Reviews

“Being Human in a War Zone” by Meher Pestonji is a poignant and compelling collection of fourteen stories that intricately weave the lives of ordinary citizens facing extraordinary challenges in war-torn regions. The narratives span across diverse cultures, including Afghanistan, America, Ukraine, Sudan, Syria, and Tibet, offering readers a glimpse into the mental and physical landscapes of individuals grappling with the complexities of life amidst conflict.

The author, Meher Pestonji, a seasoned Indian social worker, freelance journalist, and writer, brings a unique blend of empathy and journalistic precision to her storytelling. Born into the Parsi community in India, Pestonji’s own experiences and dedication to social causes since the 1970s undoubtedly shape the depth and authenticity of her narratives.

The stories delve into the lives of characters like Dariya, Macy, Nabeel, and Romeo, each dealing with personal struggles in the midst of war-like situations. Whether it’s a daughter striving to save her mother, a mother worrying about her son’s safety, or individuals seeking new beginnings, Pestonji masterfully portrays the human condition in the face of adversity.

Meher Pestonji’s extensive career in activism is palpable in the themes explored within the stories. From fighting for rape law changes in the 1970s to advocating for the housing rights of slum dwellers, children’s rights, and anti-communalism campaigns, Pestonji’s commitment to social justice resonates in her literary work.

The collection reflects Pestonji’s evolution as a writer, with each story serving as a canvas where the hues of human resilience and vulnerability are painted with finesse. Her narrative style is deeply rooted in her personal and journalistic experiences, creating a compelling fusion of storytelling and social commentary.

Among Pestonji’s notable works are “Mixed Marriage and Other Stories,” “Pervez,” “Sadak Chhaap,” and others, showcasing a consistent commitment to weaving stories that reflect the human experience in all its complexity.

In “Being Human in a War Zone,” Meher Pestonji succeeds in humanizing the often-overlooked stories of individuals caught in the crossfire of conflict. The collection is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an invitation for readers to empathize with the diverse lives affected by the ravages of war.

Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar

In the ethereal realm of poetic expression, Krishti Khandelwal’s “A Home in the Realm of Chaos” stands as a testament to the profound journey embarked upon by a soul brimming with wisdom far beyond its years. At the tender age of 14, Krishti unveils her second self-authored poetry book, a poetic odyssey that unfolds two years after her debut, “The Symphony of My Words,” which saw the light of day when she was a mere 12.

Much like the mystical evolution of a blooming flower, Krishti’s poetic prowess blossomed between the ages of 12 and 14, exploring the vast expanse of styles, emotions, literary devices, and profound concepts. The pages of her book bear witness to this metamorphosis, a testament to her fearlessness in experimenting with diverse styles, resulting in a collection where each poem possesses a unique flavor.

Krishti’s artistic journey began amid the solitude of lockdown, a period that became the crucible for her poetic creation. With a dance of words and thoughts, she intricately molded and sculpted each poem, pouring her soul onto the pages. What unfolds is not merely a collection of verses but a profound exploration of nature’s beauty, existentialism, absurdity, and the human condition. Krishti’s work delves into philosophical questions, revealing a depth of insight that belies her years.

The beauty of Krishti’s poetry lies not only in its exploration of the extraordinary but also in its contemplation of the mundane facets of everyday life. Through her verses, she explores the intricacies of the human experience, unearthing emotions and thoughts often shunned by societal norms.

Her poetic compositions vary in tone and complexity, from the innocence and simplicity gracefully lining some poems to the tumultuous intensity of others, where her rawest emotions are etched. Some verses take on a cryptic, yet enlightening, nature, unraveling the incredible beauty woven into the fabric of the world.

What sets “A Home in the Realm of Chaos” apart is its unyielding commitment to authenticity. Krishti refuses to dilute the intensity of her emotions for a broader audience, presenting an unfiltered glimpse into the depths of her soul. It is a literary offering that remains true to the raw essence of the author’s emotions, inviting readers to explore and experience the chaos within.

In the grand tapestry of literary events, Krishti Khandelwal emerges as a luminary, captivating the audience at the Panorama International Literature Festival 2023. Her presence serves as a testament to the magnetic allure of her poetic creations, resonating deeply with the intellect and emotions of those fortunate enough to witness her artistry.

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‘Father’ by Abhilash Fraizer is a handful of profound poems that sincerely seek a healing for this war-torn and fragmented world. As the tagline of the book truly says, “Explore the true Father in these magnificent lines of poetry that open a new vision of universal brotherhood”, this collection of poetry is an attempt to clad the modern man standing naked in the rain of godlessness with the eternal embrace of God, our common Father and Earth, our common Mother.

