Bhagyashree

Life Update Post

Hello beautiful rays of sunshine!

Today’s post is about something special! Something which makes me feel responsible, loved, happy and emotionally invested at the same time. This new experience is so blissfully beautiful and I want to enjoy each moment to the fullest. I know these little guys are going to be excited each time I get home, show their happiness whenever I strum my guitar sitting near them, make me clean up after them a LOT (trust me, my first time was extremely unpleasant), chirp my pensive mood away, teach me many things, scientific things to be specific, and most importantly love me unconditionally! Ohh…I am so touched. Lol.

Alright then, let me unravel the mystery about this post now. Although I think, I have given you guys some hints already…

I have got four birds as pets!

Meet SIMBA, SARAH, COCO and RIO!

The first day at their new home!
L-R; Simba, Sarah, Coco, Rio.

Well judging by their names you can guess how much I adore Disney movies! I wanted to name one after Po, but, unfortunately got vetoed out of it. It still hurts. *wink* *wink*

So I am now a proud pet parent of two pairs of birds belonging to breeds Zebra Finch and White Finch each. Unfortunately, Coco had been poked in the eye by some bird while at the pet store, so she had faced a bit more trouble in adjusting, than the others. Thankfully, she is all better now and keeps frolicking around with her bestie, Sarah.

This is how the four friends bid goodnight! Although I think Rio is angry with me for clicking a pre-bedtime shot:P

I love their snowy coat of feathers and res shiny beaks! Nature sure has its own way of embellishing beauty.

I observed that both Simba and Sarah (Zebra Finches) are both gregarious and fun-loving and on the other hand it seems, Rio and Coco (White Finches) keep having tiffs over issues I am clearly not aware of. It is hard to see them all huddled up next to each other, but I guess I got lucky tonight!

Since they are adults, it will be hard for them to learn to sit on my shoulder or be comfortable with human touch. Although I am pretty sure, I will be getting loads of pictures clicked with their offspring. Care to suggest me some names for the future generation? I have already exhausted my favorite names supply.

I am eagerly waiting for the time, they’ll be comfortable and well adjusted enough, to fly freely around my house. How fun, that would be! And of course, when their little tree house is ready for them to reside in, I’ll throw another house warming party for them, that day.

I would love to hear suggestions and advice on how to rear these birds and their offspring. Please feel free to share your views in the comments section. Also, tell me about your experiences of being a pet parent for the first time.

If you liked my post, don’t forget to like, comment, reblog anf follow my blog!

Until the next time!

Love,

Simba, Sarah, Coco and Rio

Favorite Agatha Christie Novels

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Mystery novels and I have a long, long history between us!Even the first novel that I ever read belonged to mystery genre ;The Three Investigators Series; The Mystery of the Talking Skull. My entire childhood can be summed up in two words; mystery novels. Later on I was introduced to and embraced in the spell binding world created by Agatha Christie and thus there was no turning back. So I have decided to pay tribute to the queen of Detective novels by listing six of my all time favorite Agatha Christie novels.

6. The ABC Murders

A classic Herclue Poirot mystery which consists of drama, family feud, romance, action, adventure and an ending which signifies the detective’s eureka moment that finally solved the case.

Poirot receives a mysterious letter signed by “A.B.C”, hinting some act of crime is going to be committed very soon. Soon two murders take place in an alphabetical order with an ABC Railway Guide present at both the crime scenes. The little Belgian detective must race against time to stop the murderer from striking his third victim and save an innocent man from meeting with an unfortunate fate.

P.S. You’ll be surprised to know who turns out to be the actual culprit and applaud Christie for her art of weaving stories by linking all the hidden hints (ooooh, alliteration!) together. That’s what I did, at least 😛

5. Death comes as the End

Quite a strong title, no?

The novel set in Ancient Egypt, unlike the other contemporary novels by the author boasts of a story as strong as the title. A revered priest’s life turns upside down after he marries a woman much younger than him. Certain incidents find his newly wedded wife to be a victim of raging angst from his family members. Soon she is found dead and it seems her vengeful spirit is back to settle old scores…

One more thing that distinguishes this novel from the others is that, the narrative is presented in a first person perspective as opposed to the other third person perspective approaches.

You would love reading the gripping tale about a ghost who has crossed the realms of the dead to avenge her murder or is it another mystery all together? No spoilers ahead!

