'Mark of Athena' shall not be releasing tomorrow unfortunately. There has been some mess up folks. And boss just got this message.
The wait shall be longer..
The distributor does not mention a date yet.
Hold your breath. Keep your fingers crossed.
And be assured that the team @ twistntales will let you know the date as soon as they know!
Thus the minions will have to wait for the next opportunity to do their bookworm deliveries!
A little disappointed the smiles will continue! :-)
Monday, November 12, 2012
Oh how for the mark of Athena!
I have moved on from the shop. Physically but my mind she’s still very much there.
Whenever I go back to the shop to meet tntians or have phone conversations with my tnt friends and boss at tnt, believe me, each time (in all honesty), each time I am left amazed with the new projects they undertake/ or a new quirk/ or a new face/ or a new event/ or a different more efficient and creative way of doing something old!
This place just reinvents itself every time!
And the awesome ‘new’ which has caught my attention this time is simply so extraordinary that I just had to sit down and write this out over here.
‘Mark of Athena’ the 3rd book in the Heroes of Olympus series is releasing tomorrow. (Drum roll! Hurrah!)
And the shop has planned to take a 3 day break for diwali starting tomorrow. Damn it!
But oh no-no (nodding head many times), we shall certainly not disappoint our Rick Riordan fans!
The Book is just a call away like pizza or biryani. It shall be delivered to you dear fan at the twistntales gate within 10 mins with a free smile and lots of enthusiasm!:-)
So Run, Run to the gate of the shop tomorrow and call right away! The twistntales minions will bring you the book at once with some wind in their hair and of course their sunny smiles!
Truly the neighbourhood bookshop! I love their resolve, the faithfulness!
How incredibly tnt has worked around this! I am just amazed.
Happy Diwali Riordan fans and everyone!
My diwali is made! Is yours?
P.S: Please read the post above this.
Whenever I go back to the shop to meet tntians or have phone conversations with my tnt friends and boss at tnt, believe me, each time (in all honesty), each time I am left amazed with the new projects they undertake/ or a new quirk/ or a new face/ or a new event/ or a different more efficient and creative way of doing something old!
This place just reinvents itself every time!
And the awesome ‘new’ which has caught my attention this time is simply so extraordinary that I just had to sit down and write this out over here.
‘Mark of Athena’ the 3rd book in the Heroes of Olympus series is releasing tomorrow. (Drum roll! Hurrah!)
And the shop has planned to take a 3 day break for diwali starting tomorrow. Damn it!
But oh no-no (nodding head many times), we shall certainly not disappoint our Rick Riordan fans!
The Book is just a call away like pizza or biryani. It shall be delivered to you dear fan at the twistntales gate within 10 mins with a free smile and lots of enthusiasm!:-)
So Run, Run to the gate of the shop tomorrow and call right away! The twistntales minions will bring you the book at once with some wind in their hair and of course their sunny smiles!
Truly the neighbourhood bookshop! I love their resolve, the faithfulness!
How incredibly tnt has worked around this! I am just amazed.
Happy Diwali Riordan fans and everyone!
My diwali is made! Is yours?
P.S: Please read the post above this.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Children's Day, Diwali, Reading Sessions and new books !
Hi all,
Thank you for your magnificent response for the street plays. Both the children of Sanskriti School and Lokayat felt encouraged by the response of the audience. And the interaction which followed the street plays was welcome and thought provoking. Check the photographs on our Facebook page!
We at twistntales feel heartened by the response to our events, and we have something lined up for Nov too! It’s been a while since we did something for young children, so we return to our core constituency, kids! On the occasion of Children’s Day, we are happy to be celebrating children’s month! We have 2 events lined up for you,
9th Nov, 12, Friday, 6.30 pm 7 to 11 years “Rahi and the Maya Jaal”
11th Nov,12, Sunday, 11 am Upto 6 years “School is Cool”, “Have you seen this”
On 9th November, we have “Rahi and the Maya Jaal”
Rahi has returned to her favourite Bandipur National Park, only to find trouble. The animals and birds of this great Indian forest are under the attack of a very clever and evil poacher. What can a little girl do to help her beloved friends? Read and find out!
Rahi and the Maya Jaal is an adventure story full of jungle atmosphere, written by Rohit Nayak, and brought to life by Anusha Menon's beautiful and evocative illustrations..
Rohit is a freelance software engineer and father of two young children who love stories. He is passionately interested in environmental and social issues and enjoys bird-watching and nature. This is his first book.
Anusha Menon, a class 12 student is an artist to watch out for! Many of you will remember her as the girl who illustrated Deepak Dalal’s books, The Sahyadri Adventures. She is smart and she is talented.
Presenting Rohit and Anusha in a joint interaction with the kids. Do get your kids in the age group 7 to 11 years, and get them to hear and ask questions of both the illustrator and author.
On 11th November, Sunday, we have reading sessions for the tiny tots. Tulika books have been a long time favorite with our kid friends at twistntales. Join writer Sowmya Rajendran for a powerhouse storytelling session of School is Cool. Sunitha Thomas will be doing an animated reading of the whacky Have You Seen This?.
Our two events will be followed by a short break for Diwali. We will be closed from Tuesday,13th Nov to thurs, 15th Nov. We will reopen on Fri, 16th November for business as usual.
And for those of you who want to stock up before the Diwali break, here’s a list of new books!
New books:
‘Bullshit Quotient: Decoding India’s Corporate, Social and Legal Fineprint’ by Ranjeev Dubey @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 248)
Indians are generally wired to unquestioningly trust those who are in authority or those who we admire, even if they shamelessly scam us. In this book Rajeev C. Dubey exposes to us the bullshit that surrounds aspects of modern Indian corporate, social, political and legal life. The book offers radical and hard hitting facts of the modern world: Criminal cases are business scores being settled through intimidation. Corruption is necessary so that we may fund our government. And Brands and Trademarks are tools to scam consumers! Ranjeev Dubey is a mainstream commercial lawyer, prolific writer and public speaker. He is also a columnist for India’s leading business magazine ‘Business World’ and writes extensively on contemporary corporate, legal and political developments.
‘Lessons in Lean Management: 53 Ideas to Transform Services’ by Debashis Sarkar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 289)
The Lean management approach which endeavors to create a profitable and agile business by focusing on what is of ‘value’ to the consumer. This technique does not only make your business profitable but also provides you with an engine for continual/constant improvement and innovation. An example of a company using Lean management is Tatas Using real life case studies and real applications of the Lean approach conducted by the author successfully, this book presents how to implement principles of Lean management and empower people. Debashis Sarkar is a global authority on Lean management and has held leadership positions in companies such as Unilever, Coca Cola and ICICI bank.
‘Days and Nights in the Heartland of Rebellion’ by Gautam Navlakha @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 247)
‘Truth, it is said, is the first casualty of war.’ The India State is at war against the Maoist, and the story of this war comes to us in adulterated version from the Indian State, where the truth is always masked with a creamy layer. Gautam Navlakha, a renowned civil liberties activist, went into the heart of Bastaar to get to know the Maoists story first hand. This book recounts his fortnight experience in the guerrilla zone where the maoist government, the Janatam Sarkar rules. Often shocking, the book reports the nature of this demonized rebellion in an excruciating manner.
‘The One World School House’ by Salman Khan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 259)
Good quality education is undoubtedly the cornerstone of any prosperous society. However an oft raised question is ‘What is the quality of education our children are receiving and how can we improve it?’ In ‘The One World School House’ – part memoir and part social commentary – Salman Khan, founder of the world renowned ‘Khan Academy’ (an online portal that offers free educational resources for all subjects and levels) puts forth some of his revolutionary ideas about how to make free quality education available to people from all backgrounds and how to effectively integrate technology and learning. Thought-provoking and revolutionary, this inspiring book will transform the way you perceive the modern education system and the role technology will play in shaping it.
‘In Search of Oneness: The Bhagavad Gita and the Quran through Sufi Eyes’ by Moosa Raza @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 240)
'So steep has been this man-made schism that we forget that all religions teach unity'. 'In Search of Oneness' retired IAS officer and Padma Bhushan awardee, Moosa Raza, explores the common threads that connect all religions. Citing examples both from the Geeta - which defines 'daan' as a gift given selflessly and without expectation of return - and the Quran - which carries the concept of voluntary giving to an obligatory tax called 'zakat' - he effectively shows that ultimately all religions teach the same values of brotherhood and unity. His insightful observations are supported by his own experiences and encounters with people practising these values. Thought-provoking and contemplative, this is a book that will urge you to reexamine your own faith and beliefs.
‘Joseph Anton’ by Salman Rushdie @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 636)
‘Joseph Anton’ is the combination of the name of two of his favorite authors which Salman Rushdie chose as his alias during the time he was forced underground due to the fatwa issued by the Iranian leader Ayatollah Khomeini. His Crime-he wrote a novel ‘The Satanic Verses’, which was accused of being ‘against Islam, the Prophet and the Quran.’ As a large controversy broke out Rushdie struggled for 9 years as he traveled from house to house with his family, a constant protection of an armed police team and above all the threat and the fear of murder. In this memoir, through his struggle Rushdie brings out the crucial issue of ‘freedom of speech.’ Rushdie believes that memory is selective hence to write this memoir he entrusted his records spanning 40 years in the form of floppy disks, tattered diaries, faded faxes packed in hundreds of boxes to a leading research institute in Atlanta to organize a digital archive so that he could access it all easily through a master index. Honest and compelling this book is a story of ‘how one stumbles and learns to fight back.’
‘Jamie Oliver’s Meals in Minutes’ by Jamie Oliver @ Rs. 1515/- (pgs 287)
Cooking maestro Jamie Oliver’s latest book, ‘Meals in Minutes,’ offers a brand new take on how to achieve a quality meal literally in minutes! According to Jamie all one needs is half an hour, a well-organized kitchen and lots of enthusiasm. In this beautifully illustrated and painstakingly researched book he provides 50 exquisite meals from around the world – from Curry Rogan Josh to Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca and Thai Red Shrimp Curry – that will turn any ordinary day into a celebration of food. The step by step instructions in the book make it ideal for beginners and more experienced cooks alike.
‘Sounding Off’ by Resul Pookutty with Baiju Natarajan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 408)
A village boy from Kerala, whose resilience and conviction drove him to the most advanced cinematic sound technology; from there to the struggle in the ruthless film world and finally to international renown! This is an inspiring autobiography of Resul Pookutty, India’s best known sound designer and audiographer, won an Oscar for his work in Slumdog Millionaire. Already a bestseller in its original Malayalam script, this book is a celebration of a life in Indian Cinema industry and the rise to glory.
‘Sethji’ by Shobhaa De @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 290)
After ‘Starry Nights’ based on Indian Cinema Industry Shobhaa De next book, ‘Sethji’ is a tale of power set in India’s political ground. Sethji a crucial coalition partner in the government, is shrewd, ruthless and a man who refuses to play with moral codes or lose a single battle. His intelligence and status is challenged by two of the country’s most powerful men team up to destroy him. With no one to trust but Amrita, his daughter-in-law, Sethjis ambition, greed and his willingness to trust is tested. Shobhaa De latest novel exposes and shocks the reader with the dynamics of Indian politics.
Other new books:
‘31: A Thriller’ by Upendra Namburi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 372)
‘Playing to Win’ by Saina Nehwal @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 118)
‘Rammohun Roy – A critical Biography’ by Amiya P. Sen @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 211)
‘N-W’ BY Zadie Smith @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 295)
‘Mastani’ by Kusum Choppra @ Rs. 195/- (pgs 274)
Enjoy your books!
Do bring your kids for the events, all reading sessions are free!
Wishing all of you and your families a very happy and safe Diwali! And may Goddess Lakshmi help us pay for LPG!
With warm regards,
From the team at,
twistntales
Thank you for your magnificent response for the street plays. Both the children of Sanskriti School and Lokayat felt encouraged by the response of the audience. And the interaction which followed the street plays was welcome and thought provoking. Check the photographs on our Facebook page!
We at twistntales feel heartened by the response to our events, and we have something lined up for Nov too! It’s been a while since we did something for young children, so we return to our core constituency, kids! On the occasion of Children’s Day, we are happy to be celebrating children’s month! We have 2 events lined up for you,
9th Nov, 12, Friday, 6.30 pm 7 to 11 years “Rahi and the Maya Jaal”
11th Nov,12, Sunday, 11 am Upto 6 years “School is Cool”, “Have you seen this”
On 9th November, we have “Rahi and the Maya Jaal”
Rahi has returned to her favourite Bandipur National Park, only to find trouble. The animals and birds of this great Indian forest are under the attack of a very clever and evil poacher. What can a little girl do to help her beloved friends? Read and find out!
Rahi and the Maya Jaal is an adventure story full of jungle atmosphere, written by Rohit Nayak, and brought to life by Anusha Menon's beautiful and evocative illustrations..
Rohit is a freelance software engineer and father of two young children who love stories. He is passionately interested in environmental and social issues and enjoys bird-watching and nature. This is his first book.
Anusha Menon, a class 12 student is an artist to watch out for! Many of you will remember her as the girl who illustrated Deepak Dalal’s books, The Sahyadri Adventures. She is smart and she is talented.
Presenting Rohit and Anusha in a joint interaction with the kids. Do get your kids in the age group 7 to 11 years, and get them to hear and ask questions of both the illustrator and author.
On 11th November, Sunday, we have reading sessions for the tiny tots. Tulika books have been a long time favorite with our kid friends at twistntales. Join writer Sowmya Rajendran for a powerhouse storytelling session of School is Cool. Sunitha Thomas will be doing an animated reading of the whacky Have You Seen This?.
Our two events will be followed by a short break for Diwali. We will be closed from Tuesday,13th Nov to thurs, 15th Nov. We will reopen on Fri, 16th November for business as usual.
And for those of you who want to stock up before the Diwali break, here’s a list of new books!
New books:
‘Bullshit Quotient: Decoding India’s Corporate, Social and Legal Fineprint’ by Ranjeev Dubey @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 248)
Indians are generally wired to unquestioningly trust those who are in authority or those who we admire, even if they shamelessly scam us. In this book Rajeev C. Dubey exposes to us the bullshit that surrounds aspects of modern Indian corporate, social, political and legal life. The book offers radical and hard hitting facts of the modern world: Criminal cases are business scores being settled through intimidation. Corruption is necessary so that we may fund our government. And Brands and Trademarks are tools to scam consumers! Ranjeev Dubey is a mainstream commercial lawyer, prolific writer and public speaker. He is also a columnist for India’s leading business magazine ‘Business World’ and writes extensively on contemporary corporate, legal and political developments.
‘Lessons in Lean Management: 53 Ideas to Transform Services’ by Debashis Sarkar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 289)
The Lean management approach which endeavors to create a profitable and agile business by focusing on what is of ‘value’ to the consumer. This technique does not only make your business profitable but also provides you with an engine for continual/constant improvement and innovation. An example of a company using Lean management is Tatas Using real life case studies and real applications of the Lean approach conducted by the author successfully, this book presents how to implement principles of Lean management and empower people. Debashis Sarkar is a global authority on Lean management and has held leadership positions in companies such as Unilever, Coca Cola and ICICI bank.
‘Days and Nights in the Heartland of Rebellion’ by Gautam Navlakha @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 247)
‘Truth, it is said, is the first casualty of war.’ The India State is at war against the Maoist, and the story of this war comes to us in adulterated version from the Indian State, where the truth is always masked with a creamy layer. Gautam Navlakha, a renowned civil liberties activist, went into the heart of Bastaar to get to know the Maoists story first hand. This book recounts his fortnight experience in the guerrilla zone where the maoist government, the Janatam Sarkar rules. Often shocking, the book reports the nature of this demonized rebellion in an excruciating manner.
‘The One World School House’ by Salman Khan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 259)
Good quality education is undoubtedly the cornerstone of any prosperous society. However an oft raised question is ‘What is the quality of education our children are receiving and how can we improve it?’ In ‘The One World School House’ – part memoir and part social commentary – Salman Khan, founder of the world renowned ‘Khan Academy’ (an online portal that offers free educational resources for all subjects and levels) puts forth some of his revolutionary ideas about how to make free quality education available to people from all backgrounds and how to effectively integrate technology and learning. Thought-provoking and revolutionary, this inspiring book will transform the way you perceive the modern education system and the role technology will play in shaping it.
‘In Search of Oneness: The Bhagavad Gita and the Quran through Sufi Eyes’ by Moosa Raza @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 240)
'So steep has been this man-made schism that we forget that all religions teach unity'. 'In Search of Oneness' retired IAS officer and Padma Bhushan awardee, Moosa Raza, explores the common threads that connect all religions. Citing examples both from the Geeta - which defines 'daan' as a gift given selflessly and without expectation of return - and the Quran - which carries the concept of voluntary giving to an obligatory tax called 'zakat' - he effectively shows that ultimately all religions teach the same values of brotherhood and unity. His insightful observations are supported by his own experiences and encounters with people practising these values. Thought-provoking and contemplative, this is a book that will urge you to reexamine your own faith and beliefs.
‘Joseph Anton’ by Salman Rushdie @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 636)
‘Joseph Anton’ is the combination of the name of two of his favorite authors which Salman Rushdie chose as his alias during the time he was forced underground due to the fatwa issued by the Iranian leader Ayatollah Khomeini. His Crime-he wrote a novel ‘The Satanic Verses’, which was accused of being ‘against Islam, the Prophet and the Quran.’ As a large controversy broke out Rushdie struggled for 9 years as he traveled from house to house with his family, a constant protection of an armed police team and above all the threat and the fear of murder. In this memoir, through his struggle Rushdie brings out the crucial issue of ‘freedom of speech.’ Rushdie believes that memory is selective hence to write this memoir he entrusted his records spanning 40 years in the form of floppy disks, tattered diaries, faded faxes packed in hundreds of boxes to a leading research institute in Atlanta to organize a digital archive so that he could access it all easily through a master index. Honest and compelling this book is a story of ‘how one stumbles and learns to fight back.’
‘Jamie Oliver’s Meals in Minutes’ by Jamie Oliver @ Rs. 1515/- (pgs 287)
Cooking maestro Jamie Oliver’s latest book, ‘Meals in Minutes,’ offers a brand new take on how to achieve a quality meal literally in minutes! According to Jamie all one needs is half an hour, a well-organized kitchen and lots of enthusiasm. In this beautifully illustrated and painstakingly researched book he provides 50 exquisite meals from around the world – from Curry Rogan Josh to Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca and Thai Red Shrimp Curry – that will turn any ordinary day into a celebration of food. The step by step instructions in the book make it ideal for beginners and more experienced cooks alike.
‘Sounding Off’ by Resul Pookutty with Baiju Natarajan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 408)
A village boy from Kerala, whose resilience and conviction drove him to the most advanced cinematic sound technology; from there to the struggle in the ruthless film world and finally to international renown! This is an inspiring autobiography of Resul Pookutty, India’s best known sound designer and audiographer, won an Oscar for his work in Slumdog Millionaire. Already a bestseller in its original Malayalam script, this book is a celebration of a life in Indian Cinema industry and the rise to glory.
‘Sethji’ by Shobhaa De @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 290)
After ‘Starry Nights’ based on Indian Cinema Industry Shobhaa De next book, ‘Sethji’ is a tale of power set in India’s political ground. Sethji a crucial coalition partner in the government, is shrewd, ruthless and a man who refuses to play with moral codes or lose a single battle. His intelligence and status is challenged by two of the country’s most powerful men team up to destroy him. With no one to trust but Amrita, his daughter-in-law, Sethjis ambition, greed and his willingness to trust is tested. Shobhaa De latest novel exposes and shocks the reader with the dynamics of Indian politics.
Other new books:
‘31: A Thriller’ by Upendra Namburi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 372)
‘Playing to Win’ by Saina Nehwal @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 118)
‘Rammohun Roy – A critical Biography’ by Amiya P. Sen @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 211)
‘N-W’ BY Zadie Smith @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 295)
‘Mastani’ by Kusum Choppra @ Rs. 195/- (pgs 274)
Enjoy your books!
Do bring your kids for the events, all reading sessions are free!
Wishing all of you and your families a very happy and safe Diwali! And may Goddess Lakshmi help us pay for LPG!
With warm regards,
From the team at,
twistntales
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Rituals for everyday
Our Saraswati puja was divine.
Given the number of festivals and holy occasions, an enthusiastic Indian wife can stay busy all year round. Every occasion calls for a different process, starting with a special shopping list for every god. Oh, and boy how our relationship with lists goes back a long way! From Checklist (our God) to Shree shopping list, stationery shopping list (lovely), the secret Gayatri mantra list, to event checklist and the infamous lists folder we certainly cherish and treasure each of our lists quite uniquely with our fair share of amusing stories!
Every God has his likes and dislikes the pundits tell. Our Pundit ‘Geetanjali’ with the serenity she imbibes with her yoga and the wind her expeditions on her bike leave her with simply elevated the mood to such levels of flawless beauty that words quite thoughtfully fail to support me.
The smell of the fresh mala (garland) brought in by Saroj aunty wafts through the space. The smell of the books. And the infusion. Ahh, it’s ecstatic. (I can sense the smell fill my nostrils again)
Errors are overlooked as long as you have shraddha (faith).
And we were all wise.
With only our books wiser!
Like Oriflame or Tupperware, the rituals of India can keep one involved, and entertained even.
Given the number of festivals and holy occasions, an enthusiastic Indian wife can stay busy all year round. Every occasion calls for a different process, starting with a special shopping list for every god. Oh, and boy how our relationship with lists goes back a long way! From Checklist (our God) to Shree shopping list, stationery shopping list (lovely), the secret Gayatri mantra list, to event checklist and the infamous lists folder we certainly cherish and treasure each of our lists quite uniquely with our fair share of amusing stories!
Every God has his likes and dislikes the pundits tell. Our Pundit ‘Geetanjali’ with the serenity she imbibes with her yoga and the wind her expeditions on her bike leave her with simply elevated the mood to such levels of flawless beauty that words quite thoughtfully fail to support me.
The smell of the fresh mala (garland) brought in by Saroj aunty wafts through the space. The smell of the books. And the infusion. Ahh, it’s ecstatic. (I can sense the smell fill my nostrils again)
Errors are overlooked as long as you have shraddha (faith).
And we were all wise.
With only our books wiser!
Like Oriflame or Tupperware, the rituals of India can keep one involved, and entertained even.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Invite for Saraswati Puja and Street Plays
Hi all,
Greetings of the season and wishing you great joy and happiness on the occasion of Dussehra!
Our annual Saraswati Puja is scheduled on Dussehra day, 24th Oct, Wed, at 4.30 pm at the Store. Please join us in our prayers to the Goddess of Wisdom and may her blessings be on all of us.
We have two exciting events scheduled for 28th Oct, Sunday. twistntales has been a trendsetter in providing performance space to new groups, street theatre and other awareness/ protest movements. As a part of this endeavour, on Sun, 28th Oct, we present two groups.
The first is a group of school children from Sanskriti School, from classes 8 to 10. These children have put up a street play to create awareness regarding the harmful effects of crackers during Diwali. This will be their first public performance and all of you are requested to join and attend with your children.
The second group is Lokayat. Many of you who are regulars at twistntales know about Lokayat and the various causes that they are engaged in. Lokayat is an NGO based in Pune, and takes up social and civic issues. It comprises working professionals who give their evenings and weekends to a good cause. They use novel techniques of protest, one of them being street plays.
Lokayat members will present a play on Sex Selection
India's daughters are disappearing. New research by ActionAid and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) show that the number of girls born and surviving in northern India compared to boys falls far short of normal expectations, and continues to slide. India is the heartland of the sex selection controversy. Its alarming statistics have spurred official efforts to redress the sex ratio imbalance through legislation that prohibits sex selection, whether at the pre-conception stage or through abortion. What was once seen as a barbaric practice has, chillingly, now become increasingly accepted, albeit sometimes in more ‘technically advanced’ forms. Female infanticide has found a partner in female feticide.