The Author stuns the reader with an uncanny poetic insight that explores new meanings and striking nuances in the familiar characters of the Bible and history. He draws the raw materials for his poems from the Bible especially, like Joseph the Dreamer, Mary Magdalene, Peter, the woman with hemorrhage and so on and travels through their minds to come out with exceptional insights that literally stun the reader with some extraordinary reflective depths. We hear the deepest cries and crises of modern man reflected in them and we realize that their agonies are the agonies of our own times.

The finest and the longest of the poems in this collection is titled ‘Father’, which is written in the form of a dramatic monologue, exploring the thoughts and feelings of Saint Francis of Assisi, when he stood naked after his attires were snatched by his biological father. The Author elevates the moment to another level and discovers in his mind, the agonizing yearning of contemporary man cut off from God the Father and Earth, the mother. With an uncommon poetic vision, Fraizer infuses into the poem the contemporary ecological crisis of modern man. In these profound lines, we experience the agony of man torn off from nature.

The Author writes:

“I heard the rivulet sobbing,
And the breeze returning
After an unanswered knock
At my door!
With an arrogant cloak
I shunned the breeze,
And with a pair of regal sandals
I built a fence
Against the soil and the earth!
I became a kingdom
With my own autonomy!
The sky became a stranger,
Something so aloof,
Whom I never gave a gaze to!
The rain wept and shed her tears
On my roof…”

Francis’ cry to God, the Father and the Earth, the mother, to clad him with love, is a cry of contemporary man standing naked in the rain of godlessness and wreckage of faith and hope. Francis’ Father does not stop just being Father to human beings alone, but embraces the whole of creation, including the flora, fauna, the stars, the moon and the blackholes. A universal brotherhood is sought beyond all petty confines of the fragmented modern world. To the wild wolf who comes to devour him, the unconventional saint says:

“Hi, my brother Wolf!
Your brother salutes you!
We have one Father,
One common Father
Who loves you and me.
Come with me to the garden –
The Garden of brotherhood
Where there is no man or wolf,
But children of God, the Father!”

In another poem titled ‘Tears of a Rock’, Fraizer delves deep into the remorseful mind of Peter, the disciple of Jesus Christ, who denied him thrice. The brilliant use of imageries and metaphors are a sheer delight to watch. See the opening lines of this poem:

“Once you called me ‘The Rock’;
Now, every rock on earth mocks me!
I, the impulsive, the daring Peter,
Who once bragged to die for his Master!

Beside this fireplace that burns bright,
I shiver with a chill as deep as my being!
It is so cold here!
I am lost in an icy sea
Like a lone seaman who has lost his oars.”

Another poem in this anthology, ‘Sandals from Eternity’ is an example of the Author’s brilliant imagination. He picks the leather sandals of the Son of Man, one of the greatest wayfarers ever walked on the face of the earth, and sketches the whole of salvation history in them with his exquisite poetic skills.

“The sandaled walk of God!
It bore all the dust
From Ur, Canaan, Egypt, Red Sea
And the wilderness;
As the mark of an ever-abiding love!
And it would bear all the dust
Of fallen human race;
From Adam’s sin to the end of time!”

In the poem ‘The Fiery Touch’, the Author astonish us with his exceptional poetic insights and interpret the story of the woman with hemorrhage with a craft and intuition unseen hitherto. See how he opens this poem:

“A drop of blood fell
And disappeared in the sea –
The frosty, dark sea of men and women
Thronging, and jamming each other
On the bustling streets of Galilee.”

Lines like “Her ‘leaking’ little boat slithered over the sea, squeezing forward through the tumultuous mob…” is a testimony of the Author’s uncommon power to use similes and metaphors.
Father is definitely a transforming reading experience. It is like a river in which we see our face and our inner musings reflected. While we read these lines, the images and characters slowly disappear and the reader begins to see in them his/her own story, standing in naked awareness, intimately feeling the warmth of the Father in the gentle embrace of the earth and the sky. Go for it! Experience this magic of poetry by yourself.

Father was published by Wipf and Stock Publishers, Oregon, USA. The book is available in more than 50 countries. Apart from the website of Wipf and Stock, you can find it on leading e-commerce portals such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Playstore, Wook.pt, Fnac, Takealot, Rakuten Kobo, Bertrand.pt, Booktopia, Weltbild, Bol.com and Feedbooks.