4. Death on the Nile

A masterpiece of a novel which showcases a melange of human emotions including bittersweet love, sympathy, greed, selfishness and of course Poirot’s brilliance.

A young woman approaches the detective to assist her in distress. She and her husband are being stalked by her husband’s ex-lover. Poirot, however, refuses to accept the case. The couple, then boards a cruise steamer to escape the stalker. It is then despite all efforts to avert it, a murder is committed; the young woman seeking Poirot’s help breathes her last. It is time for the Belgian’s grey cells to actively work, to solve the mystery, before the murderer strikes again.

I recommend you read this novel carefully and pay attention to all the characters, as this string of people are repeated once again in a different setting, but pointing to the same motive hidden beneath the veil of crime.

3. The Mystery of the Blue Train

Herclue Poirot boards the uneventful Le Train Bleu in hopes of undertaking a peaceful journey. However, his plans are interrupted as one of the passengers is found to murdered and a world famous jewel is missing from her possession. With a train full of passengers as suspects and two cases to solve, Poirot has to rack his brains to distinguish the truth and lie from the water tight alibi that point to real murderer.

P.S. This was the first Agatha Christie novel I read! I loved reading about how the author made the detective solve two cases that appeared to stem from a single act of crime and saved the innocent from meeting with an unfortunate fate. Having difficulty in choosing a book for the upcoming weekend? Just take a deep breath and unravel the mysterious murder with Agatha Christie.

2. Appointment with Death

The author narrates a story about a dominating ex-prison warden and her family who are travelling for a vacation, together. The matriarch influences her children heavily and never allows them to think for themselves. While travelling, she leaves a queer remark to one of the passengers and is soon found to be dead. It now falls upon the able shoulders of Poirot to deduce the culprit and find meaning to the old lady’s quaint remark.

One factor which distinguishes the novel from others is that is that, it is written from the perspective of two vital characters in the novel and does not include a third-person perspective. It keeps you glued till the very end and leaves you satisfied as you finish the novel.

Finally, my favorite book! The best for the last…

1. Murder on the Orient Express

Ohh! One of the few novels that made me gasp at every page! It has so many topsy-turvy incidents that give the story a new depth. The best thing about this novel is that it never loses its narrative in the backdrop of various side stories and it includes character continuation, which is rare to find in Christie’s novels. Instead the author offers new elements, characters and plots to satisfy the thirst of her readers.

A mismatched group of passengers board the Orient Express with Poirot and witness the most bizarre murder of the century. A famous criminal on the run, seeks help from the detective to avert mortal peril and is found dead, the next morning, with inexplicable knife stabs. The detective treads on the journey of catching the culprit or is it a heist which is carried by a group of culprits?

Please, please readers read this novel once. I assure you, you won’t be disappointed!

Before signing off today, I have a question for my readers. What would you like to read my next review about;a stand-alone or a book series? I would be waiting for your replies.

If you like my post, don’t forget to like, comment, reblog anf follow my blog!

Cheers!

The Sun is also a Star: Nicola Yoon

Happy Friendship Day people! I couldn’t think of any other book to review than the one which celebrates friendship and love in their truest sense, on this day!

Rating : 4.1/5

Highlights

A vibrant cover, which would make you fall in love with it at the first glance.
An amazing title which leaves you confused and curious at the same time.
An unconventional love story which spans over a period of ten years. The depth of the story makes it an interesting read.
Multi-perspective novel, which provides the reader the POVs of each character, instead of a third-person perspective that novels usually seem to present.
A fantastic ending, which you never would have expected. Don’t worry, no spoilers ahead!
Paperback and pocket friendly 😛

Plot

Two teenagers, Natasha, an immigrant girl, who analyses everything scientifically and Daniel, a free spirited boy, fond of literature and poetry, meet accidentally. Their encounter blossoms into a beautiful friendship and gradually they fall in love over the course of a series of adventures they share for a period of twenty-four hours. Their unconventional love story, changes course as the fate has other plans. Natasha has to leave the country on account of illegal immigration, leaving behind the most beautiful moments of her life behind…

Writing Style

The author beautifully presents the thoughts and incidents playing in the minds of the characters and weaves them into a story. As a reader you get immense satisfaction in reading the tale from each perspective, rather than a third-person perspective that novels usually provide. The content and character arcs are written in an intriguing manner with a sprinkle of realism that you instantly fall in love with the two awkward teenagers. You begin reading the story expecting it to be an usual love story, where you would find two characters madly in love with one another and the universe coming together to unite the star-crossed lovers. However, your stance changes completely after realizing how the characters are presented in a humble and grounded manner, dealing with far graver problems and discovering themselves in the face of understanding friendship in love and love in friendship. It’s truly a delightful real.

