Storizen Magazine October 2023 | Dr. Shashi Tharoor

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OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN Celebrating 5 Years of Storizen!

Crafting Aphoristic Insights in his latest, “The Less You Preach, The More You Learn” with Joseph Zacharias

Exclusive Story on Page 7

Cover Story Dr Shashi Tharoor & Joseph Zacharias: Crafting Aphoristic Insights

Book Reviews Swapna Peri Kiran Adharapuram

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Saurabh Chawla

Aleph Book Company

Editors

Bloomsbury India

Pria Raiyani

Fingerprint Publishing

Saurabh Chawla

Hachette India

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HarperCollins India Pan Macmillan India

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CONTENTS Editor's Note, p6 Cover Story, p7 Dr Shashi Tharoor & Joseph Zacharias: Crafting Aphoristic Insights

hot off the press, p13 articles/short stories/poetry On the Horns of a Dilemma - Sreelekha Chatterjee, p15 Monthly Horoscope: November 2023 - Himani Goyal, p59 My Final Decision - Aparna Mukherjee, p19 Dilemma of Life - Stuti Gogia, p23 I chose to Fly Away From a Good Friendship - Ankur R Gupta, p25 Three routes to healing - Abhrekha Jain Sahlot, p29 Ramesh Karthik Nayak

A Teeny-Weeny Affair - Vidya Shankar, p54 Tomorrow Loves Me, Tomorrow Loves Me Not Sharanya, p55 Día de Muertos - Sangita Kalarickal, p53 ...Between regrets, and resurrection - Madhumathi H., p57

book excerpts/interviews, p29 Interview: Ramesh Karthik Nayak, Author - Chakmak, p33

Abhrekha Jain Sahlot

Vidya Shankar

Book Excerpt: Booming Brands Volume II, p39

Sangita Kalarickal

book reviews (by Swapna Peri, Saurabh Chawla & Kiran Adharapuram)

A Spell of Good Things by Ayòbámi Adébáyò, p43

Old God's Time by Sebastian Barry, p47 Pulse to Planet by K.Srinath Reddy, p48

Beijing Rules by Bethany Allen, p43 Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid, p44 Divorce is Normal by Shasvathi Siva, p44

Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities by Manjula Padmanabhan, p48 The Blue Bar by Damyanti Biswas, p49

In Ascension by Martin MacInnes, p45

The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng, p49

Maidens of the Cave by Lloyd Devereux Richards, p45

The Launch Party by Lauren Forry, p50

Minor Disturbances at Grand Life Apartments by Hema Sukumar, p46 Murder in the Family by Cara Hunter, p46 Northeast India by Samrat Choudhury, p47

Stuti Gogia

The Good Life by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz, p50 Unsealed Covers by Gautam Bhatia, p51 American Prometheus by Kai Bird and the late Martin Sherwin, p52

Himani Goyal

from the editor

S

calling all writers!

DO YOU WANT TO BE A PART OF STORIZEN FAMILY? You can also be a contributor. Mail us your entries at talktous@storizen.com. Your smart ideas and inputs help us create our informative issues.

even moons and seven suns, heaven and earth, myths and facts, true and false, we all live under the same sky but look at it with different eyes and that’s the beauty of everybody’s life.

“Every life is a dilemma that must be solved by the person living it.” Jo Coudert’s quote is the perfect example that emphasizes the complexities of life that everybody goes through and it’s only you who can solve the dilemma and nobody else. It also complements our theme of the month “The Dilemma of Life”.

One of the oldest forms of literary expression is aphorism and we got an opportunity to read the insightful and impeccable book “The Less You Preach, The More You Learn: Aphorisms for Our Age” by Dr. Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias. The book has 200 aphorisms on practically every aspect of modern life.

This month is the most special one for Storizen Magazine with the biggest collaboration in its history of inception, we take immense pride in featuring the man, Dr. Shashi Tharoor on the cover of Storizen Magazine. Check out the exclusive feature story “Dr. Shashi Tharoor & Joseph Zacharias: Crafting Aphoristic Insights” on page 7 inside.

We sincerely thank and are grateful to Aleph Book Company and Dr Tharoor for this wonderful opportunity!

Some choices can be hard to make and we always end up in a loop of what can go wrong, what can go right at some point in our lives. We have curated some amazing stories and poems for you to read and know that you are not the lone soul who is suffering, but almost everybody has to go through this path in their lives.

Covering 18 book reviews, including some of the titles longlisted for The Bookers Prize 2023, you can’t get enough of this issue.

We are super excited to share that Storizen Magazine has reached a milestone of 1M+ impressions organically on Facebook! Thanks to our readers, subscribers, contributors, and publishers for believing in us and making this a reality!

Thank you for being a part of our daring expedition into the world of words. We can't wait to continue this thrilling journey with you in the issues to come.

Happy Reading!

editor@storizen.com Saurabh Chawla, Editor in Chief

COVER STORY

A Storizen Exclusive Feature

By Pria Raiyani and Swapna Peri

Dr. Shashi Tharoor

COVER STORY

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hen the Storizen team inquired about the collaboration between Shashi and Joseph for their book "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn," Shashi recounted the genesis of their partnership. In 2007, he established an academy for business communication in Thiruvananthapuram, with the goal of enhancing the spoken English and comprehension skills of educated Malayalis. It was during this time that he forged a close friendship and professional bond with Joseph Zacharias, who was a prematurely retired government servant who could teach English.

This enduring relationship eventually blossomed into a collaborative effort resulting in the creation of a distinctive book of aphorisms, drawing from Joseph's profound insights and Shashi Tharoor's contemplations on life. This cover story delves into the narrative of their partnership and the invaluable wisdom they seek to impart to their readers.

Going further about discussing the book on an insightful level, this book "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" is a captivating compilation of over 200 succinct and thought-provoking aphorisms carefully curated by authors Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias. In this exploration, we delve into the essence of this exceptional book that offers timeless wisdom in a memorable and witty fashion, touching on various aspects of modern life.

Shashi also rendered the following during the conversation with the team which we feel happy and elated to share with our esteemed readers.

DRAWING WISDOM FROM GREAT MINDS Tharoor and Zacharias draw inspiration from renowned thinkers such as Seneca and Oscar Wilde, skillfully formulating pithy and witty observations that resonate deeply with readers.

Joseph's past collaboration with Tharoor adds a layer of intimacy to the aphorisms, creating a unique blend of perspectives and insights.

THE POWER OF APHORISMS Aphorisms, one of the oldest literary forms, have the exceptional ability to distill profound truths and wisdom into just a few words.

Tharoor and Zacharias harness this power to encourage contemplation, ignite introspection, and entertain readers with their astute and clever observations.

THE JOURNEY TO PUBLICATION What distinguishes "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" from other aphorism collections is its narrative about the book's journey to publication. The introduction offers readers an immersive glimpse behind the scenes, shedding light on the creation of this enlightening book.

THE WISDOM WITHIN While some quotes may seem commonplace, they are brimming with wisdom, satire, and intellect, rendering this book praiseworthy and endearing. It is a companion that merits a place on one's bedside table, inviting revisitation.

OBSERVATIONS AND PERSONAL GROWTH Observations are fundamental for personal growth and development. Aphorisms provide a unique opportunity for such reflection. Reading someone else's statements and realizing their profound truth is a truly exhilarating experience.

Let’s dive into the ocean of impeccable wisdom shared by the WIZARDOUS DUO. OCTOBER 2023

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Dr. Shashi Tharoor (Pic Source: Twitter)

COVER STORY

CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS CHAPTER ONE: THE MYSTERIES OF LIFE One of the aphorisms in this chapter is, 'Life teaches us only how to live. We have to teach ourselves how to die,' reminds us of the interconnectedness of life and death. It encourages a holistic approach to existence, acknowledging both the vitality of living and the inevitability of death.

intelligent or less skilled in the art of argumentation to maintain their political advantage. It's a strategic approach to political discourse and debate.

CHAPTER TWO: OF HUMAN NATURE In this chapter, the aphorism 'Power is exercised; attraction is evoked' highlights the distinction between two approaches to influence: exercising power through control and authority, and evoking attraction through genuine connection and appeal. It underscores the effectiveness of the latter, based on mutual respect and trust.

CHAPTER THREE: THE SECRETS OF SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS One notable aphorism in this chapter is 'Aspire to set up institutions, not to run them.' It offers insights into the political realm, advocating for the creation and strengthening of enduring and accountable institutions for good governance, democracy, and long-term stability.

CHAPTER FOUR: THE ESSENCE OF WISDOM ‘When we argue with people smarter than us we turn them into fools. Therefore, avoiding arguing with people who are dumber than you’ is one of the profound aphorisms. In summary, this aphorism advises political people or others to be cautious about engaging in debates with intellectually superior adversaries, as it may lead to their political detriment. Instead, it encourages them to choose their battles wisely, opting for debates with individuals who are less OCTOBER 2023

Dr. Shashi Tharoor (Pic Source: Twitter)

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The age-old literary tradition of the aphorism has persevered for countless centuries. These concise proclamations and insightful musings, often skillfully crafted to be memorable and cleverly phrased, serve as vessels for timeless truths, fundamental concepts, or pearls of wisdom. Eminent philosophers and writers such as Seneca, François de La Rochefoucauld, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Oscar Wilde have adeptly channeled their thoughts through this form. In "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn," coauthored by Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias, you will encounter a compilation of over 200 aphorisms spanning all aspects of modern life.

COVER STORY "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" stands as a delightful voyage into the timeless art of aphorisms, skillfully curated by the astute authors Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias.

Within the pages of this book, they have meticulously composed a compendium of over 200 aphorisms that delve deep into the intricate tapestry of human nature, society, and the human experience. This work not only upholds the tradition of celebrated aphorists but also presents a fresh and contemporary perspective on life's profound truths.

With a remarkable collection of concise and impactful insights, this book offers readers an opportunity to explore profound wisdom within a few words. The aphorisms encapsulate a diverse range of topics, allowing readers to contemplate the complexities of our world, relationships, and the human condition. Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias, through their literary craftsmanship, have contributed a valuable addition to the lineage of great aphorists, demonstrating a deep understanding of human existence in the modern age.

"The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" is a treasure trove of concise observations that prompt profound reflection. It serves as a source of enduring wisdom for those who seek enlightenment in the simplicity of words. This book invites readers to partake in a meaningful exploration of life's intricate truths and to savor the beauty of succinct, yet resonant, wisdom.

OCTOBER 2023

About Pria - Young mesmerizing freelance blogger, social enthusiast, and an economics graduate from Jharkhand University with a Master's in Child Psychology. She is hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic, an avid caffeine lover, and a maniacal animal lover too. She has been a part of numerous anthologies, articles, and write-ups for newspapers and magazines which are multi-linguistic. She has also written screenplays for YouTube series.

Contact: pria@storizen.com

Swapna Peri is a Freelance blogger, book reviewer, narrator, and copy editor.