Links:
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666787818/father/
https://www.amazon.com/Father-Collection-Poems-Abhilash-Fraizer/dp/1666787817/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1697900933&sr=8-1

Review written by
Dr. Rajeev J Michael PhD
Clinical Psychologist & Professor, Rajagiri College

Cascades” by Ambika Ananth is a poetic journey that takes readers on an exquisite odyssey through the depths of human emotions, the beauty of nature, and the intricacies of love. Ananth’s words flow with grace and elegance that mirror the gentle cascade of a waterfall, drawing readers into a world where each poem is a carefully crafted gem.

What sets “Cascades” apart is the author’s ability to capture the fleeting moments and emotions that make life so profoundly beautiful. Whether she’s painting a vivid picture of nature’s wonders, exploring the complexities of human relationships, or delving into the depths of introspection, Ananth’s poetry resonates with authenticity and depth.

Each poem in this collection is a masterpiece in its own right, rich in vivid imagery and lyrical beauty. Ananth’s words have a way of weaving themselves into the reader’s soul, inviting reflection and contemplation. Her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from the quiet solace of nature to the tumultuous waves of love, is nothing short of enchanting.

“Cascades” is more than just a collection of poems; it’s a testament to the power of language to capture the essence of life’s most profound moments. It invites readers to immerse themselves in the ebb and flow of existence, to find solace in the written word, and to discover the beauty that resides in the depths of the human experience.

In a world where we often rush through life’s moments, “Cascades” encourages us to pause, to savour, and to appreciate the intricate tapestry of emotions that define our journey. Ambika Ananth’s poetic prowess shines brightly in this collection, making it a must-read for anyone who seeks to be moved, inspired, and deeply touched by the magic of words.

PREETH PADMANABHAN NAMBIAR
Author-Poet, Educationist & Humanitarian
Founder & CEO, Writers Capital International Foundation

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“Little Heroes Great Leaders” by Konstantina Kontomari is a remarkable guide that serves as a beacon for parents and educators alike, offering invaluable insights into the world of financial literacy and social skills development for children. With a clear vision to inspire and empower, Kontomari’s book lays the foundation for a happy, successful, and meaningful life for young minds.

The book emphasizes the importance of financial awareness from an early age, recognizing the significance of turning information into knowledge to make informed decisions throughout life’s journey. By instilling financial literacy in children, they gain a deeper understanding of their relationship with money, learning how to manage it wisely and align their choices with their aspirations, be it for education, career, family, or relationships.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that children who possess financial literacy tend to be more organized and better equipped to achieve their personal and professional goals as adults. Hence, the book advocates starting the process of financial education at an early stage to equip children with essential life skills.

Beyond financial literacy, Kontomari sheds light on the significance of developing social and emotional skills. These skills, ranging from taking responsibility, self-confidence, emotional expression, teamwork, and effective communication, are paramount to navigate the complexities of adulthood. The author acknowledges that parents and educators face challenges in fostering these skills, yet their acquisition profoundly influences the children’s success and happiness in life, leading to fulfillment and joy.

Through practical guidance and thought-provoking insights, “Little Heroes Great Leaders” offers parents and educators a roadmap to nurture financial literacy and the holistic development of essential life skills. By embracing this approach, children can grow into confident, capable individuals, well-equipped to handle challenges and make positive contributions to society.

Kontomari’s book is not only a treasure trove of knowledge but also a call to action. It urges parents and educators to embark on a journey of empowerment, starting early to cultivate financial literacy and social skills in their young ones. By doing so, they provide the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

In conclusion, “Little Heroes Great Leaders” stands as an empowering and essential resource, encouraging the development of little leaders with the potential to shape a brighter future. It serves as an inspiring testament to the power of education and nurturing, laying the groundwork for children to realize their greatness and unlock the leader that resides within each of them. This book is not only a gift to the young minds it touches but also a guiding light for generations to come.

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Reviewed by:
Irene Doura Kavadia

About the Author

Irene Doura Kavadia, born in Athens, Greece, is a linguist, writer, and language educator with a passion for literature and foreign languages. She holds degrees in German Language and Literature, as well as Computational Linguistics. Her diverse career includes work as a tutor, translator, and research associate. Irene’s literary achievements have earned her recognition in various international competitions, and she is a member of esteemed literary organizations. She actively contributes to cultural events and has been published in literary magazines and anthologies worldwide. As the Director of Writers Capital Hellas and Secretary-General of the Writers Capital International Foundation, she is dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, humanitarianism, and world peace. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-chief at Writers International Edition and the On-Line Magazine. Her significant contributions have been acknowledged by various organizations, solidifying her role as an ambassador of language and global communication.

“Philosophical Scintillations – Φιλοσοφικές Εκλάμψεις” by Dimitris Hondros is an intellectual and thought-provoking collection of philosophical ponderings that takes readers on a profound journey through the depths of human existence, the mysteries of life, and the intricacies of consciousness. In this remarkable work, Hondros invites readers to explore an array of fundamental questions that have fascinated humanity for centuries.