Social causes underlying this have to be highlighted and awareness is required. Please do spread the word around – both the street plays will be followed by a discussion.
The plays will start at 6pm at twistntales on 28th Oct, Sunday
And now for those who can’t make it on that day, there are always new books, some of which have been reviewed for you,
New Books:
“India Grows at Night” by Gurcharan Das @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 306)
From the title of the book the complete quote is ‘India Grows at Night while the government sleeps’. Gurcharan Das implies that as Indians, we are prospering in our private lives but our country’s public issues are a failure. Beginning with Aristotle’s quote ‘The state exists for the sake of a good life, not for the sake of life alone’ he says that as an individual we have a very high sense of responsibility in the Indian home- if you don’t work you don’t eat- this accountability is missing in public life and state affairs. Prosperity is spreading but governance failure is pervading in public life. He offers a solution by suggesting the concept of a liberal state, wherein a state would have legitimate authority to take quick decisive action and also be accountable to the people. But he also points out that this ideal would be difficult to achieve as historically India has had a weak state and a strong society. Provocative and brilliant, Gurcharan Das’ writing makes us reconsider our own opinions and proof-less judgments.
‘Ending Corruption: How to Clean Up India’ by N. Vittal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 255)
The past few years of India have been years of war against corruption. Heroes and leaders like Kiran Bedi and Anna Hazare have fought and sacrificed for this just cause. N. Vittal, former CVC and author of 14 books, analyses the complete situation after the 2010 mega scams and traces the roots of this growing rot to the decline of accountability in public life, lack of transparency in governance, greed and decline in integrity. Due to his experience as an insider of government for four decades, N. Vittal’s informed insights and systematic assessment of corruption helps us understand the true nature of its roots and the area it covers today and how we as Indian citizens can achieve a clean India.
‘The King in Exile’ by Sudha Shah @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 456)
An absorbing read, exhaustively researched and gracefully written, The King in Exile is the compelling story of King Thibaw, the last King of Burma. He belonged to the Konbaug Dynasty, a line of rulers known as ‘Kings who rule the Universe’ and treated as demi-gods by their subject. In 1885, he was deposed by the British to live in exile in Ratnagiri, a small and isolated town in India. The book traces the story of the King before his exile, when he had power of life and death over his people and after exile, when he was subject to the totalitarian control of the British. A debut writer Sudha Shah has merged her seven year long research with elements of true life drama and tragedy, to produce a work of brilliance.
“My Husband & Other Animals” by Janaki Lenin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 282)
My Husband and Other Animals is a collection of stories written by Janaki Lenin- an animal enthusiast - on her experiences with her unpredictable husband Rom Whitaker- herpetologist, wildlife conservationist, and founder of Madras Crocodile Bank and Madras Snake Park- and other reptiles of the wild. After traveling the world and dealing with the most dangerous and home invading reptiles they settled in a farm in Tamil Nadu for a quite holiday only to find themselves at war with tree frogs, adamant Russell’s Vipers and a dog eating leopard. ‘With Rom, there is never a dull moment in life!’ says Janaki Lenin. Entertaining and amusing, the stories in this book shed light on the kingdom of beasts and plants, providing insights into animal dispositions and the interactions of humans with animals. Most of all, it highlights Rom and Janaki’s diverse stories with all the ‘wonderful creatures’ small and large. Currently they live with four dogs, a pair of emus, a flock of geese and a pig!
“Dream New Dreams: Reimagining My Life After Loss” by Jai Pausch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 228)
After her husband Randy Pausch, author of The Last Lecture imparted us inspiring lessons in living, Jai Pausch teaches us to Dream New Dreams even if we are faced with the most critical loss. Jai narrates a powerful story of grief, healing and newfound independence after her husband, Randy Pausch’s death due to pancreatic cancer. Inspiring and deeply moving, the book reaches out and helps all those who are struggling due to the loss of a loved one.
"Conversations With Mani Ratnam” by Baradwaj Rangan @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 305)
‘There are two things that bother a filmmaker. One, when he is offered a lifetime achievement award and second, when he is asked to do a book on his films’. A genius of a man, in this book Mani Ratnam opens up to Baradwaj Rangan, about his art, as well as his life before films. Often candid, witty and pensive, Mani Ratnam talks about his choice of themes like that of patriotism in ‘Roja’ to the knottiness in urban relationships like in ‘Agni Natchatiram’. He further elaborates on the choice of artful music and innovative methods of lighting; also he discusses the power and impacts of films on society. Complete with profound interviews with Mani Ratnam on each of his films this book is truly a tribute to the filmmaker who built the bridge between old and neo cinema in India. Baradwaj Rangan is a National Award-winning film critic, and currently deputy editor at ‘The Hindu.’
Fiction
‘Silent House’ by Orhan Pamuk @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 334)
In the small town of Cennethisar lives an old widow Fatma. She is looked after solely by her hostile servant Recep – a dwarf and her dead husband’s illegitimate son. The long awaited annual visit of Fatma’s three grandchildren – Faruk the historian, Nilgun the revolutionary and Metin, the high school nerd triggers a chain of events that threatens to change the family’s destiny forever. Set against the backdrop of the Turkish military coup of 1980 Silent House, Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk’s novel (available in English for the first time) is a powerful and vivid narrative of the fate of a family inextricably linked with the struggles of a country on the brink of change.
“The Casual Vacancy” by J.K. Rowling @ Rs. 850/- (pgs 503)
Pagford, with its cobbled streets, picturesque buildings and friendly residents seems to be the quintessentially ideal English town, until the unexpected death of Barry Fairbrother, a local activist, creates a vacancy in the Parish Council. In the weeks that follow the quiet village is thrown into turmoil as wives turn against husbands, children turn against parents and long festering resentments come to the fore. With a panoramic cast of characters and a gripping plot, master-storyteller J.K. Rowling (author of the best-selling Harry Potter series) will take you on a rollercoaster journey in this dark, honest and utterly compelling novel for adults.
“Winter of the World” by Ken Follett (Book two in the Century Trilogy) @ Rs. 399/-pgs 940)
Two years after the international sensation Fall of Giants comes Winter of World the second installment of the epic Century Trilogy by master storyteller Ken Follet. Spanning from 1939 to 1946, this thrilling novel follows the fate of five families – American, French, German, British and Welsh – as they struggle against the tumultuous economic, political and social events that unfold around them. From the rise of Hitler to the war against Communism, from the Spanish Civil War to the bombing of the Pearl Harbour and the ultimate explosion of the atomic bomb, this meticulously researched novel will suck you into its world of powerful characters and fast-moving action until the final breathtaking climax is reached.
“The Krishna Key” by Ashwin Sanghi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 475)
The blue god successfully brought about countless miracles for the betterment of mankind and when he was gone the entire universe desperately waited for his return. At last our prayers were answered after the most difficult years and he returned but in a different avatar and opposite ideologies. Racing breathlessly from the submerged remains of Dwaraka and the mysterious lingam of Somnath to the icy heights of Mount Kailash, in a quest to discover the cryptic location of Krishna’s most prized possession, Ashwin Sanghvi, best selling author of Chanakya’s Chant, brings you another exhaustively research whopper of a plot, while providing an incredible alternative interpretation of the Vedic Ages that will be relished by conspiracy buffs and thriller-addicts alike.
‘The Chakh Le India Cookbook’ by Aditya Bal @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 157)
For, Aditya Bal, one of India’s best known models cooking has been a lifelong passion. Inspired by his grandmother’s delicious Kashmiri concoctions, he decided to head to Goa to pursue a career in the food industry, where a chance encounter with Monica Narula, executive producer of NDTV Good Times led to the wildly popular TV show ‘Chakh Le India’. Based on his travels across the country ‘the Chakh le India Cookbook’ offers an impressive collection of recipes – from Ladakhi Mutton Thukpa and Himachali Tava Murg to Amritsari Paneer Bhurji and Aam ki Kheer – that effectively capture the very essence of Indian cuisine. A must have for all lovers of Indian food, the mouthwatering recipes in this book are easy to follow for beginners and more experienced cooks alike.
‘Sunlight on the Garden: A story of Childhood & Youth’ by Andre Beteille @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 293)
‘Sunlight on the Garden’ is Andre Beteille’s – a brilliant sociologist and winner of the Padma Bhushan (2005) – eloquent memoir spanning his schooldays and his early years as a sociologist. Written simply, the memoir explores portraits of family members, neighbours, school friends and teachers in a time when India lived through colonization, famine, communal riots and partition. Infused with sociological observations and insights into relationships, caste, class and community, this book opens up the doors of universal human dilemmas and desires.
‘Breaking the Bow’ Edited by Anil Menon & Vandana Singh @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 338)
‘Breaking the Bow’ is the brainchild of author Anil Menon, born at a workshop of ‘Speculative Fiction’ at IIT Kanpur. The epic tale of Ramayan has captured the imagination of the people of South Asia for ages, and over the years it has been retold and reinterpreted countless number of times. What sets apart this extraordinary anthology of twenty five stories is that although they draw their inspiration from the Ramayana, they dare to break the boundaries and explore new realms of fiction – from magic realism to science-fiction and fantasy. With an impressive cosmopolitan group of writers (including Manjula Padmanabhan, Kuzhali Manickavel, Abha Dasewar) some strong new voices, this is a book that is at once mesmerizing and thought-provoking.
‘Paperclips Don’t Grow on Trees’ by Catherine Devrye @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 212)
After decades of growth and prosperity, since the Global Financial Crisis concern about the economy has been a crucial issue. This simple and practical book offers solutions and insights to help sustain a business, cut on costs and add values to operations. In short it teaches you how to eliminate waste and stimulate value. Catherine DeVrye is not an economist, but was an executive with IBM globally for a decade and she is a number one bestselling author, winner of the Australian Executive Woman of the Year Award and thought leader.
Other new books:
‘The Empire of Moghul: The Tainted Throne’ by Alex Ruthereford @ Rs. 599/-
‘The Dust Will Never Settle’ by Mukul Deva @ Rs. 299/-
‘How I Braved Anu Aunty & Co-founded a Million Dollar Company’ by Varun Agarwal@ Rs. 140/-
‘Close, Too Close: The Tranquebar Book of Queer Erotica’ edited by Meenu and Shruti @ Rs. 395/- ‘Joseph Anton’ by Salman Rushdie @ Rs. 799/-
‘Bullshit Quotient: Decoding India’s Corporate, Social and Legal Fineprint’ by Ranjeev Dubey @ Rs. 350/- ‘Let’s go Time Travelling: Life in India Through the Ages’ by Subhadra Sen Gupta @ Rs. 199/-
‘In Search of Oneness: The Bhagavad Gita and the Quran through Sufi Eyes’ by Moosa Raza @ Rs. 399/- ‘31: A Thriller’ by Upendra Namburi @ Rs. 250/-
‘Decoding Rahul Gandhi’ by Aarthi Ramachandran @ Rs. 350/-
‘Indira Gandhi: Tryst With Power’ by Nayantara Sahgal @ Rs. 399/-
‘A Perfect Time for Pandas’ (#48 Magic Tree House Series) by Mary Pope Osborne @ Rs. 450/- ‘Human: The Science Behind What Makes Your Brain Unique’ by Michael S. Gazzaniga @ Rs. 615/- ‘Jamie Oliver’s Meals in Minutes’ by Jamie Oliver @ Rs. 1515/-
‘Sounding Off’ by Resul Pookutty with Baiju Natarajan @ Rs. 399/-
‘The One World School House’ by Salman Khan @ Rs. 399/-
‘Playing to Win’ by Saina Nehwal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Rammohun Roy – A critical Biography’ by Amiya P. Sen @ Rs. 450/-
‘N-W’ BY Zadie Smith @ Rs. 499/- ‘Mastani’ by Kusum Choppra @ Rs. 195/-
‘Lessons in Lean Management: 53 Ideas to Transform Services’ by Debashis Sarkar @ Rs. 350/-
Happy Reading and enjoy your books !
See you at the Store on Wed, for Saraswati Puja and Sun, 28th Oct for the street plays,
From the team at,
twistntales
Greetings of the season and wishing you great joy and happiness on the occasion of Dussehra!
Our annual Saraswati Puja is scheduled on Dussehra day, 24th Oct, Wed, at 4.30 pm at the Store. Please join us in our prayers to the Goddess of Wisdom and may her blessings be on all of us.
We have two exciting events scheduled for 28th Oct, Sunday. twistntales has been a trendsetter in providing performance space to new groups, street theatre and other awareness/ protest movements. As a part of this endeavour, on Sun, 28th Oct, we present two groups.
The first is a group of school children from Sanskriti School, from classes 8 to 10. These children have put up a street play to create awareness regarding the harmful effects of crackers during Diwali. This will be their first public performance and all of you are requested to join and attend with your children.
The second group is Lokayat. Many of you who are regulars at twistntales know about Lokayat and the various causes that they are engaged in. Lokayat is an NGO based in Pune, and takes up social and civic issues. It comprises working professionals who give their evenings and weekends to a good cause. They use novel techniques of protest, one of them being street plays.
Lokayat members will present a play on Sex Selection
India's daughters are disappearing. New research by ActionAid and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) show that the number of girls born and surviving in northern India compared to boys falls far short of normal expectations, and continues to slide. India is the heartland of the sex selection controversy. Its alarming statistics have spurred official efforts to redress the sex ratio imbalance through legislation that prohibits sex selection, whether at the pre-conception stage or through abortion. What was once seen as a barbaric practice has, chillingly, now become increasingly accepted, albeit sometimes in more ‘technically advanced’ forms. Female infanticide has found a partner in female feticide.
Social causes underlying this have to be highlighted and awareness is required. Please do spread the word around – both the street plays will be followed by a discussion.
The plays will start at 6pm at twistntales on 28th Oct, Sunday
And now for those who can’t make it on that day, there are always new books, some of which have been reviewed for you,
New Books:
“India Grows at Night” by Gurcharan Das @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 306)
From the title of the book the complete quote is ‘India Grows at Night while the government sleeps’. Gurcharan Das implies that as Indians, we are prospering in our private lives but our country’s public issues are a failure. Beginning with Aristotle’s quote ‘The state exists for the sake of a good life, not for the sake of life alone’ he says that as an individual we have a very high sense of responsibility in the Indian home- if you don’t work you don’t eat- this accountability is missing in public life and state affairs. Prosperity is spreading but governance failure is pervading in public life. He offers a solution by suggesting the concept of a liberal state, wherein a state would have legitimate authority to take quick decisive action and also be accountable to the people. But he also points out that this ideal would be difficult to achieve as historically India has had a weak state and a strong society. Provocative and brilliant, Gurcharan Das’ writing makes us reconsider our own opinions and proof-less judgments.
‘Ending Corruption: How to Clean Up India’ by N. Vittal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 255)
The past few years of India have been years of war against corruption. Heroes and leaders like Kiran Bedi and Anna Hazare have fought and sacrificed for this just cause. N. Vittal, former CVC and author of 14 books, analyses the complete situation after the 2010 mega scams and traces the roots of this growing rot to the decline of accountability in public life, lack of transparency in governance, greed and decline in integrity. Due to his experience as an insider of government for four decades, N. Vittal’s informed insights and systematic assessment of corruption helps us understand the true nature of its roots and the area it covers today and how we as Indian citizens can achieve a clean India.
‘The King in Exile’ by Sudha Shah @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 456)
An absorbing read, exhaustively researched and gracefully written, The King in Exile is the compelling story of King Thibaw, the last King of Burma. He belonged to the Konbaug Dynasty, a line of rulers known as ‘Kings who rule the Universe’ and treated as demi-gods by their subject. In 1885, he was deposed by the British to live in exile in Ratnagiri, a small and isolated town in India. The book traces the story of the King before his exile, when he had power of life and death over his people and after exile, when he was subject to the totalitarian control of the British. A debut writer Sudha Shah has merged her seven year long research with elements of true life drama and tragedy, to produce a work of brilliance.
“My Husband & Other Animals” by Janaki Lenin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 282)
My Husband and Other Animals is a collection of stories written by Janaki Lenin- an animal enthusiast - on her experiences with her unpredictable husband Rom Whitaker- herpetologist, wildlife conservationist, and founder of Madras Crocodile Bank and Madras Snake Park- and other reptiles of the wild. After traveling the world and dealing with the most dangerous and home invading reptiles they settled in a farm in Tamil Nadu for a quite holiday only to find themselves at war with tree frogs, adamant Russell’s Vipers and a dog eating leopard. ‘With Rom, there is never a dull moment in life!’ says Janaki Lenin. Entertaining and amusing, the stories in this book shed light on the kingdom of beasts and plants, providing insights into animal dispositions and the interactions of humans with animals. Most of all, it highlights Rom and Janaki’s diverse stories with all the ‘wonderful creatures’ small and large. Currently they live with four dogs, a pair of emus, a flock of geese and a pig!
“Dream New Dreams: Reimagining My Life After Loss” by Jai Pausch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 228)
After her husband Randy Pausch, author of The Last Lecture imparted us inspiring lessons in living, Jai Pausch teaches us to Dream New Dreams even if we are faced with the most critical loss. Jai narrates a powerful story of grief, healing and newfound independence after her husband, Randy Pausch’s death due to pancreatic cancer. Inspiring and deeply moving, the book reaches out and helps all those who are struggling due to the loss of a loved one.
"Conversations With Mani Ratnam” by Baradwaj Rangan @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 305)
‘There are two things that bother a filmmaker. One, when he is offered a lifetime achievement award and second, when he is asked to do a book on his films’. A genius of a man, in this book Mani Ratnam opens up to Baradwaj Rangan, about his art, as well as his life before films. Often candid, witty and pensive, Mani Ratnam talks about his choice of themes like that of patriotism in ‘Roja’ to the knottiness in urban relationships like in ‘Agni Natchatiram’. He further elaborates on the choice of artful music and innovative methods of lighting; also he discusses the power and impacts of films on society. Complete with profound interviews with Mani Ratnam on each of his films this book is truly a tribute to the filmmaker who built the bridge between old and neo cinema in India. Baradwaj Rangan is a National Award-winning film critic, and currently deputy editor at ‘The Hindu.’
Fiction
‘Silent House’ by Orhan Pamuk @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 334)
In the small town of Cennethisar lives an old widow Fatma. She is looked after solely by her hostile servant Recep – a dwarf and her dead husband’s illegitimate son. The long awaited annual visit of Fatma’s three grandchildren – Faruk the historian, Nilgun the revolutionary and Metin, the high school nerd triggers a chain of events that threatens to change the family’s destiny forever. Set against the backdrop of the Turkish military coup of 1980 Silent House, Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk’s novel (available in English for the first time) is a powerful and vivid narrative of the fate of a family inextricably linked with the struggles of a country on the brink of change.
“The Casual Vacancy” by J.K. Rowling @ Rs. 850/- (pgs 503)
Pagford, with its cobbled streets, picturesque buildings and friendly residents seems to be the quintessentially ideal English town, until the unexpected death of Barry Fairbrother, a local activist, creates a vacancy in the Parish Council. In the weeks that follow the quiet village is thrown into turmoil as wives turn against husbands, children turn against parents and long festering resentments come to the fore. With a panoramic cast of characters and a gripping plot, master-storyteller J.K. Rowling (author of the best-selling Harry Potter series) will take you on a rollercoaster journey in this dark, honest and utterly compelling novel for adults.
“Winter of the World” by Ken Follett (Book two in the Century Trilogy) @ Rs. 399/-pgs 940)
Two years after the international sensation Fall of Giants comes Winter of World the second installment of the epic Century Trilogy by master storyteller Ken Follet. Spanning from 1939 to 1946, this thrilling novel follows the fate of five families – American, French, German, British and Welsh – as they struggle against the tumultuous economic, political and social events that unfold around them. From the rise of Hitler to the war against Communism, from the Spanish Civil War to the bombing of the Pearl Harbour and the ultimate explosion of the atomic bomb, this meticulously researched novel will suck you into its world of powerful characters and fast-moving action until the final breathtaking climax is reached.
“The Krishna Key” by Ashwin Sanghi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 475)
The blue god successfully brought about countless miracles for the betterment of mankind and when he was gone the entire universe desperately waited for his return. At last our prayers were answered after the most difficult years and he returned but in a different avatar and opposite ideologies. Racing breathlessly from the submerged remains of Dwaraka and the mysterious lingam of Somnath to the icy heights of Mount Kailash, in a quest to discover the cryptic location of Krishna’s most prized possession, Ashwin Sanghvi, best selling author of Chanakya’s Chant, brings you another exhaustively research whopper of a plot, while providing an incredible alternative interpretation of the Vedic Ages that will be relished by conspiracy buffs and thriller-addicts alike.
‘The Chakh Le India Cookbook’ by Aditya Bal @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 157)
For, Aditya Bal, one of India’s best known models cooking has been a lifelong passion. Inspired by his grandmother’s delicious Kashmiri concoctions, he decided to head to Goa to pursue a career in the food industry, where a chance encounter with Monica Narula, executive producer of NDTV Good Times led to the wildly popular TV show ‘Chakh Le India’. Based on his travels across the country ‘the Chakh le India Cookbook’ offers an impressive collection of recipes – from Ladakhi Mutton Thukpa and Himachali Tava Murg to Amritsari Paneer Bhurji and Aam ki Kheer – that effectively capture the very essence of Indian cuisine. A must have for all lovers of Indian food, the mouthwatering recipes in this book are easy to follow for beginners and more experienced cooks alike.
‘Sunlight on the Garden: A story of Childhood & Youth’ by Andre Beteille @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 293)
‘Sunlight on the Garden’ is Andre Beteille’s – a brilliant sociologist and winner of the Padma Bhushan (2005) – eloquent memoir spanning his schooldays and his early years as a sociologist. Written simply, the memoir explores portraits of family members, neighbours, school friends and teachers in a time when India lived through colonization, famine, communal riots and partition. Infused with sociological observations and insights into relationships, caste, class and community, this book opens up the doors of universal human dilemmas and desires.
‘Breaking the Bow’ Edited by Anil Menon & Vandana Singh @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 338)
‘Breaking the Bow’ is the brainchild of author Anil Menon, born at a workshop of ‘Speculative Fiction’ at IIT Kanpur. The epic tale of Ramayan has captured the imagination of the people of South Asia for ages, and over the years it has been retold and reinterpreted countless number of times. What sets apart this extraordinary anthology of twenty five stories is that although they draw their inspiration from the Ramayana, they dare to break the boundaries and explore new realms of fiction – from magic realism to science-fiction and fantasy. With an impressive cosmopolitan group of writers (including Manjula Padmanabhan, Kuzhali Manickavel, Abha Dasewar) some strong new voices, this is a book that is at once mesmerizing and thought-provoking.
‘Paperclips Don’t Grow on Trees’ by Catherine Devrye @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 212)
After decades of growth and prosperity, since the Global Financial Crisis concern about the economy has been a crucial issue. This simple and practical book offers solutions and insights to help sustain a business, cut on costs and add values to operations. In short it teaches you how to eliminate waste and stimulate value. Catherine DeVrye is not an economist, but was an executive with IBM globally for a decade and she is a number one bestselling author, winner of the Australian Executive Woman of the Year Award and thought leader.
