Book Review: The Four Patriots by Sumit Agarwal

I received The Four Patriots by Sumit Agarwal (Rupa Publications) from Writer's Melon for review. I knew it would be a different read...different in a good way.

This book is for those who think 'Iss Desh Ka Kuchh Nahin Ho Sakta!' and for those who think 'There is hope and India can rise if good people join the Indian politics.' So, basically, it's for every Indian. This book pictures the developed, modern India that any Indian would enjoy to envision.

The book is about four patriots, vehement youngsters, Raghav, Aditya, Varun and Salman, who tend to think differently. Hailing from different backgrounds, they have similar vision and dream - dream to see India Rise powerfully! They decide to walk together to fulfill this dream, but the journey is full of hurdles.

The book portrays that journey of growth and hurdles nicely. It follows a very thoughtful objective - "We don't need more systems, we need the right people in the existing system." (from the book).

The story opens in 2006 and ends (or maybe begins actually) in 2022 as it talks about the beautiful future of India. However, I felt the end was a little unconvincing.

"Be evil to some if you have to, for the greater good.' This is the philosophy of Raghav, my favourite character. Talking about the characters - the author has sketched the characters really well. They seem energetic and believable except Salman's character. This character seemed underdeveloped.

The incidents are well-thought and smartly placed. I liked the cover, and I can (almost) recognize the characters. But, one thing bothered me. Why didn't author use a female patriot as a main protagonist? It would have been really interesting! There are women - interesting women but they are secondary characters.

There is a lovely touch of romance too. In fact, the love life of the four patriots sows the seeds of revolution and determination. I really liked these little love stories as they make the read light, relieve tension, and the author brings out these tales at the right time.

Overall, it's a well-researched book, full of optimism and ideas. Very thoughtful and innovative, I would say. Every Indian should read this book.

You can buy this book HERE