One of the central themes explored in the book is the delicate interplay between science and religion. Hondros delves into the age-old debate of whether these two seemingly disparate domains can coexist harmoniously or whether they are fundamentally at odds with each other. He raises thought-provoking questions that challenge readers to reconsider the dichotomy between empirical observation and spiritual beliefs.

Another captivating facet of Hondros’s ponderings is the exploration of poetry as a conduit for both emotional expression and the conveyance of profound wisdom. He masterfully examines the dual nature of poetry and its ability to evoke deep emotions while also providing valuable insights into the complexities of life.

Throughout the book, the author delves into the timeless question of mortality and immortality, prompting readers to contemplate the nature of existence and what lies beyond the physical realm. He artfully weaves together themes of memory, legacy, and the search for meaning, urging us to reflect on the legacy we leave behind and the quest for continuity beyond our earthly lives.

Time, a concept deeply woven into the fabric of human experience, also receives philosophical scrutiny in Hondros’s work. Through his thought-provoking inquiries, he challenges conventional notions of time as an external force and encourages readers to reevaluate its subjective nature shaped by our perceptions and actions.

Hondros further explores the intricate relationships between virtue, happiness, and success. His reflections on human goodness and the pursuit of meaningful lives offer profound insights into the balance between personal values and societal expectations.

In this captivating collection, the author also delves into the topics of knowledge, wisdom, and perception, inviting readers to ponder how we acquire and interpret information and how our understanding shapes our perception of reality.

Additionally, the book addresses profound reflections on human behavior, instincts, and interactions within society and the natural world. These philosophical musings compel readers to reexamine the essence of humanity and our place in the grand tapestry of existence.

Dimitris Hondros’s “Philosophical Scintillations – Φιλοσοφικές Εκλάμψεις” is a brilliant testament to the enduring quest for wisdom, truth, and a deeper understanding of the world we inhabit. Through his engaging prose and incisive inquiries, Hondros provides readers with an enriching experience that ignites introspection, stimulates critical thinking, and inspires profound contemplation about the complexities of life.

“Philosophical Scintillations – Φιλοσοφικές Εκλάμψεις” is a captivating and intellectually stimulating collection of philosophical ponderings that delves into the very essence of human existence. Dimitris Hondros’s profound reflections on science, poetry, mortality, time, virtue, knowledge, and human nature resonate deeply with readers, encouraging a broader perspective on the world and inspiring a quest for truth and enlightenment. This book is a remarkable addition to the realm of philosophical literature and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this thought-provoking journey.

Buy Book from Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/0ujn2PF

Reviewed by:
Irene Doura Kavadia

About the Author

Irene Doura Kavadia, born in Athens, Greece, is a linguist, writer, and language educator with a passion for literature and foreign languages. She holds degrees in German Language and Literature, as well as Computational Linguistics. Her diverse career includes work as a tutor, translator, and research associate. Irene’s literary achievements have earned her recognition in various international competitions, and she is a member of esteemed literary organizations. She actively contributes to cultural events and has been published in literary magazines and anthologies worldwide. As the Director of Writers Capital Hellas and Secretary-General of the Writers Capital International Foundation, she is dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, humanitarianism, and world peace. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-chief at Writers International Edition and the On-Line Magazine. Her significant contributions have been acknowledged by various organizations, solidifying her role as an ambassador of language and global communication.

Indian women poets have long been a powerful force in the realm of literature, using their words to express their unique perspectives, challenge societal norms, and unveil the depths of their emotions. Their poetry reflects a diverse range of experiences, capturing the essence of womanhood, love, identity, and social issues. Among these talented voices, Meera Vineeth emerges as a promising addition. With her collection “Dakshina Kashi,” Meera showcases her lyrical prowess and introspective depth, adding a fresh and captivating voice to the rich tapestry of Indian women poets.

In her masterful collection of poetry, “Dakshina Kashi,” Meera Vineeth Kodakadath weaves a tapestry of emotions, reflections, and vivid imagery, taking readers on a transformative journey through life’s complexities. With fifty thought-provoking poems, Meera explores the depths of human experience, offering a parable of her own personal odyssey and inviting readers to join her in this introspective exploration.

Through her verses, Meera captures the essence of poetry as a song of the heart, pulsating with emotions of pleasure, grief, and passion. She delicately dances between the fluid realities of life and the realms of the imagination, creating a mesmerizing blend of the tangible and the ethereal. Her words carry an air of contemplation and introspection, urging readers to delve deeper into their own thoughts and feelings.

