Book Review: Invisible Ties by Nadya A. R.

Invisible Ties

Author: Nadya  A.  R.

Publisher: Rupa Publishers

Rating: 4/5

Women are the epitome of altruism and largesse; they are hard-bitten beings with immense selflessness. But they are taken for granted. ‘Invisible Ties’ explores those imperceptible ties that bind a woman together and give her an identity. With rich, and at times difficult, vocabulary, the story is manoeuvred by its protagonist very well.

A slow read, in the beginning, the story gets more interesting towards the end. With verbose descriptions of the settings and the surrounding, the story wavers quite often, but the astute constitution of Noor’s (protagonist) personality balances it well. The story is set in Pakistan and Singapore per say. Born and brought up in Pakistan, Noor is Daisy’s daughter. Her house reeks of traditions and rituals and thus, when a group of bandits abduct her mother, she follows the command of her family and marries Meekaal Kalim.

The story picks pace as the setting shifts to Singapore. Meekaal, an investment banker, leads a luxurious life and for him the marriage is a namesake. Noor, troubled by the loveless life on a foreign land, finds comfort in studying psychotherapy. She treats her patients and gets interim freedom from her diabolical past but this does start changing her perceptions and beliefs. What comes next is a transformation phase which changes Noor’s destiny. Her acquaintance with her neighbour, Ella and her patient, Jake turns the tables.

The story is a complete pot-boiler as it has all the necessary elements of drama. However, the meek characterization of the sidekicks projects them as mere caricatures and this, in turn, abates the character development. The cover of the book is appealing as there are different ways to look at it. The magic mirror is the only means by which the constraints of the society can be seen. It can also symbolize an eye-opener that liberates Noor from her past and gives her life a new meaning.

Overall, ‘Invisible Ties’ is a brilliant story that offers genuine moments of heartache and throws light on the harsh realities of life. It projects various themes and leaves the last page for the readers to contemplate. This book cannot be understood without the ease of mind and reflective thinking owing to two reasons: one, complicated vocabulary and two, the intricate themes cropping up to be considered earnestly.

Best wishes to the author!

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Book Review: ASTHMA: For the Common Man by Dr. Vikram Vinayek

ASTHMA: For the Common Man

Author: Dr Vikram Vinayek

Publisher: Body & Soul Books (Leadstart)

As any doctor might tell you, the most important step in the treatment of a disease is its correct diagnosis so that a good resolution is more likely. ‘Asthma for the Common Man’ has been written with the same notion in mind. It explores the illness in and out and describes the necessary precautions.

This small handbook (guide) explains the meaning, causes, risks and treatment options for Asthma. The author has presented each and every detail in such a manner that even a layman can understand the basics. Since book deals with the various allergens, prevention of the acute condition, handy measures during an emergency and the correct diagnosis procedure, it proves out to be a good self-help book.

Small and pocket-sized, it is easy to read and understand. Readers can definitely learn how to deal with asthmatic children (even adults) in a vulnerable environment and provide first aid.

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Book Review: Super Couples by Prachi Garg

Super Couples

Author: Prachi Garg

Publisher: Srishti Publishers

Rating: 3/5

With ‘Super Couples’, Srishti Publishers have neatly presented freshly brewed content- something different than the usual. It is always galvanizing to read astute stories because they have that element of hope that we all need all the time. With this book, the author has tried to project the strength of the bond shared by two completely different people. Marriage, be it arranged or love, is a sacred bond that connects two individuals spiritually and mentally. But what lies behind the façade of palmy relationship is the constant battle for adjustment and converting one’s differences into strengths.

We often praise the couples who eat together, work together and grow old together. But seldom do we actually believe the mushy idea of companionship. ‘Super Couples’ projects how these super couples have risen from the clichéd mentality and started a life of their own- a life where they change and grow at the beck and call of their destiny. It takes a lot of courage to accept what we have and these couples leave no stone unturned to motivate and inspire the readers.

Written with well-researched information, the lucid language and the exemplary narration connect well with the readers. The stories are true and believable.

Overall, this is a good book that will surely inspire people and change their notions about marriage as a constraint.

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