Other new books:
‘The Empire of Moghul: The Tainted Throne’ by Alex Ruthereford @ Rs. 599/-
‘The Dust Will Never Settle’ by Mukul Deva @ Rs. 299/-
‘How I Braved Anu Aunty & Co-founded a Million Dollar Company’ by Varun Agarwal@ Rs. 140/-
‘Close, Too Close: The Tranquebar Book of Queer Erotica’ edited by Meenu and Shruti @ Rs. 395/- ‘Joseph Anton’ by Salman Rushdie @ Rs. 799/-
‘Bullshit Quotient: Decoding India’s Corporate, Social and Legal Fineprint’ by Ranjeev Dubey @ Rs. 350/- ‘Let’s go Time Travelling: Life in India Through the Ages’ by Subhadra Sen Gupta @ Rs. 199/-
‘In Search of Oneness: The Bhagavad Gita and the Quran through Sufi Eyes’ by Moosa Raza @ Rs. 399/- ‘31: A Thriller’ by Upendra Namburi @ Rs. 250/-
‘Decoding Rahul Gandhi’ by Aarthi Ramachandran @ Rs. 350/-
‘Indira Gandhi: Tryst With Power’ by Nayantara Sahgal @ Rs. 399/-
‘A Perfect Time for Pandas’ (#48 Magic Tree House Series) by Mary Pope Osborne @ Rs. 450/- ‘Human: The Science Behind What Makes Your Brain Unique’ by Michael S. Gazzaniga @ Rs. 615/- ‘Jamie Oliver’s Meals in Minutes’ by Jamie Oliver @ Rs. 1515/-
‘Sounding Off’ by Resul Pookutty with Baiju Natarajan @ Rs. 399/-
‘The One World School House’ by Salman Khan @ Rs. 399/-
‘Playing to Win’ by Saina Nehwal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Rammohun Roy – A critical Biography’ by Amiya P. Sen @ Rs. 450/-
‘N-W’ BY Zadie Smith @ Rs. 499/- ‘Mastani’ by Kusum Choppra @ Rs. 195/-
‘Lessons in Lean Management: 53 Ideas to Transform Services’ by Debashis Sarkar @ Rs. 350/-
Happy Reading and enjoy your books !
See you at the Store on Wed, for Saraswati Puja and Sun, 28th Oct for the street plays,
From the team at,
twistntales
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
The JOY OF GIVING discounts !!
Hi all,
The annual Joy of Giving week is here (2nd Oct to 7th Oct) and across the Country, a lot of voluntary effort is engaged in promoting the Joy of Giving. It is a festival of philanthropy that aims to become part of the Indian Ethos. Starting with Gandhi Jayanti, it aims to promote voluntary acts of “giving” through the giving of time, energy, resources etc.
We at twistntales are familiar with many of you, our customers who are engaged in actively volunteering your services for Aakansha, Door Step School, Herrmann Gmeiner Shelter for Railway children, Kanyashaala, Sadhana, Jagruti School for Blind Girls, Sathi, etc and so many other NGOs that many of you work with or volunteer with. We at twistntales are very happy to be associated with so many of you, apart from the charities that we support, namely, The Sunshine Room at the pediatric ward @ Sassoon Hospital.
Joy, is truly in the giving and to encourage and promote this activity, we are happy to give all of you discounts on all your purchases.
GOOD DISCOUNTS WILL BE OFFERED ON ALL BOOKS (inside/outside) TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS. THIS WILL BE FOR A LIMITED PERIOD FROM WED, 3rd OCT to SUN, 7th OCT.
Kindly inform all your friends/ family too as this is happening with short notice and we want all to share with us in this JOY OF GIVING endeavor!
Hope to see you at the Store,
From the team at,
twistntales
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Welcome Ganesha with new books !
Hi all,
As we welcome Ganesha into our hearts, homes and our streets, here’s to all the catching up in reading that you can do! But make sure, you walk to our Store or park far ahead, our street is in a mess, and will stay that way for ten days till our public devotion leads to some sanity on our streets!
Best wishes for Ganesh Chaturthi and may Ganesha bring in joy, prosperity and happiness to all, including book lovers!
Lots of new books, including the latest books by Gurcharan Das and Salman Rushdie! Some really whacky ones and some really different. Come in and have a good look and give yourself the time to discover some absolute gems that we have here for your reading pleasure.
We in twistntales are looking for a “Booksitter” (see next post) – mainly for the afternoon hours. If interested, please call or write-in. To our last appeal, we have had 2 absolutely wonderful ladies who responded and some of you may have met them during your visits to twistntales. Hema, is a senior citizen, who comes in 3 mornings, works with a smile, and takes all payment in kind for her grandchildren More strength to such women who step out of home, even at 70.
The other is Saira, again many of you who are regulars at our Christmas event at Sassoon will know her well. Saira volunteers at Sassoon, and now also at twistntales. Yes, twistntales is almost (!) an NGO – and soon we will be asking for unpaid volunteers!
Apart from these 2 ladies, our youngsters bringing in daily joy both to us and you, are Malhar and Richa. We have had to bid a fond farewell to Lijya, whom so many of you were fond of too! As Lijya prepares for her graduation and future studies, we are currently going strong with Malhar, and Richa who has joined us in August. Malhar is doing his Liberal Arts in Symbi and Richa is doing her BSc from FC. Between the two of them, they bring a sense of whacky fun to our evening hours at twistntales.
And now on to new books, some of which are reviewed for you,
Fiction
‘Bared to You’ by Sylvia Day @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 340)
‘Bared to You’ is the second book in the new genre popularly known as clit-lit, after the Fifty Shades of Grey series. Sylvia Day is a New York Times bestselling author and has written more than a dozen books. The book revolves around Gideon Cross- brilliant and handsome yet a person with inner demons. Eva the main character narrates the story of how she falls in love with Gideon and even after she knows his alter ego cannot escape his drug-like charm. A well-written and sexually charged romance, this book keeps you hooked just like Fifty Shades of Grey.
‘Gamble - A Dick Francis Novel’ by Felix Francis @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 418
Felix Francis is the son of Dick Francis, and heir to his stable of best-selling thrillers about the world of horse-racing. The story follows Nick Foxton’s career as a jockey being cut short by a near-fatal fall after winning the Grand National. Back at the Aintree as a spectator, Nick witnesses the assassination of his friend and colleague, Herb Kovak. Though the presses link the shooting to gangland crimes, Nick is convinced otherwise and begins investigating himself. Soon he finds himself face to face with the men who killed Herb only to realize that their next target is he! Descriptive narratives and fast-paced, ‘Gamble’ retains all properties of the original Dick Francis novels: Simple Plotted, entirely guessable and huge fun to read!
Indian Writing
‘Ships That Pass’ by Shashi Deshpande @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 136)
Marriage is a strange thing. On one hand it signifies to the world, the union of two people who will live together and have children, while on the other hand marriage is an intensely private affair. No outsider will ever know what goes on in someone else’s marriage. This is the story of Radhika, who has been engaged to someone she barely knows. As she struggles with her emotions for another man her sister, Tara dies in mysterious circumstances and her husband Shaan is arrested for murder. Originally a story in serialized format written by Shashi Deshpande in Eve’s Weekly in 1980, Ships that Pass is a meditation on the nature of love and marriage.
‘Govinda’ (The Aryavarta Chronicles Book 1) by Krishna Udayasankar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 458)
In the war torn realm of Aryavarta emerges an unlikely hero-the cowherd turned prince- Govinda. But can he face the demons of his past and find the courage to protect the land and people he loves. A thrilling tale of power and treachery ‘Govinda’ is the first book in the ‘Aryavarta Chronicles’, a new series by the debut author Krishna Udayasankar. Neither a reinterpretation nor a retelling, this unique reconstruction of Mahabharat is a must read for all those who love Indian Fiction.
‘A Current of Blood’ by Namdeo Dhasal (translated by Dilip Chitre) @ Rs. 180/-
Namdeo Dhasal is a poet whose writing reflects vigor, rage and compassion for the oppressed dalits and for the festering innards of his city, Mumbai. He is the founder of Dalit Panther, the militant organization modeled on Black Panther, in 1972. His book Golpitha, a collection of poetry, is a landmark in Marathi literature. This book is takes us on an elegant journey to those difficult spaces of the mind over which we have build mental flyovers and hence fear to explore.
Krishna Coriolis Series by Ashok K. Banker:
Ashok K. Banker reinvents Indian Mythology and transports us to a world of cunning demons and intricate prophecies which are faced by the Protector of mankind when he was just a young mischievous cowherd.
‘Lord of Mathura’ (Book 4 - Krishna Coriolis Series) by Ashok K. Banker @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 283)
A cowherd against the King, a nephew against his uncle- Krishna returns in this witty and engaging fourth book to fulfill the prophecy and protect humankind! Catch the action that unfolds between the boy-God and the evil Lord of Mathura.
‘Rage of Jarsandha’ (Book 5 - Krishna Coriolis Series) by Ashok K. Banker @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 301)
Krishna days as a flirtatious cowherd are over, now it is time for him to rule his kingdom and face a new enemy. Catch Krishna and Balaram combining forces to fight the deadliest enemy yet in this fifth book!
‘Toke’ by Jugal Mody @ Rs. 160/- (pgs 215)
Before handling web and social media for ‘Filmfare’ and ‘Tehelka’, Jugal Mody worked in gaming. As a rule he writes to feel like a dog sticking his head out the window of a moving car. The story is about Nikhil, who while stoned, teams up with his friends, survivors and Lord Vishnu to save the world from turning undead. Mostly ‘high’ they battle zombies, crash a plane in Santacruz and undergo a lot of non-consensual kissing. Hilarious and trippy this debut novel delves into the mind and heart of true pot-heads.
‘The Purple Line’ by Priyamvada N. Purushotham @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 216)
Priyamvada’s debut novel, The Purple Line, delves into womanhood and explores the significance and intricacies revolving around the elusive ‘Purple Line’ that symbolizes pregnancy. The story is about Mrinali, a Gynecologist with Masters from London, who has returned and set up a clinic in Chennai and six women whose lives are unknowingly linked together on a journey that will make Mrinali laugh and cry and teach her the true meaning of Womanhood.
‘Maharani’ by Ruskin Bond @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 180)
We’ve read about the Queen’s in Ruskin Bonds old books. But most of the time they were either creatures of mystery, never coming out of their unreachable palaces (turned ruins in some cases) or just part of third hand stories. But this time, the queen is not mysterious, not part of some fable, and very much a real person with a real life and real fault’s. Maharani HH is a spoilt, selfish, beautiful widow of the Maharaj of Mastipur. And by her side is her friend our own Ruskin! Melancholic, wry and full of charm, Maharani is a delightful novella about love, death and friendship.
Graphic Novels:
‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’ (A Graphic Novel) by Sumit Kumar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 178)
This new Graphic Novel describes the life of Sumit Kumar (Author of the book and a former writer of Savita Bhabi!), born in a middle class family. From Entrepreneurship to embarrassment, this is a Honest View of the Life of a Young, Confused Man Suffering from an Acute Case of ‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’. Insanely and extremely funny, witty and highly captivating, this new graphic gives a whole new outlook and meaning to ‘Comics’ in India. A ticking bomb of simple plots, tight satires and sarcasm to its max!
‘PAO: The Anthology of Comics 1’ @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 300)
Aliens write Science Fiction, hair burns like grass and a city sleeps under the Sleepscapes: Surreal and touching stories merge with image and word to narrate twelve graphic tales in PAO Anthology of Comics Vol 1. The graphics range from raw sketches to professional and provocative images. The anthology features many fresh authors with fresh-talent. The stories are contemplative, profound and gripping- all in all an extremely enjoyable book!
Socio Eco
‘The Curious Case of Binayak Sen’ by Dilip D’Souza @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 186)
In May 2007, Binayak Sen, a public health specialist and civil rights activist was arrested under the accusation of being involved in Naxalite activities. In December 2012, a sessions court in Raipur found him guilty of sedition and cooperating with terrorist organization and sentenced him to life imprisonment. This triggered an outburst of outrage across human rights and citizens’ groups in India and abroad. ‘The Curious Case of Binayak Sen’ boldly addresses issues of state power and individual freedom, issues that are too often censored and obscured with state propaganda. After the acclaimed ‘Roadrunner: An Indian Quest in America’ Dilip D’Souza has produced another work of genius; honest and hard-hitting.
‘The Liberals’ by Hindol Sengupta @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 311)
The Liberals is an autobiography of liberalization of India. It is a private story of a very public middle-class consumption revolution. It starts from 1991 when the Indian economy opened up to the world and unlocked a billion desires and dreams. An entrepreneur and author of two previous books on Indian Luxury Industry, Hindol Sengupta takes us on a journey through social media, Page-3 parties in Delhi, girls who impart lessons in capitalism, Bob Dylan’s jam with murderous villagers and many more unforgettable characters spawned by the needs of the world’s largest democracy. Written with innocence, knowledge and a keen understanding of life, Hindol Sengupta has touched upon the minutest details of the lives of the middle-class.
‘What Young India Wants: Selected Essays and Columns’ by Chetan Bhagat
Chetan Bhagat, that cheeky chronicler of ‘Young India’, is back with a compilation of essays and columns. The title is sure to attract markets, because it pretty much states that Bhagat is about to unlock the secrets of our hopes, desires, dreams and ambitions as the next generation of Indians. With this foray into non-fiction, his first, he showcases his spectacular ability to graze and skim the surface of many a subjects. It is here through sections on society, politics and the Youth that Bhagat gives us his opinions on the current state of things and addresses questions like ‘why is there so much corruption in India?’ and ‘Why do our students regularly commit suicide?’
History
‘From The Ruins of Empire: The Revolt Against West and the Remaking of Asia’ by Pankaj Mishra @ Rs. 699/- (pgs 356)
The Victorian period, in the West was viewed as a time of confident progress, but in Asia it was a catastrophe. British colonies had spread all over Asia and had torn apart great Empires which once had formed the heart of civilization. In this period they had destroyed the Summer Palace of Beijing, humiliated the rulers of Ottoman Empire and gunned down last heirs of the Mughal Empire. Amidst all the chaos the Tsushima Battle was fought and for the first time since the Middle Ages a non-European country had defeated a European power in a great war. The war inspired many Asian countries and a remarkable group of men from across the continent began to challenge the West which ultimately led to the freedom of them all and has defined our lives today. Mishra leads the reader through the events of two centuries through the eyes of journalists, poets, radicals and charismatics who through their ideas have build the infrastructure which lie behind the Asian nations of the twenty-first century. This fascinating and highly entertaining new book will take you on a voyage of epic learning of the history of the modern world.
Science / Personalities
‘The Quantum Universe: Everything that can happen does happen’ by Brian Cox & Jeff Forshaw @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 255)
Brian Cox, professor of particle physics at University of Manchester and employee at CERN laboratory in Geneva with Jeff Forshaw, professor of theoretical physics and winner of Physics Maxwell Medal in 1999 come together to explain to us the real science behind the bizarre and mind-boggling atoms and energy that make the cosmos. The world is a strange place and through science our closest understanding of our world- so far- is quantum physics. The main question addressed is: what is quantum physics and how does it help us make sense of the universe? Written simply and with passion this book strives to teach us more about our mysterious world and reveal to us how everything that can happen does happen.
‘S. Chandrasekhar – Man of Science’ edited by Radhika Ramnath @ Rs. 350/-
To coincide with the centenary of S. Chandrasekhar, his niece Radhika Ramnath, put together this book to salute one of India’s greatest scientist. The world recognizes this Nobel Laureate as one of the most outstanding astrophysicists. She paints a picture of the greatest man as that of a caring uncle, devoted husband and a compassionate brother. The book is divided in two sections. The first section is a compilation of his most famous essays and lectures that lays before the reader Chandrasekhar’s love for science and his motherland. The second section is a string of memoirs by his family members. The added bonus is the foreword by A.P.J Abdul Kalam, whose apt words sum up the reason for reading this book, “… In a globalized world distances have shrunk, but the need for bonding is felt more urgently.
Management/ Inspiration
‘Insanely Simple: The Obsession that Drives Apple’s Success’ by Ken Segall @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 225)
For Steve Jobs simplicity was not only a religion but also a weapon. It was Apple’s obsession with simplicity that today separates Apple from other technology companies in the market, in terms of innovation, customer friendly and devoid of all complexities in their products. ‘Insanely Simple’ gives the reader an insider’s view Apple’s organization and reveals ten elements of simplicity that has driven apple’s success- which can be implemented by you to propel your own organization. Ken Segall has worked closely with Steve Jobs as ad agency creative director for NeXT and Apple. He also is the person who named the iMac!
‘Heart, Smarts, Guts and Luck: What it takes to be an Entrepreneur and Build a ‘Great Business’ by Anthony K. Tjan, Richard J. Harrington, Tsun-Yan Hsieh @ Rs. 795/- (pgs 236)
The author’s ‘Entrepreneurial Aptitude Test’ identifies entrepreneurial DNA and explains how heart, smarts, guts and luck mesh in various ‘I want to build it’ personalities. What type of a business builder are you? Hearts: vision and value driven and always look at the larger picture. Smarts: excel at analysis and strategy. Guts: focus on action. And Luck : those who are lucky understand that they are not the smartest people in the room and use their intellectual curiosity to acquire and share knowledge through networking. The authors use profiles from successful entrepreneurs to show that there are many ways to build a business- If you understand who you are. The book also provides self-awareness and tools a leader needs at every stage of business from founding to scaling and beyond.
Other new and noteworthy books:
‘Artemis Fowl and The Last Guardian’ by Eoin Colfer @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 306)
‘The Indus Intercept: In The Badlands of Balochistan every Step is a Minefield’ by Aruna Gill @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 330)
‘The Tiller of Waters’ by Hoda Barakat @ Rs. 375 (pgs 200)
‘Ending Corruption: How to Clean Up India’ by N. Vittal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 255)
‘The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty’ Dan Ariely @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 283)
‘Swaraj’ by Arvind Kejariwal @ Rs. 99/- (pgs 175)
‘The Price of Inequality’ by Joseph E. Stiglitz @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 414)
‘Powder Room: The Untold Story of Indian Fashion’ by Shefalee Vasudev @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 332)
‘Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook 2013’ @ Rs. 1190/- (pgs 787)
‘The Krishna Key’ by Ashwin Sanghi @ Rs. 250/-
‘The Small Print of Success: The little details which will make BIG difference to your career’ by David Thompson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 188)
‘Titans of History’ by Simon Sebag Montefiore @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 656)
‘The Puffin Book of 100 Great Indians’ @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 343)
‘Manga Martial Arts’ by David Okum @ Rs. 495/-
‘Blast Lab: 20 Great Science Experiments’ by Richard Hammond @ Rs. 399/-
‘Confessionally Yours’ by Jhoomur Bose @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 210)
‘Jinnah vs. Gandhi’ by Roderick Matthews @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 330)
‘Stuck on 1/Forty: A New Collection of Poems’ by Pritish Nandy @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 100)
“There is an I in Team’ by Mark de Rond @ Rs. 995/- (pgs 184)
‘The King in Exile’ by Sudha Shah @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 456)
‘The Illicit Happiness of Other People’ by Manu Joseph @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 343)
‘Days and Nights in the Heartland of Rebellion’ by Gautam Navlakha @ Rs. 299/- pgs 247)
‘The Timekeeper’ by Mitch Albom @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 226)
‘The Taming of Women’ by P. Sivakami @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 254)
‘The Book of Destruction’ by Anand @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 242)
‘The Empire of Moghul: The Tainted Throne’ by Alex Rutherford @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 438)
‘Dream New Dreams’ by Jai Pausch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 228)
‘The Dust Will Never Settle’ by Mukul Deva @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 365)
‘Music of the Spinning Wheel: Mahatma Gandhi’s Manifesto for the Internet Age’ by Sudheendra Kulkarni @ Rs. 595/- (pgs 713)
‘How I Braved Anu Aunty & Co-founded a Million Dollar Company’ by Varun Agarwal@ Rs. 140/- (pgs 249)
‘My Husband & Other Animals’ by Janaki Lenin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 282)
‘Close, Too Close: The Tranquebar Book of Queer Erotica’ edited by Meenu and Shruti @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 216)
‘Sexy@Sixty: Health and Beauty at Every Age’ by Namita Jain @ Rs. 200/- (pgs 202)
‘Poor Little Rich Slum’ by Rashmi Bansal and Deepak Gandhi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 189)
‘The Chakh Le India Cookbook’ by Aditya Bal @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 157)
Happy Reading and see you at the Store,
From the team at
twistntales
As we welcome Ganesha into our hearts, homes and our streets, here’s to all the catching up in reading that you can do! But make sure, you walk to our Store or park far ahead, our street is in a mess, and will stay that way for ten days till our public devotion leads to some sanity on our streets!
Best wishes for Ganesh Chaturthi and may Ganesha bring in joy, prosperity and happiness to all, including book lovers!
Lots of new books, including the latest books by Gurcharan Das and Salman Rushdie! Some really whacky ones and some really different. Come in and have a good look and give yourself the time to discover some absolute gems that we have here for your reading pleasure.
We in twistntales are looking for a “Booksitter” (see next post) – mainly for the afternoon hours. If interested, please call or write-in. To our last appeal, we have had 2 absolutely wonderful ladies who responded and some of you may have met them during your visits to twistntales. Hema, is a senior citizen, who comes in 3 mornings, works with a smile, and takes all payment in kind for her grandchildren More strength to such women who step out of home, even at 70.
The other is Saira, again many of you who are regulars at our Christmas event at Sassoon will know her well. Saira volunteers at Sassoon, and now also at twistntales. Yes, twistntales is almost (!) an NGO – and soon we will be asking for unpaid volunteers!
Apart from these 2 ladies, our youngsters bringing in daily joy both to us and you, are Malhar and Richa. We have had to bid a fond farewell to Lijya, whom so many of you were fond of too! As Lijya prepares for her graduation and future studies, we are currently going strong with Malhar, and Richa who has joined us in August. Malhar is doing his Liberal Arts in Symbi and Richa is doing her BSc from FC. Between the two of them, they bring a sense of whacky fun to our evening hours at twistntales.
And now on to new books, some of which are reviewed for you,
Fiction
‘Bared to You’ by Sylvia Day @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 340)
‘Bared to You’ is the second book in the new genre popularly known as clit-lit, after the Fifty Shades of Grey series. Sylvia Day is a New York Times bestselling author and has written more than a dozen books. The book revolves around Gideon Cross- brilliant and handsome yet a person with inner demons. Eva the main character narrates the story of how she falls in love with Gideon and even after she knows his alter ego cannot escape his drug-like charm. A well-written and sexually charged romance, this book keeps you hooked just like Fifty Shades of Grey.
‘Gamble - A Dick Francis Novel’ by Felix Francis @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 418
Felix Francis is the son of Dick Francis, and heir to his stable of best-selling thrillers about the world of horse-racing. The story follows Nick Foxton’s career as a jockey being cut short by a near-fatal fall after winning the Grand National. Back at the Aintree as a spectator, Nick witnesses the assassination of his friend and colleague, Herb Kovak. Though the presses link the shooting to gangland crimes, Nick is convinced otherwise and begins investigating himself. Soon he finds himself face to face with the men who killed Herb only to realize that their next target is he! Descriptive narratives and fast-paced, ‘Gamble’ retains all properties of the original Dick Francis novels: Simple Plotted, entirely guessable and huge fun to read!
Indian Writing
‘Ships That Pass’ by Shashi Deshpande @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 136)
Marriage is a strange thing. On one hand it signifies to the world, the union of two people who will live together and have children, while on the other hand marriage is an intensely private affair. No outsider will ever know what goes on in someone else’s marriage. This is the story of Radhika, who has been engaged to someone she barely knows. As she struggles with her emotions for another man her sister, Tara dies in mysterious circumstances and her husband Shaan is arrested for murder. Originally a story in serialized format written by Shashi Deshpande in Eve’s Weekly in 1980, Ships that Pass is a meditation on the nature of love and marriage.