Review

First of all, let me bring to light, I am not a fan of reading love stories. This is the first love story I have read in my life and I feel amazed while admitting, I liked it…I never thought I would!

Coming to the review, it is one of the novels I felt satisfied after reading. Right from the beginning, to the various sub-plots and the ending, everything is perfect in an ethereal manner. You start living each emotion in the novel with the first word you read and continue to do so till the last page.

Just one tiny thing I felt, could have been better in the novel, is the pace of the ending. No doubt, the ending is unexpected and peaceful, the pace seems to be too fast. While reading you get used to a pleasant pace of the narrative and suddenly the author rushes us to the point where her characters reunite, the readers faces trouble adjusting to it.

Has this novel changed my perspective towards love stories? I think it’s too early to comment on that having read only a few novels. But definitely, I would like to read more of the author’s works.

Would I recommend it? Affirmative. I think it would make a perfect read for a weekend getaway or the gifted to a friend who loves love stories or otherwise. I think you should read it once, you will not be disappointed.

What are your favorite love stories to read? Tell me in the comments section and let’s see if your recommendations turn me into a hopeless romantic at heart. Lol.

If you like my post, don’t forget to like, comment and reblog. Also, don’t forget my blog for book reviews, poems and more…

Until the next time,

Cheers!

Favorite book quotes of all times

Hello readers and fellow book lovers! Have you come across lines/dialogues/quotes so well written, that you have to close the book and stare into nothingness for a while pondering about the words? Don’t even ask me how many times this happens to me…

In today’s blog, I bring you a compiled list of my favorite book quotes that might bring a smile on your faces. So, sit tight and be prepared to be blown over by awesomeness!

10. “Just live well. Just live.” Me before you by Jojo Moyes

As if the entire story wasn’t heart wrenching enough, the author had to include an emotional letter ending with such powerful lines. Reading these lines fill me with much zest to live and explore no matter whenever or wherever, I happen to skim through these. Ever having a bad day? Just remember these two lines by Will to Lou and you’ll be good to go!

9. “ You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” The Help by Kathryn Stockett

The book which captures women power and blurs racial differences in its truest sense, also captures the essence of self worth.Just the three words you need to remind yourself, every time you venture out to prove your worth.

8. ” You are mad. Bonkers. Off your head…But I’ll tell you a secret…All of the best people are.” Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll

Some deep thinking going on here. And in the novel. Some hard hitting words which leave you mesmerized and dazzled and craving for more.

7.” It takes ten times as long to put yourself back together as it does to fall apart”. Hunger Games by Suzzane Collins

Mind blown! Such crude words which everyone feels but is too afraid to acknowledge. What can I say more about it?

6. ” No one can put a price on losing everything” The Sun is also a star by Nicola Yoon

A girl on the verge of losing everything. A boy on the verge of changing everything. They meet, fall in love and are separated. How painful can their story be? And in midst of that this quote to suck the breath out of you! Why universe, why?

5. ” It’s wrong what they say about the past. I have learned about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out”. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Chills, right? Such powerful words that hit you right through the bones. I fell in love with the novel, I read it the first time and more so with its degree of depth and realism. Isn’t it amazing how you relate to these words at the first glance irrespective of age, race, nationality, gender etc. Please take a bow Mr Hosseini, for crafting such a masterpiece.

4. “ Things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end, if not always in the way we expect” Harry Potter by J.K Rowling

First of all. a belated happy birthday to the queen who made our childhood awesome! Whew! Words just fall short when I try explaining my euphoria whenever someone talks of Harry Potter. Its characters, its stories, its plots, everything is just magical. As magical as this quote which is filled with silent sadness and serene hope, enough to last a lifetime.

3. ” Survival is a state of mind”. Life of Pi by Yann Martel

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Just two words. MIND BLOWING!

