After 28:What remains by Hrishikesh barhate

Book review ✨

✨ After 28 what remains by Hrishikesh barhate

Genre – contemporary fiction

After 2″After 28: What Remains” by Hrishikesh Barhate is a poignant exploration of trauma, mental health, and healing.
Set in Mumbai, the book follows two siblings Sarvesh and Anaya navigating emotional struggles and questioning the purpose of life.
19 year old Sarvesh ,an engineering student , suddenly has to leave his career and college , after his parents get arrested in a falsely accussed fraud case.
Sarvesh is left to take care her 14 year old sister ,anaya and himself. How he navigates everyday life and manages to give anaya , an education she deserves.the stories goes back and forth with sarvesh’s present and past which haunts him still. This book does end on a happy note where he finds out all the answers to his question that has always haunted him “what remains”.With Anaya, Rohan, Kavya and his parents by his side, Sarvesh finally has a lot to look forward to.

This book is “honest, painful, and profoundly human,” with writing that’s “subtle yet powerful” and “lingers long after the last page”

The story delves into survival mode, forgiveness, and transforming pain into purpose. It’s a raw, unflinching look at mental health, sibling bonds, and emotional recovery. If you’re into stories about resilience and self-discovery, this book is a must-read .

#After28WhatRemains #BookReview #ReadingCommunity #Bookstagram #SelfDiscovery

Bogey Bonhomie by Sanjeev Bhatia

📚 Book Review: Bogey Bonhomie by Sanjeev bhatia

🪻Just finished reading Bogey Bonhomie, and it’s a thoughtful mix of friendship, mystery, and destiny.
🪻Bogey Bonhomie by Sanjeev Bhatia is a heartwarming tale of friendship that defies time and fate. Picture two Goa boys Ray and Roy in 1961 chasing Portuguese treasure, only to reincarnate as Mumbai school buddies forming a “Pentagon of bonhomie”—that’s the magical hook with twists that shocked even thriller fans.

🪻Smooth dual timelines blend Goa’s serene beaches with Mumbai’s hustle, spiced by real events like the dot-com bust.

🪻The story moves between the past and present, showing how deep bonds between people can go beyond time and circumstances.

🪻What I loved most is how the book explores loyalty, trust, and the consequences of greed through the lives of its characters. The Goa setting and the mystery around a hidden treasure add an intriguing layer to the emotional storyline.

🪻The pacing is slow but reflective, making it a good read for people who enjoy meaningful stories rather than fast-paced thrillers.
If you like novels about friendship, fate, and a touch of mystery, this one is worth adding to your reading list!
⭐ Rating: 4/5

#ReadingCommunity💫 #BogeyBonhomie #Bookstagram #IndianReads #ReincarnationMagic SunjeevBhatia

Love is not Child’s play by Sanjeev bhatia

📚 Book Review: Love Is Not Child’s Play by Sanjeev bhatia
Genre- contemporary fiction

🪻This book shows that love is beautiful but also complicated. It tells us that love is not just fun or fantasy like we see in movies. Real love needs patience, understanding, and responsibility.

🪻The story follows the life of Satbir and his friend Harry , her mother Mimi, neighbour Mr and Mrs Balsara  and also Uncle Freddy who’s a fatherly figure to Satbir. Things change when Aunt Tiara, Samaya and Sherrie enter Satbir’s life. Will Samaya stand a chance or will Sherrie sweep him off his Feet?
It is now upto Satbir to choose the girl of his dreams to get it right, and keep his family out of triangle.

🪻As they grow older, they realize that love is not a game. Their choices, emotions, and mistakes teach them what true love really means.
🪻The book also talks about time, truth, and how life changes people. It reminds readers that relationships need maturity and honesty to survive.

🪻The writing is simple and emotional, making it easy to connect with the characters. It is a good read for anyone who wants a realistic view of love and relationships.
🪻The book is written as a timeless story, for theatre.The swings in gate and cupid give ample opportunity to stage the drama.There’s always a musical reference by Sun:jeev to set the mood.
🪻 If you enjoy thoughtful stories about love, life, and growing up, this book is worth reading.