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HOTthe OFFpress Arnold Schwarzenegger distilled seven life rules from his journey to success. He went from a bodybuilder to a movie star and a leader, all by following a clear vision, hard work, and giving back. In "BE USEFUL," he shares his toolkit for a purposeful life, emphasizing self-reliance and the ability to create your own success.

"What if happiness is not a distant dream but a reachable choice? Savi Sharma, a bestselling author, provides the answer to achieving lasting happiness in 'The Happiness Story.' With inspiring true stories and practical tips, this book invites you to take control of your happiness and embark on a journey to well-being and fulfillment."

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OCTOBER 2023

HOTthe OFFpress Amid a deadly pandemic, Inspector Mona Ramteke, reluctantly pulled into a high-profile investigation, grapples with four simultaneous media employee deaths and a web of intrigue, political conflicts, media speculation, and corporate rivalries, all while bizarre connections involving cricket and an Ayn Rand temple complicate the case, with Mona determined to solve it before more bodies surface.

A writer's quest to interview the spirit of Shah Jahan for a new book turns chaotic, with a bickering translator, unsolicited feedback, and a narrative hijack

by Aurangzeb. Their discussions span marketing for emperors, mutiny, Marxism, and conclude in a bar visit. "Conversations with Aurangzeb," by Tamil writer Charu Nivedita, translated by Nandini Krishnan, offers a biting commentary on our times.

OCTOBER 2023

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by Sreelekha Chatterjee

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n a mid-summer afternoon—bright with the raging sunrays—our dwelling had been transformed into a grey, dull, and depressive image of a construction site with constant hammering and loud noises, breaking into the silence of a peaceful neighborhood.

Listlessly, I moved about the house, plagued by my thoughts of fear and discomfort, when I noticed my husband, Aakash, watching the news on TV. The channels were showing the devastating scene of a twin tower being demolished on the grounds of serious violations of building norms. The journalists kept referring to the Biblical account of David and Goliath which reminded us of the courage that is restored when our faith is placed entirely in God. It was a downfall of a mighty builder, resembling the devil Goliath, who had continued with the illegal construction and was defeated by some commoners, like David, the ordinary shepherd boy and devotee of God, who didn’t cower under the threats of the mighty giant.

The hideous faces of the internal fights that went on in my mind dissolved momentarily, allowing me to forget the menacing presence of the ongoing construction work in our building.

I recalled the solemn, peaceful hour of an early morning, almost three months ago, when the house had suddenly undergone a strange alteration, traumatizing the serenity of the early glow, breaking into the reveries of that blissful morning. Startled at a thundering noise of something falling outside, on the main road, I headed toward the balcony. On reaching there, I found the front gate wide open and a large truck unloading, what seemed to be, tons of bricks.

“Is there any construction work going on in our building?”

Aakash shook his head and looked at me with a confused, impossible-to-happen look, while we sat in utter silence.

OCTOBER 2023

We had recently moved to that newly constructed ground-floor flat, in the four-storeyed building.

Agitated, I kept pacing up and down the balcony as another truck full of sand and cement emerged from nowhere, creating a cloud of black dust on dropping the contents on the road, blocking our entrance. A swarm of people arrived almost simultaneously and started picking up the building material in large bags.

These were accompanied by the earsplitting sound of pillars being hammered on the roof of our house, as I learnt from enquiring the laborers.

As we were about to have our breakfast, the doorbell rang. On opening the door, I found a hazy veil of grey dust—as if darkness had descended. A series of men had positioned themselves on the stairs and were passing on the building material in sacks.

Amidst the blinding black cloud, appeared Shekhar, probably in early twenties and also, the inhabitant of the first floor of the building.

“Rupa aunty, did you hear the noise?” He asked briefly, rattled.

I nodded my head in affirmation.

“The third-floor people are raising an illegal floor on the roof.” He said, adjusting his position accordingly as the laborers went past him.

“What can we do about it?” Being in our early fifties, Aakash and I wished to avoid any confrontation.

“We can call the municipal corporation or the police if they don’t stop the construction.”Before leaving, he took out his phone and sent a message to Vishal, the middle-aged occupant of the third floor.

Consequently, the construction work stalled and the workers went away.

Aakash, being a shy guy, seldom interacted with the neighbors. So, I had to attend the meeting that was scheduled on the following day.

We all gathered in the parking area, except the occupants of the second floor, passive onlookers of STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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the event. Among a group of maybe 20 people, I could recognize Shekhar and Vishal, with their wives. Gradually, as the meeting proceeded, I learnt that the large group of people were Vishal’s relatives—his aunt, uncle, mother-in-law, father-inlaw, and so on—along with the contractor of the construction work.

For a long time, they tried to convince us, insisting that similar types of structures have been built on each of the roof-top terraces in the adjacent houses. The meeting was nothing but a farce where Vishal’s relatives created a ruckus by shouting at the top of their voices and mouthing what was hardly comprehensible, leaving us utterly stupefied, feeling constrained to act appropriately amid such resistance.

Following that, several times, Shekhar and I tried our level best to persuade Vishal to discontinue building something that was not in accordance with the law. But he wouldn’t listen. After a few days’ time, he resumed the construction work in full force.

Occupying the staircase most of the time, the workers transferred the building material from one floor to another, creating a lot of inconveniences for us to move in and out of the house. Our new building lost its glamour, as the vibrant yellow paint faded and it got shrouded in dust and dirt. Black impressions of hands showed up on the walls as the laborers and masons moved up and down the stairs. We could barely breathe in peace, as the air got polluted with dust particles in it, wrapping us in a sulky gloom.

So long we were afraid that a complaint against our neighbor, who was resourceful having enough manpower, would invite his vengeance and also, nobody would pay any heed to our concern.

Anonymous complaints were mostly unwelcomed.

Shekhar became fearful and anxious on receiving threatening remarks from Vishal.

“My family is being targeted,”he kept on saying every now and then, without divulging much details of his torment, isolating himself solitarily.

Smitten with dilemma, my thoughts wandered around the avenues of the consequences that a complaint to the authority would bring. Our 17

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objection would invite the wrath of Vishal that would rise and spread like wildfire, invading the peaceful territories of our lives. But a silent acceptance would perhaps damage the foundation of the house, shaken the pillars that might not be strong enough to bear the stress of building another unapproved floor. A mute acquiescence on my part would encourage the construction work that would continue in full swing, leaving our house tattered and in bad shape. At times in the battle between right and wrong, fear seeped into the cracks of our concrete resolute much like water that trickled down through the fissures of the earth, rendering it soft, saturated, disintegrating its resolve to remain intact, undisturbed.

I recollected the story that with the faith that one would be able to fight the schemes of the devil, the miniature shepherd boy, David, hurled stones at Goliath that hit him in the forehead, and the giant fell onto the ground. Thus, the Lord helped David defeat Goliath without any weapon.

Armored with the belief that one should take up the shield of faith, follow the path of righteousness, and undertake enormous challenges, I picked up my mobile and dialed a number. I waited with bated breath till the phone call was received—“Hello, police station!”

OCTOBER 2023

Sreelekha Chatterjee’s short stories have been published in various national, and international magazines and journals like Indian Periodical, Femina, Indian Short Fiction, eFiction India, The Criterion, The Literary Voyage, World of Words, Writer’s Ezine, and Estuary, and have been included in numerous print and online anthologies such as Chicken Soup for the Indian Soul series (Westland Ltd, India), Wisdom of Our Mothers (Familia Books, USA), and several others. She lives in New Delhi, India.

You can connect with her on Facebook at facebook.com/sreelekha.chatterjee.1/, Twitter -@sreelekha001, @sreelekha2023.

and

Instagram

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BY APARNA MUKHERJEE

S

ometimes, we cannot decide some things in life. Life throws curveballs at us and we are left with confusion. It may have happened to you that life has offered two things and you cannot understand which one to choose and which one to leave.

Because both things are equally important to you. Both things have the same value for you. Such a thing happened in my life too. What was that?

my office. On hearing this good news, my parents are elated. Days roll by and everything goes smoothly. I reach the office on time, submit my daily assignments, and head back home. I spend time with my parents at home. After dinner, I take them for a short night walk. Then, we go to bed after coming home from a night walk. Every minute I spend with my parents is the best moment for me.

It has been a few days since I joined a multinational company in Mumbai. I always loved the City Of Dreams which has indeed fulfilled my dreams of getting my dream job in Mumbai. I am quite content with my job. The office environment and the ambiance are indeed friendly. I have started liking my job in the new office among new faces.

My happiness seems to be for a short while. One day, my boss called me into her cabin to give me some good news. I am elated to think that I may be promoted. I have been one of the most diligent and efficient employees in my office. I enter the cabin with excitement. When I heard the good news, I did not understand how to react. Should I take it as good news or bad news? I was in a dilemma. Yes! I had been in a dilemma when I was offered to go to the USA in a multinational company for many years. I was told that I had to do a job in the USA till I retired.

Fortunately, my colleagues are friendly and they help me a lot when I am stuck at work. After doing my job, I come back home with a fresh look. The reason for the freshness on my face after working for hours in the office is that I love my profession. When I work in my cubicle, I get so engrossed in work that I forget the world around me. My work does not make me feel tired. This is the reason why tiredness is never seen on my face after I head back home.

Every day, I come back home with a smiling face. Seeing my parents at home doubles my happiness. My parents are my life and I live for them. I have my breakfast with my parents. Owing to my work in the office, I feel upset that I cannot join them for lunch. But, I make sure that I join them for dinner. On weekends, I cook for them and go shopping with them. Most of the shipping I do for my parents.

Seeing their happy faces makes me happy.

The best thing that happened in my life is that I became a permanent employee in OCTOBER 2023

This news was unable to bring a smile to my face.

I want to grab this golden opportunity, but something stops me. How can I leave my old parents in India all by themselves? For some time, many things have revolved around my mind. I could not understand whether I should feel happy or upset. Taking this job offer means leaving my parents forever in India. Taking this job offer means earning a huge salary and living a life of luxury for the entire life. Taking this offer means not being with my parents. Taking this offer means enjoying every bit of my life but without my parents.

In this dilemma, I have to make a final decision. I walked out of the cabin and sat on my chair. I opened my laptop screen and saw my parent's photo which is the wallpaper of my laptop. Without thinking much, I walked straight away to my boss's cabin and said to her, "I am sorry to inform you, Madam, I cannot take this offer. My parents are more important than this job offer or the handsome salary which is waiting on my way. My parents are old and they need me as much as I need them." My boss understood what I meant to say. She smiled and told me to resume my work.

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Till date, I have not told my parents about my dilemma. On hearing my words, they might have said I should have taken the job. I will earn less salary as compared to the salary I would have got in the foreign land. But, I would not have got my parents there. My parents are more important than my luxurious life and the huge salary. I will work harder and earn more money but I want my parents in my success moments. I want my parents to be with me wherever I stay.

The dilemma is no more a dilemma now. The next day, I stepped into my office with exhilaration.

