Staged! The Biggest Names From the Events Industry Go Live

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Authors: Sapna Gupta Navneeth and Deepak Chodhary
Publisher: Om Books International, New Delhi
(Pp 234, ISBN 978-93-83202-11-9, Rs 395)

Claimed to be the first book on the Indian Live Event Industry that goes beyond just academic definitions, the book reveals what it is like to be a part of the industry. With a foreword by the original showman of live events, Subhash Ghai, and an introduction by EEMA President Sabbas Joseph, the book features 17 top industry leaders who have been instrumental is making an industry where there was none.

The book provides important insights on the size of the industry and gamut of its engagement. It also shows how this sunrise industry is already on an unstoppable curve.

How To Win Friends & Influence People

Author: Dale Carnegie
Publisher: Diamond Books, New Delhi
(Pp 224, ISBN 978-93-5261-259-8, Rs 150)

This international bestseller is a timeless book on tips to win friends and influence people. The revised edition carries the same charm and helpful advice to win friends. It presents a lot of information on personality development, thus making one an extraordinary person. It gives simple tips like smiling and how to start a conversation. The book is simple to follow and can be of a great help to people who are shy or introverts. For others, it can help to make a good and lasting impression and develop leadership skills. A must-read book for everyone!

20 Shakespeare Children’s Stories

Publisher: Sweet Cherry Publishing, UK
(ISBN 9781782260202, $159.80 USD)

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. His works have been adapted and readapted to create new stories, but the original ones still remain evergreen. This timeless collection of 20 books is a tribute to the great writer. It presents a thoughtful selection of twenty plays which have been suitably simplified, narrated and illustrated for young reader. Though the illustrations are in black-and-white, but the effect is same as coloured ones. Every page has an illustration, thereby adding to the visualisation of the reader.

These books can be read by children. The easy-to-read narration and comic-style illustrations are sure to captivate children’s interest and develop their reading skills. Even teachers can use them as a classroom resource. A collector’s item for all!

Saanvri: The story of a concubine

Author: Vinod Pande; Publisher: Niyogi Books, New Delhi
(Pp 264, ISBN 978-93-85285-45-5, Rs 250)

The cover itself is a testimony to the fact that the book would be provocative, racy and bold. The story revolves around Saanvri, who learns to use the wanton carnality in men as a means of gratification as well as a weapon for rising high. Soon, she learns that she is merely used and abused by this patriarchal society. Though Saanvri becomes emotionally involved with the men in her lives, she soon realises that they are merely looking for the physical gratification she provided. The story is not new, such things do happen all around and there are so many instances of women being used by men in power. Even today, women are objectified and used by them for mere pleasure. Yet, the story is captivating, compelling reader to know what happens next. But, the only thing that disturbs is the use of cuss words in Hindi, which could have been avoided.

Godaan, Nirmala and other stories

Author: Munshi Premchand, Screenplay: Gulzar

Publisher: The Lotus Collection, Roli Books, New Delhi; (ISBN 978-93-5194-105-7, Rs 795) 

When we talk of Indian literature, we cannot fail to remember the writings of Munshi Premchand. Packaged beautifully, this two-book set is a treasure for all literature enthusiasts. The stories are realistic, focusing on the problems of the poor and urban middle class. Gulzar also needs no introduction. His screenplay has added charm to the whole script. 

Written beautifully, these evergreen stories have come to life again. Set in a village in Uttar Pradesh, Godaan is the story of misfortunes of a poor farmer, who has his heart set on buying a cow but his life gets entangled in the web of debts and circumstances that never lets him come out of the throes of caste segregation and exploitation in an unequal society. Written more than eighty years ago, this classic adaptation by Gulzar is still relevant and brings to fore the fact that for the farmer or a labour in rural India, things are still the same.

The second book in the twin pack is a screenplay of Nirmala & Other Stories. Nirmala is about a young girl, who marries a widower. But, problem arises when the man sees his bride very friendly with his son, who is of the same age as her. All the stories are heart-warming and leave a lasting impression on the readers.

