I had to take responsibility for my life and fight my own demons to rediscover the love and light within myself. I had to understand that I mattered – that I was worthy. I studied many holistic healing modalities to grasp my own healing process. Of course, I’m still developing, healing, and learning, and I’m not the same person I was yesterday. I find joy in helping people reclaim their power and live according to their soul’s rhythm. I’ve always been open to otherworldly realms, even as a child, though I tucked away my conversations with my guide as I grew up and life took over. Spirituality flowed back into my life naturally, unfolding steadily. Speaking with Light Beings in other dimensions.
How do you define authenticity and how can individuals connect with their authentic selves? Authenticity? What is it, really?
In a world where we’re pressured to conform, authenticity means being true to yourself. It’s about honouring your inner voice, not sway to the expectations of others.Authenticity is marching to the beat of your own drum. It’s revealing your quirks, flaws and all. Like a favourite pair of jeans, authenticity is comfortable and lived-in. No facades, no pretence, just you in your raw and real form.When you’re authentic, your actions align with your values. You take responsibility for mistakes because you’re not trying to be someone you’re not. There’s freedom in being yourself, fully and unapologetically. No more mental gymnastics to remember what you said or how you acted. No more wearing these different masks, creating different ‘personas’ just to be able to fit in and be accepted. Who cares what other people think of you? It matters what you think of you and how you feel about yourself.
Authenticity lets you breathe easy, knowing you can trust yourself. It’s deeply fulfilling in a way that hiding behind masks can never be. Like a sigh of relief, authenticity is lightness from releasing heavy burdens of pretence. It’s self-acceptance and growth.So be you, quirks and all. The world needs more brave, raw and real souls.
Could you share a significant personal anecdote or experience that has had a profound impact on your own journey of self-discovery and authenticity?
What does authenticity even mean? It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot these days. But real authenticity requires brutal self-honesty and a willingness to unravel layers of conditioning and programming.My life has been much like a full jar labelled as experiences filled with many different ‘sweets’ called mixed trauma. But my journey towards authenticity began when life shook me to my core. Trauma has a way of cracking you open – it strips the facade and reveals what’s underneath. With each painful experience, another layer of my false self peeled away.
We all wear masks. From a young age, we learn to contort ourselves to fit narrow roles and expectations. I know I did. For years, I twisted myself into a pretzel trying to be the person I thought others wanted me to be. It was exhausting.At first this raw exposure terrified me. I felt like a naked turtle without its shell. But in shedding the weight of those suffocating masks, I uncovered my truest self. For the first time, I saw myself clearly.Trauma, peer pressure, and social conditioning finally forced me to understand that authenticity isn’t about stuff, status or roles. It’s about alignment of your innermost being with your outermost actions. Even now, I’m still unravelling, still becoming. Because authenticity isn’t a destination – it’s an endless inward journey. Showing your true colours makes you vulnerable, yet it also allows for more intimate relationships built on radical honesty. Rather than wearing a mask to fit in, authenticity means ripping off the mask,and baring and honouring your one-of-a-kind spirit. Self-acceptance inside and out is the first step to being accepted by others. Feel at home in your own skin, and it won’t matter what anyone else thinks of you.
My favourite quotes on healing our experiences and authenticity come from the Ascended Master St Germain, who I work with a lot – “Either heal and deal or run and shun.” And from Wayne Dyer -“You cannot always control what goes on outside. But you can always control what goes on inside.” I believe the only limits we have are the ones we impose on ourselves, because we create our experiences according to our beliefs. To change our lives, we must first change our beliefs.
Are there any specific practices or exercises that the readers of your book can implement to support them on their journey of self-discovery and empowerment?
There are many ways to Rome, and thus to rediscovering ourselves. Discover your true self through simple yet profound practices of breathwork and meditation. As you turn your attention inward, let go of distractions and technology. Be fully present in this moment – the only place where life happens.Breathe deeply. Feel yourself recentering. Listen to the gentle guided meditations by Davidji, or the healing 432Hz frequencies to align your energy. The violet flame invocation is a powerful EFT technique that activates transformation just by speaking the words and following the tapping sequence. You’ll feel the energy shift as you repeat the affirmation.Make time for stillness. Follow your breath. Allow your true essence to emerge, unencumbered by the past or future. The present is your point of power – use it wisely to create the life you desire. With patience and practice, self-discovery blossoms, unveiling your unique gifts. You already have everything you need within.
How do you approach and navigate scepticism or doubt from individuals who have read or are familiar with your concepts of self-discovery?