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In a few words, Aparna defines a woman who beholds high aspirations and firmly believes in expanding her horizon. She holds a Master's degree in English Literature from Mumbai University. By profession, she is an Executive Content Creator. Her poems got published on the Indian Literature website named Facestory.

Currently, her stories and poems get published in various anthologies published by the eminent Reflection Magazine and in the renowned digital magazine, Storizen.

She has received many certificates in the field of writing. She is bestowed with Indian Global Award 2022 and has been felicited with a medal in the Tagore Literature Festival 2022 by Literoma. Her poem got published in the Romance And Compendium book at the Tagore Literature Festival. In 2022, she is again bestowed with the Women Achiever Award by Literoma. In 2023, she is again conferred with the prestigious award, Tagore Literature Award 2023, where she is bestowed with a trophy and a certificate.

Her world revolves around creativity and writing. She wishes to make her mark in the literary world, hoping to leave an indelible imprint on the readers' minds.

OCTOBER 2023

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DILEMMA

OF LIFE

by Stuti Gogia

Life at 3 is all about getting your favorite chocolate or ice cream from your parents.

Life at 6 is all about completing your homework and going out to play with your friends.

Life at 9 is all about seeing your favorite cartoon show on TV leaving everything else behind.

Life at 12 is about looking at that boy or girl who you like and thinking whether they like you back or not.

Life is 15 is about scoring best results in your exams so that you can join college of your dreams.

Life at 18 is about chasing your dreams to being successful and enjoy your college romance.

Life at 21 is about giving a fresh start either pursuing an other degree or working for a job you alwasy wanted.

Life at 24 is about going to dates with love of your life and looking forward for a future together.

Life at 27 is about getting married and roam the world with the one and enjoy many adventure rides.

Life at 30 is having your first baby and seeing them grow day by day , month by month.

Life at 33 is about extending your family to add another baby or may be a dog.

Life at 35 is seeing how about everything changed and how quickly the time passed in last few years.

Stuti is a Software Engineer by profession and a writer by nature. She realized her love for writing while blogging for her own page. Her work has also been appreciated by Quora users. She is God's true evangelist and her work speaks volumes about it

Oh BTW I am 38 so lets stop this right here , But Why , because this was the timeline I chalked for myself and nothing went as per Blueprint.

We all are served with some norms and some belief systems but do not always things go as we expect my friend is what LIFE is all about.

Life is not about setting milestones as per age , its about what moments made you feel alive , what you learnt in the process of growing up and how much you contributed to the happiness of people around . So LIVE Now and Stay ALIVE.

I believe we are here on the planet Earth to live, grow up and do what we can to make this world a better place for all people to enjoy freedom. — Rosa Parks

OCTOBER 2023

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BY ANKUR R. GUPTA

Life is a series of choices with a series of consequences. But when choices get tagged with the shadows of the past, they become a dilemma.

C

ompanionship and Happiness are the bestchosen words to describe what a good friendship brings into our lives, which you want to cherish forever. Now, imagine an unexpected twist where you find yourself standing at a Crossroads with a choice to continue or let go of a good friendship you have cherished for a long. Sounds awful!!

I am sure most of you must have started, having thought of "the devil in play”, but hold on to such thoughts until you get the whole perspective.

THE CHOICE It was a friendship that blossomed in my junior high school days. We were a gang of three, known as inseparable, who did everything together sans any scope for individual perspective.

As time flew by, holding each other hands, we embarked on an unknown territory of selfdiscovery by joining the same college.

However, unlike school, college life is filled with endless possibilities and the freedom to explore who you truly are. The multitude of fascinating choices began to cross our paths, and we walked on that journey wearing a lens probing our interests as individuals and not as a gang.

In this zeal of discovering, some of the hidden traits began to surface, which I never thought before were part of me. To explore them further, I started to hang out with another set of people who had an appreciable brush on my overall persona.

started entering into a different frame that my buddies found hard to fit into. They were not ready to make room for more friends, and a new transformation into me as an extrovert wished more. My friends disagreed with my choices, which I was unwilling to compromise. Soon, the stage came where I was standing at a crossroads of a dilemma to choose between years of companionship or a journey to explore different dimensions of myself.

With a heavy heart, I made a tough choice. We drifted away with our set of choices. Heartbroken, I buried years of friendship deep in my soul to be forgotten in the rhythm of life. Perhaps this is what I assumed, unaware of its silent volcanic effect.

Now, when I retrospect this past course of events, I feel that we were too naïve to understand that the choices we make in life should not bear shades of stark black and white but a shade of Grey. Embracing greys allows us a more realistic and adaptable perspective, which I understood much later. Perhaps if I had understood this basic concept of balancing things earlier, I could have prevented many things that later jeopardized my future friendships.

THE CONSEQUENCES Adherence to my decision indeed has some silver line. It transformed me from a shy lass into a confident, level-headed one with an affable personality, which helped me in a successful career. But as the clock kept clicking, I was baffled by a new thought process that began to reshape my mind.

Though swarmed around by people who trusted me as their friend, I found it hard to reciprocate with similar intensity and was hesitant to make them my confidants. I felt, like surrounded by colorful flowers, reverberating the symphony of fragrance, but standing alone with no one to share. The reason for this self-maroon act puzzled me, and I tried to assemble it in the correct frame but failed.

Henceforward, at this junction, our (my and friends') interests began to diverge, and I OCTOBER 2023

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THE FEAR Years passed by, proceeding forward in life and working on my reluctance, I managed to have a few close friends with compassionate hearts who instantly bonded with me. I, too, responded well.

But a part of me still resisted getting connected with them 100%. Perhaps, by this time, I had realized that this boundary was due to a subconscious fear of not getting too close to anyone in a friendship again.

Things began to mystify me further as the fear of being left alone again started to brew another unflavoured decoction. This fear drove me to go the extra mile to ensure my friends did not feel offended due to my actions.

The outcome of this was, that I started to develop a habit of apologizing at the drop of a hat with my friends. That was in stark contrast to my unapologetic personality built over strong rationality. Going against my core personality backfired, as with time, my friends' expectations of me began to get overwhelming. A blunder was made again.

CLOSURE TO LONGEST BATTLE WITH SELF

BY COMING OUT OF THE SHADOWS OF THE PAST Over time, I started to feel the brunt of my choices of going out of the way to please in friendship. This process of balancing with friends had created an imbalance within me. Unaware of my turmoil, my friends kept pulling their strings of expectations that began to hurt me. When I tried to voice out, it led to misunderstandings leading to cracks and then to crevices. Another inevitable followed, inundating years of friendship.

myself for the broken friendships, and treating myself as a Gunny Bag.I discern that life brings a natural course of transition for everyone. A transformation where we all evolve and change over time, and with that, our priorities and interests are bound to shift too. At this point, what’s relevant for me to accept is that it is okay to outgrow, even in friendships.

But it does not mean that the friendship wasn't valuable or meaningful. It simply means that with the flow of time, we become two different personalities and drift to diverged courses. What shall remain with us is the remanence of sweet memories built together to be cherished lifelong.

I acknowledged that the choices made in the transition phases were not dilemmas. But, by allowing them to remain tagged in the Shadows of the past, they become one and mess up our present, as happened with me.

Any situation in life that occurs in different timelines needs to be dealt with a fresh perspective. Also, one should accept that many things will go out of sync to make a place for new ones to progress, and friendship will be one of them.

HEALING So, this time, I gave myself enough time to feel the sadness, anger, and agony of my last faded friendship and slowly let it go to uncage me from its shadows.

I learned to forgive for being unfair to myself and remember the happiness friendships brought into my life, but forget and forgive where it hurt.

Acceptance In the following years, with wiser me, I finally was able to connect all the dots of a puzzle that had troubled me for years. It was a choice made two decades ago for choosing myself over friends.

This choice under the shadows of the past had changed into a pang of scorching guilt. A guilt that I have been fanning continuously, blaming myself for failures in friendships.

Looking back on my past made me admit, how wrong I was for being unjustly unfair, blaming 27

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All this helped me to heal, as I no longer felt guilty, self-pity, and hurt. My longest-drawn battle with the self was coming to a final closure.

With this new transition, I have wholeheartedly opened doors for new friendships to blossom in my life again, though I know it may continue to remain transient as life is not constant. However, irrespective of that, I will always cherish the good memories created with all my friends and their valuable contributions to my life.

Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end. Accept the end to embrace the new.

Ankur R Gupta - I'm a blogger, an author, and a certified content creator. My writings revolve around the simple motto “Write to bring Smile”. I believe in understanding behavioral aspects of human life linked with their different phases and then ink my words about them in a simplified way to spin out positivity and purpose associated with them.

A hardcore history enthusiast and traveler. I love to read & explore our ancient cultures and civilizations.

My reading page is inkmyword -the reader community. @writingstomakeyousmile

OCTOBER 2023

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by Abhrekha Jain Sahlot

I can do this… I can start over.

I can save my own life and I’m never going to be alone as long as I have stars to wish on and people to still love.

- Jennifer Elisabeth

A

ll of us go through times when our heart is in pain. We might suffer heartbreak, death, failure, disappointment, or any other trial. In those times, how do we care for ourselves?

Do we shut off or make the brave choice of healing? To cradle our hearts or lock it in a faroff room?

We talk about the constant trauma that we face on a physical, mental, and spiritual level, but not often enough do we make time to seek out healing and peace. I think this is largely because we never have an opportunity to heal.

We are constantly having to function in “survival mode” because of the constant obstacles we face in society. If you are someone like me, when you do seek out healing, it is to heal others and not yourself. It is important to realize that before we can truly heal others, we ourselves must undergo a critical examination of self to understand how trauma in our lives has affected us. We must find the source of that trauma and undergo a long, constant, and intentional process of healing.

I found that I constantly turned my pain into my strength, but one day, I realized an important lesson. In the act of me turning my pain into strength, I forgot to do the most important thing —heal. I forgot to process the trauma I was feeling and truly heal from it. I jumped right into fighting injustice without healing my mind, soul, and body first. In doing this, I suffered. Over time, my mind, body, and spirit were weakened, and eventually this would lead to massive burnout. I believe that the reason I did not take the time to heal is because like other

OCTOBER 2023

ordinary people, trauma and controversy are things we face constantly.

Part of me normalized this trauma without even thinking about the effects that it had on my body, mind, and spirit. It took some time, but eventually, I took it upon myself (summarized in below points) to do the deep introspective work required to heal.

ROUTE #1: YOU MUST LET THE PAIN VISIT Be accepting of yourself. If you are feeling guilty or remorseful about having a relationship with someone in the workplace, at school or with your roommate, you will need to forgive yourself. It doesn't mean that you forgive and “forget” what you did, and then do it again. Forgive with the intent of learning from your mistakes and stopping any attempts to self-sabotage yourself in the future. The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.

