My Literary Landscape of 2023

In 2023, I spent working remotely, a consequence of the lingering effects of the COVID lockdown. In the pre-COVID era, when my daily routine involved commuting to work, I consistently allocated at least an hour or two for reading. However, the absence of a daily commute to the office has noticeably reduced the time I spend on books.

Until July 2023, I hadn't ventured into a single book. However, during a school holiday visit to India, I was taken aback by my niece's great collection of books which wasn't the case a year earlier. Her shelf boasted an impressive array of authors and diverse genres. Browsing through her collection prompted me to select and delve into a book, marking the beginning of my literary journey in 2023.

A Place Called Home by Preethi Shenoy

This was my first book from the several books that this author wrote. An effortless read, perfect to pick up when the mind requires no logic but simply seeking a relaxing treat. I might have used a couple of weeks to finish this book. It was a moderately captivating novel that delves into secrets, life dynamics, and self-discovery. I liked the protagonist's character, Alka. She was certainly ambitious and chased her dreams relentlessly. Her hardworking nature kept her at the top of her studies. Despite facing challenges, she remained resilient and family-oriented, deeply caring for her daughters and mother-in-law. Alka was complex too, with secrets she wished to take to her grave. However, when the truth came out, she stood tall and faced it head-on. I might revisit this book but could opt for another title by the same author for a more relaxing read.

ಬೆಟ್ಟದ ಜೀವ by ಶಿವರಾಮ ಕಾರಂತ

I read this book sometime between September and October 2023. It primarily revolves around life in coastal or rural areas, as well as forest settings. It evoked memories of dense forests, the lifestyle during the rainy season, rituals, moments of joy, sacrifice, and more. However, I found that this book might be challenging for readers unfamiliar with the coastal region's culture, language, and lifestyle.

I've read "ಮೂಕಜ್ಜಿಯ ಕನಸುಗಳು" from the same author and I highly recommend it to Kannada readers. However, I felt that "ಬೆಟ್ಟದ ಜೀವ" did not live up to the standards of "ಮೂಕಜ್ಜಿಯ ಕನಸುಗಳು".

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

This book was recommended by our friend Deepti. It's a straightforward yet essential read for everyone. Its true depth is best appreciated when the reader is experiencing family life. Reading it during earlier phases of life might not fully capture its essence. I strongly encourage all readers to pick up this book.

It's a swift-moving philosophical novel that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. It delves into the spiritual journey of a young Indian man seeking enlightenment. Ultimately, the book suggests that the true value of life is grasped through personal experience rather than verbal teachings. One must navigate through life's various phases to truly understand its significance, and enlightenment is achieved through love and accumulated experience.

This book is definitely on my reread list.

Hidden Hindu by Akshath Gupta

The Hidden Hindu comprises three books and is rooted in Hindu mythology. This fictional work captivated me with its rich narrative, offering ample insights into yugas, immortals, and sacred sites. While some chapters felt less engaging, on the whole, it was a satisfying read. I found the conclusion of the series as a spectacular one