⭐ Rating: 4/5

#BookReview #LoveIsNotChildsPlay #Bookstagram #ReadingLife #BookLovers SimpleReads

Worry free living by ryuho okawa

✨ BOOK REVIEW ✨

📖 *Worry-Free Living – Ryuho Okawa*

Genre- Non fiction

⭐ Rating: 3.5/5

This book is all about finding **inner peace in a stressful world** 🌿

Ryuho Okawa shares simple yet powerful ideas on how to:
• Let go of overthinking
• Improve relationships
• Stop comparing yourself to others
• Handle criticism without losing confidence

💡 What I liked:
The message is clear — *your mindset shapes your happiness*. The book encourages seeing problems as opportunities for growth rather than stress. It’s easy to read and filled with practical life lessons.

💭 What could be better:
At times, the writing feels repetitive and a bit preachy. Some advice may feel basic if you’ve already read self-help books.

🌱 Key takeaway:
“Peace comes when you change how you see problems, not when problems disappear.”

📌 Final thought:
A calming, spiritual self-help book for beginners who want a simple guide to living with less worry and more positivity.

#BookReview #SelfHelpBooks #WorryFreeLiving #MentalPeace #PersonalGrowth #Bookstagram

Poet’s yard by Manali Rajvansh

Poet’s Yard by Manali Rajvansh

Genre – Poetry

Introduction
*Poet’s Yard* is a contemporary poetry collection published in 2019. The book contains around 112 pages of poems accompanied by illustrations created by the author herself. It explores simple yet powerful human emotions such as love, longing, hope, pain, and personal growth.



Themes and Content
The poems in this collection revolve around raw and relatable emotions. Many poems talk about relationships, heartbreak, self-discovery, and survival through difficult times. The language is simple and accessible, which allows readers from different backgrounds to connect with the feelings expressed in the poems. The collection aims to capture small emotional moments—what the author describes as “little figments of raw and relatable emotions.”

Another notable element of the book is its romantic and reflective tone. The poems often express vulnerability and sincerity, giving the reader a sense of intimacy with the poet’s thoughts. Because of this emotional honesty, many readers find the poems comforting and thought-provoking.

Style and Presentation
One of the unique aspects of the book is the **illustrations that accompany the poems**. Since the author is also an illustrator, the drawings add visual beauty and help convey the mood of each poem. These illustrations enhance the reading experience and make the book aesthetically appealing. ([imusic.se][1])

The writing style is minimalist and lyrical, focusing more on feelings than complex poetic structure. This simplicity makes the book especially appealing to readers who enjoy modern, Instagram-style poetry.

Strengths

* Simple and emotionally relatable poetry
* Themes of love, healing, and self-reflection
* Beautiful illustrations that complement the poems
* Accessible language suitable for new poetry readers

Limitations

* Some readers may find the poems too brief or straightforward compared to classical poetry.
* The themes, while heartfelt, sometimes repeat similar emotional ideas.

Conclusion
Overall, *Poet’s Yard* is a heartfelt collection that captures everyday emotions in a gentle and artistic way. It is particularly suitable for readers who enjoy modern, emotional, and visually appealing poetry. The combination of sincere poems and creative illustrations makes the book a meaningful and pleasant reading experience.

⭐ **Overall Rating:** 4/5

The Graveyard book by Neil Gaiman

📖 *The Graveyard Book* — Graphic Novel Volumes 1 & 2

Written by Neil Gaiman
Adapted into graphic novel by P. Craig Russell ( with illustration contributed by other illustrators too)

Genre- middle grade graphic novel


There’s something deliciously strange about a boy growing up in a graveyard — and somehow, in *The Graveyard Book*, it feels less morbid and more magical.

Originally written as a novel by Neil Gaiman, the story follows Nobody “Bod” Owens, a child whose family is murdered and who is then raised by ghosts, a vampire guardian, and other eerie residents of a cemetery. The graphic novel adaptation, masterfully led by P. Craig Russell, transforms this haunting coming-of-age tale into something visually immersive and emotionally layered.

