Thursday, January 31, 2008
Review of books sent out today to twistntales@yahoogroups
Hi all,
Welcome to another long list of lovely books, some great ones to give us company as we brave the winter chill and unit tests!
As we enter the exam season, we at twistntales are a bit stretched in terms of in-store help …. So the call goes around again. We are happy to have Samar and Jahnavi come back to do short stints, but as summer vacation is round the corner, we are starting to look at extra hands to help us out. We are looking for folks who will do 4-hour part time slots – vacancies exist from March to July. If you know of students/ others who may be interested, kindly ask them to call us. Minimum XIIth class, appearing this year is also fine, but primarily interested in books and people, staying in Aundh or around.
Now we get on to the business of books!
WOW:
“Fundoo t-shirt quotes” @ Rs.95/- (320pgs)
This book contains quotes that we generally find in T-shirts. The book contains 300 smart quotes to be used in a variety of situations & we find most quotes apt and appropriate to our day-to-day life. Quotations are witty. While some of these are plain funny others are ironic and thought provoking. For e.g.: “Reality keeps on ruining my life”, “Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7th of your life”, “Take my advice I don’t use it anyway”, “Success is a relative term – it brings so many relatives” Go for it J J.
“Fully Empowered” by Pablo Neruda @ Rs.150/- (135 pgs) – a bilingual edition (English-Spanish - Poetry)
Fully Empowered was first published in Spanish in 1962 and was one of Neruda’s favourites among his own works, and he specifically asked his finest translator Alastair Reid, to translate it into English. Thirty-six poems in this collection vary from short intense lyrics, characteristic Neruda odes, whimsical addresses to friends and his magnificent meditations on the role of the poet. Within Fully Empowered are many poems among the greatest of Neruda’s work, including ‘The People’, his most celebrated later poem.
“Do - it -Yourself Art / Educational kits – @ Rs. 150/- (Fine Arts)
Six sets of D I Y kits, each with an amazing topic and truly capturing the essence of Indian folk art/paintings across the country. The art of Warli painting, Madhubani, Patua, Gond, Phad painting and Indian clay beads are made ‘child’s play’ for one and all! Each kit comes equipped with all ingredients and materials required to complete a single painting. Makes a perfect gift, pastime, new hobby or project. Made and marketed by Intach, Pune.
FICTION
“The Bad Girl” by Mario Vargas Llosa (Translated by Edith Grossman) @ Rs. 495/- (276 pgs)
Ricardo Somocurcio is in love with a bad girl. She appears in various guises over many years but does not seem to remember who she was earlier. She treats Ricardo very poorly but yet he is doomed to worship her. Gifted liar and irresistible, maddening muse – does Ricardo ever know who she really is? The answer is as unclear as what has become of Ricardo himself, a lifelong expatriate shadowed by the sense that he is only ever drifting. In Mario Vargas Llosa’s beguiling new novel, the strange bedfellows of good and bad turn out not to be what they appear.
“Sisters” by Danielle Steel @ Rs. 230/- (413 pgs)
Four sisters who have been fervently pursuing success and their own lives come together to share one New York brownstone, to support each other and to pick up the pieces while one sister struggles to heal her shattered body and soul. A bustling house is soon filled with eccentric dogs, laughter, tears, friends and men…and the kind of honesty and unconditional love only sisters can provide. But as the four women settle in, each is forced to confront the direction of their respective lives. With unerring insight and compassion, Danielle Steel tells a compelling story of four sisters who are irrevocably woven into the fabric of each other’s lives.
“Then We Came To The End” by Joshua Ferris @ Rs. 252/- (389 pgs)
They spend their days – and too many of their nights – at work. Away from their friends and family, they share a stretch of stained carpet with a group of strangers they call colleagues. Amidst the boredom, redundancies, water-cooler moments, meetings, flirtations and pure rage, life is happening, to their great surprise all around them. Then We Came To The End is about sitting all morning next to someone you cross the road to avoid the lunch. It’s the story of the life of most people. “The best comedy debut of the year”
“Bungalow 2” by Danielle Steel @ Rs. 995/- (338pgs)
In this new novel Bungalow 2, author Danielle Steele takes us beyond the dazzle of Hollywood – the story of one woman’s journey from suburban mom to award-winning screenwriter and all the joy, heartbreak and challenges that come along the way. Steele takes us into a world few ever see – a world of fame and fortune, celebrity and genius – daring to show us the real lives, real dreams and real struggles hidden beneath the flash and glitter of Hollywood.
“Airman” by Eoin Colfer @ Rs. 275/- (424 pgs)
Conor Broekhart was born to fly. Or more accurately he was born flying. Little wonder he became what he became. In an age of discovery and invention many dreamed of flying, but for Conor flight was more than just a dream, it was his destiny. In one dark night on the island of Great Saltee, a cruel and cunning betrayal destroyed his life and stole his future. Now Conor must win the race for flight, to save his family and to right a terrible wrong. Airman is the new hugely entertaining and action-packed thriller by the best-selling author of the Artemis Fowl series.