‘Govinda’ (The Aryavarta Chronicles Book 1) by Krishna Udayasankar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 458)
In the war torn realm of Aryavarta emerges an unlikely hero-the cowherd turned prince- Govinda. But can he face the demons of his past and find the courage to protect the land and people he loves. A thrilling tale of power and treachery ‘Govinda’ is the first book in the ‘Aryavarta Chronicles’, a new series by the debut author Krishna Udayasankar. Neither a reinterpretation nor a retelling, this unique reconstruction of Mahabharat is a must read for all those who love Indian Fiction.
‘A Current of Blood’ by Namdeo Dhasal (translated by Dilip Chitre) @ Rs. 180/-
Namdeo Dhasal is a poet whose writing reflects vigor, rage and compassion for the oppressed dalits and for the festering innards of his city, Mumbai. He is the founder of Dalit Panther, the militant organization modeled on Black Panther, in 1972. His book Golpitha, a collection of poetry, is a landmark in Marathi literature. This book is takes us on an elegant journey to those difficult spaces of the mind over which we have build mental flyovers and hence fear to explore.
Krishna Coriolis Series by Ashok K. Banker:
Ashok K. Banker reinvents Indian Mythology and transports us to a world of cunning demons and intricate prophecies which are faced by the Protector of mankind when he was just a young mischievous cowherd.
‘Lord of Mathura’ (Book 4 - Krishna Coriolis Series) by Ashok K. Banker @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 283)
A cowherd against the King, a nephew against his uncle- Krishna returns in this witty and engaging fourth book to fulfill the prophecy and protect humankind! Catch the action that unfolds between the boy-God and the evil Lord of Mathura.
‘Rage of Jarsandha’ (Book 5 - Krishna Coriolis Series) by Ashok K. Banker @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 301)
Krishna days as a flirtatious cowherd are over, now it is time for him to rule his kingdom and face a new enemy. Catch Krishna and Balaram combining forces to fight the deadliest enemy yet in this fifth book!
‘Toke’ by Jugal Mody @ Rs. 160/- (pgs 215)
Before handling web and social media for ‘Filmfare’ and ‘Tehelka’, Jugal Mody worked in gaming. As a rule he writes to feel like a dog sticking his head out the window of a moving car. The story is about Nikhil, who while stoned, teams up with his friends, survivors and Lord Vishnu to save the world from turning undead. Mostly ‘high’ they battle zombies, crash a plane in Santacruz and undergo a lot of non-consensual kissing. Hilarious and trippy this debut novel delves into the mind and heart of true pot-heads.
‘The Purple Line’ by Priyamvada N. Purushotham @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 216)
Priyamvada’s debut novel, The Purple Line, delves into womanhood and explores the significance and intricacies revolving around the elusive ‘Purple Line’ that symbolizes pregnancy. The story is about Mrinali, a Gynecologist with Masters from London, who has returned and set up a clinic in Chennai and six women whose lives are unknowingly linked together on a journey that will make Mrinali laugh and cry and teach her the true meaning of Womanhood.
‘Maharani’ by Ruskin Bond @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 180)
We’ve read about the Queen’s in Ruskin Bonds old books. But most of the time they were either creatures of mystery, never coming out of their unreachable palaces (turned ruins in some cases) or just part of third hand stories. But this time, the queen is not mysterious, not part of some fable, and very much a real person with a real life and real fault’s. Maharani HH is a spoilt, selfish, beautiful widow of the Maharaj of Mastipur. And by her side is her friend our own Ruskin! Melancholic, wry and full of charm, Maharani is a delightful novella about love, death and friendship.
Graphic Novels:
‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’ (A Graphic Novel) by Sumit Kumar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 178)
This new Graphic Novel describes the life of Sumit Kumar (Author of the book and a former writer of Savita Bhabi!), born in a middle class family. From Entrepreneurship to embarrassment, this is a Honest View of the Life of a Young, Confused Man Suffering from an Acute Case of ‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’. Insanely and extremely funny, witty and highly captivating, this new graphic gives a whole new outlook and meaning to ‘Comics’ in India. A ticking bomb of simple plots, tight satires and sarcasm to its max!
‘PAO: The Anthology of Comics 1’ @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 300)
Aliens write Science Fiction, hair burns like grass and a city sleeps under the Sleepscapes: Surreal and touching stories merge with image and word to narrate twelve graphic tales in PAO Anthology of Comics Vol 1. The graphics range from raw sketches to professional and provocative images. The anthology features many fresh authors with fresh-talent. The stories are contemplative, profound and gripping- all in all an extremely enjoyable book!
Socio Eco
‘The Curious Case of Binayak Sen’ by Dilip D’Souza @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 186)
In May 2007, Binayak Sen, a public health specialist and civil rights activist was arrested under the accusation of being involved in Naxalite activities. In December 2012, a sessions court in Raipur found him guilty of sedition and cooperating with terrorist organization and sentenced him to life imprisonment. This triggered an outburst of outrage across human rights and citizens’ groups in India and abroad. ‘The Curious Case of Binayak Sen’ boldly addresses issues of state power and individual freedom, issues that are too often censored and obscured with state propaganda. After the acclaimed ‘Roadrunner: An Indian Quest in America’ Dilip D’Souza has produced another work of genius; honest and hard-hitting.
‘The Liberals’ by Hindol Sengupta @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 311)
The Liberals is an autobiography of liberalization of India. It is a private story of a very public middle-class consumption revolution. It starts from 1991 when the Indian economy opened up to the world and unlocked a billion desires and dreams. An entrepreneur and author of two previous books on Indian Luxury Industry, Hindol Sengupta takes us on a journey through social media, Page-3 parties in Delhi, girls who impart lessons in capitalism, Bob Dylan’s jam with murderous villagers and many more unforgettable characters spawned by the needs of the world’s largest democracy. Written with innocence, knowledge and a keen understanding of life, Hindol Sengupta has touched upon the minutest details of the lives of the middle-class.
‘What Young India Wants: Selected Essays and Columns’ by Chetan Bhagat
Chetan Bhagat, that cheeky chronicler of ‘Young India’, is back with a compilation of essays and columns. The title is sure to attract markets, because it pretty much states that Bhagat is about to unlock the secrets of our hopes, desires, dreams and ambitions as the next generation of Indians. With this foray into non-fiction, his first, he showcases his spectacular ability to graze and skim the surface of many a subjects. It is here through sections on society, politics and the Youth that Bhagat gives us his opinions on the current state of things and addresses questions like ‘why is there so much corruption in India?’ and ‘Why do our students regularly commit suicide?’
History
‘From The Ruins of Empire: The Revolt Against West and the Remaking of Asia’ by Pankaj Mishra @ Rs. 699/- (pgs 356)
The Victorian period, in the West was viewed as a time of confident progress, but in Asia it was a catastrophe. British colonies had spread all over Asia and had torn apart great Empires which once had formed the heart of civilization. In this period they had destroyed the Summer Palace of Beijing, humiliated the rulers of Ottoman Empire and gunned down last heirs of the Mughal Empire. Amidst all the chaos the Tsushima Battle was fought and for the first time since the Middle Ages a non-European country had defeated a European power in a great war. The war inspired many Asian countries and a remarkable group of men from across the continent began to challenge the West which ultimately led to the freedom of them all and has defined our lives today. Mishra leads the reader through the events of two centuries through the eyes of journalists, poets, radicals and charismatics who through their ideas have build the infrastructure which lie behind the Asian nations of the twenty-first century. This fascinating and highly entertaining new book will take you on a voyage of epic learning of the history of the modern world.
Science / Personalities
‘The Quantum Universe: Everything that can happen does happen’ by Brian Cox & Jeff Forshaw @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 255)
Brian Cox, professor of particle physics at University of Manchester and employee at CERN laboratory in Geneva with Jeff Forshaw, professor of theoretical physics and winner of Physics Maxwell Medal in 1999 come together to explain to us the real science behind the bizarre and mind-boggling atoms and energy that make the cosmos. The world is a strange place and through science our closest understanding of our world- so far- is quantum physics. The main question addressed is: what is quantum physics and how does it help us make sense of the universe? Written simply and with passion this book strives to teach us more about our mysterious world and reveal to us how everything that can happen does happen.
‘S. Chandrasekhar – Man of Science’ edited by Radhika Ramnath @ Rs. 350/-
To coincide with the centenary of S. Chandrasekhar, his niece Radhika Ramnath, put together this book to salute one of India’s greatest scientist. The world recognizes this Nobel Laureate as one of the most outstanding astrophysicists. She paints a picture of the greatest man as that of a caring uncle, devoted husband and a compassionate brother. The book is divided in two sections. The first section is a compilation of his most famous essays and lectures that lays before the reader Chandrasekhar’s love for science and his motherland. The second section is a string of memoirs by his family members. The added bonus is the foreword by A.P.J Abdul Kalam, whose apt words sum up the reason for reading this book, “… In a globalized world distances have shrunk, but the need for bonding is felt more urgently.
Management/ Inspiration
‘Insanely Simple: The Obsession that Drives Apple’s Success’ by Ken Segall @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 225)
For Steve Jobs simplicity was not only a religion but also a weapon. It was Apple’s obsession with simplicity that today separates Apple from other technology companies in the market, in terms of innovation, customer friendly and devoid of all complexities in their products. ‘Insanely Simple’ gives the reader an insider’s view Apple’s organization and reveals ten elements of simplicity that has driven apple’s success- which can be implemented by you to propel your own organization. Ken Segall has worked closely with Steve Jobs as ad agency creative director for NeXT and Apple. He also is the person who named the iMac!
‘Heart, Smarts, Guts and Luck: What it takes to be an Entrepreneur and Build a ‘Great Business’ by Anthony K. Tjan, Richard J. Harrington, Tsun-Yan Hsieh @ Rs. 795/- (pgs 236)
The author’s ‘Entrepreneurial Aptitude Test’ identifies entrepreneurial DNA and explains how heart, smarts, guts and luck mesh in various ‘I want to build it’ personalities. What type of a business builder are you? Hearts: vision and value driven and always look at the larger picture. Smarts: excel at analysis and strategy. Guts: focus on action. And Luck : those who are lucky understand that they are not the smartest people in the room and use their intellectual curiosity to acquire and share knowledge through networking. The authors use profiles from successful entrepreneurs to show that there are many ways to build a business- If you understand who you are. The book also provides self-awareness and tools a leader needs at every stage of business from founding to scaling and beyond.
Other new and noteworthy books:
‘Artemis Fowl and The Last Guardian’ by Eoin Colfer @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 306)
‘The Indus Intercept: In The Badlands of Balochistan every Step is a Minefield’ by Aruna Gill @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 330)
‘The Tiller of Waters’ by Hoda Barakat @ Rs. 375 (pgs 200)
‘Ending Corruption: How to Clean Up India’ by N. Vittal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 255)
‘The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty’ Dan Ariely @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 283)
‘Swaraj’ by Arvind Kejariwal @ Rs. 99/- (pgs 175)
‘The Price of Inequality’ by Joseph E. Stiglitz @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 414)
‘Powder Room: The Untold Story of Indian Fashion’ by Shefalee Vasudev @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 332)
‘Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook 2013’ @ Rs. 1190/- (pgs 787)
‘The Krishna Key’ by Ashwin Sanghi @ Rs. 250/-
‘The Small Print of Success: The little details which will make BIG difference to your career’ by David Thompson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 188)
‘Titans of History’ by Simon Sebag Montefiore @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 656)
‘The Puffin Book of 100 Great Indians’ @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 343)
‘Manga Martial Arts’ by David Okum @ Rs. 495/-
‘Blast Lab: 20 Great Science Experiments’ by Richard Hammond @ Rs. 399/-
‘Confessionally Yours’ by Jhoomur Bose @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 210)
‘Jinnah vs. Gandhi’ by Roderick Matthews @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 330)
‘Stuck on 1/Forty: A New Collection of Poems’ by Pritish Nandy @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 100)
“There is an I in Team’ by Mark de Rond @ Rs. 995/- (pgs 184)
‘The King in Exile’ by Sudha Shah @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 456)
‘The Illicit Happiness of Other People’ by Manu Joseph @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 343)
‘Days and Nights in the Heartland of Rebellion’ by Gautam Navlakha @ Rs. 299/- pgs 247)
‘The Timekeeper’ by Mitch Albom @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 226)
‘The Taming of Women’ by P. Sivakami @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 254)
‘The Book of Destruction’ by Anand @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 242)
‘The Empire of Moghul: The Tainted Throne’ by Alex Rutherford @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 438)
‘Dream New Dreams’ by Jai Pausch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 228)
‘The Dust Will Never Settle’ by Mukul Deva @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 365)
‘Music of the Spinning Wheel: Mahatma Gandhi’s Manifesto for the Internet Age’ by Sudheendra Kulkarni @ Rs. 595/- (pgs 713)
‘How I Braved Anu Aunty & Co-founded a Million Dollar Company’ by Varun Agarwal@ Rs. 140/- (pgs 249)
‘My Husband & Other Animals’ by Janaki Lenin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 282)
‘Close, Too Close: The Tranquebar Book of Queer Erotica’ edited by Meenu and Shruti @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 216)
‘Sexy@Sixty: Health and Beauty at Every Age’ by Namita Jain @ Rs. 200/- (pgs 202)
‘Poor Little Rich Slum’ by Rashmi Bansal and Deepak Gandhi @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 189)
‘The Chakh Le India Cookbook’ by Aditya Bal @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 157)
Happy Reading and see you at the Store,
From the team at
twistntales
Monday, August 13, 2012
Read independent publishers available at independent bookstores on Independence Day !
Hi all,
As we celebrate the closing of one of the greatest sporting spectacles and get ready for the season of the Gods in our country, here’s a look at what lovely books we have in store for you to pick up to read on your Independence Day holiday!
Some lovely, some whacky and some absolutely wow books here, some of which reviewed for you.
WOW
‘dates.sites: Project Cinema City Bombay/Mumbai’ by Madhushree Dutta & Shilpa Gupta @ Rs. 995/- (pgs 234)
‘dates.sites’ presents a timeline of the city of Bombay/Mumbai in the 20th century, anchored to its most adored public institution: cinema! The text and images have been stitched together from formal/informal, acknowledged/discarded sources, public domain or personal archives. The relationship between text and image, far from being umbilical is playfully associative making these snippets from the past of Bombay cinema an absolute WOW!
This book is under the ‘Majlis Project’, a centre for rights discourse and multidisciplinary arts initiative based in Mumbai.
‘The Obliterary Journal: Volume 1 A Blaft Joint’ comic by Straatkunst @ Rs. 695/- (pgs 269)
Here are snippets from the pool of graphic novels which ‘reign supreme’. I say this as the Obliterary journal seeks to eradicate lengthy passages of unadorned text. Instead they want to fill the world with comics, picture books, graffiti and wacky art! Come check out their awesome book and if you agree you can support them in their revolutionary mission!
‘Random: Thrills! Suspense! Romance! Gajras!’ from Twenty Onwards Media Pvt. Ltd. @ Rs 495/- (pgs 158)
India’s longest running humor anthology ‘Random’ present together for the first time ‘Simpoo’ Sodhi and Lola kutty! This new avatar (No, no references to those blue people) of Random is definitely out of titanic proportions… only an alien will not find this funny! This book contains everything humorous, lots of lola-ness and attempts to get countless more generations to abandon their responsibilities and laugh like the legend of Random laughs!
Pop Culture Graphic Novels: Pop Culture Graphic Novels are comics with a Desi twist. Some are crude, some are filled with Indian superheroes doing extreme stunts and some are even jam-packed with gooey emotions, but rest assured they all are extremely funny!
‘The Best of Quest’ Edited by Laeeq Futehally, Archal Prabhala and Arshia Sattar @ Rs. 695/- (pgs 660)
In 1954 a new magazine appeared out of Bombay with Nissim Ezekiel at its wheel. This magazine was called Quest, a magazine which was led by an ideologically free-wheeling enterprise. It survived for nearly two decades till its collapse during Indira Gandhi’s emergency. ‘The Best of Quest’ contains the most remarkable essays, poems, stories and even advertisements that appeared in the quarterly issues of the magazine. Quest was born and flourished in a time when independent thought reigned supreme. Hence, while reading passages from the book, even though it may be from a long time ago, the relevance of themes and ideas to the present world are striking. The reader is compelled to understand the ideas and visions of writers who have broadened the horizons of literature by setting a strong landmark in Indian Journalism.
Fiction/ Indian Writing
‘Pantheon’ by Sam Bourne @ Rs. 325/- (pgs 426)
In a frantic search for his wife and young son, James Zennor a brilliant young Oxford don travels through wartime England (1940), across the Atlantic and finally into the heart of America. There he stumbles upon a terrifying plot: one that could swing the balance of power in a volatile world. Now he is a man who not only is searching for his wife and children but must also save his country… In a fast paced, action-packed thriller, Sam Bourne, one of the most successful British writers, takes us on a journey where we are balancing on the edge.
‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ by Yasmeen Premji @ Rs.399/- (pgs 419)
This is a story of a penniless orphan boy born in the desert homeland of Kutch, who later grows up to fame and fortune as ‘Bombay’s Cotton King’. Set between 1857 and 1947 the book not only covers India’s struggle for Independence but introduces vibrant characters- merchant’s, maharaja’s, courtesans, soothsayers, pirates, freedom fighters and rulers of British Raj. And in the midst of these difficult times unfolds the story of Lalljee Lakha. ‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ is a gripping tale of pain of the passionate, the doom of love and human frailty. In her fiction debut Yasmeen Premji, wife of Azim Premji has already mastered the art of storytelling and reflects a rare sensitivity to the many shades of human passion and suffering.
‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 255) (Ind‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 255) - translations
While pursuing his dream to work in the Gulf and earn enough money to send back home, Najeeb is hurled into a grim and absurd, slave-like existence herding goats in the middle of the Saudi Desert. Tormented by his anguish to return home, Najeeb finds his solace in his companions, the goats. After much torment he plans a dangerous escape from his desert prison. Benyamin with his tender style of storytelling transforms the strange and bitter comedy of Najeeb’s life into a tale of loneliness and alienation. ‘Goat Days’ was originally published in Malayalam and instantly became a bestseller. Benyamin is one of the most brilliant writers in Malayalam literature today.
History
‘March of the Aryans’ by Bhagwan S. Gidwani @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 657)
Based on his imaginations and oral history tradition (ancient songs from prehistory which are not recorded physically but are ingrained into the traditional memory of people from Egypt, China, Tibet and many other countries) as his only source of information Bhagwan S. Gidwani author of acclaimed ‘The Sword of Tipu Sultan’ transports us back to the dawn of civilization (8000BC). He reasons why the Aryans left India -their homeland- for foreign shores and paints a portrait of their victorious return to India. ‘March of the Aryans’ consists of over a thousand characters who wage wars, are consumed by love and who determine the rise and fall of civilizations. Through this tale of kings and poets, gods and seers, Bhawan S. Gidwani has again cast his magic and written one of the greatest historical fiction novels ever.
‘The Last Crusade: The Epic Voyages of Vasco Da Gama’ by Nigel Cliff @ Rs. 550/- (pgs 547)
The trip to India from Portugal led by Vasco Da Gama, is the longest and one of the most perilous voyages known to history. Traveling across the Indian Ocean these brave sailors discovered the fabled wealth of the East in India. But the discovery was not only at the price of facing death by storm or diseases, but also facing death in wars that were fought over six years between the Muslim ruling East and Vasco Da Gama’s small forces. In two battles that spanned over six years over the sea, ‘The Last Crusade’ narrates the story of spies, treachery and intrigues. As the East was dominated by the Mughals and it was a time when old hostilities between Christianity and Islam had intensified, hence book also explores the issue of one of the oldest religious and cultural disputes, which are even observed in present society.
‘The Second Empress’ by Michelle Moran @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 353) – Historical fiction
The courts of Napoleon have some terrible news for the empress’ family. He intends to divorce his wife of thirteen years who has failed to provide an heir and take a younger bride, an Austrian princess. For Napoleon’s sister Pauline Bonaparte, it is yet another woman stealing her brother’s attention. For his new wife, it is a horrible duty she must take on in her father’s name. Their lives weave arousing Napoleon’s history, thereby painting a vivid, colourful story!
Inspiration
‘Tubes: Behind The Scenes at the Internet’ by Andrew Blum @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 294)
Andrew Blum says that the Internet is not a concept or a culture and he says that it is certainly not a ‘cloud’. Instead it is a bunch of tubes. He explains how thousands of miles of optic-fibre across the globe, pulsing with trillions of photons of light, makes an e-mail appear just a few seconds later on the other side of the globe, after you have hit ‘send’. The book portrays Internet as you’ve never seen it before, introducing us to remarkable people who design run the internet. A ‘wow’ book which enlightens us on one of mans greatest creations in a profound style.
‘Rabbit Rap: A Fable for the 21st Century’ by Musharraf Ali Farooqi and Michelle Farooqi @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 296)
Rabbit Rap is a fable for Adults. It is set in an age when Rabbits lived in happy freedom and were the ones who ruled and tamed Nature. But some of them seeked to liberate themselves from their old ways and hence confided in Rabbit Hab, a modern head rabbit. But as Hab made changes for the better with ambition and a futuristic vision, he was faced by opposition, sabotage and other vile plots. This fable is about politics, ecology, feminism and greed for power. It is a tale relevant for our day and age.
‘Seriously Strange: Thinking Anew About Psychical Experiences’ Edited by Sudhir Kakar & Jeffrey J. Kripal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 306)
After ‘Dreams and Dreaming’, ‘Seriously Strange’ is the second volumeof a series on ‘Boundaries of Consciousness’ which explores the uncharted territory at the end of our current psychological knowledge. Though many of us don’t believe in the ‘paranormal’, it is a topic which has intrigued us for centuries. In ‘Seriously Strange’ a group of nine people have complied some of the most baffling experiences (physical paranormal experiences) on record. Through essays, they tell us how these experiences can be broken down as an object of scientific study. They also shed light on Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud’s perceptions on the matter and recount the humorous memoir of a physicist who spent over a decade running a secret psychic spying program for the US during the Cold War. A mind-bending and extraordinary book for all those who are intrigued by questions of the ‘Paranormal’.
‘Dare to Do: For the New Generation!’ by Kiran Bedi @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 257)
Putting forth her own track record on how she converted challenges into opportunities and refused to buckle under pressure from some of the most influential people in the corridors of power she leads by example to motivate today’s youngsters. In this volume, she has added a highly relevant chapter on the empowerment of women to explain how, in several situations of their own making, even educated women disempower themselves. She emphasizes on the fact that qualities of honesty, dedication, diligence and commitment to one’s profession are vital if one wants to succeed in life and drives home the point that there are no shortcuts to success! Read and be inspired!
‘Dreaming of Baghdad’ by Haifa Zangana @ Rs. 375/- (pgs 169)
Here is a story of a brave woman who in the 1970s dreamed of a better Iraq and hence was one of the activists who stood in opposition to the Baath party and its charismatic leader Saddam Hussein. She writes of her first days in exile, of the heady days of her activist youth, confinement in Iraqi prisons and a forced departure from family and country. Deftly sketched and simply poetic Zangana’s story is heartbreaking, but her clarity and resilience inspire awe. A must read for one who wants to understand the sociology, culture and politics that has formed the ‘Iraq’ of today.