ROUTE #2:YOU MUST ALLOW IT TO TEACH YOU Relying on yourself will help you cope with the dissolution of a relationship. You know what makes you happy, so participate in activities that increase positive feelings. For me, It was writing, pursuing higher studies, picking up my hobbies again.

Practice self-care, listen to music, prayers, exercise, meditate, rest, journal your feelings, practice mindfulness, gratitude and ensure you limit your time to grieve, go out, make new friends, digital detox, etc.

You've been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.

ROUTE #3: YOU MUST NOT ALLOW IT TO OVERSTAY Stand up for yourself and the life you want. When you reach a level of healing after a bad experience, other people perceive a positive change. You sent up a flare to signal that you are ready for good things to happen.

People might say things like, “Did you do STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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something different? You look great.” Your response can be,“Thank you. Yes, I decided to be happy, and it is working for me.”

Allow yourself to thrive and move further, don’t be stuck while the whole world around you are moving fast. Life becomes easier when you learn to accept an apology you never got.It is important for people to know that no matter what lies in their past, they can overcome the dark side and press on to a brighter world.

As we continually go through this process of healing, our bodies become lighter, our minds sharper, and our spirits lifted. When we undergo healing, we are more equipped to help others heal since we are going through the process. We can speak from places of love and light more fully instead of just places of trauma and despair.

Most people are taught how to acquire things, but very few people are taught how to lose something.

Whether the loss is a relationship, a loved one, a job, a physical ability, or trust in someone, the damage created must be understood and managed.

Lowering expectations can be a useful strategy in various aspects of life to reduce stress, disappointment, and pressure. Remember that lowering expectations doesn't mean settling for less or giving up on your dreams. It's about finding a balance between setting achievable goals and maintaining your mental well-being. By doing so, you can reduce stress and enjoy a more fulfilling life.

Few things to remember in hard times: Never be ashamed of your struggles.

Every successful person has faced hard times.

You are stronger than you think.

One of the hardest battles in life is between hanging on and letting go.

Meet Abhrekha Jain Sahlot, the name is a derivative of her parent’s name (Abhay & Rekha). She is full of life, energy, and enthusiasm. A gold medalist computer engineer she has been working with top MNCs for over 13 years now.

Blessed with an incredibly supportive family, their Husband Tushar Sahlot stands behind her as the strongest pillar of strength, shouldering equal responsibilities at home. A doting mother of 2 boys ( Nabhanyu & Daksh Sahlot), life has given her various opportunities to explore and she seems to have taken the best of everything. From singing, and painting to acting, swimming, and basketball, she has been into various co-curricular activities from artistic ones to sports ones.

However, currently, she enjoys sharing her blessings with fellow women by addressing women and parenting forums and helping women in her capacity, and spreading the message & about the importance of being happy & content

Forgetting was not the same as healing

And so I wait. I wait for time to heal the pain and raise me to my feet once again so that I can start a new path, my own path, the one that will make me whole again. ― Jack Canfield

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Pic: Dr Manjiri Prabhu

Explore the intriguing tale of "The Rampur Raza Mystery," where a library takes center stage in a thrilling narrative. Discover the disappearance of rare manuscripts like the Ramayana and the Quran, and follow Detective Sassy as she unravels the heist.

Manjiri Prabhu, an accomplished author, filmmaker, and festival director, weaves this captivating story that delves into the cultural tapestry of Rampur Raza Library and its surroundings.

Interview Ramesh Karthik Nayak, Author - Chakmak

How have the values, traditions, and oral histories of your Banjara(tribal) community influenced and shaped your poetry and prose, and could you share specific experiences or stories from your community that have significantly impacted your writing?

I cannot be sure that my background influenced my writing at my early times while I was urging to write or dreaming to become a poet/writer. But later on The language, songs, beliefs, festival and colorful attire deeply influenced me and drew a fence around me, to record its contemporary history. And meanwhile, I was searching about my tribe in Telugu literature. But I did not find any. There are a few stories written by outsiders. I have come across a few nonfiction books by Insiders Dr. Dhananjay Nayak, Bhangya Bhukya, and Prof Surya Dhananjay. Not a single fiction book was found.

Then I found a purpose that I should write something that I know. And this void should be filled by me. And it's in 2016 I think Mahasweta Devi passed away. At that time I had decided to write about myself and my people.

Can you give our readers some insights about your books published till now? Few lines about each book.

Telugu Books Balder Bandi: Ox-cart (2018) Poetry collection.

Dhaavlo: The song of Lament(2021) Short story collection.

Kesula: Flames of Forest (2022) Compilation of Banjara short stories. Compiled along with Prof Surya Dhananjay.

English CHAKMAK: Flintstones(2023) Poetry Collection. Published by Red River Press.

For whom do you write, and what impact do you envision your work having, both within your tribal community and for readers from diverse cultural backgrounds?

I write everything, every line about my people.

Rather it might be an impact, but the OCTOBER 2023

truth is that there are many rumors spread across the country about our people. It might be about our habitation, about our attire, about the reservation that we have for our education or jobs, etc. When it comes to the literature that I'm trying to create will definitely show the true life of my people, who are the guest characters in movies or books, that too as a thief, murderer etc and women are meant to have item songs or adulterous characters. So when we tell something about a community in literature, the names, conversation, the beliefs, each and everything will be dragging us into a broad canvas of cultural backgrounds. The impact will be based on the reader's mood and how much percent of respect he/ she has towards the community.

What role does your writing play in preserving and promoting your Banjara (tribal) culture and languages?

For now, we cannot immediately decide the role of our writing because, still there are some infinite nomadic communities who don't even know what they are. In this 21st century, we the people started understanding our color, scriptless language, oral traditions, attire, and customs by the unseen discrimination that the world shows in the form of mercy. That mercy when it passes to a second person in the form of a word or phrase is turning into anger and self-proclamation of ownself towards a certain downtrodden community creating a new Postmodern discrimination.

What notable challenges have you faced, and what are some of your most significant achievements or moments in your writing journey?

Firstly I was dubious that no one was going to read my words. And as I published my poetry collection with many helping hands. Immediately the response from readers made me believe in my own writing.

And my achievements are: Awarded Tribal Young Achiever Award for contribution to tribal Literature(Telugu), Telangana State Tribal Welfare Department, 9 August 2021.

One of my poems is taught as part of the Telugu literature curriculum at SR&BGNR GOVT DEGREE COLLEGE, TELANGANA STATE. STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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Pic: Books by Ramesh Karthik Nayak

k aya N ik rth auzo a K M esh odar m a am :R Pic with D

Pic: Ram e with sh Kar th Aru ndh ik Nay ati R ak oy

Pic(L-R): Mrs. Mauzo, KR.Meera, Ramesh Karthik Nayak, Damodar Mauzo, K.Satchidanandan, Kannan Sundaram

Blader Bandi, Collection of poems taught as part of the MA- Telugu literature curriculum(2nd Year) at ANDHRA UNIVERSITY, Visakhapatnam.

Balder Bandi, poetry collection - 2018 (Twice shortlisted for Kendra Sahitya Academy Yuva Puraskar - 2021 and 2023.)

Dhaavlo, short story collection - 2021 (Twice shortlisted Kendra Sahitya Academy Yuva Puraskar - 2022 and 2023.)

Chilakamarthi Lakshmi Narasimha puraskar 2018, Hyderabad.

Telangana State Literary Award, 2018 Bodhan.

already had been interpreted. We are interpreting something again, squeezing it from our daily life, that's the reason it seems a little unfamiliar to our metropolitan life. So outsiders or insiders need to be in the mood to read or have a little sympathy about books. I must insist people read my book because it was written by me. It might be funny to you when you listen to my words.

How do you envision the future of tribal literature and languages in a globalized world?

I'm hoping to have indigenous literature in each and every language. Not for the sake that there is no recorded history or other things. But it is important to know something unique and strange to believe, how can a person survive without water, food, or science medicine? How the things are stored for decades together without any pesticides. Beliefs and skills etc.

Aboriginal peoples are the different and unique groups we have.

Nava svaranjali puraskar, 2019- Muvva Rangaiah Foundation. Khammam.

Banjara Youth Icon Award, 2021- Warangal.

Raavi Sasthri Kadha Puraskaram, July 2023Udayini, Visakhapatnam.

Can you list your favorite authors, writers, and poets across the languages and why you like them?

9. Presently what are you doing and on what topic you are working on?

Presently I'm a lecturer at a Junior College, where I teach English and also conduct interviews with Telugu Writers on the Doordarshan(Yadagiri) channel. Presently I'm editing a Compilation of Telangana Banjara short stories along with Prof Surya Dhananjay, Dr. Dhananjay Nayak, and Mantri Srinivas.

Telugu: Raavi Sasthri. His writing shows the extremity of life.

Punjabi : Amrita pritam: Her poems teach us about love and pain.

Spanish: Gabriel Garcia Marquez: His characters drag us into a utopia, where we search for ourselves. And the confusion his plot erupts in us is something. That helps us develop our style.

Your latest English poetry book, Chakmak, got positive and inspiring reviews. From an outsider's point of view, what do you say about the book? Why should people read it?

There are millions of stories, poems, and essays. Definitely, something somewhere OCTOBER 2023

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Pic: Ramesh Karthik Nayak with Javed Akhtar

Pic: Ramesh Karthik Nayak with Jerry Pinto

Pic: Ramesh Karthik Nayak with Perumal Murugan

Pic: Ramesh Karthik Nayak with P.Sainath

Pic: Ramesh Karthik Nayak with Meena Kandasamy Pic: Journalist M. Rahul, Writer Purnima Tammireddy, Poet Mani Rao and Ramesh at HLF

Pic: Syam Sudhakar, Thamizhachi Thangapandian(T. Sumathy) A. N. Aarathi and Ramesh Karthik Nayak at Bengaluru Poetry Festival

Pic: Poets and Authors at Aakhar Dakshin, A Festival of South Indian Languages

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BOOK EXCERPT

USE CREATIVE WAYS TO CONNECT WITH CONSUMERS Book Excerpt taken from 'Booming Brands Volume 2'

by Harsh Pamnani

BOOK EXCERPT

Insurance as an e-commerce business is very different from other e-commerce businesses like travel and retail. Unlike travel and retail, insurance is an information-heavy business, and unfortunately, people get bored while reading about it in detail. Also, while discounts are used liberally by online retail and travel businesses to attract users, this approach doesn’t work in the insurance industry. Furthermore, traveling and shopping are mainly associated with fun, whereas buying insurance is associated with situations we would rather not think about.

Given the unattractiveness of the industry for consumers, it was not easy for PolicyBazaar to emotionally connect with its target audience.

Moreover, since insurance remains a ‘push ’ category dominated by agents and other distributors, the team realized that this was a battle of perceptions. The team used an intelligent mix of marketing and PR campaigns by using content that resonated with issues that the consumers faced. The uniqueness of this content was that it presented tedious and complicated topics in humorous and entertaining ways.

