15th September 2023, Mumbai: September has dawned with its crisp air and a promise of change, making it the perfect time to dive into a world of captivating stories that will transport you to different realms, introduce you to diverse characters, and leave you pondering life’s most profound questions. Get ready for a literary adventure like no other as we present to you four remarkable books that are sure to stir your soul and ignite your imagination.
“Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens” by Kamakshi P. Murti
Life as a teenage girl is already a turbulent journey, but for Yasemin and Nirmala, being immigrants with disabilities makes it an even more challenging odyssey. In “Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens,” author Kamakshi P. Murti weaves a poignant narrative that delves deep into the lives of these two extraordinary young women. Yasemin lost her arm in a car accident, and Nirmala was born with cerebral palsy. Despite their physical challenges, their friendship blossoms, and they share the dream of participating in the end-of-year performance, “Seussical the Musical.” Yet, they grapple with fear and self-doubt, afraid of rejection and ridicule. As their bond strengthens, they discover their hidden potential and conquer their fears together. This heartwarming story offers readers a glimpse into the trials and tribulations of teenage life in today’s immigrant societies. With a diverse cast of characters providing a wide array of perspectives, it beautifully illustrates that while everyone is born different, our dreams unite us.
Kamakshi Pappu Murti, the author, is a retired professor of German Studies who has authored a diverse range of writing, from fiction to scholarly works. Her fiction includes children’s books and murder mysteries, with titles like “Lalli’s Window,” “Murders Most Matronly,” and “Murders In The Ivory Tower” to her name. She is also a member of several literary and academic organizations, including the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Modern Language Association (MLA). Currently, she is working on the next installment in the Leela/Meena murder mystery series called “Murders Most Trans-Gressive”.
“Silence Has Secrets” by Nayan Malek
“Will you marry a rape survivor?” This question, innocently asked in a class at IIT Murshidabad, sparks a conversation among students that leads to a dark and unsettling discovery. In “Silence Has Secrets,” Nayan Malek, an alumnus of IIT Madras and a scientist by profession, takes readers on a gripping journey into the complexities of silence, revenge, and the consequences of our actions. When the question is posed, the female students eagerly await the response from their male counterparts. Safin, the class topper, bravely answers in the affirmative, while Akash, afraid of ridicule, responds with a quiet message on his desk. The situation takes a tragic turn when Ranjan, the class troublemaker, becomes the victim of a horrific crime. The list of suspects grows, and the web of intrigue expands, revealing a tapestry of secrets and motives. “Silence Has Secrets” explores the blurred lines between right and wrong, shedding light on the darkest corners of human nature.
Nayan Malek, a passionate writer and scientist, was born and raised in West Bengal, India. He pursued his higher education in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and holds Masters and PhD degrees in Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras). Currently working as a researcher at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, Nayan’s research interests focus on artificial photosynthesis and carbon dioxide reduction. He is also an accomplished writer in Bengali, with a short stories collection titled “Nishwaser Andhakare Riu” and a Bengali novel in progress. He envisions a future where science and literature walk hand in hand.
“The Indomitable” by Ashish Karwasra
In “The Indomitable,” Ashish Karwasra introduces us to a unique love story that defies the odds. Ashish, the protagonist, faces the daunting challenge of muscular dystrophy, a condition that limits his mobility and threatens to confine him to a life in a wheelchair. Apoorva, a spirited girl from a small town, is driven by her relentless determination to achieve her dreams. When their paths cross, they discover a deep connection and fall in love. But life has a way of throwing challenges their way, and they must summon extraordinary strength to weather the storms that lie ahead. “The Indomitable” is a powerful exploration of love, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.
Ashish Karwasra, a first-time author, holds degrees in agriculture and English literature. His voracious appetite for reading and his love for historical fiction, crime, and fantasy novels have fueled his passion for storytelling. Currently residing in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, Ashish shares his thoughts and opinions on various platforms and is accessible through social media and email.
“A Bloody Bilateral Affair” by Sreekant Narayan
Love knows no boundaries, and in “A Bloody Bilateral Affair,” Sreekant Narayan crafts a thrilling narrative that transcends borders. When Aditya Narayan, a young software engineer from India, meets Laila, a beautiful Pakistani girl, on the beaches of Pattaya, it’s love at first sight. Laila accompanies Aditya on a journey to explore India, where he serves as her gracious host. However, as Laila’s adventures unfold, Aditya’s curiosity turns to concern. Why is Laila traveling alone in a country where she’s viewed as an innate enemy? Unbeknownst to them, Laila’s presence attracts the attention of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), setting off a web of intrigue. In a whirlwind 30-day adventure through India, Aditya and Laila face a series of exhilarating, challenging, and unexpected adventures. “A Bloody Bilateral Affair” is a roller coaster ride filled with suspense, patriotism, and romance.
Sreekant Narayan, a Senior Product Manager at Google in the UK, brings a unique blend of engineering and creativity to his writing. A gold medalist from IIM, Kozhikode, Sreekant has always been passionate about literature and storytelling. “A Bloody Bilateral Affair” marks his debut novel, and it reflects his progressive ideas and diverse interests, which encompass technology, sports, travel, and cinema.
As you embark on your literary journey this September, make sure these four exceptional books are at the top of your reading list. Each one offers a unique perspective on life, love, and human experience. Super September Reads has something for everyone, and you won’t want to miss it!