Travel
‘Tso and La: A Journey in Ladakh’ by Vikramajit Ram @ Rs. 325/-(pgs 232)
During the start of summer of 2009 Vikramajit Ram, author of acclaimed ‘Elephant Kingdom’, with his friend Manoj Bawa drove to Ladakh. He was grasped by the beauty of the land and decided to abandon his work of fiction and began writing about this trip. Mixing elements from art and architecture, history and biography ‘Tso and La’ is a book that is truly a tribute to this unfathomable corner of India. Also compiled with pictures of their trip the author strives to discover Ladakh beyond the prayer flags, child-monks and magpies, hoping to find peace for their jaded senses.
Personalities
‘Endgame: The spectacular rise and fall of Bobby Fischer’ by Frank Brady @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 450)
Who was Bobby Fischer? What motivated him from such a young age, and what was the source of his remarkable intellect? How was it that the ‘Mozart of the Chessboard’, a mind so famously disciplined could unravel so completely? From Fischer’s meteoric rise to an utterly dominant prime and his eventual descent into madness, ‘Endgame’ paints a complete picture of one of America’s most enigmatic icons, a fascinating man and an extraordinary life!
New Books
‘Nani A. Palkhivala: A Life’ by M.V. Kamath @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 524)
‘Oriental Mythology’ by Joseph Campbell (Volume two in The Masks of Gods Series) @ Rs. 750/- (pgs 560)
‘Occidental Mythology’ by Joseph Campbell (Volume three in The Masks of Gods Series) @ Rs. 750/- (pgs 564)
‘The Purple Line’ by Priyamvada N. Purushotham @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 216)
‘You Have to Stop This’ by Pseudonymous Bosch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 360)
‘Radhika Takes the Plunge’ by Ken Spillman @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 56)
‘Wings of Silence’ by Shriram Iyer @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 244)
‘The Daughters of Joy’ by Deepak Chopra @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 237)
‘The Indus Intercept: In The Badlands of Balochistan every Step is a Minefield’ by Aruna Gill @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 330)
‘The Small Print of Success: The little details which will make BIG difference to your career’ by David Thompson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 188)
‘Titans of History’ by Simon Sebag Montefiore @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 656)
‘Negotiate To Win: Talking Your Way to What You Want’ by Patrick Collins @ Rs. 175/- (pgs 202)
‘The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk’ by Sudha Murty @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 212)
‘The Tiller of Waters’ by Hoda Barakat @ Rs. 375 (pgs 200)
‘A Current of Blood’ by Namdeo Dhasal @ Rs. 180/- (pgs 118)
‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’ (A Graphic Novel) by Sumit Kumar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 178)
‘Melodrama and The Nation: Sexual Economies of Bombay Cinema 1970-2000’ by Karen Gabriel @ Rs. 595/- (pgs 390)
Pop Culture Comics
‘The Adventures of Timpa: Operation Rescue’ @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 38)
‘The Adventures of Timpa: The Red Hooded Gang’ @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 34)
‘Widhwa Ma Andhi Behen’ written by Adhiraj Singh with artist Harsho Mohan Chattoraj @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 31)
‘Munkeeman’ created by Abhishek Sharma (Director of ‘Tere Bin Laden) @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 63)
‘Retrograde’ written by Akshay Dhar with artist Avik Kumar Maitra @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 24)
‘Zombie Talkies’ written by Anish Patel with artist Harshvardhan Kadam @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 73)
‘Chairman Meow’ written by Anant Singh with artist Abhijeet Kini @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 51)
Enjoy your books,
See you at the Store!
From the team at,
twistntales
As we celebrate the closing of one of the greatest sporting spectacles and get ready for the season of the Gods in our country, here’s a look at what lovely books we have in store for you to pick up to read on your Independence Day holiday!
Some lovely, some whacky and some absolutely wow books here, some of which reviewed for you.
WOW
‘dates.sites: Project Cinema City Bombay/Mumbai’ by Madhushree Dutta & Shilpa Gupta @ Rs. 995/- (pgs 234)
‘dates.sites’ presents a timeline of the city of Bombay/Mumbai in the 20th century, anchored to its most adored public institution: cinema! The text and images have been stitched together from formal/informal, acknowledged/discarded sources, public domain or personal archives. The relationship between text and image, far from being umbilical is playfully associative making these snippets from the past of Bombay cinema an absolute WOW!
This book is under the ‘Majlis Project’, a centre for rights discourse and multidisciplinary arts initiative based in Mumbai.
‘The Obliterary Journal: Volume 1 A Blaft Joint’ comic by Straatkunst @ Rs. 695/- (pgs 269)
Here are snippets from the pool of graphic novels which ‘reign supreme’. I say this as the Obliterary journal seeks to eradicate lengthy passages of unadorned text. Instead they want to fill the world with comics, picture books, graffiti and wacky art! Come check out their awesome book and if you agree you can support them in their revolutionary mission!
‘Random: Thrills! Suspense! Romance! Gajras!’ from Twenty Onwards Media Pvt. Ltd. @ Rs 495/- (pgs 158)
India’s longest running humor anthology ‘Random’ present together for the first time ‘Simpoo’ Sodhi and Lola kutty! This new avatar (No, no references to those blue people) of Random is definitely out of titanic proportions… only an alien will not find this funny! This book contains everything humorous, lots of lola-ness and attempts to get countless more generations to abandon their responsibilities and laugh like the legend of Random laughs!
Pop Culture Graphic Novels: Pop Culture Graphic Novels are comics with a Desi twist. Some are crude, some are filled with Indian superheroes doing extreme stunts and some are even jam-packed with gooey emotions, but rest assured they all are extremely funny!
‘The Best of Quest’ Edited by Laeeq Futehally, Archal Prabhala and Arshia Sattar @ Rs. 695/- (pgs 660)
In 1954 a new magazine appeared out of Bombay with Nissim Ezekiel at its wheel. This magazine was called Quest, a magazine which was led by an ideologically free-wheeling enterprise. It survived for nearly two decades till its collapse during Indira Gandhi’s emergency. ‘The Best of Quest’ contains the most remarkable essays, poems, stories and even advertisements that appeared in the quarterly issues of the magazine. Quest was born and flourished in a time when independent thought reigned supreme. Hence, while reading passages from the book, even though it may be from a long time ago, the relevance of themes and ideas to the present world are striking. The reader is compelled to understand the ideas and visions of writers who have broadened the horizons of literature by setting a strong landmark in Indian Journalism.
Fiction/ Indian Writing
‘Pantheon’ by Sam Bourne @ Rs. 325/- (pgs 426)
In a frantic search for his wife and young son, James Zennor a brilliant young Oxford don travels through wartime England (1940), across the Atlantic and finally into the heart of America. There he stumbles upon a terrifying plot: one that could swing the balance of power in a volatile world. Now he is a man who not only is searching for his wife and children but must also save his country… In a fast paced, action-packed thriller, Sam Bourne, one of the most successful British writers, takes us on a journey where we are balancing on the edge.
‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ by Yasmeen Premji @ Rs.399/- (pgs 419)
This is a story of a penniless orphan boy born in the desert homeland of Kutch, who later grows up to fame and fortune as ‘Bombay’s Cotton King’. Set between 1857 and 1947 the book not only covers India’s struggle for Independence but introduces vibrant characters- merchant’s, maharaja’s, courtesans, soothsayers, pirates, freedom fighters and rulers of British Raj. And in the midst of these difficult times unfolds the story of Lalljee Lakha. ‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ is a gripping tale of pain of the passionate, the doom of love and human frailty. In her fiction debut Yasmeen Premji, wife of Azim Premji has already mastered the art of storytelling and reflects a rare sensitivity to the many shades of human passion and suffering.
‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 255) (Ind‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 255) - translations
While pursuing his dream to work in the Gulf and earn enough money to send back home, Najeeb is hurled into a grim and absurd, slave-like existence herding goats in the middle of the Saudi Desert. Tormented by his anguish to return home, Najeeb finds his solace in his companions, the goats. After much torment he plans a dangerous escape from his desert prison. Benyamin with his tender style of storytelling transforms the strange and bitter comedy of Najeeb’s life into a tale of loneliness and alienation. ‘Goat Days’ was originally published in Malayalam and instantly became a bestseller. Benyamin is one of the most brilliant writers in Malayalam literature today.
History
‘March of the Aryans’ by Bhagwan S. Gidwani @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 657)
Based on his imaginations and oral history tradition (ancient songs from prehistory which are not recorded physically but are ingrained into the traditional memory of people from Egypt, China, Tibet and many other countries) as his only source of information Bhagwan S. Gidwani author of acclaimed ‘The Sword of Tipu Sultan’ transports us back to the dawn of civilization (8000BC). He reasons why the Aryans left India -their homeland- for foreign shores and paints a portrait of their victorious return to India. ‘March of the Aryans’ consists of over a thousand characters who wage wars, are consumed by love and who determine the rise and fall of civilizations. Through this tale of kings and poets, gods and seers, Bhawan S. Gidwani has again cast his magic and written one of the greatest historical fiction novels ever.
‘The Last Crusade: The Epic Voyages of Vasco Da Gama’ by Nigel Cliff @ Rs. 550/- (pgs 547)
The trip to India from Portugal led by Vasco Da Gama, is the longest and one of the most perilous voyages known to history. Traveling across the Indian Ocean these brave sailors discovered the fabled wealth of the East in India. But the discovery was not only at the price of facing death by storm or diseases, but also facing death in wars that were fought over six years between the Muslim ruling East and Vasco Da Gama’s small forces. In two battles that spanned over six years over the sea, ‘The Last Crusade’ narrates the story of spies, treachery and intrigues. As the East was dominated by the Mughals and it was a time when old hostilities between Christianity and Islam had intensified, hence book also explores the issue of one of the oldest religious and cultural disputes, which are even observed in present society.
‘The Second Empress’ by Michelle Moran @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 353) – Historical fiction
The courts of Napoleon have some terrible news for the empress’ family. He intends to divorce his wife of thirteen years who has failed to provide an heir and take a younger bride, an Austrian princess. For Napoleon’s sister Pauline Bonaparte, it is yet another woman stealing her brother’s attention. For his new wife, it is a horrible duty she must take on in her father’s name. Their lives weave arousing Napoleon’s history, thereby painting a vivid, colourful story!
Inspiration
‘Tubes: Behind The Scenes at the Internet’ by Andrew Blum @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 294)
Andrew Blum says that the Internet is not a concept or a culture and he says that it is certainly not a ‘cloud’. Instead it is a bunch of tubes. He explains how thousands of miles of optic-fibre across the globe, pulsing with trillions of photons of light, makes an e-mail appear just a few seconds later on the other side of the globe, after you have hit ‘send’. The book portrays Internet as you’ve never seen it before, introducing us to remarkable people who design run the internet. A ‘wow’ book which enlightens us on one of mans greatest creations in a profound style.
‘Rabbit Rap: A Fable for the 21st Century’ by Musharraf Ali Farooqi and Michelle Farooqi @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 296)
Rabbit Rap is a fable for Adults. It is set in an age when Rabbits lived in happy freedom and were the ones who ruled and tamed Nature. But some of them seeked to liberate themselves from their old ways and hence confided in Rabbit Hab, a modern head rabbit. But as Hab made changes for the better with ambition and a futuristic vision, he was faced by opposition, sabotage and other vile plots. This fable is about politics, ecology, feminism and greed for power. It is a tale relevant for our day and age.
‘Seriously Strange: Thinking Anew About Psychical Experiences’ Edited by Sudhir Kakar & Jeffrey J. Kripal @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 306)
After ‘Dreams and Dreaming’, ‘Seriously Strange’ is the second volumeof a series on ‘Boundaries of Consciousness’ which explores the uncharted territory at the end of our current psychological knowledge. Though many of us don’t believe in the ‘paranormal’, it is a topic which has intrigued us for centuries. In ‘Seriously Strange’ a group of nine people have complied some of the most baffling experiences (physical paranormal experiences) on record. Through essays, they tell us how these experiences can be broken down as an object of scientific study. They also shed light on Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud’s perceptions on the matter and recount the humorous memoir of a physicist who spent over a decade running a secret psychic spying program for the US during the Cold War. A mind-bending and extraordinary book for all those who are intrigued by questions of the ‘Paranormal’.
‘Dare to Do: For the New Generation!’ by Kiran Bedi @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 257)
Putting forth her own track record on how she converted challenges into opportunities and refused to buckle under pressure from some of the most influential people in the corridors of power she leads by example to motivate today’s youngsters. In this volume, she has added a highly relevant chapter on the empowerment of women to explain how, in several situations of their own making, even educated women disempower themselves. She emphasizes on the fact that qualities of honesty, dedication, diligence and commitment to one’s profession are vital if one wants to succeed in life and drives home the point that there are no shortcuts to success! Read and be inspired!
‘Dreaming of Baghdad’ by Haifa Zangana @ Rs. 375/- (pgs 169)
Here is a story of a brave woman who in the 1970s dreamed of a better Iraq and hence was one of the activists who stood in opposition to the Baath party and its charismatic leader Saddam Hussein. She writes of her first days in exile, of the heady days of her activist youth, confinement in Iraqi prisons and a forced departure from family and country. Deftly sketched and simply poetic Zangana’s story is heartbreaking, but her clarity and resilience inspire awe. A must read for one who wants to understand the sociology, culture and politics that has formed the ‘Iraq’ of today.
Travel
‘Tso and La: A Journey in Ladakh’ by Vikramajit Ram @ Rs. 325/-(pgs 232)
During the start of summer of 2009 Vikramajit Ram, author of acclaimed ‘Elephant Kingdom’, with his friend Manoj Bawa drove to Ladakh. He was grasped by the beauty of the land and decided to abandon his work of fiction and began writing about this trip. Mixing elements from art and architecture, history and biography ‘Tso and La’ is a book that is truly a tribute to this unfathomable corner of India. Also compiled with pictures of their trip the author strives to discover Ladakh beyond the prayer flags, child-monks and magpies, hoping to find peace for their jaded senses.
Personalities
‘Endgame: The spectacular rise and fall of Bobby Fischer’ by Frank Brady @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 450)
Who was Bobby Fischer? What motivated him from such a young age, and what was the source of his remarkable intellect? How was it that the ‘Mozart of the Chessboard’, a mind so famously disciplined could unravel so completely? From Fischer’s meteoric rise to an utterly dominant prime and his eventual descent into madness, ‘Endgame’ paints a complete picture of one of America’s most enigmatic icons, a fascinating man and an extraordinary life!
New Books
‘Nani A. Palkhivala: A Life’ by M.V. Kamath @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 524)
‘Oriental Mythology’ by Joseph Campbell (Volume two in The Masks of Gods Series) @ Rs. 750/- (pgs 560)
‘Occidental Mythology’ by Joseph Campbell (Volume three in The Masks of Gods Series) @ Rs. 750/- (pgs 564)
‘The Purple Line’ by Priyamvada N. Purushotham @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 216)
‘You Have to Stop This’ by Pseudonymous Bosch @ Rs. 295/- (pgs 360)
‘Radhika Takes the Plunge’ by Ken Spillman @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 56)
‘Wings of Silence’ by Shriram Iyer @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 244)
‘The Daughters of Joy’ by Deepak Chopra @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 237)
‘The Indus Intercept: In The Badlands of Balochistan every Step is a Minefield’ by Aruna Gill @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 330)
‘The Small Print of Success: The little details which will make BIG difference to your career’ by David Thompson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 188)
‘Titans of History’ by Simon Sebag Montefiore @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 656)
‘Negotiate To Win: Talking Your Way to What You Want’ by Patrick Collins @ Rs. 175/- (pgs 202)
‘The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk’ by Sudha Murty @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 212)
‘The Tiller of Waters’ by Hoda Barakat @ Rs. 375 (pgs 200)
‘A Current of Blood’ by Namdeo Dhasal @ Rs. 180/- (pgs 118)
‘The Itch You Can’t Scratch’ (A Graphic Novel) by Sumit Kumar @ Rs. 350/- (pgs 178)
‘Melodrama and The Nation: Sexual Economies of Bombay Cinema 1970-2000’ by Karen Gabriel @ Rs. 595/- (pgs 390)
Pop Culture Comics
‘The Adventures of Timpa: Operation Rescue’ @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 38)
‘The Adventures of Timpa: The Red Hooded Gang’ @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 34)
‘Widhwa Ma Andhi Behen’ written by Adhiraj Singh with artist Harsho Mohan Chattoraj @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 31)
‘Munkeeman’ created by Abhishek Sharma (Director of ‘Tere Bin Laden) @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 63)
‘Retrograde’ written by Akshay Dhar with artist Avik Kumar Maitra @ Rs. 125/- (pgs 24)
‘Zombie Talkies’ written by Anish Patel with artist Harshvardhan Kadam @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 73)
‘Chairman Meow’ written by Anant Singh with artist Abhijeet Kini @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 51)
Enjoy your books,
See you at the Store!
From the team at,
twistntales
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
किताबे
They peer from beyond
Glasses of locked cupboards,
They stare longingly
For months we do not meet
The evenings once spent in their company
Now pass at the computer screen.
They are so restless now, these books-
They have taken to walking in their sleep
They stare longingly
The values they stood for
Whose batteries never died out
Those values are no more found in homes
The relationships they spoke of
Have all come undone today
A sigh escapes as I turn a page
The meanings of many words have fallen off
They appear like shrivelled, leafless stumps
Where meaning will grow no more
Many traditions lie scattered
Like the debris of earthen cups
Made obsolete by glass tumblers
Each turn of the page
Brought a new flavour to the tongue
Now a click of the finger
Floods the screen with images, layer upon layer
That bond with books that once was, is severed now
We used to sometimes lie with them on our chest
Or hold them in our lap
Or balance them on our knees,
Bowing our heads as in prayer
Of course the world of knowledge still lives on,
but what of
The pressed flowers and scented missives
Hidden between their pages,
And the love forged on the pretext
Of borrowing, dropping and picking up books together
What of them?
That perhaps shall no longer be!
- गुलज़ार
(From 'Selected Poems' by Gulzar titled 'Books'
Translated by Pavan K Varma)
Glasses of locked cupboards,
They stare longingly
For months we do not meet
The evenings once spent in their company
Now pass at the computer screen.
They are so restless now, these books-
They have taken to walking in their sleep
They stare longingly
The values they stood for
Whose batteries never died out
Those values are no more found in homes
The relationships they spoke of
Have all come undone today
A sigh escapes as I turn a page
The meanings of many words have fallen off
They appear like shrivelled, leafless stumps
Where meaning will grow no more
Many traditions lie scattered
Like the debris of earthen cups
Made obsolete by glass tumblers
Each turn of the page
Brought a new flavour to the tongue
Now a click of the finger
Floods the screen with images, layer upon layer
That bond with books that once was, is severed now
We used to sometimes lie with them on our chest
Or hold them in our lap
Or balance them on our knees,
Bowing our heads as in prayer
Of course the world of knowledge still lives on,
but what of
The pressed flowers and scented missives
Hidden between their pages,
And the love forged on the pretext
Of borrowing, dropping and picking up books together
What of them?
That perhaps shall no longer be!
- गुलज़ार
(From 'Selected Poems' by Gulzar titled 'Books'
Translated by Pavan K Varma)
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Event details and lots of new books !
Hi all,
As we get assaulted every day with more and more disparaging news, its time to take a break! As schools finish the first round of assessments, it is time to take an Olympic size break, and celebrate the human spirit!
Some lovely books celebrating the Olympic spirit, some quizzes, some introducing our stars at the Games, it is time to re-introduce our children to the endurance of the human spirit.
For those of you interested in development issues and how our Shining India is impacting political and ecological sustainability here’s a Saturday evening Panel discussion. “Churning the Earth- The Making of Global India” is a book written by Ashish Kothari and Aseem Shrivatsava (we reviewed it in our last mailer – http://www.twistntales.blogspot.in/2012/07/read-while-we-all-wait-for-rain.html A panel discussion with Mr. Ravi Pandit, Mr. Rajas Parchure and Mr. G.M. Pillai will be held at ICC Towers, on the 4th of Aug, Saturday from 5 to 8pm. Check our blog (http://twistntales.blogspot.in/2012/07/churning-earth-event-at-icc-towers.html) for event details. The discussion being organized by Centre for Environment Education (www.ceeindia.org) , Parisar (www.parisar.org) , Janwani ( www.janwani.org) , Manthan, MCCIA and Kalpavriksh (www.kalpavriksh.org) promises to be lively and interesting. Both the authors will be present and will take part in the panel discussion. The book is available at twistntales and will also be available at the venue.
Meanwhile, at the Store, lots of new books, new titles in Amar Chitra Katha (including new titles on Dr.Salim Ali and Tenzing Norgay) – fans of ACK, please rush – Naren, are you reading this? Also, new titles in our Tulika and Pratham collection. Lakshmi and other teachers at Akansha, TFI foundation, Doorstep School, lots of new titles, in English, Hindi and also in Marathi – this is a good time to come to pick for your classes.
Apart from that, an eclectic collection of titles in Cinema, Social Sciences and Feminist writings from Stree, Orient Blackswan, Women Unlimited etc. Do come in and check it out!
And of course, in twistntales tradition, some WOW books ;-)
Some new and news-making books reviewed for you:
‘Turning Points: A Journey Through Challenges’ by A.P.J Abdul Kalam @ Rs.199/- (pgs 181)
A.P.J Abdul Kalam, our Bharat Ratna, is also a prolific author. His book Wings of Fire has sold more than a million copies and what is more heartening is that it has made a positive impact in the lives of many Indians, helping them change their lives for the better. The story of Turning Points takes off from where Wings of Fire ended. It brings together details from his career and Presidency which are not generally known as he speaks out for the first time on certain points of controversy. Kalam states that he writes because his story echoes the concerns, anxieties and aspirations of many Indians. And it is true because he too started his life from the lowest step like any one of us, and from a job as a senior scientific assistant gradually his responsibilities increased till he finally became the President of India in 2002. Turning Points originated when while going through his daily diary, Kalam noticed that there had been seven turning points or challenges that he faced and overcame to be India’s foremost leader and visionary.
‘Pax Indica: India and the World of the 21st Century’ by Shashi Tharoor @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 448)
In this lively, informative and insightful book, Tharoor surveys India’s International interests and explains that as a major power India can and must play a role in helping shape the global order. He demonstrates how in the international system of 21st century, with it’s networked partnership, India is well qualified to help write rules and define norms that will guide tomorrows world. He studies India’s major international relations in detail, evokes the country’s soft power and offers his thoughts on a new ‘grand strategy’ for the nation, arguing that India must move beyond its primary focus of domestic development/transformation to assume global responsibility. The book is named Pax Indica, not for global domination like Pax Romana, but a ‘Pax’ for the 21st century, a peace system which will help promote and maintain a period of cooperative coexistence in its region and across the world. Stimulating and engaging Pax Indica is a must-read for students and professional alike.
‘Physics of the Future – The inventions that will transform our lives’ by Michio Kaku @ Rs. 499/-
Internationally acclaimed physicist Dr. Michio Kaku holds the Henry Semat Chair in Theoretical Physics at the City University of New York. He is also a bestselling author of the books ‘Hyperspace’ and ‘Parallel Worlds’. Science plays a major role in shaping the future. Michio Kaku in his quest to understand all physical laws of the universe in a single coherent theory (inspired by Albert Einstein) and the desire to see the future he decided to talk to people who really know- the visionaries who are already inventing the future in their laboratories. Based on interviews with over 300 of the world’s top scientists, Kaku gives us an insider’s perspective on the scientific advances that are being achieved today. Soon we’ll be able to take elevators to space, have DNA scanners like the ones we saw yesterday in ‘Star Trek’ and change the shape of objects- and all still within the known laws of physics. A mind bending and fascinating book which doesn’t tell us the shape of things to come, but shows them as they are already happening.