Meera’s poetry is characterized by its profound ability to reflect varied emotions, vividly and artfully expressed. With each poem, she offers glimpses into her innermost thoughts and experiences, transporting readers into a world of wonder and self-discovery. Sometimes abstract and enigmatic, her verses challenge readers to unravel the intricacies of her mind and emotions, opening up a space for introspection and understanding.

One of Meera’s defining qualities as a poet is her ability to effortlessly bridge the gap between the real and the imagined. Through her words, she paints vibrant scenes and creates evocative metaphors that resonate with readers. Her ability to juxtapose the richness of history, spirituality, and mythology in her poems adds depth and layers of meaning to her work. She skillfully intertwines cultural symbolism, allowing readers to explore the intersections of memory, tradition, and contemporary life.

Meera’s poems are not only deeply reflective but also profoundly meditative. She uses her verses as a conduit for exploring inner turmoil, existential questions, and the pursuit of solace and peace. Throughout the collection, she guides readers through moments of contemplation, gently urging them to reflect on their own lives and search for meaning within.

With a lyrical and captivating writing style, Meera’s words flow like streams of a boundary-free river, touching the hearts of readers and resonating long after the poems are read. Her imagery is vibrant and chromatic, evoking a vivid sensory experience that transports readers to the landscapes of her imagination. Whether she is describing the serene course of the River Periyar or exploring the enigmatic mysteries of life, her words leave a lasting impression.

“Dakshina Kashi” is Meera Vineeth Kodakadath’s second collection of poems, and it solidifies her place as a poet of exceptional talent and introspective depth. Through her verses, Meera invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where emotions flow freely and thoughts find solace in the power of words. Her poems touch the essence of what it means to be human, urging readers to embrace life’s challenges with resilience and seek the beauty that lies within.

This collection will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on readers, as they reflect on Meera’s words, immerse themselves in her imagery, and find their own echoes in the tapestry she weaves. “Dakshina Kashi” is a poetic masterpiece that shines a light on the nuances of human existence and the enduring power of the written word.

Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar

About the author

Preeth Nambiar, an Indian poet, journalist, and educationist, is a visionary leader in spreading humanitarian values through literature. As the founder of the Writers Capital International Foundation, he has created a global platform for unity and understanding. His eloquent poetry reflects a blend of narration and mysticism, while his short stories captivate with their poetic essence. Advocating holistic education, he considers instilling universal values in the new generation must be a major aim of education. Through his organization, he organizes influential festivals and promotes minimalism and compassion. Preeth Nambiar’s contributions have garnered international recognition, including the YMG Gandhi International Award and the World Icon of Peace Award.

“Steps of Life,” the latest poetry collection by Giorgos Sardelis, is a deeply introspective and confessional exploration of the search for truth in reality. With a strong focus on individual anxieties and the longing for a better world, Sardelis captures the essence of humanity and envisions a brighter future.

Throughout the collection, the poet delves into the complexities of life, offering profound reflections and illuminating situations with purity and tenderness. Sardelis ascends to a spiritual realm, revealing the simplicity that is attainable by all. With a deep self-awareness, the poet critiques life and society, shedding light on social hypocrisy and the diminished resistance to reality.

Sardelis’s words awaken a sense of urgency, urging readers to break free from the slumber of silence and embrace the potential for change. Optimism, faith, and strength of soul are the driving forces behind this transformative journey, as masks fall away to reveal the true smiles of life.

The collection is marked by vivid imagery, painting a visual universe of sky, stars, sun, mountains, and seas. In these evocative verses, secret joy arises from the beauties nature offers. Sardelis’s happy mood shines through as he explores the themes of love and romance, emphasizing the freedom and happiness that can be found within.

While moments of melancholy occasionally color the poems, the prevailing theme is one of optimism. Sardelis reminds readers to smile and believe that everything will go well, urging them to continue moving forward on their life’s path. The poems radiate immediacy, deep humanity, and social reflection, offering glimpses of altruism while avoiding the pitfalls of depression or negativity.

“A single ray of light is all it takes, to bring joy to a world that aches,” Sardelis writes. Through his visionary poetry, he envisions a better tomorrow where spiritual rebirth and balance reside within people’s souls. “Steps of Life” invites readers on a beautiful journey of self-reflection and self-awareness, leading to light, hope, love, truth, solidarity, justice, and ultimately, to the very essence of human existence – immortality.

Giorgos Sardelis’s collection is a testament to the power of poetry to inspire, uplift, and transform. With its profound themes and heartfelt expressions, “Steps of Life” resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression on the reader’s soul.