For instance, PolicyBazaar wanted to educate people about the need to compare insurance products before buying. The team wanted to encourage people to not only compare the premium but also understand what benefits each plan offered. So, they launched a systematic campaign to cement the message that without comparing policies, one could be taken for a ride, which would ruin their savings. The company roped in comedian and TV personality Kapil Sharma as its brand ambassador. It launched a TV commercial, in which Kapil Sharma featured in different avatars and said ‘Ab India Nahi Banega Ullu’. Traditional channels such as TV, radio, and outdoor advertising, which have the highest reach in the country, were used for this campaign. Kapil Sharma connected well with the audience and created awareness around

OCTOBER 2023

PolicyBazaar’s USP of giving customers the power to compare policies.

With the larger goal of building social security for households in India, PolicyBazaar launched a series of informative advertisements with a tagline, ‘Taalo nahi, PolicyBazaar.com sele daalo’. For this campaign series, the brand partnered with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who appeared as Yamraj and educated people about the complications their families could face in the absence of a primary earner. For instance, one of the TV commercials starts in a hospital room where a dead man is lying on the bed, and Akshay Kumar dressed as Yamraj pays the dead man a visit to take him on his final pilgrimage.

The patient shares with Kumar his predicament of having to leave his family in distress on account of unpaid EMIs, bills, and other responsibilities such as his children’s education and wedding expenses. At this juncture, Kumar prods him for not thinking about his family when he had the time to do so and reminds the audience that a term plan of ₹1 crore costs only ₹680 per month (for a 30-year-old non-smoker as of 14 November 2019). The brand has launched many similar advertisements with Akshay Kumar.

Medical inflation in India is increasing at an alarming rate. Unfortunately, the health insurance penetration in India is abysmally low, and roughly around 70 percent of medical expenses are borne out of pocket by most Indians. To make customers realize the advantages of health insurance to safeguard against any unforeseen medical events, PolicyBazaar launched a health insurance campaign with actor Pankaj Tripathi. In the advertisement, Tripathi acts as a contractor trying to bribe an officer who has a sick husband.

But the officer refuses the bribe and informs him that she does not need any money since she has a good health insurance policy that she got fromPolicyBazaar.com. This advertisement reinforces its message at the end ‘Majboori nahi,

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BOOK EXCERPT

health insurance chuniye’. On similar lines, PolicyBazaar has launched many humorous and informative advertisements that have created awareness about the benefits of getting a good insurance policy.

Indian diaspora, which was already aware of the brand and helped with word-of-mouth publicity amongst their non-Indian peers.

PolicyBazaar is a ‘digital first’ brand. It extensively uses digital media to interact with consumers across various buying stages, which are broadly divided into awareness, consideration, and improved customer experience. Display ads, online PR, mobile app and active presence on social media can help any business increase brand awareness in the digital space. Additionally, SEM, SEO, website reviews, blogs, and reliable content take centre stage to convert brand awareness into lead generation. From a customer experience perspective, the brand reaches out to its target audience across social media platforms andattempts to solve their queries to ensure a seamless experience. At this stage, a lot of effort and resources are directed toward establishing and maintaining positive customer sentiment.

The fact that social media allows a brand to have a two-way dialogue with its audience makes it different from other marketing mediums.

PolicyBazaar tries to leverage this unique advantage by building a community of active followers who not only engage with the brand online but also help the brand through their wordof-mouth advocacy.

Using active marketing communication, product customization and a customer-centric approach, PolicyBazaar has been able to convince customers and partners to see insurance as a shield rather than something to be bought in order to save on tax. Inspiringly, the customer repeat rate for PolicyBazaar is 95 percent against the industry average of 65 percent.

Furthermore, as a brand, PolicyBazaar has gained a lot of traction so much so that the company experienced faster growth when it expanded to the UAE. The UAE has a huge

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STORIZEN REVIEW

Set in the 2000s, "A Spell of Good Things" is timely, exploring classism, an ever-relevant subject. This happens in Nigeria's failing political system, where it only takes a series of small, isolated incidents to escalate and alter the trajectory of affairs. Adébáyò summarises the jarring disparity in class divide, the fickle nature of the middle class, and the ricocheting effects of social inequality. The story is set in Ilesha, Osun State, where Eniola Oni and Wuraola Makinde's lives are juxtaposed, highlighting the stark reality of social inequality. This novel's timing, coinciding with an election, beautifully interweaves themes of political thuggery, which was prevalent during this period. This story delves into various themes: poverty, abuse, leadership failures, political thuggery, love, and sisterhood. The author, Adebayo, employs the first-person perspective, allowing the characters to share their unique stories. Eniola Oni, a 13-year-old, witnesses his family's descent into poverty after his father loses his job, while Wuraola, a 28-year-old medical doctor, grapples with an abusive fiancé. A prominent theme throughout the novel is the solidarity among women. Adebayo portrays women either supporting each other or the people in their lives. The love and support between sisters are heartwarming, exemplified by Yeye and her elder sister, Aunty Biola, who is her pillar throughout their lives. Their relationship reflects the profound bond between siblings, which is selfless and profound. Society's expectations and the lack of support networks become evident through characters like Eniola's mother, Abosede, who resorts to desperate measures due to a lack of familial assistance.

Overall, Adebayo's exploration of sisterhood is a compelling catalyst for women to forge meaningful relationships, dispelling the notion that women are each other's adversaries. The novel beautifully encapsulates the idea that women genuinely comprehend the challenges women face, offering a poignant message of unity and mutual support.

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Bethany Allen's book, "Beijing Rules – China's Quest for Global Influence," serves as a riveting exposé of China's relentless pursuit of global dominance over the past two decades and its astute cooptation of capitalism, a tool traditionally championed by Western leaders in the promotion of liberal . democracy. As a renowned China reporter for Axios, Allen unveils how the Chinese Communist Party has successfully leveraged economic coercion to make companies and governments worldwide accept its terms and conditions, underscoring the gravity of the issue, as it directly impacted people's health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Beijing Rules" offers a comprehensive overview of China's meddling in internal affairs, encompassing spying, censorship, deception, and repression. The book sheds light on China's increasing global influence and the implications this carries. It's a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend China's rise and why it holds significance on a worldwide scale.

Allen's in-depth investigative reporting serves as a clarion call to preserve the freedoms we often take for granted, highlighting the need for action. Bethany Allen's work has been highly praised, particularly for her insight into China's transition from economic to hard power. Her meticulous examination of the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to expand its influence across the globe serves as a compelling narrative, tackling the regime's intent and tactics in a rapidly changing world. "Beijing Rules" is a page-turner that chronicles the authoritarian regime's dedication to controlling societies, coercing nations, rewriting history, and shaping global narratives, making it a crucial read for anyone seeking to understand the evolving landscape of international relations.

"Beijing Rules" by Allen explores China's tactics to exploit Western vulnerabilities, such as linking market access to political compliance, deploying punitive tariffs, conducting disinformation campaigns, using private firms for global surveillance, and using vaccines as geopolitical bargaining chips.

OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN REVIEW

In "Carrie Soto Is Back," Taylor Jenkins Reid introduces readers to the compelling world of fictional tennis superstar Carrie Soto, adding another gem to her celebrated "Taylor Jenkins Reid Universe."

Taylor Jenkins Reid's literary success began with her 2017 novel "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo," which introduced the life of Evelyn Hugo, a character resembling Marilyn Monroe. Reid's subsequent works, "Daisy Jones and the Six," explored the relationship between a singer and a band, and "Malibu Rising" introduced Carrie Soto in a shocking way. Reid's literary universe is addictive and glamorous. "Carrie Soto Is Back" book begins with retired tennis legend Carrie Soto witnessing a newcomer, Nicki Chan, breaking her record of twenty Grand Slam titles.

Soto's unwavering determination drives her to embark on a gripping journey of reclamation and resilience.

Reid's storytelling prowess ensures a captivating read that will resonate with tennis enthusiasts and a broad audience. This latest addition to her impressive body of work cements her status as a literary powerhouse.

The most captivating element of this novel is the character of Carrie Soto. Initially introduced as an unlikeable and standoffish figure in "Malibu Rising," Carrie's personality is consistent throughout the book.

Her battles, especially with media criticism of her demeanor on and off the court, are at the story's heart.

Reid masterfully incorporates commentary transcripts and newspaper clippings, revealing the unjust and harsh judgment Carrie endures. The derogatory moniker 'The Battle-Axe,' coined by critical commentators, frequently substituted with 'The Bitch,' reflects the double standard in assessing female athletes, as Soto's male counterparts escape such disparagement.

The book is a delight for tennis enthusiasts, as Reid brings every match to life with riveting tension. Her portrayal of Soto's on-court tactics is mesmerizing, providing insight into the mind of a professional tennis player. Reid makes the sport accessible to non-tennis fans by explaining its rules and strategies in a reader-friendly manner.

OCTOBER 2023

In "Divorce is Normal" by Shasvathi Siva, readers are offered a valuable resource that provides deep insights into unhappy marriages and divorce, particularly within the Indian context. This book not only serves as a guide for those contemplating separation or divorce but also as a compelling reminder that divorce is, in fact, a normal part of life.

It strives to break down the societal stigma surrounding divorce and encourages a brighter, more accepting perspective on this critical life event.

Shasvathi Siva, the author of this enlightening book, embarked on her journey to destigmatize divorce and normalize it after her own experience. In a moment of candid reflection, she shared a picture of a ring that had once adorned her finger, accompanied by the hashtags #happilydivorced and #divorceisnormal. She recounted when, in 2017, she removed her engagement ring after wearing it continuously for 31 months, expecting a sense of empowerment but feeling emptiness instead. This book emerges from her courageous journey, aiming to shed light on the nuances of unhappy marriages and divorces in India and expand the horizons of those who engage with it. Through the book "Divorce is Normal," Shasvathi Siva underscores the imperative need to end the silence surrounding divorce and divorced people. In particular, she emphasizes the importance of providing support and understanding to women trapped in abusive marriages. Society often judges and ostracizes these women when they decide to walk away, regardless of the toxicity of their marital situations.

Shasvathi's experiences with divorce in 2019 motivated her to challenge this judgment and stigma.

"Divorce is Normal" emerges as a beacon of hope and a source of strength for anyone seeking a way out of the darkness often associated with divorce and separation.

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STORIZEN REVIEW

In Martin MacInnes's third novel, "In Ascension," the story unfolds in Rotterdam, approximately a decade into the future. Within this city, the readers meet Leigh-Ann Hasenbosch and her sister, Helena, both the daughters of Geert, an engineer employed by the venerable Dutch

Lloyd Devereux Richards returns with a pulse-pounding sequel to "Stone Maidens" in "Maidens of the Cave." FBI agent and forensic anthropologist Christine Prusik take centre stage in this gripping crime thriller that stands on its own merit, even for those new to Richards'

water board, the Waterschappen. With its centuriesold history, this organization is profoundly responsible for the country's survival. Geert's wife, Fenna, is a brilliant mathematician, a figure who, while emotionally reserved and devoid of physical displays of affection, contends with debilitating migraines.