Volume 1

The first volume introduces Bod’s unusual upbringing. The graveyard isn’t just a setting — it becomes a living (well… technically not living) community.

Russell and the team of artists use shifting illustration styles to mirror Bod’s growth and the tone of each chapter. The art leans into shadow and texture, creating an atmosphere that’s spooky without being overwhelming,it feels more comic like than the usual graphic novel style.



Volume 2

The second volume deepens everything — the danger, the emotion, the stakes. As Bod gets older, the outside world pulls at him, and the mystery of the man who killed his family resurfaces. The artwork becomes sharper, more intense, and at times more cinematic. The emotional payoff in this volume hits harder, especially as Bod faces what growing up truly means: leaving the safety of home, even if that home is among the dead.


What Makes It Special

*🌙 Atmosphere:Gothic but never grotesque. It feels like a classic fairy tale told at midnight.
* 🖤 Artistic Variety: Different illustrators contribute to chapters, giving each section its own personality while keeping the story cohesive.
* 🌱 Coming-of-Age Core:Beneath the ghosts and ghouls, this is a deeply human story about identity, independence, and belonging.

This graphic format doesn’t just retell the novel — it enhances it. The visuals make the graveyard feel intimate and real, and Bod’s journey feels even more immediate.

It’s eerie. It’s gentle. It’s bittersweet.
And somehow, it makes a graveyard feel like home.

Jukebox by Nidhi Chanani

“Jukebox” by Nidhi Chanani:

Genre – middle grade graphic novel

“Jukebox” by Nidhi Chanani: A Harmonious Tale of Family and Time

Nidhi Chanani’s graphic novel “Jukebox” is a captivating blend of music, family, and time travel that will resonate with readers of all ages. The story follows Shaheen, a young girl who discovers a magical jukebox that whisks her and her cousin Tannaz away on a journey through decades of music history to find her missing father. As they travel through time, they meet iconic musicians and experience pivotal moments in music history, from Motown to Woodstock.

With its vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative, “Jukebox” explores themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery. Chanani’s storytelling is both poignant and uplifting, making this a must-read for fans of graphic novels and music alike. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Shaheen’s journey serving as a powerful metaphor for finding one’s own voice.

The artwork is a highlight, with Chanani’s signature style bringing the music and characters to life. The use of color and texture adds depth to the story, making it a treat to read and visually stunning.

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommendation: Perfect for readers who enjoy stories about family, music, and adventure. Similar books like “Roller Girl” by Victoria Jamieson and “March” by John Lewis might also strike a chord. If you’re looking for a heartwarming tale with a strong narrative and beautiful artwork, “Jukebox” is a great choice.

Stepping Stone by Lucy Knisley

Book review – steeping stone by lucy Knisley

Genre– middle grade slice of life graphic novel

*Stepping Stones** is a middle-grade graphic novel by Lucy Knisley, the first in the Peapod Farm series, published in 2020. It follows Jen, a city girl adjusting to rural life after her parents’ divorce, as she moves to a farm with her mom, her mom’s boyfriend Walter, and his two daughters.



Plot Overview
Jen resents leaving New York City for farm chores like tending chickens and selling at markets. She clashes with Walter, who dismisses her feelings, and navigates tensions with stepsisters Andy and Meghan. Over time, she finds common ground through empathy and small victories, learning to adapt step by step.

Illustration and colour scheme used in this one is remarkable and brilliant.it goes so well with the mood of the scene and complements so well . Beautifully illustrated and detailed enough to bring out the story.



## Critical Reception
Reviewers praise Knisley’s authentic portrayal of childhood powerlessness and blended-family dynamics, with vivid illustrations and relatable emotions. Many highlight its charm for young readers facing change, though some criticize Walter’s condescending behavior as underdeveloped or concerningly normalized.

## Strengths and Criticisms
– **Strengths**: Captures kid-unfairness viscerally; strong sisterly bonds; humor balances heavy themes; draws from Knisley’s life for realism.