‘Rajini’s Punchtantra: Business and Life Management The Rajinikanth Way’ by P. C. Balasubramanian and Raja Krishnamoorthy @ Rs. 95/- (pgs 124)
Rajinikanth’s punch lines hold a special place in the hearts of millions of people from different spectrums of life. In this book P.C. Balasubramanian (founder of Matrix Business Services India) and Raja Krishnamoorthy (director of TalentMaximus India) attempt to interpret some of Rajinikanth’s most famous punch lines and demonstrate how each of them can be adapted as a motto for any business model or in any situation in life! Using punch lines like ‘En vazhi thane vazhi’ (Translated as: My way is a unique way!) the authors highlight the relevance of Rajini’s punch lines in areas such as governance, leadership, motivation, responsibility, commitment and so on. A Management guide and an inspiring book with an innovative twist, Rajini’s Punchtantra highlights thirty mantras for business and life. So if you want to punch out all the troubles of business and life the Rajinikanth way, then this is the handbook for you!
‘Bhiwani Junction’ by Shamya Dasgupta @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 200)
Shamya Dasgupta’s love for Boxing has made him chase the story of the sport from Hisar and Howrah to Beijing and Bhiwani. Though he trained a little once upon a time, he was too afraid to actually fight a bout, but as a sports journalist even though he can’t be a boxer, he can write about it! He traces the roots of Boxing in India to Havana, Harlem and Haryana, where people are natural born boxers. He explains how Vijendra Singh’s Bronze medal in Beijing has changed the fortunes of an entire sport in India. But he questions whether it was Vijendra who transformed Indian boxing or his birthplace, Bhiwani? But even if boxing has emerged as a prevailing sport in India recently, it has had a long and meandering history filled with associations of nationalism and decades of Indian rule and misrule. There have been many boxing centers in the country beginning with Bombay and Calcutta. The Indian Army has had a long conflicted history with the sport. Blood, sweat, tears and a healthy dose of conspiracy: the story of Indian Boxing is dramatic and inspiring.
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ by Makarand Sathe (trns. by Shanta Gokhale)@ Rs. 399/- (pgs 237)
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ is humorous narrative of a man named Achyut Athavale, a retired economist and a well known figure in Pune. At one Public event things go horribly wrong when a speech given by Achyut causes a riot in the city. In despair he moves into a home for the elderly located in rural India. There Achyut leads a troubled and bizarre life. He suffers temporary memory loss and murders another inmate. While in the city the, Hindi film industry and several political figures campaign to assert Achyut’s innocence. ‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ is a derisive and witty story, which explores the realms of causation and memory. Makarand Sathe is an architect by profession and has been writing plays, articles and films in Marathi for two decades. His Three-Volume Socio-Political History of Marathi Theatre was published to acclaim in 2010.
‘Sky Train: Tibetan Women on the Edge of History’ by Canyon Sam @ Rs.350/- (pgs 348)
Canyon Sam is a Chinese-American writer, performance artist and activist from San Francisco. While planning to stay in China for a year, she instead lived and traveled in Tibet until finally she reached Dharamsala, the Tibetan capital-in-exile. She was a grassroots activist in for Tibetan Independence in mid 1980s to early 1990s. The last six decades have been one of the most difficult periods Tibetans have ever faced. This book recounts Tibet’s recent past through the lives of four Tibetan women. It also makes the reader understand the pain of the experiences of those who lived through the nightmare of the imposition of the Chinese rule. It also shows us a striking image of Tibet as it has absorbed the impact of the new railway line from Beijing- referred to as the Sky Train- an event fraught with drawbacks and potential benefits. Not only does this book pay tribute to the courage and resilience of Tibetan Women and observing conditions in Lhasa but it also gives inspiration to others to hold strong against destructive emotions like anger and hatred.
‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ Stories by winners of The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Mediapersons Ed. by Latika Padgaonkar & Shubha Singh @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 321)
The Indian media has witnessed exponential growth since the economic reforms in 1991. Deregulated growth, ongoing investments, and a flush of advertising released a pent up demand for more and varied media outlets in all languages and genres. One of the propagators of that process was the Indian woman media person who has surged ahead in numbers and professional excellence. ‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ is about the lives and work of some of the most outstanding woman journalists of our time who redefined and gave a whole new meaning to what constitutes news, in terms of values and themes. From covering only flower shows and beauty pageants they have come a long way where no area is a forbidden territory. From all four corners of India, in different languages, these gallant women have exposed corruption, child labor, caste massacres and have fought against autocracies committed against women. The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Media Person have recognized and respected these simple and yet extraordinary women whose spectacular endeavors and stories have been a catalyst to change in our Society. The book comprises of compelling stories of reportage by journalists like Usha Rai, Barkha Dutt, Shahnaz Anklesaria Aiyar and India’s first women photographer, Homai Vyarawalla, who captured a whole era of great historical change through her lens.
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ – A graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 230)
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ is graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu, based on his travels to India in 2004. Having never before left Japan the 56-year-old artist came to India equipped with his formidable art skills, a missionary zeal for spreading Japanese comic’s culture and a keen pair of eyes. Though he goes through hell, he comes very close to success in his madcap mission to sell Hindi translations of Samurai Manga on the mean bazaar streets of Delhi. ‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ is adventurous, hilarious and brutally honest in looking at India as it presents itself to foreign visitors.
‘Great Arc – How India was mapped’ by John Keay @ Rs. 299/-
When pressed by the question of how Mt. Everest was named so, the author, John Keay’s research unraveled one of the greatest feats undertaken in history. Begun in 1800, the Great Indian Arc of the Meridian was the longest measurement earth’s surface ever to have been attempted. The survey, which spanned 1600 miles and was perfect to every inch, took fifty years to complete. It also cost more lives than most contemporary wars and involved equations more complex than any during the pre-computer age. It was a dangerous mission as it involved traveling through jungles, floods and surviving local epidemics. The greatest difficulty was in carrying the arc from the southern tip of India up to the frozen waters of the Himalayas. Originating from the minds of William Lambton and George Everest, this endeavor not only defined the geography of India as we know it today but also significantly increased our knowledge in understanding the shape of the earth.
‘Steve Jobs: Genius by Design’ (A Garphic novel) by Jason Quinn and Amit Tayal @ Rs 195/- (pgs 102)
Steve Jobs, the man who not only created the greatest computers but revolutionized the world of computers, movies, music and telecommunications. Campfire Graphics Novels, under their Heroes Section have published the story of how Steve Jobs changed the world we live in today. A fun read and equally enlightening on the story of passion, innovation and the creative genius of Steve Jobs.
‘Kitnay Aadmi Thay? : Completely Useless Bollywood Trivia’ by Diptakirti Chaudhari @ Rs. 275/- (pgs 301)
This is a book for Bollywood fans! If you love Disco Dancer or feel even a little chocked (or cry) while watching Amitabh die in Deewar or if you have film magazines from a decade back- then this is a book for you! This book has no index and is separated into eight logic-less sections which will blow your mind! Filled with almost 50 lists and 500+ entries, it is a dictionary of pointless Bollywood gyaan. And if ever you are missing your favorite Bollywood film- fast, action-packed, mad, full of colorful characters and a little bit of everything- then keep this book close.
‘Tamarind City: Where Modern India Began’ by Bishwanath Ghosh @ Rs. 295/-
‘What makes Chennai unique’, says Ghosh, ‘The marriage of tradition and technology’. In this city Tradition is worn around the year and at the same time it is a city which is modernized with industrial development and the standard of living. Ghosh wears a reporter’s cap and explores the city which he calls home. He roams around historic sites and neighborhoods and talks to a wide variety of people identifying the culture, the history and the life giving phenomenon of this city. He also highlights the Periyar and MGR, the two people who redefined the political history of Tamil Nadu. The book is an evocative painting of Chennai drawn without judgment and without reservation- sometimes with humor, sometimes with irony- but always with love.
“The Drunkard’s Walk: How randomness rules our lives.” By Leonard Mlodinow @ Rs. 399/- (Pgs 252)
Faintly reminiscent of Gladwell’s style, this engaging book shows how random events affect our lives, if not rule them. In spite of the title, this book has barely a mathematical formula in it. Mlodinow covers various aspects of randomness by way of small stories and snippets from various incidents, explicating them to reveal how randomness bites.
There is also a thread running thorough out on the history and the characters involved in the development of this field. Significant time is also devoted to explaining how people can filter information and draw poor conclusion due to randomness. If you are even slightly inclined to mathematics this will be an interesting read.
Some new Titles from Orient Black Swan / Permanent Black Publishers:
‘Censorship and Sexuality in Bombay Cinema’ by Monika Mehta @ Rs. 750/-
‘Women writing gender’ by Meera Kosambi @ 795/-
‘Creating Capabilities’ by Martha C Nussbaum @ Rs. 595/-
“The Flaming feet and other essays – the Dalit Movement in India” Ed. by Prithvi Datta Shobhi @ Rs. 350/-
‘Modern Migrations’ by Maritsa Poros @ Rs. 625/-
‘Working the night shift – women in India’s Call Center Industry’ by Reena Patel @ Rs. 325/-
‘3, Sakina Manzil and Other Plays’ by Ramu Ramanath
Other New Arrivals:
‘Amul’s India: Based on 50 Years of Amul Advertising by daCunha Communications’ @ Rs. 299/-
‘Portraits From Ayodhya: Living India’s Contradictions’ by Scharada Dubey @ Rs. 295/-
‘The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make’ by Sean Covey @ Rs. 499/-
‘The Best of Quest’ Ed. by Laeeq Futehally, Archal Prabhala & Arshia Sattar @ Rs. 695/-
‘Ships That Pass’ by Shashi Deshpande @ Rs. 295/-
‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ by Yasmeen Premji @ Rs.399/-
‘My Magical Palace’ by Kunal Mukherjee @ Rs. 399/-
‘Leadership by Example: The Ten Key Principles of All Great Leaderes’ by Dr. Sanjiv Chopra with David Fisher @ Rs. 199/-
‘Good Works! : Marketing and Corporate Initiatives That Build a Better World… & the Bottom Line’ by Philip Kotler, David Hessekiel & Nancy R. Lee @ Rs. 499/-
‘The Reinventors: How Extraordinary Companies Pursue Radical Continuous Change’ by Jason Jennings @ Rs. 699/-
‘Seriously Strange: Thinking Anew About Psychical Experiences’ Edited by Sudhir Kakar & Jeffrey J. Kripal @ Rs. 499/-
‘March of the Aryans’ by Bhagwan S. Gidwani @ Rs. 599/-
‘The Taj Conspiracy’ by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar @ Rs. 250/-
‘The 5 Essential People Skills: How to Assert Yourself, Listen to Others and Resolve Conflicts’ by Dale Carnegie @ Rs. 450/-
‘In The Hot Unconscious: An Indian Journey’ by Charles Foster @ Rs. 250/-
‘Another Country’ by Anjali Joseph @ Rs. 499/-
‘Great Leaders Grow: Becoming a Leader for Life’ by Ken Blanchard & Mark Miller @ Rs. 150/-
‘The Tattooed Fakir’ by Biman Nath @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Templar Conspiracy’ by Paul Christopher @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Chronicles of Egg: Deadweather & Sunrise’ by Geoff Rodkey @ Rs. 250/-
‘How Will You Measure Your Life?’ by Clayton M. Christensen, James Allworth & Karen Dillon @ Rs. 399/-
‘The Ultimate Olympic Quiz Book’ by Suvam Pal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Blooms of Darknes’ by Aharon Appelfeld @ Rs. 350/-
‘The Ares Decision’ by Robert Ludlum & Kyle Mills @ Rs. 350/-
‘Bombay Girl’ by Kavita Daswani @ Rs. 199/-
‘The Chocolate Box Girls: Summers Dream’ by Cathy Cassidy @ Rs. 250/-
‘The Rhythm of Riddles: Three Byomkesh Bakshi Mysteries’ by Saradindu Bandyopadhyay @ Rs. 199/-
‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/-
‘Just married, Please Excuse’ by Yashodhara Lal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Geronimo Stilton Saves the Olympics’ (Graphic Novel) from Papercutz publishing house @ Rs. 300/-
‘Mumbai Noir’ Ed. By Altaf Tyrewala @ Rs. 350/-
Enjoy your books!
See you at the Store,
From the team at,
twistntales
twistntales,
As we get assaulted every day with more and more disparaging news, its time to take a break! As schools finish the first round of assessments, it is time to take an Olympic size break, and celebrate the human spirit!
Some lovely books celebrating the Olympic spirit, some quizzes, some introducing our stars at the Games, it is time to re-introduce our children to the endurance of the human spirit.
For those of you interested in development issues and how our Shining India is impacting political and ecological sustainability here’s a Saturday evening Panel discussion. “Churning the Earth- The Making of Global India” is a book written by Ashish Kothari and Aseem Shrivatsava (we reviewed it in our last mailer – http://www.twistntales.blogspot.in/2012/07/read-while-we-all-wait-for-rain.html A panel discussion with Mr. Ravi Pandit, Mr. Rajas Parchure and Mr. G.M. Pillai will be held at ICC Towers, on the 4th of Aug, Saturday from 5 to 8pm. Check our blog (http://twistntales.blogspot.in/2012/07/churning-earth-event-at-icc-towers.html) for event details. The discussion being organized by Centre for Environment Education (www.ceeindia.org) , Parisar (www.parisar.org) , Janwani ( www.janwani.org) , Manthan, MCCIA and Kalpavriksh (www.kalpavriksh.org) promises to be lively and interesting. Both the authors will be present and will take part in the panel discussion. The book is available at twistntales and will also be available at the venue.
Meanwhile, at the Store, lots of new books, new titles in Amar Chitra Katha (including new titles on Dr.Salim Ali and Tenzing Norgay) – fans of ACK, please rush – Naren, are you reading this? Also, new titles in our Tulika and Pratham collection. Lakshmi and other teachers at Akansha, TFI foundation, Doorstep School, lots of new titles, in English, Hindi and also in Marathi – this is a good time to come to pick for your classes.
Apart from that, an eclectic collection of titles in Cinema, Social Sciences and Feminist writings from Stree, Orient Blackswan, Women Unlimited etc. Do come in and check it out!
And of course, in twistntales tradition, some WOW books ;-)
Some new and news-making books reviewed for you:
‘Turning Points: A Journey Through Challenges’ by A.P.J Abdul Kalam @ Rs.199/- (pgs 181)
A.P.J Abdul Kalam, our Bharat Ratna, is also a prolific author. His book Wings of Fire has sold more than a million copies and what is more heartening is that it has made a positive impact in the lives of many Indians, helping them change their lives for the better. The story of Turning Points takes off from where Wings of Fire ended. It brings together details from his career and Presidency which are not generally known as he speaks out for the first time on certain points of controversy. Kalam states that he writes because his story echoes the concerns, anxieties and aspirations of many Indians. And it is true because he too started his life from the lowest step like any one of us, and from a job as a senior scientific assistant gradually his responsibilities increased till he finally became the President of India in 2002. Turning Points originated when while going through his daily diary, Kalam noticed that there had been seven turning points or challenges that he faced and overcame to be India’s foremost leader and visionary.
‘Pax Indica: India and the World of the 21st Century’ by Shashi Tharoor @ Rs. 799/- (pgs 448)
In this lively, informative and insightful book, Tharoor surveys India’s International interests and explains that as a major power India can and must play a role in helping shape the global order. He demonstrates how in the international system of 21st century, with it’s networked partnership, India is well qualified to help write rules and define norms that will guide tomorrows world. He studies India’s major international relations in detail, evokes the country’s soft power and offers his thoughts on a new ‘grand strategy’ for the nation, arguing that India must move beyond its primary focus of domestic development/transformation to assume global responsibility. The book is named Pax Indica, not for global domination like Pax Romana, but a ‘Pax’ for the 21st century, a peace system which will help promote and maintain a period of cooperative coexistence in its region and across the world. Stimulating and engaging Pax Indica is a must-read for students and professional alike.
‘Physics of the Future – The inventions that will transform our lives’ by Michio Kaku @ Rs. 499/-
Internationally acclaimed physicist Dr. Michio Kaku holds the Henry Semat Chair in Theoretical Physics at the City University of New York. He is also a bestselling author of the books ‘Hyperspace’ and ‘Parallel Worlds’. Science plays a major role in shaping the future. Michio Kaku in his quest to understand all physical laws of the universe in a single coherent theory (inspired by Albert Einstein) and the desire to see the future he decided to talk to people who really know- the visionaries who are already inventing the future in their laboratories. Based on interviews with over 300 of the world’s top scientists, Kaku gives us an insider’s perspective on the scientific advances that are being achieved today. Soon we’ll be able to take elevators to space, have DNA scanners like the ones we saw yesterday in ‘Star Trek’ and change the shape of objects- and all still within the known laws of physics. A mind bending and fascinating book which doesn’t tell us the shape of things to come, but shows them as they are already happening.
‘Rajini’s Punchtantra: Business and Life Management The Rajinikanth Way’ by P. C. Balasubramanian and Raja Krishnamoorthy @ Rs. 95/- (pgs 124)
Rajinikanth’s punch lines hold a special place in the hearts of millions of people from different spectrums of life. In this book P.C. Balasubramanian (founder of Matrix Business Services India) and Raja Krishnamoorthy (director of TalentMaximus India) attempt to interpret some of Rajinikanth’s most famous punch lines and demonstrate how each of them can be adapted as a motto for any business model or in any situation in life! Using punch lines like ‘En vazhi thane vazhi’ (Translated as: My way is a unique way!) the authors highlight the relevance of Rajini’s punch lines in areas such as governance, leadership, motivation, responsibility, commitment and so on. A Management guide and an inspiring book with an innovative twist, Rajini’s Punchtantra highlights thirty mantras for business and life. So if you want to punch out all the troubles of business and life the Rajinikanth way, then this is the handbook for you!
‘Bhiwani Junction’ by Shamya Dasgupta @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 200)
Shamya Dasgupta’s love for Boxing has made him chase the story of the sport from Hisar and Howrah to Beijing and Bhiwani. Though he trained a little once upon a time, he was too afraid to actually fight a bout, but as a sports journalist even though he can’t be a boxer, he can write about it! He traces the roots of Boxing in India to Havana, Harlem and Haryana, where people are natural born boxers. He explains how Vijendra Singh’s Bronze medal in Beijing has changed the fortunes of an entire sport in India. But he questions whether it was Vijendra who transformed Indian boxing or his birthplace, Bhiwani? But even if boxing has emerged as a prevailing sport in India recently, it has had a long and meandering history filled with associations of nationalism and decades of Indian rule and misrule. There have been many boxing centers in the country beginning with Bombay and Calcutta. The Indian Army has had a long conflicted history with the sport. Blood, sweat, tears and a healthy dose of conspiracy: the story of Indian Boxing is dramatic and inspiring.
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ by Makarand Sathe (trns. by Shanta Gokhale)@ Rs. 399/- (pgs 237)
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ is humorous narrative of a man named Achyut Athavale, a retired economist and a well known figure in Pune. At one Public event things go horribly wrong when a speech given by Achyut causes a riot in the city. In despair he moves into a home for the elderly located in rural India. There Achyut leads a troubled and bizarre life. He suffers temporary memory loss and murders another inmate. While in the city the, Hindi film industry and several political figures campaign to assert Achyut’s innocence. ‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ is a derisive and witty story, which explores the realms of causation and memory. Makarand Sathe is an architect by profession and has been writing plays, articles and films in Marathi for two decades. His Three-Volume Socio-Political History of Marathi Theatre was published to acclaim in 2010.
‘Sky Train: Tibetan Women on the Edge of History’ by Canyon Sam @ Rs.350/- (pgs 348)
Canyon Sam is a Chinese-American writer, performance artist and activist from San Francisco. While planning to stay in China for a year, she instead lived and traveled in Tibet until finally she reached Dharamsala, the Tibetan capital-in-exile. She was a grassroots activist in for Tibetan Independence in mid 1980s to early 1990s. The last six decades have been one of the most difficult periods Tibetans have ever faced. This book recounts Tibet’s recent past through the lives of four Tibetan women. It also makes the reader understand the pain of the experiences of those who lived through the nightmare of the imposition of the Chinese rule. It also shows us a striking image of Tibet as it has absorbed the impact of the new railway line from Beijing- referred to as the Sky Train- an event fraught with drawbacks and potential benefits. Not only does this book pay tribute to the courage and resilience of Tibetan Women and observing conditions in Lhasa but it also gives inspiration to others to hold strong against destructive emotions like anger and hatred.
‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ Stories by winners of The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Mediapersons Ed. by Latika Padgaonkar & Shubha Singh @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 321)
The Indian media has witnessed exponential growth since the economic reforms in 1991. Deregulated growth, ongoing investments, and a flush of advertising released a pent up demand for more and varied media outlets in all languages and genres. One of the propagators of that process was the Indian woman media person who has surged ahead in numbers and professional excellence. ‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ is about the lives and work of some of the most outstanding woman journalists of our time who redefined and gave a whole new meaning to what constitutes news, in terms of values and themes. From covering only flower shows and beauty pageants they have come a long way where no area is a forbidden territory. From all four corners of India, in different languages, these gallant women have exposed corruption, child labor, caste massacres and have fought against autocracies committed against women. The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Media Person have recognized and respected these simple and yet extraordinary women whose spectacular endeavors and stories have been a catalyst to change in our Society. The book comprises of compelling stories of reportage by journalists like Usha Rai, Barkha Dutt, Shahnaz Anklesaria Aiyar and India’s first women photographer, Homai Vyarawalla, who captured a whole era of great historical change through her lens.
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ – A graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu @ Rs. 395/- (pgs 230)
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ is graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu, based on his travels to India in 2004. Having never before left Japan the 56-year-old artist came to India equipped with his formidable art skills, a missionary zeal for spreading Japanese comic’s culture and a keen pair of eyes. Though he goes through hell, he comes very close to success in his madcap mission to sell Hindi translations of Samurai Manga on the mean bazaar streets of Delhi. ‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ is adventurous, hilarious and brutally honest in looking at India as it presents itself to foreign visitors.
‘Great Arc – How India was mapped’ by John Keay @ Rs. 299/-
When pressed by the question of how Mt. Everest was named so, the author, John Keay’s research unraveled one of the greatest feats undertaken in history. Begun in 1800, the Great Indian Arc of the Meridian was the longest measurement earth’s surface ever to have been attempted. The survey, which spanned 1600 miles and was perfect to every inch, took fifty years to complete. It also cost more lives than most contemporary wars and involved equations more complex than any during the pre-computer age. It was a dangerous mission as it involved traveling through jungles, floods and surviving local epidemics. The greatest difficulty was in carrying the arc from the southern tip of India up to the frozen waters of the Himalayas. Originating from the minds of William Lambton and George Everest, this endeavor not only defined the geography of India as we know it today but also significantly increased our knowledge in understanding the shape of the earth.
‘Steve Jobs: Genius by Design’ (A Garphic novel) by Jason Quinn and Amit Tayal @ Rs 195/- (pgs 102)
Steve Jobs, the man who not only created the greatest computers but revolutionized the world of computers, movies, music and telecommunications. Campfire Graphics Novels, under their Heroes Section have published the story of how Steve Jobs changed the world we live in today. A fun read and equally enlightening on the story of passion, innovation and the creative genius of Steve Jobs.
‘Kitnay Aadmi Thay? : Completely Useless Bollywood Trivia’ by Diptakirti Chaudhari @ Rs. 275/- (pgs 301)
This is a book for Bollywood fans! If you love Disco Dancer or feel even a little chocked (or cry) while watching Amitabh die in Deewar or if you have film magazines from a decade back- then this is a book for you! This book has no index and is separated into eight logic-less sections which will blow your mind! Filled with almost 50 lists and 500+ entries, it is a dictionary of pointless Bollywood gyaan. And if ever you are missing your favorite Bollywood film- fast, action-packed, mad, full of colorful characters and a little bit of everything- then keep this book close.