These chronic ailments and Geert's tumultuous episodes of violence cast a lasting shadow over the sisters' formative years. When you finish a book, there are those rare reading experiences and you can't resist returning to the first page to begin the journey anew. "In Ascension" is magnetic, drawing you back into its compelling narrative and complex characters.

Its subject matter is profound, and the characters are so deeply etched that you can't help but want to see how it all weaves together a second time. "In Ascension" is divided into five sections and begins with the story of Dr. Leigh-Ann Hasenbosch, a Rotterdam-based marine microbiologist. Nonetheless, this work resists easy classification within any genre for various compelling reasons. On the one hand, it delves into science fiction territory with portrayals of deep-sea research and intergalactic travel. However, it goes beyond these limitations by diving into philosophical, ontological, and linguistic investigations regarding nature and the heart of humanity. It also offers a significant reflection on family relationships and the complexities of sisterhood, making it resistant to simple genre categorization. Notably, the author rejects the title 'climate-change fiction,' which has been applied to it by others.

work. Christine Prusik is not your typical FBI agent.

She has a unique talent for solving unusual cases, often bending the rules to do the job. When a series of mysterious deaths involving young women occurs in the caves of Indiana and Illinois, Christine seizes the opportunity to dive headfirst into the investigation.

However, her Chicago field office is amid a reorganization, and her male superiors are more concerned with paperwork than solving the murders.

But Christine won't be deterred by bureaucratic red tape, especially when she uncovers a peculiar pinsized bruise on the victims' necks that could hold the key to solving the case. Richards introduces us to a fearless female protagonist, Christine Prusik, who blazes a trail through a predominantly maledominated environment. Her determination to bend the rules for the greater good and to stand up to her superiors makes her a compelling character, adding depth to the narrative. As the body count rises with the discovery a second victim, Christine dives headlong into her investigation, even against her superiors' wishes. The mystery deepens as she struggles to unearth evidence, facing reluctance from those unwilling to jeopardize their institutions' reputations. A breakthrough comes when Christine traces a unique poison, originating from a South American frog, as the potential cause of death. This poison's involvement in her case leads her to a conspiracy with far-reaching consequences, ensnaring the elite and the powerful.

"In Ascension" is a captivating story that delves into the vastness of time and space, focusing on the intricate connections between all life.

"Maidens of the Cave" is a meticulously crafted crime suspense novel that captivates readers with its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and unwavering tension.

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STORIZEN REVIEW

"Minor Disturbances at Grand Life Apartments" by Hema Sukumar invites readers into the modest yet vibrant setting of Grand Life Apartments, nestled within the coastal city of Chennai, India. This charming story weaves together the lives of its residents, highlighting the unique journeys of a few key inhabitants. Kamala, a god-fearing dentist on the cusp of retirement, anticipates the annual visit from her daughter studying in the UK, setting the stage for a heartfelt exploration of mother-daughter relationships.

Revathi, a 32-year-old engineer, faces familial pressures about her marital status, leading to her journey of self-discovery. Jason, a British chef seeking refuge from a recent heartbreak, brings an international perspective to the tale. The novel gracefully introduces us to these diverse characters, allowing each to retain their individuality while sharing the communal experience of residing in Grand Life Apartments. As the story unfolds, we witness Kamala's touching struggle to understand and accept her daughter's revelation of her sexual orientation, fostering an emotional exploration of love, identity, and motherhood. Revathi's journey showcases her determination to carve her path in life, unapologetically embracing her independence and rejecting societal expectations. Jason's fresh perspective on Chennai and immersion in its culture provide a delightful backdrop to his healing journey.

"Minor Disturbances at Grand Life Apartments" offers a glimpse of life in Chennai, portraying its unique charm, culinary delights, and the warmth of its people.

"Minor Disturbances at Grand Life Apartments" is enjoyable, offering readers a heartfelt and lighthearted break from weightier subjects.

OCTOBER 2023

In "Murder in the Family," Cara Hunter spins a riveting tale of mystery that delves deep into a chilling cold case. The story revolves around Luke Ryder, whose life was tragically cut short in 2003. The murder remained unsolved, leaving behind a cloud of unanswered questions. Fast forward two decades, and an eclectic group of experts, comprising police detectives, a reporter, a psychologist, and a lawyer, assemble to unravel the enigma. What's unique is that this gripping narrative unfolds on live television.

Hunter employs an innovative approach, presenting the story through scripts, text messages, emails, interviews, newspaper articles, and the experts' CVs, complete with photographs. While this format adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, it may deter some readers due to its prevalence of "telling" rather than showing and the difficulty in connecting with the characters. However, beneath the unconventional format lies an engaging mystery filled with unexpected twists and turns. The suspense surrounding Luke's murder is undeniably compelling. Hunter's audacious experimentation with storytelling is commendable, and many readers have lauded the book for its boldness.

Despite its merits, the narrative style may not resonate with everyone. The story takes a closer look at the family dynamics, particularly the powerful theme of sisterhood. It showcases the unwavering support and solidarity among the women in the tale, offering a refreshing perspective. The characters' relationships are rooted in love and duty, making the theme of sisterhood one of the novel's most vital aspects.

With unexpected revelations and a gripping climax, this cold case thriller delivers an unforgettable experience. masterful execution and intelligent storytelling make this novel a mustread for fans of psychological thrillers and crime mysteries. You won't want to miss this one.

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Samrat Choudhury's compelling work delves into the intriguing history of Northeast India, a region born in 1947 as the British Raj dissolved and India and Pakistan emerged. Before colonial rule, the hills of this region were inhabited by diverse tribes who practised ancient traditions, including headhunting. Choudhury skillfully presents this history through a blend of reportage, documentation, explanation, analysis, and anecdotal accounts. The book follows the journey of these remote hill tribes and other groups inhabiting the vast Brahmaputra River valley as they became integral parts of the Indian nation. Choudhury explores the creation of the 'Northeast' while shedding light on two other competing ideas of India: 'Bharat,' the Hindu nationalist vision, and 'Hindustan,' the Persian-origin name used as far west as Turkey. This historical narrative spans from imperialism and Christianity to the British fascination with tea, revealing how each state in the modern Northeast reluctantly joined India.

Praised as a persuasive, captivating, and unputdownable work of history, Choudhury's book offers profound clarity into the diverse and complex history of India's Northeast. The text masterfully covers various aspects of the region, its territories, and its people. Choudhury's sweeping political history offers a comprehensive understanding of India's Northeast. It is renowned for its many languages and ethnic groups, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking insights into the region.

Choudhury avoids simplifying the history of the Northeast, acknowledging its intricacies. He takes a meticulous approach to detail each state's history, explaining their relationships with one another, their connection to the mainland, and their involvement in significant historical events.

By examining the region's complex history state by state, Choudhury helps to dispel misconceptions and provides a nuanced perspective on the Northeast's challenges and unique identity.

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Sebastian Barry, a celebrated author known for his exquisite storytelling, delivers another literary gem in "Old God's Time." This novel, the ninth in a series weaving through two fictional Irish families, showcases Barry's mastery of delicacy, warmth, and lyricism in portraying historical landscapes, much like he did in his previous works, such as "Days Without End" (2016) and "The Secret Scripture" (2008). Set in the 1990s, the story revolves around Tom Kettle, a retired detective residing in an unconventional living space adjoining a Victorian castle in Dalkey, Ireland. Barry skillfully crafts Kettle's existence, fraught with solitude and courage, as he grapples with undisclosed memories and emotions.

Kettle's musings provide insight into his world, peppered with the "little glories of life" that offer solace in the face of overwhelming thoughts. When Kettle's former police colleagues, Wilson and O'Casey, unexpectedly visit with decades-old case files involving church abuse and a priest with dark secrets, the narrative takes a gripping turn. Kettle's character is brilliantly portrayed through Barry's prose, which mirrors his outlook and professional rhythms, making every perception feel like an extension of Kettle's being. Distrust, particularly regarding selfperception and the elusive nature of truth, is a recurring theme. Barry's storytelling skillfully portrays the extensive damage inflicted by the church, offset

by Tom's unwavering strength and the solace in the memory of his late wife, June. Nonetheless, the pursuit of justice yields little in the way of closure, underscoring the persistent nature of past traumas.

Adding an extra layer of intrigue is the question of Tom's reliability as a narrator. Given his history and the encroaching grip of dementia, we are left to ponder how much his recollections may be clouded, introducing further intricacies to an already complex narrative.

In "Old God's Time," the boundaries between reality and conjecture blur, offering readers a deeply immersive and emotionally charged experience.

OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN REVIEW

"Pulse to Planet", authored by Dr. K. Srinath Reddy and published by Harper Collins, delves into the intricate relationship between good health and the environment. It also sheds light on how certain human activities have contributed to the deterioration of public health. Dr. Reddy, a distinguished cardiologist and public health expert, directs this thoughtprovoking narrative toward young readers, emphasizing their potential to reverse the alarming global health trends. Further, the book contextualizes various health issues within their historical, medical, and contemporary framework, providing valuable insights. Dr. Reddy employs eloquent and polished language throughout the narrative. However, he unapologetically condemns the greed, indifference, and political maneuvering that characterize the industries behind harmful products such as tobacco, unhealthy foods, beverages, and air and water contamination. The book intends not to engage in activist rhetoric but to present a professional's earnest plea for people to act. The book highlights the risks of specific industries and urges readers to advocate for change.

It primarily targets young readers but occasionally delves into medical and scientific explanations for adults. The author emphasizes the importance of gut microbiota, which may hold more sway than genetic makeup or hereditary factors. The book simplifies explanations of disease triggers, such as dietary choices, environmental risks, unhealthy habits, and stress, offering relatable real-life examples. It also highlights the importance of vaginal microbiota for expectant mothers and the role of breast milk as a defense against infections in infants. The book also delves into the mechanisms through which dopamine incites the brain to crave sugary, fatty, and salty foods, leading to obesity, diabetes, and poor health.

"Pulse to Planet" is a book highlighting environmental factors' impact on health and consumers' need to make informed choices.

OCTOBER 2023

In her captivating anthology of twenty-five stories, Manjula Padmanabhan applies her distinctive narrative style to both imaginative futures and a reflection of our present reality. An accomplished writer, artist, cartoonist, and playwright, Padmanabhan's unique upbringing outside of India as a teenager and her current dual residence in the US and New Delhi have deeply influenced her work. Her literary repertoire includes critically acclaimed titles such as "Getting There," a travel memoir, and the initial two volumes of a science fiction trilogy titled "Escape" and "The Island of Lost Girls." Within this remarkable collection, readers will encounter many thought-provoking scenarios, ranging from opulently adorned party attendees suddenly finding themselves unclothed to a youth capable of pilfering time itself.