2. ” Ruin is a gift. Ruin is the road to transformation”. Eat. Pray. Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Who would have thought a true account of discovering one self would become would inspire a young girl, miles apart to begin anew? This is by far one of my favorite books and quotes.

Now time for the best one…

” This part of my life, this part right here. This is called happyness”. The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner

A novel which tells the story of a father-son duo struggling to live the life of there dreams and teaching us to live in the moment. This quote is a treat to read, understand and live by as soon as you finish reading it.

What are your all-time favorite book quotes? Tell me in the comments section!

If you like my post, don’t forget to like, comment, share and follow my blog!

Until the next time,

Cheers!

I am a big girl now, mother…

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Hello readers! Finally,I am out with a poem I had been wanting to compose for a really long time, but was never really satisfied with the result until now.This piece of poetry revolves around the relationship of a mother-daughter duo and how they find their strength to face the cruel, male dominated world. I know, it’s pretty long (well actually, the longest I’ve ever written), excuse me, for that, but knowing I am writing this, it is justified, right?

I hope you enjoy reading the poem as much as I enjoyed writing it! Here it goes…

I am a big girl now, mother…

I remember the first time, the day, a man eyed me hungrily,

You said breathe, look away, walk faster and move on steadily,

I had been a child of five, ready, eager to explore and create,

You said by the time, I turned into a ‘big girl’, I should wait,

Wait for the viciousness and hunger to completely clear away,

And keep my beauty, my identity hidden under a veil till that day.

I grew up believing those stares were a route to that time,

I did what you taught me and kept hiding from the crime.

I was smiling and laughing at my tenth birthday party that night,

Forgotten were the horrors of the past in the present ,so bright,

Suddenly a hand groped me from behind, despite my protests,

Mom, he was one among the long list of civilized guests,

Hurt, angry I came running to you, out of shock, out of fear,

You laughed it off as a mishap and began to wipe my sorrowful tear.

I thought another hurdle was added to that right path,

And once more, I had to hold back and bury my wrath.

Time flew by, and I started turning into a young lady,

I was shrouded into long, dull clothes to blend with the shady,

Surroundings and protected from the hunters lurking around,

You asked me again to look away and make no sound,

The wolf-whistles started to be engraved in my ears,

But looking away and walking faster helped all through the years.

Surrounded by my trusted people, I spent the early years of my life,

Before I knew it you pushed me to become someone’s ideal wife,

From that day onwards I remember him never asking for my consent,

I don’t think he understands what the word ‘NO’ meant,

The ornaments of my face have given way to red, blotchy scars,

But didn’t this arrangement called marriage raise bars,

Of cruelty and strangling my ideas, thoughts and opinions,

I believed I would never face this, for I am not among the millions.

After all those years, I am a big girl now mother,

Still waiting for the dawn you promised me mother,

As I lay on the floor stripped naked of my existence,

Even when I followed all your words with persistence.

Lying on the floor surrounded by blood and dirt,

I question myself, what did I ever do to be hurt?

Darkness has started to crowd and envelope my eyes,

Probably this is where I die, after living the promised lies,

In spite of the defeats, I don’t wish to be dead so soon,

Is this ending in disguise a long-awaited blessed boon?

With this moment I wish to fight, till my shackles are cut off,

And I explore the world in the way, the little girl dreamt of.

I see the open window and hope it carries my voice outside,

The voice of a bruised but not broken child, lady and now a bride,

I scream and scream till there is no voice left in my throat,

I raise my voice for me and for millions like me to be afloat,

From the misery and helpless reflections from the mirrors,

And break free once and for all from the ruthless killers.

I truly understand, today what the ‘big girl’ signified,

Months after losing you, my protector, by my side,

You wanted me to find my voice, my strength, my power,

To fight for myself in the face of hardships and not cower,

You made me strong enough to take a staunch stand,

I feel proud and loved at how you never let go off my hand.

I remember reading the diary you left behind for me,

And realizing how many battles you fought for me,

Alone you pushed the man, who dared to raise his eye,

And harboured intentions of making your daughter cry,

The hand that groped me, years ago, was cut off brutally,

You fought all hardships for me always smiling beautifully,

Till your last day my husband was not spared from your fire,

To always protect me was your heart’s deepest desire.

