Vanity Bagh Posted by Drac , Sunday, May 26, 2013 at 8:56 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, PanMacmillan

Title: Vanity Bagh

Author: Anees Salim

Publisher: Pan Macmillan India

Genre: Fiction

Vanity Bagh is a fictional place clearly mentioned as ‘tiny Pakistan’ in Mangobagh with Mehendi – quite analogues to India – as neighborhood. 

Imran Jabbari, accused mastermind of a terrorist plot that shook Mehendi with three scooter bombs, is spending his time in jail, recounting the memory of his hometown Vanity Bagh. The places, the people, their fears, hopes and anxiety. Imran’s plans of escape, his delusions and self-amusing nature make him a great narrator. Also, dispersed tactfully are anecdotes from his friends, foes and strangers, which complete this novel of delicious rendezvous.

Seeing from a distance this book can be labeled as a biography of a young, unemployed Muslim from Pakistan trying to make his stand, expressing his views on India and the rift between two countries, and how it is destroying his life. Where violence has become a routine of our life and nobody feels uncomfortable if accused terrorist is a Muslim, truth is: everyone is caged, on both sides of the boundary. Blinded by hypocritical media, misguided society and deceiving politicians that rule our life.

When I took this book in my hands for the first time, it reminded me of Khushwant Singh’s Train to Pakistan and Ruskin Bond’s A Fight of Pigeons; and one might relate the background. But, the infused dark humor makes it a completely different book I ever came across. Don’t get confused; the stated dark humor doesn’t resemble to that of Christopher Moore (who is the master of this genre IMO), but more to Christopher Buckley and Donald E. Westlake. Noir, subtle and pungent.

Rarely come a book with such story and characters that breaks the conventional approach and writing that redefines tradition. This is one of those books. The way Anees Salim molded this world of Vanity Bagh makes the reader stare in awe. Another best part of this book is that the author never preaches. And the way humor is blended, reader never loses the grip of the characters or maybe it’s the other way around. 

One of the most inspiring books in the latest releases of modern fiction. A highly recommended book for anyone who wants to read something worthwhile.

Rating: 5/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Chameleons Posted by Drac , Sunday, May 19, 2013 at 8:06 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, Leadstart

Title: Chameleons

Author: Sanket Ghag

Publisher: LeadStart Publishing

Genre: Fiction

Chameleons by Sanket Ghag is a story of optimism against adversaries, in an edgy sense. As they say, if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Sunny, who once was living a normal and happy life is now facing dreadful situations; which are strong enough to push him on the verge of suicidal consideration. Losing his love, struggling in his work and unable to find any closure, of the kind he expects, from his family, he now has to decide whether he will let the river of change drag him away or be the change himself; like a chameleon.

Readers join the protagonist while he recounts his life towards a not-so-predictable climax with perspicuous writing and engrossing characters. When it comes to connectivity, author has really nailed it. To be frank, I wasn’t expecting a lot from a newbie, but the genuineness of characters simply amazed me. Not until I read ‘about the author’ section (which I only do after completing the book), I realized why I felt so connected with Sunny; because this book is coming from the heart. Nowadays, many new Indian authors are coming out of nowhere penning books to get famous, earn money or just to woo some girl. But, I am thankful that this book is different. It’s a simple guy chasing his dream with a story to tell, saying ‘hear me out’.

Talking about the downfall of this book, I believe it is poorly edited. I can’t pinpoint the exact reason why but many-a-times I felt like the author imagined this story more as a screenplay rather than a novel. With choice of simple words, slangs are still punctuating the language. Even being a quick read, you may find some parts repetitive, slowing down the pace of the reader.

Only if the author sharpens his writing tool a bit, I think he got all the qualities of a ‘deserving’ bestseller. Overall it is an impressive work and acts as a real treat for fans of Indian fiction.

Rating: 4/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”