From mosquitoes that transmit Gandhian pacifism to a bleak future where canned air is the lifeline, Padmanabhan's stories pose pressing questions about our society and its trajectory, leaving us pondering the very essence of our existence and the path we are traversing. With a blend of humor, intrigue, and profound insight, "Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities" presents a fusion of science fiction with an unmistakable Indian flavor, all intertwined with the enigmatic substance of the dark matter, ensuring that you remain captivated from start to finish. The stories in the book are a mix of science fiction and fantasy with a uniquely Indian twist. They explore themes of identity, power, and the human condition.

This eclectic collection is an electrifying, dazzling, and thought-provoking journey into uncharted literary realms.

"Stolen Hours and Other Curiosities" is a powerful literary work that will seize your attention until the very last page, leaving an indelible mark on how you perceive the world. A special mention for the attractive cover page!

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In "The Blue Bar" by Damyanti Biswas, readers are immersed in Mumbai's vibrant and mysterious world. The story follows a missing dancer, a relentless serial killer, and an inspector haunted by his past, weaving a gripping thriller that delves into themes of lost love and obsession. This meticulously researched crime thriller takes place in Mumbai, a city that never rests, and it captivates with its intriguing plot and unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged throughout. In 2002, a struggling bar dancer, Tara Mondal, accepts a life-changing proposition from a mysterious client at a bustling Bandra railway station.

She is tasked with donning a blue-sequined saree, blending into the station's chaos, and vanishing within three minutes, a peculiar act that becomes the last time anyone sees Tara. The narrative then shifts to the present, unveiling a series of gruesome murders gripping the city. Inspector Arnav Singh Rajput, closely linked to Tara and the unfolding case, takes center stage in the investigation. As the plot unfolds, Biswas takes readers on an exhilarating journey through Tara's enigmatic disappearance, the treacherous underworld, glitzy bars, Bollywood, and the shocking revelations of serial murders and unexpected twists.

Fast forward to the present, where gruesome murders rock Mumbai. A remorseless serial killer is on the loose, leaving a trail of dismembered women's bodies, each bearing a sinister connection - scattered blue sequins and a decade's worth of missing person reports aligned with significant festivals. At the helm of the investigation stands Inspector Arnav Singh Rajput, still tormented by Tara's unexplained disappearance.

As he delves deeper into the hunt for the serial killer, the lines between past and present blur, and Arnav discovers that someone is determined to bury his inquiry at any cost.

Nevertheless, "The Blue Bar" is a gripping and immersive tale that plunges readers into the enigmatic world of Mumbai.

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Tan Twan Eng's third novel, "The House of Doors," presents a captivating blend of fact and fiction, weaving a tale of multiple betrayals that resonates deeply. The story takes its readers on a journey that spans generations, where the lines between real-life figures and imaginative characters blur. The story revolves around Lesley Hamlyn, a Malaysian woman who exiles herself from her Malaysian birthplace in 1947.

The novel explores the life of W. Somerset Maugham, who misuses his trust during his time in Penang. The story begins with flashbacks to 1921, when Maugham, Willie, visits Lesley's home in Penang.

Despite societal disapproval, Lesley's fluency in her native languages and her Chinese partner, Peter Ong, help bridge cultural gaps. As Maugham gains Lesley's trust, a complex relationship unravels, and Maugham's personal life reveals its betrayals. The most dramatic betrayal unfolds in the form of Lesley's best friend, the real-life Ethel Proudlock, who stands accused of murder. The scandal surrounding Ethel's life takes center stage in the narrative and becomes one of Maugham's short stories, echoing with unresolved tension. This real-life event is introduced to readers with a sense of intrigue and mystery, adding depth to the plot. "The House of Doors" by Tan Twan Eng is a captivating novel that explores grand themes while remaining deeply personal. The story follows Lesley Hamlyn, who transforms, gaining awareness of her agency and the power to shape her narrative. Eng's writing transports readers to Malaysia's lush landscapes, tantalizing food, and complex society, capturing the essence of the environment through vivid sensory experiences.

"The House of Doors" is a superbly written and psychologically rich novel with a profound impact. Eng's exploration of secrets, storytelling, and the power to shape one's destiny lingers in the reader's mind.

OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN REVIEW

Imagine winning a coveted spot at the grand opening of the century— the launch of the Hotel Artemis, the moon's first-ever hotel. It's an invitation to die for, and as you board the transport back to Earth, you seal the doors behind you, ready for your next great leap for mankind. The champagne flows, but there's no one to pour it. Room service beckons, but no one delivers. You soon realize that you and your fellow guests are utterly alone. As fear begins to course through the group, a shocking discovery shakes you: one of the guests has been murdered. But this is just the beginning. Stranded on a three-day journey from home with no way to contact the outside world, will any of you survive your stay? "The Launch Party" delivers a gripping and claustrophobic reading experience with its readers on edge from start to finish. The tension is palpable, and the tightly woven plot keeps the readers hooked from beginning to end.

This book pays homage to Agatha Christie, elevating the traditional locked room mystery to a new level by placing it on the moon. The sheer impossibility of escape in the vastness of space with strangers is a terrifying thought that lingers long after the book is finished. Author Lauren Forry's writing creates a vivid and suffocating picture of the lunar hotel, immersing the readers in the chilling atmosphere. The readers will find themselves casting nervous glances at their surroundings as they read, absorbing the isolation and fear that the characters experience. Although the readers don't get to know the characters intimately, this deliberate lack of character development adds to the reader's sense of isolation and distrust. The protagonist, Penelope, while somewhat irksome and burdened with seemingly irrelevant phobias, still serves as a practical guide through the eerie lunar landscape.

Nevertheless, "The Launch Party" remains an excellent murder mystery with a fresh and gripping twist. It's a thrilling read perfect for anyone seeking a suspenseful and unconventional story, making it an excellent choice for your next reading adventure.

OCTOBER 2023

"The Good Life" - An amazing book

by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz that digs deep into the intricacies of leading a truly happy and fulfilling life. The book discusses the profound insights from the extensive Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the most enduring investigations into human happiness ever undertaken. Over a remarkable span of 75 years, the study meticulously tracked the lives of two distinct groups: Harvard sophomores from the class of 1938 and individuals raised in Boston’s most impoverished neighborhoods. Through this extensive research, Waldinger and Schulz illuminate the path to contentment and purpose. The book underscores the significance of strong, nurturing bonds with friends, family, and loved ones. Those who cultivate meaningful connections experience not only greater happiness but also improved overall well-being. This emphasis on the vitality of relationships becomes a guiding principle throughout the book, resonating profoundly with readers and encouraging them to invest in their interpersonal connections. Besides, the authors have also put significance on the pursuit of purpose and meaning in the book. Waldinger and Schulz argue persuasively that a sense of purpose is indispensable for a life filled with contentment and satisfaction. The stories in the book paint a vivid picture of how discovering one's purpose can transform existence into a fulfilling journey. I felt inspired to introspect, reflect on their passions, and contemplate their place in the world.

"The Good Life" is not just a book; it is a guide to a transformative journey. Through its pages, I not only felt aware about the secrets to happiness but also equipped with the knowledge and tools for a life brimming with purpose, connection, and contentment. Waldinger and Schulz have masterfully crafted a literary gem that inspires, educates, and empowers, making it a must-read for anyone in search of a truly fulfilling life.

(This book is reviewed by Kiran Adharapuram) STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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"Unsealed Covers: A Decade of The Constitution, The Courts and The State" by Gautam Bhatia is a comprehensive collection of essays that delves deep into the complex world of Indian constitutionalism and the functioning of the judiciary. With a wealth of experience as a legal commentator and a noted critic of the Indian court system, Bhatia explores the evolving landscape of constitutional rights and the judiciary's role during significant transformation. The book is thoughtfully organised into three parts, each carefully examining various aspects of constitutional rights, federalism, anti-defection laws, and the powers wielded by the Chief Justices of India. Bhatia's prose stands out for its ability to make intricate legal concepts accessible to a broad readership, ensuring that his arguments are clear and understandable. The collection begins with a rigorous analysis of Justice A.M. Khanwilkar's influence on human rights and liberty, illustrating the profound implications of specific legal interpretations through real cases. Bhatia's unapologetic critique of judicial decisions adds an element of transparency to the book, underscoring his dedication to impartiality and rigorous scrutiny. One of the book's notable features is its scrutiny of the Chief Justices of India, commencing with a candid assessment of their impact on the direction of the judiciary. Bhatia thoroughly evaluates the records of the last six Chief Justices, shedding light on their roles in shaping India's legal landscape. This section is particularly enlightening for readers seeking to understand the judiciary's evolution from an anti-majoritarian institution to a body some perceive as favoring the executive. "Unsealed Covers" delivers a deeper comprehension of India's constitutional cases and their implications. It is essential reading for legal practitioners and any citizen interested in understanding the profound constitutional developments that impact daily life. Gautam Bhatia's courage in critically evaluating legal decisions is commendable, and his work serves as a guiding light in these complex times. Bhatia openly acknowledges his political stance and biases, offering a transparent perspective. He voices skepticism toward power

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structures, homogenization, and centralization while opposing constitutional interpretations prioritizing national security and public interest. The book aims to reach a broad audience by weaving together diverse ideas and breaking down legal judgments ideologically soundly. Bhatia's political stance is unapologetic and doesn't claim to be impartial. He strives to engage in a larger discourse surrounding judicial developments by presenting varied ideas in a reader-friendly fashion. In summary, "Unsealed Covers" is a compelling read that seamlessly combines intricate legal concepts with societal contexts, offering essential insights into Indian constitutionalism and the functioning of the judiciary.

This book is highly relevant to the current legal landscape, providing a critical qualitative archive of significant legal judgments during the present regime. It is an invaluable resource for scholars and readers interested in comprehending complex legal matters.

"Unsealed Covers" is a beacon of illumination, making intricate legal topics accessible and relevant to many readers.

OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN REVIEW

The Pulitzer Prize-winning biography "American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer," co-authored by Kai Bird and the late Martin Sherwin, debuted in 2005. Bird, an accomplished journalist and author with several publications, including a recent biography of Jimmy Carter, joined forces with Sherwin, a history professor whose life tragically ended in 2021. The genesis of this ambitious project, rooted in a fascination with the atomic age and nuclear proliferation, traces back to the late 1970s when Sherwin embarked on the quest and subsequently enlisted Bird's collaboration. Their work is a testament to extraordinary research, involving an exhaustive review of once-classified documents, over 100 interviews, and a meticulous reconstruction of historical threads that often appeared contradictory, all in a bid to unravel the complex tale of J. Robert Oppenheimer. The outcome is a sprawling 591-page narrative that delves deep into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the genesis of the world's inaugural atomic weapon, and the government's concerted efforts to tarnish Oppenheimer's reputation by accusing him of various transgressions, including espionage on behalf of the Soviet Union. J. Robert Oppenheimer, born in 1904 and passing away in 1967, proves an exceptionally captivating biographical subject. He was a complex individual—brilliant, distinctive, passionate, and multifaceted, yet marred by significant flaws. He was not just an accomplished physicist but also displayed a profound interest in French and British literature, dabbled in poetry, and even learned Sanskrit to read ancient Hindu texts in their original form.

