Thursday, September 18, 2014

Book Review: Mango Cheeks Metal Teeth by Aruna Nambiar


When I heard about this book, the title seemed really quirky. Then the setting. I have never been to Kerela, but this place inexplicably fascinates me. I read some really nice reviews, and I thought to give it a try when Writers Melon approached me for the review.

Mango Cheeks Metal Teeth is a light fiction by Aruna Nambiar (Westland Books). This book reminded me of those playful afternoons in vacations that we enjoyed in our childhood. Just kids, in the silence of afternoons, playing and sharing!

This story is about two different families. Their joys, connections, doubts and woes. The story mainly revolves around an eleven years old girl Geetha, who is excited to spend her summer vacation with her cousins. The book gives an account of the events, somehow life changing, in that much awaited vacation.

The writing is undoubtedly neat and crisp. It carries the events so realistically that it gives the story a certain kind of authenticity. There's a nice touch of humour and innocence that often brings a smile. Characters are well sketched. The book cover is interesting!

The book has the essence of Kerela but it could be a little difficult and confusing read for non-Keralites, as there is frequent usage of Malayali terms. Of course there's is a glossary (At the end of the book), but who would like to turn pages frequently to understand the meanings. It could have been written as footnotes. Moreover, there's a crowd of characters. Again, the book starts with family trees but again who wants to remember that family tree before reading a story. Personally, for me, it didn't work. It was very confusing and disturbing.

Overall, for me, it was a sweet and nice yet confusing read. It can be an interesting read if you like light fiction and yes, if you are familiar with Malayali terms.



Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Book Review: It's not my favourite by Rue



Finished reading "It's not my favorite" by Rue, first novel by the author and first book in the Lake Effect series. It's my favourite genre and some really nice reviews raised my interest.

It's not my favorite is a contemporary story about two sisters, Gwen and Rachel, entirely different from each other, who grew up under the piercing eyes of a preacher's wife who keeps saying "Well, it's not my favorite."

Gwen is an independent good, responsible girl, trying to find real happiness for her, and dreams of a handsome stranger. Rachel is outgoing extrovert girl who has a deep secret about her life that nobody knows.

This is a story about family bonds and secrets. It's about seeking love, independence and happiness.

The story line is nice and the characters are well sketched. But I think the execution of the story is a little slow. Conversations are too casual and sometimes I felt the dialogues were unnecessary and it could have been presented in narrative form. Frequent usage of regional slags were disturbing for me and I think it should be avoided in a book.

Writing is simple and neat. I liked the pictures on the back cover but the book cover is dull and I didn't understand the purpose of keeping such cover for a Chick Lit.

Overall, it can be an interesting read for those who like reading Chick Lit and light fiction.

Twitter Handle of the book


I received this book from the author for an honest review. Thanks Rue!