You protected me till your last gasp of breath,

Till the time I found chivalry in the face of death.

Nothing can bruise, taint and shatter me to pieces now,

I have tolerated enough abuse and humiliation, I avow,

My soul breathes the bravery lingered by you, my dear,

From the courage you taught me by giving in, to fear.

I have turned into the big girl now mother,

Who will not tolerate injustice another,

I have turned into the big girl you were mother,

Ready to face the world, your big girl mother…

Bhagyashree 31.7.19

A big shout-out to all the ‘big girls’ out there and a bigger shout out to their mothers for making them who there are today. #gogirlpower

Don’t you think it’s cruel that the innocent little girls become their courageous big counterparts only after losing everything? How I wish, life had been a bit merciful by providing another alternative…

Let me know in the comments section what you thought about the poem. If you liked my piece don’t forget to like, comment, reblog and follow my blog.

Until the next time.

Cheers!

Shall I Stay or Shall I Go – To Lands Unknown?

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Heelllloooo people! What’s up? Have you ever wondered what happens when two poets with different ideologies, two distinct writing styles, varying world views,different nationalities, come together and bond over one theme to write a poem? The result is intellectual (I mean hilarious *coughs*) squabbling, rigorous writing, frivolous editing and finally a well- crafted piece which both of them are proud of!

I would have never believed this to be true, had I not experienced it myself while collaborating with Mathew (Blog of the Wolf Boy) over this piece of poetry, depicting the dilemma of a young boy on the brink of making a life-affirming decision.

Out of a large, water-soaked windowpane,
I heard the horizons calling,
Calling me to a life full of quests,
With winds and hues of joys.
Where my heart won’t rip in pain,
And my soul will dance in spree.

Overjoyed, I turn around to find,
Souvenirs of my life to take along,
On a journey, conquering the world,
And to be away from one,
Which never accepted my body or mind,
To a place where I could truly belong.

But something holds me back,
As my legs walk towards my dream,
Stifling my neck as I try to breathe happiness,
Ghost of a smile etched on my face, glancing,
At a crumpled white sheet against a black,
Backdrop of responsibilities, acting as a seam.

The letter smiles at me, slyly,
Inviting me to a life of dutiful death,
Promising respect, money, power,
And a man worthy of success.
Realizing the cost, my eyes well up idly,
For an unfulfilled life which saps my breath.

I think all these things and I wonder
What’s a worse fate to endure?
To be the one who’s tried and failed,
Or feed a life that’s lost its allure?

It seems to me, the remedy,
Is to do that which scares me most,
So, I’ll dry these eyes and pack my bags,
For I’ve more to lose, not far, but close.

I close my eyes and drift off to a warmer place,
Where a gentle breeze plays on my skin,
And foreign melodies permeate open space,
While I dance to the lands I’ve never been.

There’s something sweet about losing yourself,
In unique and distant discoveries.
There may be bitterness in hard farewells,
But I’ll take heart in exotic things of sundry.

I’m awake and aware that life had not begun,
Until this day when I grew brave,
And marched my way into the rising sun,
To find my peace and soul, before my grave.

If fortune favors courage, as they say,
My tomorrow is going to be a brighter day.
Walking down new paths I’ve paved,
Towards a life I’ve not, but only craved.

Bhagyashree and Matthew 23.7.19

I would love to hear your views and thoughts of our collab.

Don’t forget to check his awesome blog and soulful poetry! Trust me, you would definitely fall in love with his writing style and depth of emotions once you read his works.

Of course, if you like our collab, don’t forget to like, comment, share and follow my blog!

Until the next time.

Cheers!

Review :The Silent Patient

Hey readers! Hope you had a great weekend full of happy, unexpected surprises!

I think all my fellow book lovers can agree on the fact, no matter how hard the day had been for us, just the inviting sight and wafty smell of books as we enter a bookstore, makes us happy beyond words! Who knew my happy visit to a bookstore, a few days ago, would spiral into something special and coincide with my love of writing. I am building too much suspense, right? Well that’s the result of the latest novel I read ;P.

Alright, let me help you guys unravel this mystery…I have joined hands with an awesome bookshop Rajat Book Corner (which leaves no stone upturned to promote reading of books through its various initiatives ) for multiple book readings and reviews! I would be reviewing random books selected by the owner of the bookstore himself, over the course of next few days.This is the first collaboration in these exciting series and this week’s pick is ‘The Silent Patient by debutante author Alex Michaelides from the genre: fiction/psychological thriller.