I understand that my concepts of self-discovery may not resonate with everyone. We each have our own unique path in this life. If you’re sceptical or have doubts, that’s perfectly alright. I say, to thine own self be true. You have to do whatever aligns with your spirit. I’m no Yosemite Sam, forcing my way on others. Heck no! My teachings are simply an invitation for those who may find them helpful. Not everyone will, and that’s okay. We must each walk our own journey and do what works for our soul. There are many ways to Rome, and thus many ways to heal. Take what serves you, and leave the rest behind. I’m here for those I can help, not to convince the doubtful. At the end of the day, we’re all just walking each other home.
What advice do you have for readers who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about beginning their journey towards authenticity and embracing their Soul’s purpose?
Heck what does it even mean to embrace your soul’s purpose? We are so messed-up walking through this jungle of life on this planet, we just live a certain way, are a certain way and act a certain way – and most of us are whacked out of alignment, feeling deeply unhappy within. The journey back to ourselves and embracing fully who we are can feel overwhelming and uncertain at times. But, actually feeling this way is a sign that something deep inside you is stirring the pot – the real you is ready to emerge! When the chaos rises up, and all your trauma is wanting to be healed, just remember to breathe.
This is the universe giving you a nudge, asking you to pay attention. What makes your heart sing? What pulls you out of bed each morning? Your passions, your gifts – they are compass needles pointing you to your true north.
You’ve got to take it a day at a time, a step at a time, and one breath at a time. Each small step forward is progress. Trust your instincts, trust the universe, and soon your path will reveal itself one joyful moment at a time. Experiences will keep coming, but as you blossom and become more aware, just smile and keep breathing, keep listening, and let your soul lead the way.
Are you an avid reader? Would you like to tell us about the books which inspires or motivates you the most?
There are many books I love, but the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a book I can’t get enough of. It speaks to my soul every time I crack it open. Coelho’s story of Santiago, a shepherd boy with stars in his eyes, never fails to inspire me. Santiago dreams of finding worldly treasure, but the riches he discovers along his journey are far more precious than gold or jewels. He learns to listen to the wisdom in his heart, read the omens guiding him forward, and understand that the real treasure is the journey itself. The Alchemist reminds us to keep dreaming, to stay open to life’s beauty and surprises, and always follow the path our heart knows is right. Coelho’s timeless fable
Ramayana: The Adi Kavya that Inspires Modern Poetry and Prose Collections.
Introduction:
India’s ancient epic, the Ramayana, often referred to as the Adikavya or the first poem, remains one of the most influential pieces of literature in the world. Its profound impact can be witnessed throughout history and even today, as it continues to inspire a multitude of poetry and prose collections. Drawing from the timeless themes of love, heroism, duty, and righteousness, the Ramayana serves as a wellspring of creativity, fueling the imaginations of countless writers in modern times. In this blog, we delve into the ways this primal poetry and its ideals have shaped the literary landscape of the present day.
Resonance of Universally Human Emotions:
The Ramayana’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of universally human emotions. Its vivid characters, such as Lord Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and Ravana, embody virtues and flaws that are relatable to people across cultures and centuries. Modern poets and prose writers find inspiration in these archetypal figures and their experiences. The emotions of love, loyalty, sacrifice, loss, and redemption, showcased so powerfully in the Adikavya, continue to find echo in contemporary storytelling.
Exploration of Moral Dilemmas:
The Ramayana presents a myriad of moral dilemmas, dilemmas that require making choices between good and evil, duty and personal desires. Its complex narrative not only weaves the story of Lord Rama’s journey, but also poses introspective questions about the nature of right and wrong, power and responsibility, and justice and revenge. This exploration of ethical quandaries has been an inspiring force behind many modern works, as it encourages introspection and debates on moral issues.
Archetypal Mythology and Symbolism:
Mythology in the Ramayana provides a rich tapestry of symbols and archetypes that continue to captivate contemporary writers. The epic’s use of motifs like the divinely blessed weapons, the cosmic battles, the renunciation of desires, and the eternal fight between good and evil offer an abundant source of inspiration. The Ramayana’s symbolism resonates deeply with modern poets and prose writers, facilitating the expression of complex ideas or abstract concepts through metaphorical representation.
Portrayal of Strong Women Characters:
One of the highlights of the Ramayana is its portrayal of strong female characters, such as Sita and Hanuman’s mother, Anjana. Sita embodies grace, courage, and unwavering loyalty, while Anjana exemplifies motherly love and strength. These depictions of empowered women have become a vital source of inspiration for literature that explores feminism, women’s empowerment, and women’s experiences in the modern world.
