A Harvest of Ecstasy (Paperback)

Author: Mathew Attokaran

Publisher: Niyogi Books, New Delhi
(Pp 216, ISBN 978-93-83098-97-2, Rs 295)

Set in a small village in Kerala, A Harvest of Ecstasy is the heart-warming story of the prestigious Kollegal family belonging to the picturesque village of Puthupady. The novel traces the fortunes of Thomachan and his family who own one of the richest and most successful estates in the region. The novel also brings into light Molly, who evolved from a devoted daughter-in-law, a dutiful wife, a potential mistress of the estate to a woman capable of making a hard choice that brings her happiness.

Set in the period between the 1930s and the 1980s, the author uses important social, political and sporting events to provide the chronological backdrop for the saga. He has also weaved unique customs and ceremonies of the Syrian Catholics of Kerala into the story. The book also throws light on the harvesting on various crops like spices, coffee, tea, arecanut, coconut and rubber. A reader gets a glimpse of the life in that era. All in all, it is a simple novel studded with picturesque account of the village in Kerala.

- V Verma

High Blood Cholesterol: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Author: Dr Krishan Gupta

Publisher: Orient Paperbacks
(Pp 240, ISBN 9788122205893, Rs 295)

High Blood Cholesterol is a major cause of heart attacks, but it can be prevented, controlled and reversed. This book helps in preventing coronary heart disease by recognizing, modifying and reducing the risk due to high blood cholesterol.

While many of us are aware of the risk, few really know whether they are in the high, medium or low risk category. This book informs the likely damages caused by high cholesterol, and shows the way to counter them. It tells you how simple changes in diet and lifestyle can bring cholesterol within normal limits.

Informative, authoritative and comprehensive - the book is backed by the latest in research, surgical remedies and medicinal cures. Divided into four parts – understanding cholesterol, causes of high blood cholesterol, lowering your cholesterol and a healthy future is yours – the book gives practical tips for choosing the right food, and do’s and don’ts for a healthy lifestyle.

- Varsha Verma