‘Tamarind City: Where Modern India Began’ by Bishwanath Ghosh @ Rs. 295/-
‘What makes Chennai unique’, says Ghosh, ‘The marriage of tradition and technology’. In this city Tradition is worn around the year and at the same time it is a city which is modernized with industrial development and the standard of living. Ghosh wears a reporter’s cap and explores the city which he calls home. He roams around historic sites and neighborhoods and talks to a wide variety of people identifying the culture, the history and the life giving phenomenon of this city. He also highlights the Periyar and MGR, the two people who redefined the political history of Tamil Nadu. The book is an evocative painting of Chennai drawn without judgment and without reservation- sometimes with humor, sometimes with irony- but always with love.
“The Drunkard’s Walk: How randomness rules our lives.” By Leonard Mlodinow @ Rs. 399/- (Pgs 252)
Faintly reminiscent of Gladwell’s style, this engaging book shows how random events affect our lives, if not rule them. In spite of the title, this book has barely a mathematical formula in it. Mlodinow covers various aspects of randomness by way of small stories and snippets from various incidents, explicating them to reveal how randomness bites.
There is also a thread running thorough out on the history and the characters involved in the development of this field. Significant time is also devoted to explaining how people can filter information and draw poor conclusion due to randomness. If you are even slightly inclined to mathematics this will be an interesting read.
Some new Titles from Orient Black Swan / Permanent Black Publishers:
‘Censorship and Sexuality in Bombay Cinema’ by Monika Mehta @ Rs. 750/-
‘Women writing gender’ by Meera Kosambi @ 795/-
‘Creating Capabilities’ by Martha C Nussbaum @ Rs. 595/-
“The Flaming feet and other essays – the Dalit Movement in India” Ed. by Prithvi Datta Shobhi @ Rs. 350/-
‘Modern Migrations’ by Maritsa Poros @ Rs. 625/-
‘Working the night shift – women in India’s Call Center Industry’ by Reena Patel @ Rs. 325/-
‘3, Sakina Manzil and Other Plays’ by Ramu Ramanath
Other New Arrivals:
‘Amul’s India: Based on 50 Years of Amul Advertising by daCunha Communications’ @ Rs. 299/-
‘Portraits From Ayodhya: Living India’s Contradictions’ by Scharada Dubey @ Rs. 295/-
‘The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make’ by Sean Covey @ Rs. 499/-
‘The Best of Quest’ Ed. by Laeeq Futehally, Archal Prabhala & Arshia Sattar @ Rs. 695/-
‘Ships That Pass’ by Shashi Deshpande @ Rs. 295/-
‘Days of Gold and Sepia’ by Yasmeen Premji @ Rs.399/-
‘My Magical Palace’ by Kunal Mukherjee @ Rs. 399/-
‘Leadership by Example: The Ten Key Principles of All Great Leaderes’ by Dr. Sanjiv Chopra with David Fisher @ Rs. 199/-
‘Good Works! : Marketing and Corporate Initiatives That Build a Better World… & the Bottom Line’ by Philip Kotler, David Hessekiel & Nancy R. Lee @ Rs. 499/-
‘The Reinventors: How Extraordinary Companies Pursue Radical Continuous Change’ by Jason Jennings @ Rs. 699/-
‘Seriously Strange: Thinking Anew About Psychical Experiences’ Edited by Sudhir Kakar & Jeffrey J. Kripal @ Rs. 499/-
‘March of the Aryans’ by Bhagwan S. Gidwani @ Rs. 599/-
‘The Taj Conspiracy’ by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar @ Rs. 250/-
‘The 5 Essential People Skills: How to Assert Yourself, Listen to Others and Resolve Conflicts’ by Dale Carnegie @ Rs. 450/-
‘In The Hot Unconscious: An Indian Journey’ by Charles Foster @ Rs. 250/-
‘Another Country’ by Anjali Joseph @ Rs. 499/-
‘Great Leaders Grow: Becoming a Leader for Life’ by Ken Blanchard & Mark Miller @ Rs. 150/-
‘The Tattooed Fakir’ by Biman Nath @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Templar Conspiracy’ by Paul Christopher @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Chronicles of Egg: Deadweather & Sunrise’ by Geoff Rodkey @ Rs. 250/-
‘How Will You Measure Your Life?’ by Clayton M. Christensen, James Allworth & Karen Dillon @ Rs. 399/-
‘The Ultimate Olympic Quiz Book’ by Suvam Pal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Blooms of Darknes’ by Aharon Appelfeld @ Rs. 350/-
‘The Ares Decision’ by Robert Ludlum & Kyle Mills @ Rs. 350/-
‘Bombay Girl’ by Kavita Daswani @ Rs. 199/-
‘The Chocolate Box Girls: Summers Dream’ by Cathy Cassidy @ Rs. 250/-
‘The Rhythm of Riddles: Three Byomkesh Bakshi Mysteries’ by Saradindu Bandyopadhyay @ Rs. 199/-
‘Goat Days’ by Benyamin @ Rs. 250/-
‘Just married, Please Excuse’ by Yashodhara Lal @ Rs. 199/-
‘Geronimo Stilton Saves the Olympics’ (Graphic Novel) from Papercutz publishing house @ Rs. 300/-
‘Mumbai Noir’ Ed. By Altaf Tyrewala @ Rs. 350/-
Enjoy your books!
See you at the Store,
From the team at,
twistntales
twistntales,
"Churning the Earth" event at ICC towers.
Centre for Environment Education, Janwani, Manthan, MCCIA, Kalpavriksh, and Parisar
INVITATION TO PANEL DISCUSSION AND BOOK RELEASE
4 August 2012, 5 pm to 8 pm
Sumant Moolgaokar Auditorium, ICC, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune
Churning the Earth: The Making of Global India
by Aseem Shrivastava &
Ashish Kothari
Panelists
Ravi Pandit, Chairman, KPIT Cummins
Rajas Parchure, Director, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics
G M Pillai, Director General, World Institute for Sustainable Energy
About the book
The world stands so dazzled by India’s meteoric economic rise that we hesitate to acknowledge its consequences to the people and the environment. In Churning the Earth, the writers present incontrovertible evidence on the predatory nature of this recent growth and question its political and ecological sustainability. They urge a fundamental shift towards a range of policy, grassroots and conceptual alternatives that are necessary to forestall the descent into socio-ecological chaos.
Published by Penguin Books India
15 May 2012, 416pp, Hardback
ISBN139780670086252
………………………..
Please confirm your participation, email ceecentral@ceeindia.org or SMS 9822455250
INVITATION TO PANEL DISCUSSION AND BOOK RELEASE
4 August 2012, 5 pm to 8 pm
Sumant Moolgaokar Auditorium, ICC, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune
Churning the Earth: The Making of Global India
by Aseem Shrivastava &
Ashish Kothari
Panelists
Ravi Pandit, Chairman, KPIT Cummins
Rajas Parchure, Director, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics
G M Pillai, Director General, World Institute for Sustainable Energy
About the book
The world stands so dazzled by India’s meteoric economic rise that we hesitate to acknowledge its consequences to the people and the environment. In Churning the Earth, the writers present incontrovertible evidence on the predatory nature of this recent growth and question its political and ecological sustainability. They urge a fundamental shift towards a range of policy, grassroots and conceptual alternatives that are necessary to forestall the descent into socio-ecological chaos.
Published by Penguin Books India
15 May 2012, 416pp, Hardback
ISBN139780670086252
………………………..
Please confirm your participation, email ceecentral@ceeindia.org or SMS 9822455250
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Read while we all wait for rain ;-)
Hi all,
Here’s hoping that rains arrive quickly and cheer us up! Till then, use our precious water wisely
And as we wait for rains, there are some lovely books waiting for you to explore in the neighbourhood bookstore. A small section of which we try and review for you every month.
New Arrivals
WOW
“Cutting Chai and Maska Pao: The Way it is Said in Mumbai Only” by Mithila Mehta, Priya Sheth & Digantika Mitra @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 100)
Mumbai is a jhakkas city with rapchik girls and pakaoing heat. Baffled? Don’t be. Welcome to the world of Mumbaikars! Cutting Chai and Maska Pao is what you need to translate the pulsating metropolis that is Mumbai. Study it, laminate it, tuck it into your back pocket- make it your linguistic survival kit! A Wow book!
Socio Eco
“Churning the Earth: The Making of Global India” by Aseem Shrivastava and Ashish Kothari @ Rs. 699/- (pgs 393)
In Churning the Earth, Aseem Shrivastava, an extensive writer on issues associated with globalization and Ashish Kothari, the founder of the Pune-based environmental group Kalpavriksh, engage in a timely inquisition on India’s dramatic economic rise. They present undisputable evidence on how the temperament of this recent growth has been rapacious and question its sustainability. Unchecked development has damaged the ecological basis that makes life possible for millions of Indians, resulting in conflict over water, land and other natural resources, and has also increased the difference between the rich and the poor. Rich with data and stories, this eye opening book argues for a radical ecological democracy based on the principals of environmental sustainability, social equity and livelihood security. The authors urge a fundamental shift towards such alternatives- already emerging from grass-root movements- if we are to prevent our descent into socio-eco turmoil.
Churning the Earth is unique in presenting what is wrong with India but also in providing solutions to the crisis that globalized growth has accumulated.
“Pakistan on the Brink: The Future of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the West” by Ahmed Rashid @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 233)
With Bin Laden dead, Pakistan is threatened by internal power struggles, relationships between the United States and Pakistan are at an all-time low, and as the US and Britain begin their withdrawal from Afghanistan, what are the possibilities- and hazards- facing the worlds most unstable region? In his follow-up to the acclaimed ‘Descent into Chaos’, Rashid focuses on the long-term problems: the changing casts of characters, the future of international terrorism, and the policies and strategies both within Pakistan and Afghanistan and among Western allies. Pakistan on the Brink offers sensible solutions and provides a way forward for all countries involved. The book is also one of the foremost chronicles of modern Afghan and Pakistani history.
“Mother Maiden Mistress: Women in Hindi Cinema, 1950-2012” by Bhawana Somaaya, Jigna Kothari and Supriya Madangarli @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 247)
Since Dadasaheb Phalke first portrayed a male to play the role of a heroine in India’s first feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913), women in Hindi cinema have come a long way since then. Mother Maiden Mistress documents that journey: from a time when cinema was considered a profession beneath the dignity of ‘respectable’ women to an era in which women actors are icons and idols. Bhawana Somaaya, Jigna Kothari and Supriya Madangarli sift through six decades of cinema, bringing to life the women who peopled cinema and the popular imagination, and shaped fashion and culture. Contemporary readers will also find here a nuanced historical perspective- of the social milieu of the time, of the nation and of Hindi cinema. The book explores what makes women characters iconic in Hindi Cinema and analyses them in relation to their directors and, more importantly, to the society at that point of time
Management
“Jugaad Innovation: A Frugal and Flexible Approach to Innovation for the 21st Century” by Navi Radjou, Jaideep Prabhu & Simone Ahuja @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 317)
In this comprehensive book, the authors challenge the very way a traditional organization thinks and acts. In the midst of rising global competition and swelling R & D budgets, Jugaad Innovation presents ways to innovate, be flexible and do more with less. Peppered with examples of innovative entrepreneurs in emerging markets like Africa, India, China and Brazil this book illuminates paths to engender breakthrough growth in a complex and resource scarce world. So, whether to find ingenious solutions to problems or turn adversity into opportunity Jugaad Innovation is the solution!
“All Marketers Tell Stories” by Seth Godin @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 220)
We believe that wine tastes better in a 500 Rs. glass than a 5 Rs. glass. We believe that a branded sneaker makes our feet feel better- and look cooler than a road side sneaker. As Seth Godin explains, great marketers don’t talk about features or even benefits, but instead they tell you a story- a story that we want to believe, whether it is factual or not. Most people have infinite amounts of choices but no time to make them. Hence every organization is a marketer, and marketing is all about telling stories.
‘Like a Virgin: Secrets They Won’t Teach You at Business School’ by Richard Branson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 343)
In Like a Virgin, Richard Branson, the owner of Virgin Airlines and world’s most recognized and respected entrepreneur, shares his wisdom and experience that have made his business a successful endeavour. From his top tips on succeeding in business to some hard-hitting opinions on global financial crisis, this book brings together his best advice on all things in business. It’s B-school the Branson way! And if you are looking for advice on setting up your own company, improving your career prospects or developing your leadership skills whose advice can we take about business, if not from the best in the business.
Inspiration
“A Whole New Mind” by Daniel H Pink @ Rs. 640/- (pgs 375)
Daniel Pink presents in his path-breaking book. Based on research he states why the ‘The Right-Brained will rule the future’ in this wonderfully readable book. The ‘Right-Brained’ are designers, story tellers, teachers, caregivers, counselors and inventors who are able to intuitively create the need. The ‘left-brained’ skills are now commoditized and more importantly do contain the risk of becoming suddenly irrelevant. The book itself offers an education to equip oneself for this new world where creativity in product or service and its delivery will be rewarded. This book will shake you up to dare. Daniel Pink reveals the 6 fundamental human abilities that will enable you to achieve personal and professional success. A must read for oneself and to understand the world that the young will inherit and probably see successful careers in other than engineering, medicine and accountancy. This comes on the back of his bestseller “Free Agent Nation” from an author who has been a contributing editor to NYT, HBR and Wired.
“Innovate Happily” by Dr. Rekha Shetty @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 194)
The Happiness Quotient is an integral part to a successful corporate strategy, as studies show that happy people are the most innovative and productive. The book discovers the secrets that create progressive and happy communities by exploring Bhutan, a land that actually measures not the GDP (Gross Domestic Product), but it’s Gross National Happiness! Not only does this book explain how is the pursuit of happiness relevant to the corporate world, but it also points to the simple truth that happiness is the logical but often forgotten goal of every human endeavor.
Personalities
“Infinite Vision” by Pavithra K.Mehta @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 322)
This book recounts the true story of how Aravind became the world’s greatest business case for compassion. When a crippling disease shattered his lifelong ambition, a young surgeon named Dr. Govinappa Ventakataswamy chose an impossible new dream: to eliminate curable blindness. By 1976 he had personally performed over 100,000 sight-restoring surgeries. That same year he founded Aravind, an 11-bed eye clinic in South India, with no money, business plan or safety net. Dr. V (as he was to be known) was 58 years old at the time, and over the next three decades his humble clinic would defy the odds to become the largest provider of eye care in the world. Today Aravind is an organization built on hope, possibility, purpose deep insights and transformational, measurable impact.
“The Very Best of Common Man” by R.K. Laxman @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 201)
For half a century, the Times of India has thoughtfully provided an antidote to all the bad news brimming on its front pages. It’s a sketch, a single box inked with by R. K. Laxman, our neighborhood cartoonist! From financial woes of householders, from political instability to rampant corruption, the Common Man cartoons have captured the entire length of contemporary India. This special collection features the hundred most memorable Common Man cartoons of all time as a tribute to India’s best-loved cartoonist and one of the most striking voices commenting on Indian Sociopolitical life.
“The Chicken Chronicles: A Memoir” by Alice Walker @ Rs.350/- (pgs 186)
When Alice Walker grew up in the Deep South of America, her family always kept chickens. After many years she realized how much she missed them and hence decided to get a brood of her own. In this memoir she recounts the growing bond and the joy the experience brings- from building the first ‘chicken condo’ and discovering their fondness for fruit, napping and dancing- until one morning she realizes that one chicken is missing… With a genuine sense of expression the book is a journey to understand our relationship with other animals that share our world.
Travel
“Highway 39: Journeys through a fractured land” by Sudeep Chakravarti @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 387)
The author Sudeep Chakravarti attempts to unravel the brutal history of Nagaland and Manipur, their violent and restive present and their uncertain yet hopeful future as he travels along Dimapur, Kohima, Senapati, Imphal, Thoubal and their hinterlands- all touchpoints of brutalized aspiration, identity, conflict and tragedy. This book brings into focus a region long neglected and often forgotten by Mainland India- a region India can continue to ignore only at the peril of the very idea of India.
“Acts of Faith: Journeys to Sacred India” by Makarand R. Paranjpe @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 230)
Here is a sensitive and enriching exploration of the essential meaning and inner dynamics of sacred India. It is a combination of an inquiry into the meaning of India with actual visits to sacred sites, encounters with contemporary Gurus and reflections on perennial themes like faith and love. Using both textual sources and actual experiences, Acts of Faith tries to define what constitutes the sacred, making for a highly interesting cartography of ‘India of the Spirit’!
“The Liquid Refuses to Ignite” by Dave Besseling @ Rs.395/- (pgs 336)
Ten years of travel, sex, drugs and spiritual misfires brings artist and journalist, Dave Besseling no closer to finding the eternal truth-whatever that may be. Then, a moment of clarity presents itself while sipping a glass of Lassi in India’s holiest city.
In a series of essays that define the travails of those who prefer life on the road. The book see Dave and his alter-ego Dr. Heagney theorize upon, ruminate over and scoff at everything from Kurt Cobain to Kundalini. Hitting out at the modern traveller, Dvae stumbles upon the epiphany he’s been searching for: Behind the robes and rituals of wise men everywhere, they’re selling the same thing- the answer to emptiness and need. In energetic, needle-sharp prose, Besseling unpacks ten years of global wandering making this book an addictive and anarchic riff on travel, relationships and the crowded bazaar of spiritual enlightenment
Nature/ Wildlife
“The Soul of the Rhino” by Hemant Mishra with Jim Ottaway Jr. @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 234)
The Soul of the Rhino is a spirited account of one man’s journey to protect the Rhino in the foothills of the Himalayas. Since 1970 when he graduated Hemant Mishra has been a leading figure in the field of conservation animals. Over the years, he was helped by an ornery but steadfast elephant driver, the Nepali Royal family, and like minded scientists. Through his outstanding work he has erected nature reserves, arm-wrestled politicians and raised awareness. But Mishra hasn’t won the battle to save the Rhino yet. Armed insurgence, political violence, and poaching are driving this endangered species to complete extinction. The book makes us delve into the labyrinths of South Asian wildlife conservation and one man’s endurance in the face of it all.
DK Nature Guide:
• “Trees” by Tony Russell @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 352)
Discover and explore trees from around the world with this compact and easy-to-use guide. Packed with stunning close-up photographs and information of more than 500 species of trees, this book is the ideal funnel for nature enthusiasts everywhere.
• “Birds of the World” by David Burnie @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 352)
Discover and explore the diverse world of birds with this compact and easy to use guide. The book covers every major bird group, with full page profiles of the most spectacular species. Stunning close-up photographs bring each bird to life! Packed with more than 700 species of birds, this book is the ideal guide for Birdwatchers.
Indian Writing
“Chennaivaasi” by T.S. Tirumurti @ Rs.299/- (pgs 268)
When Tam-Bram Boy Ravi goes to the US and falls for a Jewish American girl Deborah he is left thinking- ‘She is quite pretty…if only she were an Iyer Girl!’
Set in the Heart of Chennai, this is a delightful story of a Father who disowns his son for going against tradition, of a mother torn between a fuming Husband and a US-returned Son, of an American girl struggling to get used to being stared at on the streets of Chennai and of a young man caught in the middle of it all! Hilarious!
“How to Fight Islamist Terror from the Missionary Position” by Tabish Khair @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 191)
Satirical and humane, How to Fight Islamist Terror from the Missionary Position tells the interlinked stories of three unforgettable men- the flamboyant Ravi, who falls in love with a beautiful women who is incapable of responding in kind, then Karim, a fundamentalist and the unnamed and pragmatic narrator- whose paths cross in Denmark. When a terrorist attack takes place in town, all three men find themselves embroiled in doubt, suspicion and danger. An acerbic commentary on the times, the book is also a bitter-sweet and stunning novel about love and life today.
“Intermission” by Nirupama Subramanian @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 272)
From the Author of the bestselling Keep the Change comes the new novel about Delhi’s suburbia. Set in Gurgoan, Intermission takes us into the lives of Varun and Gayatri Sarin, not so happily married corporate couple who are trying to come to terms with life in India after several years of ordered existence in the first World. A beautifully told story of illicit love and divided loyalties, Intermission explores lives within a gated community with just the right touch of irony and compassion
“Revolt of the Fish Eater” by Lopa Ghosh @ Rs.299 (pgs 261)
A philanthropist ghost of a chairman’s mother; a footless whore in Siberia who has mastered the art of love making; Rita of the sexual politics lessons; the witchcraft-practicing mother of a village prodigy who plots to ensnare the World’s Richest Man; the trade union leader who wrung a promise of jeans and perfumed soap out of the factory bosses- these are but a few characters of the compelling world that ‘Revolt of the Fish Eaters’ bring alive. Set in the twilight zone of glass towers, elevators and late-stage capitalism, this is a collection of stories about the business world: recession-struck, and facing threats from rogue forces such as ghosts, lovers and communists. Lopa Ghosh’s first book leaves you with a surreal yet fulfilling experience.
Science
“The Big Questions: Mathematics” by Tony Crilly @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 208)
Tony Crilly is the author of the acclaimed biography of the English mathematician Arthur Cayley and the international best-selling ‘50 Mathematical Ideas You Really Need to Know’. The Big Questions Series answers the fundamental problems that have perplexed enquiring minds through out history. Ranging from the first known numbers and Plato’s ideal forms to chaos theory and Fermat’s last theorem, this book confronts the 20 key questions at the heart of mathematics and our understanding of the world.
Health
“eat.delete. – How to get off the weight loss cycle for good: The Anti-Quick Fix Approach” by Pooja Makhija @ Rs.199/- (pgs 239)
Trying to lose weight? Running around in circles where you Lose. Gain. Lose. Gain? But what if weight gain is only a symptom? A symptom of not only how we eat food, but of how we treat food? What if losing weight doesn’t begin with what’s on your plate but with what’s on your mind? For the first time in India, a leading nutritionist has worked with psychologists to give you a combined mind-body weight loss solution. Pooja Makhija reminds us that food is not something to be feared, worshiped or abused. Her scientific approach puts food at the centre of weight loss, so that you can eat yourself to a thinner you. Equipped with a daily record diary and super tips from well known celebrities, let this book be your new diet plan so that you can Eat.to.Delete.
Young Adults
“The Serpents Shadow” by Rick Riordan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 405)
Despite Carter and Sadie Kane’s best efforts, Apophis, the giant snake of Chaos, is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness. Battling against the forces of chaos the only hope for the Kanes is an ancient spell- but such magic has been lost for millennia. Will they find the serpent’s shadow or be led to their death into the depths of the underworld? Don’t miss any of the action in the final thrilling episode of the Kane Chronicles Trilogy.
“Hip-Hop Nature Boy and Other Stories” by Ruskin Bond @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 113)
For the first time Ruskin Bond’s poems for children, old and new, come together in this illustrated volume. Beautiful, poignant and funny, His verses for children are a joy to read on a lazy Sunday afternoon or to recite in school among friends and teachers.
“The House of Silk: The New Sherlock Holmes Novel” by Anthony Horowitz @ Rs. 350 /- (pgs 389)
November 1890, London is gripped by a merciless winter. As Detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are enjoying a tea by the fire, an agitated gentleman appears unannounced with an unnerving and gripping case which swiftly draws Holmes and Dr. Watson into a series of puzzling and sinister events. Stretching from the gas-lit streets of London to the teeming criminal underworld of Boston and the mysterious House of Silk, Horowitz takes you on a journey which many of us have already witnessed, but this time in new epic with all the old characters back to life!
