Pens and Places

Chitra Banerjee never fails to show the mysteries of women, behind every male-dominated story. “The Last Queen” is one such diamond from the historical events of ancient India. Author has gracefully and bravely described all the faces of a common girl, rising from ash like Phoenix.  This book is divided into those stories of the last queen of Punja, Rani Jindan, who was a symbol of intelligence, wit, devotion and humor. Through “behind-the-scenes” coverage of evergreen ballads of famous kings, you will get to know the different side of the tale through Jindan’s eyes. This story is a simple life’s journey of Mayi Jindan, from a daughter/sister who was an epitome of innocence and love, to the mother who dedicated her last breath for patriotism. Honestly, I couldn’t put the book down once I started. Everything was surreal, like a real life story in front of my eyes, beyond the grand walls of Sheesh Mahal. I thoroughly enjoyed the intricate details of places, events, costumes, food, legaci

  Imagine you get a chance to deliver the lecture as if it’s your last day at work, how will you feel?. You will try to make the best of it, right?. But with this book, Randy had lived the moment of reality. He actually delivered his last lecture, accumulating all of his childhood dreams and lessons of life. After a very long time, I cried while reading the emotions. It’s totally a surreal gesture to go on a ride through someone’s else’s eyes. I am not going to give any spoilers but all I can say is if I will be stranded on an island alone, I would prefer to carry this book among all of the materialistic things. There’s everything here you can think of life and its atrocities, powerful optimism, clarity of dreams, hope for future, humor at every phase, and sincerity in each challenge of the world. This book is meant for the young readers as well the oldest generation, who need the best kind of advice.  On the other hand, it might be difficult to put your foot in someone’s shoes. Randy

  Balli Kaur Jaswal's "Now You See Us" delves into the intricate lives of Cora, Angel, and Donita, three Filipina domestic workers in Singapore. The author skillfully navigates the complex tapestry of their experiences, revealing the harsh realities and social injustices these women face. Cora's sorrow over her nephew's death, Angel's turmoil after a breakup, and Donita's resilience despite abusive employment showcase a powerful narrative that tugs at the heartstrings. Jaswal masterfully weaves a tale that goes beyond a simple murder mystery, tackling broader issues of classism, exploitation, and the maltreatment of migrant workers. The book doesn't shy away from revealing the cruelty these women endure at the hands of their employers, emphasizing the stark imbalance of power and privilege. The vivid portrayal of Singapore's diverse landscapes and societal challenges adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. What stands out is the author's