“Only she knows what happened.

Only I can make her speak.”

Plot

A woman, a famous artist,shoots her husband dead and hides behind the veil of silence for years on an end. A man, a psychotherapist, intrigued by this incident, decides to heal the accused murderer and break her silence. The plot of the novel mainly revolves around how successfully Theo manages to wake Alicia from her still stupor, until things take a turn for good or for worse. Caution, no spoilers ahead!

Writing Style

The novel speaks to us through two distinct mediums. The first voice belongs to the second protagonist of the story, physiotherapist Theo Faber. The second voice is of our leading lady, Alicia Berenson who communicates with us through the pages of her diary. The author has used two different methods of writing, and fused the abstract (Alicia’s diary) with the actual ( Theo’s narrative), making the plot gripping and edgy till the very end. The novel is divided into four parts, each providing a view into both flashbacks and the present, taking the story forward. The best element of this book is that, the protagonist’s character arc is developed through the eyes of the other characters and her paintings; a writing style which plays full justice to contemporary literature.

Highlights

A good work depicting contemporary style of writing.
Is a treat for mystery/ psychological thrillers.
Great amount of dialogue in the narrative, instead of third person perspective, which adds more realistic touch to both the story and characters.
Is extremely pocket friendly for me, no guesses as to how and why. Lol.

Review

There are a few things that I wish to bring to light about this book in this review. First of all, it’s a great debut novel by the author. A big shout out to his creative, imaginative and writing skills which were put together to create something worthy to be read and to adapted into a movie soon after its release! You can guess , how great the story is already.This was my first time experimenting with a book that falls in the category of physiological thrillers and I am intrigued enough to read other titles soon. These books keep the readers at the edge all the time, bubbling with curiosity as to what would happen next, at the same time enabling them to question their conscience. Cool, isn’t it?

This novel is exactly as you do not expect it to be. You are presented with the most unique twists and plot leads when you start believing the story will tone down and vice versa. One begins the novel by reading about the main character Alicia and then the focus jumps to the second lead, Theo, going back to Alicia only for short intervals. So at the end, the reader is left wondering who actually the ‘silent patient’ was; Theo or Alicia? Let’s have a discussion on this in my comments section, once you are done reading the novel.

You are bound to be amazed by its ending, which acts as both the strongest anchor and biggest loop of the story. It is open to interpretations at the same time providing a concrete boundary to draw conclusions from.

I wish the author writes a sequel delving more into the life and character of Alicia Berenson. How thrilling would it be to read her silent thoughts! Well let’s hope for the best and I hope this message reaches to the author.

For me, this book stands at 4.3/5 with all its enjoyable parts and little snags here and there. I would definitely recommend this exciting piece of contemporary literature to my readers for its different style of character development, narration, plot and of course, *ending*. I would be eagerly waiting for that discussion…

I am glad that I read this unconventional book, which gave me an insight into the wide-world of genres that I am yet to read! For that, I am glad that the owner of the bookstore suggested I read and review this particular book. Do visit the store’s site for exciting book offers, reviews, author interviews and many more. (Link provided above).

Also, don’t forget to follow my blog for book review, poetry and much more.

Cheers!

Scars of Peace

Hello fellows! The feeling of penning down pieces of your heart on paper, is liberating, isn’t it? You feel like you accomplished something great. And if the poem turns out to be as you imagined, the wave of happiness is beyond words and boundaries of expression! When I wrote this poem, I never knew, these words on paper, would turn out to be so beautiful and painful at the same time (I hope its true for everyone, not just me). I have been waiting a long time to share this,with all of you and I felt today is the best moment to do this. I’ll tell you the reason in my next post, soon.So here’s presenting my favorite poem from my collection. Let me know what do you feel about it.

Amidst the clashing of ideas and weapons,

There exist few fighters struggling, with ribbons,

The men march on the battlefields with sombre, expressions,

The women fight their own battles against, repressions,

Children are the ones, who are left behind,

Who acquire wisdom during the battles of the sighted blind,

Forced to give up their homes, their happiness,

They fall prey to the difficulties that arise due to the adults’ viciousness,

Daughters try to shield themselves from the wolves lurking around,

Sons try to rebuild their abodes, trying to keep their minds sound,

Even in the tumultuous times, they never lose their innocence,

Content even in grief, cheerfulness reflecting on their countenance,

The hope that glimmers in their souls,

Is worth learning from them, while achieving our goals.