While the narrative's intricate storyline might occasionally appear complex, it remains straightforward and eloquently descriptive. In many chapters, every sentence is meticulously crafted for maximum impact. The authors skillfully introduce pivotal characters and adeptly explain complex concepts, ensuring accessibility for both the layman and the incautious reader, whether the subject is

OCTOBER 2023

quantum mechanics or the government's case against Oppenheimer. The biography is studded with memorable moments: an evocative portrayal of Oppenheimer's childhood, a thorough examination of the early days of the nuclear arms race, a nuanced exploration of Oppenheimer's potential ties to the Communist party, and a damning account of the government's conduct during the Oppenheimer security hearings, among others. Readers will be spellbound by the penultimate chapter detailing Oppenheimer's peculiar, isolated existence on a Caribbean island during his final years. However, as is often the case with exceptional biographies, the narrative is not consistently gripping and effortless. At times, it gets bogged down in the intricate details of Oppenheimer's life. The story occasionally loses sight of Oppenheimer's wife and children, although only temporarily. Some readers may observe that Bird and Sherwin, regrettably, place more emphasis on Oppenheimer's political activism and idiosyncratic personal life than his achievements and contributions in physics.

Nevertheless, Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin have seemingly crafted the definitive biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer. While final judgment awaits a comparison with Ray Monk's more recent "Robert Oppenheimer: His Life and Mind," one thing remains undeniable: anyone in search of a compelling biography or seeking to delve deeper into the life of this intriguing public figure will find their quest amply rewarded with this choice.

Reviewed by Swapna Peri

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STORIZEN POETRY

Día de Muertos

by Sangita Kalarickal

deep autumn sets in and I wait for when spirits return to caress my worn out spirit, there's my gran, my grandpa and the ancestral faces I don't know.

I smile back at them, they'd have pinched my cheeks if they could and perhaps commented how plump my face once was, and so radiant; and I'd have said, you look just the same you feel just the same ...warm kanji broth on a cold evening deep autumn sets in and I wait.

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Sangita Kalarickal is a wordsmith, with work appearing in several journals and anthologies. The poems in her first chapbook Mamina (Kavya-Adisakrit, 2023), range from free-verse poetry to haikai form. She is currently an associate editor of Drifting Sands Haibun Journal and conducts the podcast Ripples in the Sand. Dr. Kalarickal lives in Minnesota, USA with her husband, kid, her little garden and the fantasy characters she writes about.

OCTOBER 2023

STORIZEN POETRY

A Teeny-Weeny Affair

by Vidya Shankar

You meet a friend with a toddler A toddler that goes ba-ba and uh-uh and biddit waving chubby hands as if to beckon you.

Your heart, a marshmallow now sighs, for the little one is so vulnerable.

You squat You smile You wave your hands and repeat ba-ba and uh-uh and biddit.

All seems well until the mother allows herself to be distracted by something that calls for her attention.

The munchkin makes a move (Did the kid even? You wonder) You are caught unawares.

A high-pitched shriek and a scurry of worried feet— The mother picks up her fallen, squealing child cuddles, comforts, rocks her baby Turns to you Glowers as if to say you’ll pay for it.

You look on at the scene, bewildered red-faced from shame and shuffle your feet because you don’t know if you should say sorry for something that wasn’t your fault and stay on to explain to an already unconvinced mother or leave

OCTOBER 2023

Vidya Shankar, a widely published poet, is an English Language teacher, a 'book' in the Human Library, author of two poetry books, editor of four anthologies, and associate editor for haibun with Triveni Haikai India. She loves writing poetry on the move, often letting her verses fly free into the Universe instead of settling on paper. Featured in a unique coffee table book, ‘50 Inspiring Women boys and girls should read about, Chennai Edition’, she finds meaning to her life through yoga and mandalas.

@vidya.shankar.author

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Tomorrow Loves Me, Tomorrow Loves Me Not

by Sharanya If I could only count The number of petals – Rose, Hibiscus, Frangipani That I’ve pulled away as offerings To fate To be kind enough to perhaps let the Future speak for once Tell a girl of sixteen If she’s on the Other side of the world a decade later If she has finally lost those extra bulks of pounds from Her already healthy body If she’s living in a penthouse and studying The stars through a telescope If she has an entire wall devoted to framed awards And Ivy-league university degrees If she’s finally happy and smiling Through her heart This time atleast If I could only retrieve those lost velvet petals I would press them back to the flowers they once were And offer their plants a heartfelt apology On behalf of a foggy teenager Who simply did not realize the beauty Of letting things be

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Sharanya lives in Trivandrum and studies English literature. Her poems have been published or are forthcoming in Tokyo Poetry Journal, Borderless Journal, Visual Verse, Boundless Anthology (USA), Unfolded Anthology (USA), Live Wire, The Madras Courier, Anthology of Tower Poetry Society of Canada, Anthology of Poetry Society of India, Indian Literature by Sahitya Akademi and many more. She was the fifth prize winner of the Rabindranath Tagore International Poetry Competition 2022.

OCTOBER 2023

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...Between Regrets, and Resurrection

by Madhumathi H.

Choices arranged like Jal Tarang bowls Destiny pours water, but equally Stealing away my melody, my own song...

When in thirst, life makes you choose between the Sea, or desert walk...

Some choices, we make from a dozen options Carefully leaving out the ones that might break us Some, we are made to choose when options are nil We enter a golden cage, muting our dream to fly...

There is light in hoping Love, in waiting For those who dare to fail Bad choices are lessons, not dead ends Absence of dilemma is a deep ache, too When choices are absent!

"You have to take it! You can't leave it", yells life...

But aren't we all winners, when we survive that, "choiceless"?!...

Career, relationships, or friendships Too many choices are a trap!

As challenging, as being choiceless We regret badly, recover slowly Healing, a trudging often...

Amid all the chaos, i chose without dilemma One big decision made, to save my sanity: "Erase all the "If onlys", "What ifs" Live a life you love, in the now Unmindful of the judgemental herd, insensitive mockers, chameleons, fair-weather friends...”

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OCTOBER 2023

Am a work in progress, chose to celebrate the bruised self Suffocated by gulit, regrets Found my peace, healing, in choosing myself first I stare, and smirk at life Now, life is in dilemma...

To stop beating a dead snake, or Accept its defeat to a sparrow with a Phoenix heart...

I Survive. Smile. Shine. Despite it all...

A bilingual poet-writer(Tamil, English), Madhumathi. H is an ardent lover of Nature, Poetry, Photography, Music.

Her poems are published in Anthologies of The Poetry Society(India), CPC- Chennai Poetry Circle's EFFLORESCENCE, IPC's(India Poetry Circle) Madras Hues Myriad Views, Confluence, Amaravati Poetic Prism 2015, and in e-zines UGC approved Muse India, Storizen, OPA – Our Poetry Archives, IWJ - International Writers Journal, Positive Vibes, Science Shore. e-Anthologies Monsoon moods - Muse India, Green Awakenings - On Environment, by KavyaAdisakrit.

Ignite Poetry, Breathe Poetry, Dream Poetry, Soul shores that have 10 of her poems published, Soul Serenade, Soul songs, Shades of Love-AIFEST, Special Jury Mention’ and secured 'A Grade’ in the International Poetry Writing Competition(published Anthology) conducted by All India Forum for English Students, Scholars, and Trainers (AIFEST) in March-April 2023 in connection with International Women’s Day celebrations, Arising from the dust, Painting Dreams, Shards of unsung Poesies, are some of the Anthologies her poems, and write-ups are part of.

Besides Poetry, Madhumathi writes on Mental health, takes part in related activities to create awareness, break the stigma, believing in the therapeutic, transformational power of words.

OCTOBER 2023

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TO READ SIMILAR STORIES, VISIT W W W .S TO R IZE N .C OM

ARIES MOON SIGN: 4 OF CUPS This Month, Aries. This month You are disappointed with your experience that you are declining many new opportunities that are coming your way. Also, you might not find these opportunities suitable for you.

LEO MOON SIGN: WHEEL OF FORTUNE

TAURUS MOON SIGN: THE FOOL This Month, Taurus, it’s a new beginning and new opportunities coming your way. Also, if you want to start something new, you can take risks based on your faith in the Universe. Also, some might be carefree without any worries.

VIRGO MOON SIGN: THE HANGED MAN This month, Virgo, your project suddenly came to a halt. Don’t push yourself, rather take time to reevaluate yourself and rework on it. Some might be stuck or restricted in their life, it’s time to look within yourself and based on your intuition think what you need in life.

GEMINI MOON SIGN: 4 OF WANDS This month, Gemini It’s family time. It’s a card of Joyful celebration. You might be celebrating your success with your family. It also indicates celebrating anniversary or Housewarming party. It’s a month of Harmony and balance.

LIBRA MOON SIGN: 2 OF WANDS This Month, you need to establish a clear plan before implementing your decision or starting a new project. If you are planning for an interview or job change, you need to have proper research on the company and prepare thoroughly for the interview and then go.

CANCER MOON SIGN: QUEEN OF SWORDS This month, Cancer you will be focused on your career and use your wisdom or logic for any important decision. It also indicated some help from much older woman who will advise or support you to overcome any problem.

OCTOBER 2023

This Month, Leo, Universe is working in your favor and all your challenges and obstacles are going to get over and you will receive good Fortune and luck will be on your side. It’s the time to work on your goals and soon you will achieve success.

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SCORPIO MOON SIGN: THE HIGH PRIESTESS This month, Scorpio is a good month for healers and Counsellors as they will get good clients. Also, it’s the week to listen to your intuition and go with your feelings for any important aspect of your life.

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SAGITTARIUS MOON SIGN: KING OF SWORDS This month, Sagittarians. You are focused and determined towards your work and ready to fulfil your goals. You have clarity towards your goals and use logic and intellectual approach towards the right path.

CAPRICORN MOON SIGN: KNIGHT OF PENTACLES This month, Capricorns You are getting huge opportunities that will lead you to success and growth. Also, this month you are financially abundant and able to manage your wealth and help others to invest in a correct way for long term future.

I am Himani Goyal, By profession, I am an HR Manager working in Banglore. Reading is my hobby which led me to write reviews for my readers. I have read and reviewed numerous books so far. I am also a practicing Tarot consultant and would be sharing daily, weekly, monthly horoscopes for you all here.

AQUARIUS MOON SIGN: 3 OF SWORDS This month, Aquarians is the month of disappointments, difficulties, or hardship on an emotional level. Things are not the way you had expected and as a result you are very sad.

Some might go through Heartbreak which was very painful.

PISCES MOON SIGN: THE LOVERS This month is the month of Love for Pisces. Just enjoy spending time with your partner. If you are single, you might find your soulmate with whom you can have a great time. It also means open communication if your relationship is struggling.

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OCTOBER 2023

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