So at the beginning of twenty-nineteen I made a clear goal to read more books. I’ve always been an avid reader, however, these last two years I have dropped off the reading bandwagon & collectively may have only read two or three books.
I decided to turn things around this year. I would read for at least one to two hours each day & got into a healthy rhythm, however, of late I have been struggling to even read past five pages. I’m not sure what it is, but I haven’t been able to connect with any books. Bad writing, bad characters or the lack of a griping storyline. I’m really unsure.
Having said that, I’ve read some great titles this year, some average, & some characters that will stay with me.
I discovered Angela Saini through Instagram & immediately ordered Geek nation. To be very honest, I had a tough time getting through the first few chapters but then was completely submerged hook, line & sinker. If you’re a lover of science & technology, then this a must read. Angela dives into the nation she dubs as the land of “Geeks”, travelling throughout India speaking to professors, scientists, biologists & billionaire tech heads on the future of science & how India as a nation is producing some of the worlds most sought after “Geeks”.
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari – Robin Sharma
While in Nepal, I was lazily browsing a bookstore one afternoon & happened to stumble upon Robin Sharma. After a quick Google search, I was back in my hotel room glued. To sum it up, Sharma outlines a step-by-step guide to living your best life to its full potential. This one of those titles you should read with a pen or highlighter in hand because there are a number of points you would to go back to. In saying that, I will definitely be referring back to this book.
The Householder – Amitabh Bagchi
Again, I randomly picked this title up, read a quick synopsis & was well on my way. If you’re someone who gets bored easily or are looking for a gripping narrative, then this is for you. This book centres around the protagonist who is corrupt & prides himself of being the provider to his family, however, is stripped of his title when faced with the consequences of corruption & his snow balling family. This book moves fast & the characters are well written. This book keeps you wanting more.
Think & Grow Rich – Napolean Hill
Known as one of the bestselling books of all time, Napolean Hill draws on stories from millionaires of his time & extracts the principles. I found parts of the book somewhat outdated, however, has some great points on how to attain a positive mindset, be successful & overall how not be an asshole.
Sita Warrior of Mithila – Amish
In true Akshara fashion, I didn’t read the cover correctly & soon realised that Sita was the second part of the Ram Chandra series. Irrespective, I absolutely loved the world Amish created & especially enjoyed how bad-ass Sita is. She’s a woman of intelligence, confidence & stands her ground. Quite the departure from what scriptures make Sita out to be. This book ends on a fantastic cliff hanger, undoubtedly I’ll be ordering the third instalment – Raavan!
Bachelor of Arts – R.K. Narayan
This is one out three R.K. Narayan books I bought & oh my. The Story centres around a twenty something, fresh graduate, going through the trials & tribulations life has to offer after graduation. He seeks freedom & a desire to break-free from societal norms & expectations. I feel most readers will find certain aspects of this book relatable.
Keep reading
-A
Akshara 
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