“Who was Steve Jobs?” by Pam Pollack & Meg Belviso @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 105)
Who was Steve Jobs? Was he boy who loved to build and fix things or a man who showed up barefoot to business meetings or a genius who changed the way the world communicates? Not only is he all of the above but also an inspiring personality who has given the world one of it’s greatest invention! Discover more about the real Steve Jobs in this fun and exciting illustrated biography for Young Adults!
Tulika NEW Arrivals!
‘Boodabim’ by Alankrita Jain @ Rs. 95/- Language- English
‘Work’ by Shreya Sen @ Rs. 135/- Language- Hindi-Eng, Bilingual
‘The Great Birdywood Games’ by Shamim Padamsee @ Rs. 150/- Language- English
‘The Sweetest Mango’ by Malavika Shetty @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Why Paploo was Perplexed’ by Devashish Makhija @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Click!’ by Students of Olcott Memorial High School @ Rs. 85/- Language- Eng-Hindi, Bilingual
‘When Ali Became Bajarangbali’ by Devashish Makhija @ Rs. 160/- Language- English
‘The Sky Monkeys Beard’ by Niveditha Subramaniam @ Rs. 150/- Language- English
‘The Kite Tree’ by Avanti Mehta @ Rs. 160/- Language- English
‘Monday to Sunday’ by Sowmya Rajendra @ Rs. 95/- Language Eng-Hindi, Bilingual
‘Magnolias’ by Malati Shah @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Where’s The Sun?’ a story inspired by a painting by Warli artist, Janu Bhiva Ravate @ Rs.160/- Language- English
‘The Magic Feather’ by Roma Singh @ Rs. 120/- Language- English
Other new books
“The Invisible Assassin” by Jim Eldridge @ Rs. 350/-
“Vampire Diaries: The hunters Moonsong” by L.J. Smith @ Rs 350/-
‘The Morning After’ by Kamini Patel (Metro Reads) @ Rs.199/-
‘Naughty Men’ by Siddharth Narayan (Metro Reads) @ Rs. 199/-
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ by Makarand Sathe (trns. by Shanta Gokhale) @ Rs. 399/-
‘The Woman Who Flew’ by Nasreen Jahan @ Rs. 399/-
‘A Tale of Things Timeless’ by Rizio Yohannan Raj (trns. by Supriya M. Nair) @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Angels Share’ by Satyajit Sarna @ Rs. 250/-
‘Career Intelligence: The 12 new rules for work and life success’ by Barbara Moses Ph.D. @ Rs. 299/-
‘Sparks of Divinity: The Teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar From 1959 to 1975’ Complied by Noelle Perez-Christiaens @ Rs.575/-
‘The Other Side of Light’ by Mishi Saran @ Rs. 250/-
‘Let Her Rest Now’ by Vijay Nair @ Rs. 295/-
‘Sky Train: Tibetan Women on the Edge of History’ by Canyon Sam @ Rs.350/-
‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ Stories by winners of The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Mediapersons Ed. by Latika Padgaonkar & Shubha Singh @ Rs. 250/-
‘Tamarind City: Where Modern India Began’ by Bishwanath Ghosh @ Rs. 295/-
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ – A graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu @ Rs. 395/-
‘Portraits From Ayodhya: Living India’s Contradictions’ by Scharada Dubey @ Rs. 295/-
‘The Taj Conspiracy’ by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar @ Rs. 250/-
“Turning Points” by APJ Abdul Kalam @ Rs. 199/-
“Great Arc – How India was mapped” by John Keay @ Rs. 299/-
“Physics of the Future – The inventions that will transform our lives” by Michio Kaku @ Rs. 499/-
Enjoy your books! Support your neighbourhood bookstore!
From the happy team at
twistntales
Here’s hoping that rains arrive quickly and cheer us up! Till then, use our precious water wisely
And as we wait for rains, there are some lovely books waiting for you to explore in the neighbourhood bookstore. A small section of which we try and review for you every month.
New Arrivals
WOW
“Cutting Chai and Maska Pao: The Way it is Said in Mumbai Only” by Mithila Mehta, Priya Sheth & Digantika Mitra @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 100)
Mumbai is a jhakkas city with rapchik girls and pakaoing heat. Baffled? Don’t be. Welcome to the world of Mumbaikars! Cutting Chai and Maska Pao is what you need to translate the pulsating metropolis that is Mumbai. Study it, laminate it, tuck it into your back pocket- make it your linguistic survival kit! A Wow book!
Socio Eco
“Churning the Earth: The Making of Global India” by Aseem Shrivastava and Ashish Kothari @ Rs. 699/- (pgs 393)
In Churning the Earth, Aseem Shrivastava, an extensive writer on issues associated with globalization and Ashish Kothari, the founder of the Pune-based environmental group Kalpavriksh, engage in a timely inquisition on India’s dramatic economic rise. They present undisputable evidence on how the temperament of this recent growth has been rapacious and question its sustainability. Unchecked development has damaged the ecological basis that makes life possible for millions of Indians, resulting in conflict over water, land and other natural resources, and has also increased the difference between the rich and the poor. Rich with data and stories, this eye opening book argues for a radical ecological democracy based on the principals of environmental sustainability, social equity and livelihood security. The authors urge a fundamental shift towards such alternatives- already emerging from grass-root movements- if we are to prevent our descent into socio-eco turmoil.
Churning the Earth is unique in presenting what is wrong with India but also in providing solutions to the crisis that globalized growth has accumulated.
“Pakistan on the Brink: The Future of Pakistan, Afghanistan and the West” by Ahmed Rashid @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 233)
With Bin Laden dead, Pakistan is threatened by internal power struggles, relationships between the United States and Pakistan are at an all-time low, and as the US and Britain begin their withdrawal from Afghanistan, what are the possibilities- and hazards- facing the worlds most unstable region? In his follow-up to the acclaimed ‘Descent into Chaos’, Rashid focuses on the long-term problems: the changing casts of characters, the future of international terrorism, and the policies and strategies both within Pakistan and Afghanistan and among Western allies. Pakistan on the Brink offers sensible solutions and provides a way forward for all countries involved. The book is also one of the foremost chronicles of modern Afghan and Pakistani history.
“Mother Maiden Mistress: Women in Hindi Cinema, 1950-2012” by Bhawana Somaaya, Jigna Kothari and Supriya Madangarli @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 247)
Since Dadasaheb Phalke first portrayed a male to play the role of a heroine in India’s first feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913), women in Hindi cinema have come a long way since then. Mother Maiden Mistress documents that journey: from a time when cinema was considered a profession beneath the dignity of ‘respectable’ women to an era in which women actors are icons and idols. Bhawana Somaaya, Jigna Kothari and Supriya Madangarli sift through six decades of cinema, bringing to life the women who peopled cinema and the popular imagination, and shaped fashion and culture. Contemporary readers will also find here a nuanced historical perspective- of the social milieu of the time, of the nation and of Hindi cinema. The book explores what makes women characters iconic in Hindi Cinema and analyses them in relation to their directors and, more importantly, to the society at that point of time
Management
“Jugaad Innovation: A Frugal and Flexible Approach to Innovation for the 21st Century” by Navi Radjou, Jaideep Prabhu & Simone Ahuja @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 317)
In this comprehensive book, the authors challenge the very way a traditional organization thinks and acts. In the midst of rising global competition and swelling R & D budgets, Jugaad Innovation presents ways to innovate, be flexible and do more with less. Peppered with examples of innovative entrepreneurs in emerging markets like Africa, India, China and Brazil this book illuminates paths to engender breakthrough growth in a complex and resource scarce world. So, whether to find ingenious solutions to problems or turn adversity into opportunity Jugaad Innovation is the solution!
“All Marketers Tell Stories” by Seth Godin @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 220)
We believe that wine tastes better in a 500 Rs. glass than a 5 Rs. glass. We believe that a branded sneaker makes our feet feel better- and look cooler than a road side sneaker. As Seth Godin explains, great marketers don’t talk about features or even benefits, but instead they tell you a story- a story that we want to believe, whether it is factual or not. Most people have infinite amounts of choices but no time to make them. Hence every organization is a marketer, and marketing is all about telling stories.
‘Like a Virgin: Secrets They Won’t Teach You at Business School’ by Richard Branson @ Rs. 599/- (pgs 343)
In Like a Virgin, Richard Branson, the owner of Virgin Airlines and world’s most recognized and respected entrepreneur, shares his wisdom and experience that have made his business a successful endeavour. From his top tips on succeeding in business to some hard-hitting opinions on global financial crisis, this book brings together his best advice on all things in business. It’s B-school the Branson way! And if you are looking for advice on setting up your own company, improving your career prospects or developing your leadership skills whose advice can we take about business, if not from the best in the business.
Inspiration
“A Whole New Mind” by Daniel H Pink @ Rs. 640/- (pgs 375)
Daniel Pink presents in his path-breaking book. Based on research he states why the ‘The Right-Brained will rule the future’ in this wonderfully readable book. The ‘Right-Brained’ are designers, story tellers, teachers, caregivers, counselors and inventors who are able to intuitively create the need. The ‘left-brained’ skills are now commoditized and more importantly do contain the risk of becoming suddenly irrelevant. The book itself offers an education to equip oneself for this new world where creativity in product or service and its delivery will be rewarded. This book will shake you up to dare. Daniel Pink reveals the 6 fundamental human abilities that will enable you to achieve personal and professional success. A must read for oneself and to understand the world that the young will inherit and probably see successful careers in other than engineering, medicine and accountancy. This comes on the back of his bestseller “Free Agent Nation” from an author who has been a contributing editor to NYT, HBR and Wired.
“Innovate Happily” by Dr. Rekha Shetty @ Rs. 199/- (pgs 194)
The Happiness Quotient is an integral part to a successful corporate strategy, as studies show that happy people are the most innovative and productive. The book discovers the secrets that create progressive and happy communities by exploring Bhutan, a land that actually measures not the GDP (Gross Domestic Product), but it’s Gross National Happiness! Not only does this book explain how is the pursuit of happiness relevant to the corporate world, but it also points to the simple truth that happiness is the logical but often forgotten goal of every human endeavor.
Personalities
“Infinite Vision” by Pavithra K.Mehta @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 322)
This book recounts the true story of how Aravind became the world’s greatest business case for compassion. When a crippling disease shattered his lifelong ambition, a young surgeon named Dr. Govinappa Ventakataswamy chose an impossible new dream: to eliminate curable blindness. By 1976 he had personally performed over 100,000 sight-restoring surgeries. That same year he founded Aravind, an 11-bed eye clinic in South India, with no money, business plan or safety net. Dr. V (as he was to be known) was 58 years old at the time, and over the next three decades his humble clinic would defy the odds to become the largest provider of eye care in the world. Today Aravind is an organization built on hope, possibility, purpose deep insights and transformational, measurable impact.
“The Very Best of Common Man” by R.K. Laxman @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 201)
For half a century, the Times of India has thoughtfully provided an antidote to all the bad news brimming on its front pages. It’s a sketch, a single box inked with by R. K. Laxman, our neighborhood cartoonist! From financial woes of householders, from political instability to rampant corruption, the Common Man cartoons have captured the entire length of contemporary India. This special collection features the hundred most memorable Common Man cartoons of all time as a tribute to India’s best-loved cartoonist and one of the most striking voices commenting on Indian Sociopolitical life.
“The Chicken Chronicles: A Memoir” by Alice Walker @ Rs.350/- (pgs 186)
When Alice Walker grew up in the Deep South of America, her family always kept chickens. After many years she realized how much she missed them and hence decided to get a brood of her own. In this memoir she recounts the growing bond and the joy the experience brings- from building the first ‘chicken condo’ and discovering their fondness for fruit, napping and dancing- until one morning she realizes that one chicken is missing… With a genuine sense of expression the book is a journey to understand our relationship with other animals that share our world.
Travel
“Highway 39: Journeys through a fractured land” by Sudeep Chakravarti @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 387)
The author Sudeep Chakravarti attempts to unravel the brutal history of Nagaland and Manipur, their violent and restive present and their uncertain yet hopeful future as he travels along Dimapur, Kohima, Senapati, Imphal, Thoubal and their hinterlands- all touchpoints of brutalized aspiration, identity, conflict and tragedy. This book brings into focus a region long neglected and often forgotten by Mainland India- a region India can continue to ignore only at the peril of the very idea of India.
“Acts of Faith: Journeys to Sacred India” by Makarand R. Paranjpe @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 230)
Here is a sensitive and enriching exploration of the essential meaning and inner dynamics of sacred India. It is a combination of an inquiry into the meaning of India with actual visits to sacred sites, encounters with contemporary Gurus and reflections on perennial themes like faith and love. Using both textual sources and actual experiences, Acts of Faith tries to define what constitutes the sacred, making for a highly interesting cartography of ‘India of the Spirit’!
“The Liquid Refuses to Ignite” by Dave Besseling @ Rs.395/- (pgs 336)
Ten years of travel, sex, drugs and spiritual misfires brings artist and journalist, Dave Besseling no closer to finding the eternal truth-whatever that may be. Then, a moment of clarity presents itself while sipping a glass of Lassi in India’s holiest city.
In a series of essays that define the travails of those who prefer life on the road. The book see Dave and his alter-ego Dr. Heagney theorize upon, ruminate over and scoff at everything from Kurt Cobain to Kundalini. Hitting out at the modern traveller, Dvae stumbles upon the epiphany he’s been searching for: Behind the robes and rituals of wise men everywhere, they’re selling the same thing- the answer to emptiness and need. In energetic, needle-sharp prose, Besseling unpacks ten years of global wandering making this book an addictive and anarchic riff on travel, relationships and the crowded bazaar of spiritual enlightenment
Nature/ Wildlife
“The Soul of the Rhino” by Hemant Mishra with Jim Ottaway Jr. @ Rs. 299/- (pgs 234)
The Soul of the Rhino is a spirited account of one man’s journey to protect the Rhino in the foothills of the Himalayas. Since 1970 when he graduated Hemant Mishra has been a leading figure in the field of conservation animals. Over the years, he was helped by an ornery but steadfast elephant driver, the Nepali Royal family, and like minded scientists. Through his outstanding work he has erected nature reserves, arm-wrestled politicians and raised awareness. But Mishra hasn’t won the battle to save the Rhino yet. Armed insurgence, political violence, and poaching are driving this endangered species to complete extinction. The book makes us delve into the labyrinths of South Asian wildlife conservation and one man’s endurance in the face of it all.
DK Nature Guide:
• “Trees” by Tony Russell @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 352)
Discover and explore trees from around the world with this compact and easy-to-use guide. Packed with stunning close-up photographs and information of more than 500 species of trees, this book is the ideal funnel for nature enthusiasts everywhere.
• “Birds of the World” by David Burnie @ Rs. 499/- (pgs 352)
Discover and explore the diverse world of birds with this compact and easy to use guide. The book covers every major bird group, with full page profiles of the most spectacular species. Stunning close-up photographs bring each bird to life! Packed with more than 700 species of birds, this book is the ideal guide for Birdwatchers.
Indian Writing
“Chennaivaasi” by T.S. Tirumurti @ Rs.299/- (pgs 268)
When Tam-Bram Boy Ravi goes to the US and falls for a Jewish American girl Deborah he is left thinking- ‘She is quite pretty…if only she were an Iyer Girl!’
Set in the Heart of Chennai, this is a delightful story of a Father who disowns his son for going against tradition, of a mother torn between a fuming Husband and a US-returned Son, of an American girl struggling to get used to being stared at on the streets of Chennai and of a young man caught in the middle of it all! Hilarious!
“How to Fight Islamist Terror from the Missionary Position” by Tabish Khair @ Rs. 450/- (pgs 191)
Satirical and humane, How to Fight Islamist Terror from the Missionary Position tells the interlinked stories of three unforgettable men- the flamboyant Ravi, who falls in love with a beautiful women who is incapable of responding in kind, then Karim, a fundamentalist and the unnamed and pragmatic narrator- whose paths cross in Denmark. When a terrorist attack takes place in town, all three men find themselves embroiled in doubt, suspicion and danger. An acerbic commentary on the times, the book is also a bitter-sweet and stunning novel about love and life today.
“Intermission” by Nirupama Subramanian @ Rs. 250/- (pgs 272)
From the Author of the bestselling Keep the Change comes the new novel about Delhi’s suburbia. Set in Gurgoan, Intermission takes us into the lives of Varun and Gayatri Sarin, not so happily married corporate couple who are trying to come to terms with life in India after several years of ordered existence in the first World. A beautifully told story of illicit love and divided loyalties, Intermission explores lives within a gated community with just the right touch of irony and compassion
“Revolt of the Fish Eater” by Lopa Ghosh @ Rs.299 (pgs 261)
A philanthropist ghost of a chairman’s mother; a footless whore in Siberia who has mastered the art of love making; Rita of the sexual politics lessons; the witchcraft-practicing mother of a village prodigy who plots to ensnare the World’s Richest Man; the trade union leader who wrung a promise of jeans and perfumed soap out of the factory bosses- these are but a few characters of the compelling world that ‘Revolt of the Fish Eaters’ bring alive. Set in the twilight zone of glass towers, elevators and late-stage capitalism, this is a collection of stories about the business world: recession-struck, and facing threats from rogue forces such as ghosts, lovers and communists. Lopa Ghosh’s first book leaves you with a surreal yet fulfilling experience.
Science
“The Big Questions: Mathematics” by Tony Crilly @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 208)
Tony Crilly is the author of the acclaimed biography of the English mathematician Arthur Cayley and the international best-selling ‘50 Mathematical Ideas You Really Need to Know’. The Big Questions Series answers the fundamental problems that have perplexed enquiring minds through out history. Ranging from the first known numbers and Plato’s ideal forms to chaos theory and Fermat’s last theorem, this book confronts the 20 key questions at the heart of mathematics and our understanding of the world.
Health
“eat.delete. – How to get off the weight loss cycle for good: The Anti-Quick Fix Approach” by Pooja Makhija @ Rs.199/- (pgs 239)
Trying to lose weight? Running around in circles where you Lose. Gain. Lose. Gain? But what if weight gain is only a symptom? A symptom of not only how we eat food, but of how we treat food? What if losing weight doesn’t begin with what’s on your plate but with what’s on your mind? For the first time in India, a leading nutritionist has worked with psychologists to give you a combined mind-body weight loss solution. Pooja Makhija reminds us that food is not something to be feared, worshiped or abused. Her scientific approach puts food at the centre of weight loss, so that you can eat yourself to a thinner you. Equipped with a daily record diary and super tips from well known celebrities, let this book be your new diet plan so that you can Eat.to.Delete.
Young Adults
“The Serpents Shadow” by Rick Riordan @ Rs. 399/- (pgs 405)
Despite Carter and Sadie Kane’s best efforts, Apophis, the giant snake of Chaos, is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness. Battling against the forces of chaos the only hope for the Kanes is an ancient spell- but such magic has been lost for millennia. Will they find the serpent’s shadow or be led to their death into the depths of the underworld? Don’t miss any of the action in the final thrilling episode of the Kane Chronicles Trilogy.
“Hip-Hop Nature Boy and Other Stories” by Ruskin Bond @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 113)
For the first time Ruskin Bond’s poems for children, old and new, come together in this illustrated volume. Beautiful, poignant and funny, His verses for children are a joy to read on a lazy Sunday afternoon or to recite in school among friends and teachers.
“The House of Silk: The New Sherlock Holmes Novel” by Anthony Horowitz @ Rs. 350 /- (pgs 389)
November 1890, London is gripped by a merciless winter. As Detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are enjoying a tea by the fire, an agitated gentleman appears unannounced with an unnerving and gripping case which swiftly draws Holmes and Dr. Watson into a series of puzzling and sinister events. Stretching from the gas-lit streets of London to the teeming criminal underworld of Boston and the mysterious House of Silk, Horowitz takes you on a journey which many of us have already witnessed, but this time in new epic with all the old characters back to life!
“Who was Steve Jobs?” by Pam Pollack & Meg Belviso @ Rs. 150/- (pgs 105)
Who was Steve Jobs? Was he boy who loved to build and fix things or a man who showed up barefoot to business meetings or a genius who changed the way the world communicates? Not only is he all of the above but also an inspiring personality who has given the world one of it’s greatest invention! Discover more about the real Steve Jobs in this fun and exciting illustrated biography for Young Adults!
Tulika NEW Arrivals!
‘Boodabim’ by Alankrita Jain @ Rs. 95/- Language- English
‘Work’ by Shreya Sen @ Rs. 135/- Language- Hindi-Eng, Bilingual
‘The Great Birdywood Games’ by Shamim Padamsee @ Rs. 150/- Language- English
‘The Sweetest Mango’ by Malavika Shetty @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Why Paploo was Perplexed’ by Devashish Makhija @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Click!’ by Students of Olcott Memorial High School @ Rs. 85/- Language- Eng-Hindi, Bilingual
‘When Ali Became Bajarangbali’ by Devashish Makhija @ Rs. 160/- Language- English
‘The Sky Monkeys Beard’ by Niveditha Subramaniam @ Rs. 150/- Language- English
‘The Kite Tree’ by Avanti Mehta @ Rs. 160/- Language- English
‘Monday to Sunday’ by Sowmya Rajendra @ Rs. 95/- Language Eng-Hindi, Bilingual
‘Magnolias’ by Malati Shah @ Rs. 135/- Language- English
‘Where’s The Sun?’ a story inspired by a painting by Warli artist, Janu Bhiva Ravate @ Rs.160/- Language- English
‘The Magic Feather’ by Roma Singh @ Rs. 120/- Language- English
Other new books
“The Invisible Assassin” by Jim Eldridge @ Rs. 350/-
“Vampire Diaries: The hunters Moonsong” by L.J. Smith @ Rs 350/-
‘The Morning After’ by Kamini Patel (Metro Reads) @ Rs.199/-
‘Naughty Men’ by Siddharth Narayan (Metro Reads) @ Rs. 199/-
‘The Man Who Tried to Remember’ by Makarand Sathe (trns. by Shanta Gokhale) @ Rs. 399/-
‘The Woman Who Flew’ by Nasreen Jahan @ Rs. 399/-
‘A Tale of Things Timeless’ by Rizio Yohannan Raj (trns. by Supriya M. Nair) @ Rs. 299/-
‘The Angels Share’ by Satyajit Sarna @ Rs. 250/-
‘Career Intelligence: The 12 new rules for work and life success’ by Barbara Moses Ph.D. @ Rs. 299/-
‘Sparks of Divinity: The Teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar From 1959 to 1975’ Complied by Noelle Perez-Christiaens @ Rs.575/-
‘The Other Side of Light’ by Mishi Saran @ Rs. 250/-
‘Let Her Rest Now’ by Vijay Nair @ Rs. 295/-
‘Sky Train: Tibetan Women on the Edge of History’ by Canyon Sam @ Rs.350/-
‘Making News, Breaking News, Her Own Way’ Stories by winners of The Chameli Devi Jain Awards for Outstanding Women Mediapersons Ed. by Latika Padgaonkar & Shubha Singh @ Rs. 250/-
‘Tamarind City: Where Modern India Began’ by Bishwanath Ghosh @ Rs. 295/-
‘Stupid Guy Goes to India’ – A graphic novel by Yukichi Yamamatsu @ Rs. 395/-
‘Portraits From Ayodhya: Living India’s Contradictions’ by Scharada Dubey @ Rs. 295/-
‘The Taj Conspiracy’ by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar @ Rs. 250/-
“Turning Points” by APJ Abdul Kalam @ Rs. 199/-
“Great Arc – How India was mapped” by John Keay @ Rs. 299/-
“Physics of the Future – The inventions that will transform our lives” by Michio Kaku @ Rs. 499/-
Enjoy your books! Support your neighbourhood bookstore!
From the happy team at
twistntales
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