– **Criticisms**: Walter’s treatment of Jen feels unresolved; risks excusing poor adult behavior in a kids’ book.

Overall, it’s recommended for ages 8-12 seeking heartfelt stories of resilience, earning high marks like 4 stars from libraries and sites like Goodreads.

Fragments of Horror by Junji ito

Book Review: Fragments of Horror by Junji Ito

Junji Ito’s Fragments of Horror marks the celebrated mangaka’s return to the genre after an eight-year hiatus, offering a collection of eight stories that traverse his signature terrain of psychological dread, grotesque body horror, and the uncanny. While the collection is eagerly anticipated by fans, it delivers a mixed experience that oscillates between the inventive and the uneven.

The anthology opens with “Futon,” a brief and somewhat underwhelming tale that sets a subdued tone for the collection.

However, Ito quickly reasserts his mastery with stories like “Dissection-Chan,” which stands out as the book’s highlight. Here, Ito crafts a chilling urban legend about a woman obsessed with being dissected, blending visceral horror with a surreal, almost folkloric sensibility. The unsettling imagery and psychological tension are classic Ito, leaving a lingering sense of unease that exemplifies his best work

.

Other stories, such as “Blackbird,” showcase Ito’s ability to disturb through both concept and execution; the narrative of a hiker’s bizarre survival ordeal is rendered with a creeping dread that persists long after the final page

“Gentle Goodbye” provides a rare, somber counterpoint—a meditation on grief and familial bonds that eschews gore for emotional resonance. This story, along with “Whispering Woman,” demonstrates Ito’s range, offering moments of poignancy amid the collection’s more grotesque entries.

Despite these strengths, Fragments of Horror is not without its shortcomings. Several stories feel rushed or underdeveloped, with abrupt endings and twists that lack the narrative cohesion of Ito’s earlier masterpieces. The collection also grapples with problematic elements, notably in its depiction of certain characters, which may feel dated or insensitive to contemporary readers. The art remains consistently striking, with Ito’s trademark detailed linework and expressive faces heightening the impact of the horror, even when the storytelling falters.

Ultimately, Fragments of Horror is most likely to appeal to established fans eager for any new material from Ito, rather than newcomers seeking an introduction to his oeuvre. While the collection contains flashes of the author’s macabre brilliance, it falls short of the sustained terror and inventiveness found in his seminal works. For those willing to accept its unevenness, however, there are still moments of genuine horror and artistry to be found.

Fangs by Sarah Anderson

🌸💞

Fangs by Sarah Anderson
~Book Review ~
Publisher – Andrew McMeel Publishing
Writter and illustrator – Sarah Anderson


🍓This book was nominated for Goodbooks choice Award under Best graphic novel and comic category 2020
🍓it has also been the New york times bestseller.
🍓Fangs was first featured in Tapas a webcomic platform.

It’s a delightful short read of a love story between a vampire, Elsie and a werewolf ,Jimmy.
Elsie the vampire is three hundred years old, but in all that time, she has never met her match. Elsie catches Jimmy’s ear when she picks dogs over cats.
🍓That part was really hilarious were Elsie makes a pros and cons list.That would definitely be my favourite page from it.

Together they enjoy horror films and scary novels, shady strolls, fine dining (though never with garlic), and a genuine fondness for each other’s unusual habits, macabre lifestyles, and monstrous appetites. The ending though somehow felt incomplete.Is there Fangs 2 coming anytime soon ?

🍓Andersen takes monster tropes and creates beautiful parallels with real-world relationship issues.

🍓 Filled with Sarah Andersen’s beautiful gothic illustrations and relatable relationship humor, Fangs has all the makings of a cult classic.

My favourite page from this book

The thing that caught my eye the most was the deluxe hardcover wrapped with a beautiful red cloth and fonts engraved gives the book an extra gothic touch.Even the edges of the book are painted black .

These little details adds up to the overall aesthetic of this book that matches up so well with the storyline.