Divided Minds War of the Worlds Within

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Author: Sanjay Koppikar
Publisher: Sapna Ink
(Pp 282, ISBN 9789386116376, Rs 245)

The book Divided Minds is a tribute to scientists who are trying to make our lives better through nano technologies. As the name goes, characters in the book have divided minds – they are in a dilemma whether to go in one direction or the other.

Three parallel stories run together; but are entwined together. There is a brilliant scientist whose breakthrough in nano technology can change the world; a girl who has to choose between two men – one who stood by her in thick and thin and another who evokes deep feelings; and an army general who has to choose between his job and saving the nation.

The plot is interesting and reminds us how we battled the war within ourselves, making life’s toughest decisions.

The Path of Yoga

Author: Osho; Publisher: Diamond Books
(Pp 256, ISBN 9789352612055 Rs 250)

Yoga is an integral part of our health-conscious cultural landscape practised by millions for health and fitness reasons. Yoga is not just a body exercise programme; it has a philosophical and spiritual dimension to it.

Diamond Books has brought a 10-part series of talks titled Yoga: The Path of Soul in which Osho talks about Yoga. This is the first book in the series and introduces us to Patanjali, the founder of ancient Yoga in India. It takes us step by step into a deeper understanding of the essence and origin of Yoga.

If you wish to meditate but find your mind drift away too soon, this is a book for you as Osho breaks down Yoga sutras in easy to digest chunks. He believes that there are no rigid rules to accomplish it, just ideas which can be digested and incorporated in our consciousness. The book teaches us exactly that.

Sharbari Datta: The Design Diva

Author: Baisali Chatterjee Dutt
Publisher: Niyogi Books
(Pp 188, ISBN 9789383098880, Rs 1,995)

Fashion and colourful outfits is not just for women… Sharbari Datta has proved that. She has been instrumental in bringing men's ethnic wear in India to the limelight. She has given kantha traditional handicraft of rural Bengal a facelift making it cool, trendy and fashionable. Not just this, she reintroduced old dhoti-punjabi outfit to younger generation… making it look as cool as denim.

This is the first book that captures Sharbari Datta's life and work. Her multifaceted personality and creativity are explored through the rich collection of photographs featured in the book. The book is divided into seven chapters: Introducing Sharbari Datta; The Design Diva; The Business Side of Things; The Men, the Memories, the Milestones; And They Say; Everything Else You Wanted to Know; and Future Perfect.

Beautifully printed and aesthetically designed, the book is appealing to the eyes. Vivid pictures are breathtaking… making Indian ethnic wear look so cool and comfortable for men. Get to know more about this design diva, in a tete-atete with the lady herself.

The book will be an inspiration for many and a collector’s item for all!

Corpokshetra

Corpokshetra: Mahabharata in the MBA Yug

Author: Deepak Kaul
Publisher: Westland Ltd & Bloody Good Book
(Pp 124, ISBN 9789385724930, Rs 200)

The story of Mahabharata has never failed to amaze us. It is still so relevant in today’s time, though the situations are different. That’s the essence and the inspiration for the book Corpokshetra. The cover is interesting– Krishna dons a cap with his iconic peacock feather while Kauravas and Pandavas are fighting on the desk. Yes the book is a modern corporate Mahabharata.

There’s a twist to the characters, Hastinapur is a business empire, Bheeshma the man behind it, Duryodhan runs it while Dhritrashtra owns it. Pandavas have come out of exile (working for NGOs) and now want their share. Krishna is the consultant who is good at negotiations and corporate deals. What follows is a corporate boardroom – Kurukshetra – which sees 18 days of war of the words and some cricket and golf in the last two days.

The book has a humorous angle to it – wanting the reader to know what happens in the end, though everyone knows the climax of Mahabharata.