Such is the story of a young little boy,

Who even in the face of dread, was unfazed by this ploy,

It had been a month since, he last saw their faces,

He was optimistic, after the victory, they would be subjected to praises,

His father told him to have a strong mind,

After their success his destiny would be immaculately aligned,

His mother lovingly patted his cheek before leaving,

It would only be a few days until they would be united, he slept, believing,

His friends told him, they would never return back,

Reliving their childhood memories was one thing they would lack…

Still he felt optimistic while bringing together shards of life,

Years later, when he visited the devastated wrecks,

Where there was both pain and love in rife…

Bhagyashree,10.10.18

If you liked my post, don’t forget to like, share, comment and follow my blog!

Cheers!

Wonder: Book Review

Hello people!After a long, long time, I am back to doing book reviews. Ta-da!

What marks this review to be special, is that it is a test of ability and my dedication towards writing. Well my followers are well aware of the fact how I love to rattle on and on about things that I wish should be brought to light. So a friend of mine challenged me recently and has placed a large sum of money (at least for us) on a bet,daring me to finish this review within five hundred words. Now, I have a point to prove and I’ll fight till the last ounce of courage to do the same!It’s my reputation at stake after all!

“You truly are a wonder!”

Admirable Plot

R.J Palacio pens down a beautiful story revolving around a ten-year old boy August “Auggie” Paulman and his struggles of adjusting in a new school, mysteriously hidden underneath a giant astronaut’s helmet, which he refuses to take off most of the time. Being encouraged by his loving, protective, supportive family consisting of his mother, father and elder sister Via, he succeeds in finding courage while facing the world and wining the hardest battle of his life; accepting himself the way he is.

Fascinating Writing Style

The narration of this story takes into account multiple perspectives of all the leading and secondary characters, a writing style which is uncommon in most literary works. You begin the novel by reading about Auggie and his views towards the world and finish the novel, reading the story of ancillary characters through their own words, connecting the dots of significance in their lives. I loved the author’s style of writing where parallel stories and character arcs run throughout the story, playing justice to each character and each event. The writing is strong, well-developed and tugs at your emotional strings at unexpected moments, providing many hoops for the reader’s revaluation and personal growth.

Awesome Highlights

Although it might seem, from the first glance, the story does not only focus on the main character. It is about a melange of characters coming together and embarking on a ‘wonder’ous (see, what I did there?) journey of doubt ,conflict and victory.
Deals with an extremely sensitive topic, but the narrative never appears to be preachy or ordinal.
The narrative seems more of a journal/diary entry instead of an outsider’s view, so the readers connect to the characters more quickly and easily.
The most lovable character is the family dog, with whom you fall in love at the first glance!
Is available in paperback and pocket-friendly 😛

Book Review

It is a non-conventional story about blurring boundaries of outer beauty and acceptance of the inner divinity. It takes into account various issues of the contemporary world including adolescent insecurities, upholding social images and helicopter parenting. The distinct writing style in itself carves out the message; loud and clear; it’s all about inclusion and acceptance. The characters in the novel speak to you through their own words and you live their lives with them.

Apart from the abrupt ending and a little lack of humor, the book is an amazing read. I know, most people will not agree with me on the humor part, but unless a writer does not involve hilarious moments, the narrative seems incomplete to me,

After I finished reading, I found out this novel is based on real events. I would have loved to read the author’s own reaction and how she dealt the situation in the story in some or the other way. I t would have added a more special and realistic touch.

The book stands at 3.9/5 for me. I suggest all to people, who have doubts in their abilities to succeed in life, to read this book. It would change your perceptive towards problems and you’ll be instilled with courage to deal with them.

Did you notice, I have used synonyms of ‘wonder’ as my adjectives in paragraph titles? Of course you did, I have full faith in my readers! Speaking of which, I also had full faith in my abilities, I would be able to win this bet!And, I did! So, I am waiting for the bet money, my friend…

Let me know in the comments section, if there is any book, you would like me to review.

