Not So Grave
When I came to know about this book by Aparna Salvi Nagda, I knew I'd find the most essential element - humour. This is my first read of 2023 and what better way than to start the new year with a book that promises to enhance my D.O.S.E.
This isn't everyone's forte; not all can master this genre, but Aparna Salvi Nagda excels in narrating her stories with ease and excellence while sprinkling various hues in the right quantity for the readers to enjoy her stories. We all wish to laugh our hearts out. We need to, actually. But often we miss to find a reason. So if you're out of options and desperately searching for a reason, a trigger point, then just grab this book. You'll thank me later for recommending and bless the author for writing this book. Being a doctor, Aparna has taken the challenge to keep us healthy- not with medicines but with her stories that are utterly humorous. Afterall, laughter is the best medicine, isn't it?
I had the chance to read some mind-boggling, poignant, finely narrated stories by Aparna on the Penmancy writing platform and some of her stories still linger on my mind. This one just added to that list. She narrated it in a balanced way without sounding monotonous, dropping doses of relatable facts and funny incidents.
Characterization is one of the important elements in a story. In this book, 'Not so grave,' the author brought her characters to life, gave each of them enough space to have their say and play their part freely. She made me connect with each character as if I was a part of the whole situation. The author's tight grip over narration held my attention till the end. Just the right dose of emotion to make us laugh and ponder over the trivial yet important matters of life. The witty dialogues, the analogies, the underlying sarcasm, the pinch of truth added here and there, made the tale very interesting. The language was simple and easy to read. Use of local dialects gave the story an authentic touch. People from all walks will connect easily because of the simplicity with which the author has presented her work. I laughed and lamented with Robinhood Singh, the protagonist. I felt for him and his family.
The visual portrayal of the situations were very prominent and took me on a journey with them. The beautiful relationship between Beeji (the protagonist's mother) and Pushpakala ( the protagonist's wife) surely sent out a positive message to the society. The social structure and norms, human characteristics, relationships, regrets and how death of a loved one makes a big difference to those left back, the adjustments and transition that happens henceforth...everything has been detailed finely by the author. The author gave a humorous angle to a situation that was grave, and yet, it didn't sound out-of-the-place and forced in any way thus making the title very apt for the story.
The 'Bollywood flick' that unfolded in the household and Beeji's tactics to handle different situations sent out a positive and inspiring message. The matriarch played her part justly, thus taking charge and managing everything thoughtfully. I liked Jugal's character, his thoughts and approach towards Puspha and Robinhood Singh. The ending was justified, and I felt Jugal's words, his attitude and acceptance drew the closure finely. The only thing I felt could be different was the last line. "Dying is not that bad after all. Do try it once!" I wish there was a different line than "Do try it once." I can say, one can only laugh it off and not take it as a grave note.
A short, interesting and gripping tale, infused with humour and intellect throughout the story. I highly recommend all book lovers to get the book today. It won’t take much of your time and is available on Kindle. Give it a read and share your thoughts with the author and leave a feedback on Amazon, share it with your friends and connections to appreciate and encourage the author. I wish Aparna Salvi Nagda all the very best for her future endeavors.
PS: Incase you wish to read more of her work, do hop on to Penmancy or follow her page where she shares amazing, mind boggling stories, book reviews to entertain, educate and inspire the readers.
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