Keep Eating Keep Losing

Author: Claudia Ciesla
Publisher: Om Books International, New Delhi
(Pp 218, ISBN 9789385273933 Rs 195)

One can’t help but picking up the book – Keep Eating Keep Losing as the title of the book is so tempting. Who doesn’t want to eat and yet maintain the perfect figure and weight? Written by model and actress Claudia Ciesla, the book teaches us how to make healthy living an integral part of our life without taking the fun out of it.

Claudia takes readers on her on own journey wherein her busy schedules and unhealthy eating habits landed her in hospital. It was then that she realised the value of healthy eating. With dietary changes and regular exercise regimen, she succeeded in getting the right weight.

The book presents a holistic strategy drawn to reorganise our life by making good health an important goal. It shows us how the right blend of healthy eating, exercise and rest can help us stay in shape. With easy-to-follow tips, the book also provides healthy recipes to pamper your taste buds. Written in an n easy-to-follow manner, the book will be helpful to all those who are trying to lose weight or struggling to maintain it.

A Leap in Blue Moon

Author: Ishwar Vedam
Publisher: The Bookmaster, DS Publishers India, New Delhi
(Pp 189, ISBN 9788180232022, Rs 150)

As a child, many of us would have struggled with idioms. What if the idioms are the only way to survive and get back home? Well, that’s the book all about. The character Nidhi Sharma hates English, especially idioms, because the literal meaning is so different from the actual one. But, she is proved wrong when she takes a leap in the dark on a night of a blue moon, and finds herself in a place called Graria, where happenings violate common sense. Infact, all the characters and events seem to tumble out of the dictionary of idioms, which she hates. The only way Nidhi can go home is to understand the rules of the game.

Tightly and intricately woven, the book keeps you guessing what happens next. The author’s portrayal of the little girl is very convincing – her emotions, way of thinking and her problem-solving capabilities – all are written so well. A few illustrations here and there will make young readers look for more.

What’s more? By the end of the book, readers will know and remember many idioms as well. The book will be liked by both children and adults.

Hitopdesha Tales

Publisher: Edu Hub Publishing 

The word Hitopdesha comes from Hita and Updesha, where Hita means welfare and Updesha means to advice or counsel. Hitopdesha Tales is a compilation of stories that advise for the welfare of others. These stories have been believed to be written in 14th century by Narayan Pandit. Since then, they have entertained and advised millions.

Like Panchtantra, these stories can never be out of vogue. Edu hub Publishing has recreated the magic of these stories in this book. Beautifully illustrated, the book will be liked by children and parents alike!

–Varsha

The Pocket Doctor: Medical Tips for Common illnesses

Book Reviews

The Pocket Doctor: Medical Tips for Common illnesses

Author: Dr. Anila Chandy
Publisher: Viva Books,
(Pp 140, ISBN 978-81-309-1261-5, Rs 295)

Written by a practicing physician Dr Anila Chandy of Apollo Group of Hospitals and Motherhood Hospitals, Chennai, it is a this practical guide to understand what various symptoms mean and how to deal with them. It tells us what can be the causes for it and what tests should be performed to find the underlying cause.

If you have a query to your illness, this book has the answer. It also contains some practical tips such as how to adjust the insulin dose in diabetes, how much alcohol can one drink, etc. Written in easy-to-understand format, it equips the reader with some understanding of common ailments before approaching a hospital. It also gives sound advice on how and what to eat and live a healthy life. After all, prevention is always better than cure!

–Varsha Verma 

Everything will Fall into Place

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Author: Nipun Goel
Publisher: GenNext Publication
(Pp 155, ISBN 978-93-8022-288-2, Rs 180)

A remarkable effort by a debut author…
Everything will Fall into Place is a story of a guy and his tryst with destiny, desire and diligence. It actually works on the principle that when you desire something with all your heart, the universe aspires to make it happen. The story revolves around Gautam Kapoor who is an ordinary man but how he becomes one of the most eligible bachelors in the country. The book also touches upon two of the most important emotions in our lives – love and pain. Yet there are numerous instances which will make you laugh.

The language is simple, yet you feel you can actually see what’s happening. Infact, it is like a movie…with all elements to make it a blockbuster!

