Tuesday 6 September 2016

Curtain Call (A book review)


Author- Various Authors (Author), Rafaa Dalvi (Editor)
Publisher- HALF BAKED BEANS
Pages- 230
Genre- Fiction (Short stories)

Blurb- We live our lives like the ceaseless flow of a river, but we remember it only in pieces, pieces we like to call memories, memories that are shared in the form of stories. What is life if not a number of stories tied together like an anthology? The Curtain Call is one such anthology that brings together stories from different walks of life, stories that would make you pondering upon them for days, stories that make you think, and stories that will leave an imprint on the souls of the readers. From historical fiction to fantasy fiction, this multi-genre anthology contains thought-provoking stories that will take you through a delightful journey beyond time and reality. Whether it is a train journey, space expedition or Mrinalini's royal marriage, Gloria's guest, a spy or an Ookleeboo, a story of love or of bitter sadness, these stories will make you cry, laugh, love and, most importantly, live.

Book Review- Reading an anthology of short stories penned by different authors is like listening to FM radio-one has no clue which song is going to be played next. On the other hand, reading a collection of short stories penned by a single author tends to lose its charm sometimes. The first story sets the tone in such a case. The reader becomes aware of the style of writing and knows what lies in store in the subsequent pages. No surprises there.
‘Curtain Call’ is a collection of short stories with an assortment of authors weaving their magical wand and painting the pages of the book with varied shades. As is evident from the blurb, each story of this collection has a different flavor. I had the unenviable task of reviewing this book and could not, therefore, savor the aroma at leisure. I would advise the readers to read one story at a time and feel the prose course through their bloodstream and invade the deepest caverns of their heart.
There are a few grammatical errors here and there but that does not interrupt the smooth flow of the prose.
The anthology contains twenty stories and if I had to choose one which is closest to my heart, I would be found wanting. Therefore, I would recommend all these little pearls as part of a beautiful necklace. Behold…

Verdict- An assorted cuisine, delectable.


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