Exploration of Cultural Identity:
The Ramayana stands as a testament to Indian cultural identity, underscoring the values, traditions, and beliefs that have shaped the country’s ethos for centuries. Modern poets and prose writers often draw from these cultural underpinnings, using the epic as a starting point to explore and celebrate their identity while offering their unique perspectives on love, religion, and society. The Ramayana serves as an anchor for writers seeking to connect with their roots and engage with a broader readership.
Conclusion:
The Ramayana’s deep influence on poetry and prose collections in modern times remains undeniable. Its ability to transcend time and space, capturing the essence of human emotions, moral dilemmas, archetypal symbolism, and cultural identity, serves as a constant source of inspiration. As the Adikavya continues to resonate with contemporary writers and readers alike, the potent legacy of this primal poetry ensures that its central themes will be explored and reimagined in captivating ways for generations to come.
Do you like reading books set in your own state or a country?
Being a Mumbaikar, I am proud of Maratha history and no matter how many books you read about it, Maratha history always has many hidden gems in it!
Angria by Sohail Rekhy is set during the turbulent Maratha era in India which transports readers on an exciting historical journey while highlighting the life of the unsung naval commander Kanhoji Angre. Readers will be engrossed in Sohail Rekhy’s skillfully crafted story of bravery, treachery, and loyalty until the very last page.Readers are transported to a realm of danger and intrigue through in-depth descriptions of the Konkan’s tumultuous rivers and the fearsome forts.
Kanhoji Angre, the main character, is a fascinating and complex figure. Kanhoji is descended from Tukoji Sankhpal, Shivaji’s keeper of Suvarnadurg Fort, who instilled in him a love of the sea and a strong sense of duty towards his empire. Kanhoji finds himself at the center of a power struggle that pushes him to rise above his circumstances as foes from all sides threaten the Maratha kingdom. Readers follow his development from a little child to the fearsome naval captain known as “Samudratala Shivaji” (Shivaji if Seas) as he travels.
Kanhoji must traverse a complex web of political intrigue, familial tensions, and constant foreign invasions by the Mughals, Siddis, and Portuguese, all of which are masterfully portrayed by Sohail Rekhy. The British East India Company’s presence heightens the tension and draws attention to the power struggle at this crucial juncture in history.
The vivid and evocative writing style immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and scents of the period. Because of Sohail Rekhy’s extensive research, the plot feels realistic and well-founded.
Angria is a riveting work of historical fiction that transports readers to a period when the battle for Swaraj was raging throughout the Indian Ocean.
This novel about bravery, love, and the undying spirit of Kanhoji Angre will captivate readers who enjoy both history and fiction.
The Role of Female Writers in the development of Literature in Ancient India.
Our modern day female writers have used their literary voices to comment on social issues, gender dynamics, and cultural practices.
Through their writings, they challenged societal norms and subtly critiqued patriarchal structures. Their works helped shape cultural narratives and contributed to the broader discourse around gender equality and societal justice.
Similarly in ancient India, there were several notable female writers who made significant contributions to the development of literature and their legendary work was recognised and recorded in the annals of Indian History.
In ancient India, there were several notable female writers who made significant contributions to the development of literature. Here are a few prominent examples:
Lopamudra: In the Rigveda, Lopamudra is credited with composing hymns that explore themes of love, devotion, and spirituality. Her verses reflect her personal journey and quest for enlightenment.
Maitreyi: Maitreyi was a highly learned woman known for her philosophical wisdom. She engaged in deep discussions with philosopher sage Yajnavalkya, as depicted in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. Her dialogues present profound insights into metaphysics and the nature of reality.
Ghosha: Ghosha was a revered Buddhist nun who composed several verses in Pali, a language used for Buddhist scriptures. Her works, known as Ghosha Padas, emphasize the Buddhist principles of mindfulness, compassion, and liberation.
Bhamini: Bhamini was a Sanskrit poetess from ancient India. She composed beautiful verses that delved into themes of love, desire, and longing. Her works often embodied a subtle critique of societal norms and offered a glimpse into the emotional world of women.
Muktabai: Muktabai, a 13th-century saint and poetess, is known for her devotional compositions in the Marathi language. Her abhangas (devotional poetry) express deep spiritual insights and celebrate the devotion to the divine.
Andal: Andal, also known as Goda Devi, was a Tamil Vaishnava poet-saint who composed emotional and devotional verses. Her poems, known as Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi, express her intense love and longing for Lord Vishnu.
These are just a few examples of the female writers who contributed significantly to ancient Indian literature. However, there were many more talented and influential women writers who, unfortunately, have not received the recognition they deserve. Efforts are being made today to uncover and appreciate their contributions in order to create a more comprehensive understanding of ancient Indian literature.
BookishJoys 