Don’t forget to follow my blog.

Cheers!

20 Questions Book Tag

Hello people! What’s up?

You know how you have to come up one thing you learnt at the end of summer programs and remember the lessons for the rest of your life? You want me to throw my light on my lesson learnt this summer; people take blogging way too seriously, and I need to catch up soon…While gaining this enlightening insight I came across some amazing book tags and fell in love with them. I saw this one at the amazing abooknation and knew from the first glance, I would be doing this book tag for sure.

Cheers to my spirit of trying something new this summer!

#1: How many books are too many in a series?

As long as the story is interesting with great character arcs and gripping plot I am fine with any number of books that the author wants to include in the series. My only condition being, releasing the books quickly!!!

#2: How do you feel about cliff-hangers?

Never read them until you have the next book in the series right next to you…

#3: Hardcover or paperback?

Hardcover when you have to make your book shelf look aesthetic and paperback when it’s time to go pocket-friendly (which seems my only choice, now-a-days :P)

#4: Favorite book?

A book I would swear by, is ‘Doctors’ by Erich Segal. It’s the right blend of emotions, drama, mystery, fiction, reality and all the elements you look forward while reading a book. Although, I wasn’t keen on reading this book before, but I guess, reading this book was one of the best decisions of my life, so far!

#5: Least Favorite Book?

Why does this happen to book lovers? This is the most difficult question, that we have to answer. Trust me, it’s hard. Jokes apart, I haven’t come across a book that I have detested reading yet and I hope, I never will.

#6: Love Triangles, yes or no?

I am always up for love triangles in books. They always leads to exciting events and reactions from the characters, that gives us more pages to read and bask in our fantasy world a little longer.

#7: A book you are currently reading?

I am reading Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler at the moment, heavy read, I know.

#8: Last book you recommended to someone?

The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Arundhati Roy, a book which I collabed with another blogger, on. Link here (Part I)and here (Part II).

#9: Oldest book you’ve read? (publication date)

The Swiss Family Robinson which was published in 1812. For the heads up, I own one of the oldest editions of that book!

#10: Newest book you’ve read? (publication date)

My book, ‘AN INWARD ODYSSEY’; a collection of poetry which was published last December!

#11: Favorite author?

Don’t have one. I go through different phases of reading, wherein I try different authors and genres and whichever one I like the best, more books of that particular author/genre are added to my bookshelf .

#12: Buying books or borrowing?

Buying, it’s always, buying. I am extremely offended by the idea of borrowing/lending books, and I am not even sorry for my strong opinion.

#13: A book you dislike that everyone seems to love?

Now, that’s an interesting question.I would say, P.S I love you by Cecilia Ahern.

#14: Bookmarks or dog-ears?

My heart is torn into two, when people dog-ears pages of their books. How cruel! It’s ALWAYS bookmarks!!!!

#15: A book you can always reread?

For the record, I’ve read the entire Harry Potter series seven times, then outgrew them. So I think rereading books is a good idea only till the time you are reading your favorite portions of the novel.

#16: Can you read while listening to music?

Music is my go-to companion for every chore, every task I have to accomplish even when I am writing poetry or any other literary piece. However, this companion needs to leave the room, when I am reading. I can either concentrate on the glistening words or the heartfelt lyrics at a time.

#17: One POV or multiple POVs?

Reading both kind of works, I think I lean more towards multiple POVs. It’s always better to know each character from their own perceptive as it adds more depth to the story.

#18: Do you read a book in one sitting or over multiple days?

Knowing my amazing time management skills, it’s either the entire book or the ever growing list of chores that I have to tend to. So, sadly, I have to divide the book over the span of multiple days to play justice to my role both as a responsible human being and a book craving bookworm!

#19: Any book that changed your life?

This is my favorite question! ‘Born A Crime’ by Trevor Noah is one such book that hilariously taught me life lessons and made me realize how fortunate I am living my life, the way I want to. I suggest everyone should read this book, once in their lifetime.

#20: Who do you tag?

Anyone and everyone who wants to do this tag.

I know, it’s been a long time, since I have done book reviews. Well, now I know, why learning time management skills in school would have been a good idea…

Never mind, I would now make up for the lost time with numerous posts, I promise!

Don’t forget to follow my blog!

Cheers!