–Varsha Verma

Children books

Vikram & Betaal: The Storyteller Series

Sutradhar: Nidhi Kundra
Publisher: Edu Hub Publishing, New Delhi
(ISBN: 978-93-859-9405-0)

Indian mythology boasts of a number of evergreen stories, which have been told and retold many times and will continue to be a favourite for centuries. Vikram & Betaal is based on Betaal Pacchisi, written nearly 2,500 years ago by Mahakavi Somdev Bhatt.

These are spellbinding stories told to the wise King Vikramaditya by the wily ghost Betaal. King Vikramaditya has been given the task to catch Betaal, who with his wit, always succeeds in setting himself free. He tells a story to the king on the way and warns him not to utter a single word, else he will fly away. After every story, Betaal asks him a puzzling question, which Vikramaditya cannot resist to answer, as he is a wise man.

In this new series, these old stories have been given a fresh look and appeal to attract kids. Beautifully illustrated and simple text, the book will appeal to one and all.

–Varsha Verma

Simply Nanju

Author: Zainab Sulaiman
Publisher: Duckbill Books, New Delhi
(Pp 128 Pages, ISBN 978-93-83331-70-3, Price Rs. 199)

A sinple and warm story about a boy Nanju, who is a carefree lad, who does not cares that he walks funny or that he’s known as the class copy cat or that the cleverest (and prettiest) girl in class barely knows he’s alive. Nanju studies in a school for children who are differently-abled.

But, he is really smart and he, along with his beloved friend- Mahesh, manages to solve the mystery of books disappearing from the classroom as everyone suspects Nanju. Moreover, his father has warned him that he will send him to Unni Mama’s all-boys Hostel from Hell, if he is the culprit. Nanju is determined to find the real thief and continue to live the life in the way he loves.

Fast-paced and extremely enjoyable, the book will appeal to kids and also help them empathise with those who are differently-abled.

–Varsha Verma

My First Encyclopedia

Publisher: Edu Hub, New Delhi,
(ISBN 9789385994005, Rs 350; $ 10)

My First Encyclopedia (First Edition: 2016) is designed as a ready reference for the upper primary age group. The book is beautifully illustrated with real and lively pictures and gives the reader an insight into the Universe, the world of Science, Human Body, Birds and Animals, Wild Fauna and Wonders of the World. The encyclopedia has been designed in simple language as a supplementary tool not only for school projects but also to satiate the appetite of the eager learners. Amazing Facts have been added in each topic to provide an insight into the mystics of the natural and man made world. First in the series, My First Encyclopedia is sure to serve as a self help tool for its learners.

–Vasu V

The Bhagwad Gita

A modern interpretation) 

Interpreter: Dayanand Verma
Publisher: Diamond Books, New Delhi
(Pp 208, ISBN 9789351659778, Rs 175)

Gita is a revolutionary creation of its age and for all the ages. So many interpretations have been written and rewritten for this reverend text. Every word in Gita is embedded in the history of that age and it can only be grasped with an understanding of the era when this sermon was preached. Many words in our present day vocabulary had different connotations during the Vedic age. Keeping this in mind, the slokas in this book have not been translated verbatim. Instead, their essential meaning has been given, following the current manner of speech.

Written in an easy-to-understand format, the book shows how Gita is relevant in this age as well.

- V Verma

Gandhi Global

Publisher: Lotus Press, New Delhi
(Pp 224, ISBN 9788183823241, Rs 175)

The book is an abridged version of Gandhi’s autobiography My Life – In Search of Truth for the general reader.

Written in an easy to understand language, the book brings insights into the life of this great leader.

Readers can get a glimpse of his life, which is very similar to ours. For example, he shares his experience in England, where he could not speak at a committee meeting because he was at loss of words and felt shy. He also shares how he posed himself as bachelor when he was married and a father of a child.

As the book progresses, readers can see how this normal person transformed into the great leader. A must read book for all those who wish to know more about Gandhi.

- Varsha