INDIAN WRITING
“Lunatic In My Head” by Anjum Hasan @ Rs. 295/- (291 pgs)
In the early 90s, in Shillong, eight-year-old Sophie Das just realizes she is adopted, but there is also a baby kicking inside her mother’s womb whom she’s dying to meet. IAS aspirant Aman Moondy is planning a first-of-its-kind Happening and praying the lovely Concordella will come. College lecturer, Firdaus Ansari is going to finish her thesis, have a hard talk with her boyfriend and then get out. Poetic, funny, tender and reflective, Lunatic in My Head is a moving portrait of a small town and of these three people joined to each other in an intricate web, all determined to break out of their small town destinies.
“Animal’s People” by Indra Sinha @ Rs. 396/- (374 pgs)
Animal’s People is a stunningly humane work of storytelling that takes us right to the heart of contemporary India. The voice of Animal, the narrator is bawdy, irreverent and smart. Animal’s vernacular with its mangled, Yoda-like syntax, conjures up the colour, cruelty and camaraderie of life in the Indian city of Khaufpur. Compellingly honest and entirely without self-pity, Animal lights up our journey into his dark world with flashes of pure joy. Shortlisted for the 2007 Man Booker Prize.
“The Age of Shiva” by Manil Suri @ Rs. 495/- (455 pgs)
This story starts in a college scenario where two sisters, Roopa and Meera are listening to
a song sung by Dev. Roopa is older than Meera as well as more beautiful. Dev sings a passionate song in praise for Roopa unaware of the fact that the same song arouses passionate feelings in the heart of Meera. The story starts on this background and depicts the tragedy that Meera faces in her life. The story is very revealing of the true face of India society about how the women have been tortured and her struggle for existence. The Age of Shiva is the powerful story of an ancient society in transition and an extraordinary portrait of maternal love.
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“The Shattered Thigh and Other Plays” by Bhasa (Translated by Aditya Narayana Dhairyasheel Haksar) @ Rs. 200/- (128 pgs)
Bhasa is one of the most celebrated names in classical Sanskrit literature. He lived and wrote about two thousand years ago and even preceded Kalidasa, the great poet and dramatist of ancient India. In fact Kalidasa himself praises Bhasa in one of his plays. Bhasa’s works were considered lost until the beginning of the 20th century when thirteen of them were discovered in Kerala. Six of these, which form this collection, are based on the Mahabharata, which provides a thematic unity to the plays. The short and fast-paced plays in this collection are remarkable in their nearness to modern idiom despite their antiquity.
HISTORY
“Rani” by Jaishree Misra @ Rs. 350/- (416 pgs)
When thirteen-year-old Manikarnika is married to the King of Jhansi, little does she realize the burden of greatness awaiting her. She is renamed Lakshmibai – after the Goddess of Wealth. As she grows from a girl to a woman she desires to emerge as a capable Queen beloved of her people. When the British under Dalhousie’s Doctrine of Lapse annex Jhansi after the death of her infant son and husband, she turns to Robert Ellis, an officer of the East India Company and Jhansi’s political agent. When he tries to assist her while trying to stay loyal to his government, he is sent away in disgrace and meanwhile she in the company of her comrades-in-arms, Nanasahib (the Peshwa Bajirao II’s adopted son) and Tantia Tope is inexorably drawn into the vortex of the Great Revolt of 1857. Unfolding against the events leading to the first war of Indian Independence, Rani is a majestic yet human story about the ageless conflicts between love and loyalty, duty and desire.
“Prison and chocolate cake” by Nayantara Sahgal @ Rs.295/- (216pgs+)
The book is about an unusual childhood of Nayantara Sehgal, who was born into the ‘first family’ of Indian politics – The Nehrus. It is a dramatic portrayal of a family for whom the country’s fight for freedom was more important than anything else, certainly coming before comfort and riches. Sehgal describes growing up at Anand Bhavan in Allahabad, the home her family shared with her maternal uncle Jawaharlal Nehru. The book is particularly delightful in its portrayal of Nehru as a man of friendly humanity and joy, which made him a beloved uncle, yet with an inborn greatness that inspired awe and admiration in the little girl.
“War of civilizations: India and 1857 (in two hardbound volumes)” by Amaresh Mishra @ Rs.2500/-
This two-volume work, details for the first time, the shaping up of a titanic, and the most, bitter conflict of the nineteenth century. The 1857 revolt was a turning point in the history of modern India. The world still bears the scars, victory marks, and the results of India versus the West, War of Civilization that ensued in 1857 and went on for over a decade. More than 10 million Indians – 7% of the country’s population – lost their lives, most of them massacred in cold blood by marauding British troops. The author shows how the British even killed their own women and children and blamed Indians for, to justify their excesses. The author also shows how the West’s overall defeat in 1857 prepared the world for de-colonization, making it ultimately safer for democracy.
“The Mutiny” by Julian Rathbone @ Rs. 295/- (447 pgs)
Julian Rathbone succeeds brilliantly in recreating the chaos, the savagery and the clash of cultures in India in 1857. The stories of his own characters – the young army wife Sophie Hardcastle whose son disappears amid the fighting, the gallant but naïve spy Bruce Farquhar, and Uma Blackstock, the Eurasian daughter of a British officer forced to choose where her loyalties lie – are all woven seamlessly into the wider narrative of a world turned upside down. The Mutiny is fiction that movingly reanimates the history upon which it draws.
PERSONALITIES
“Shakespeare” by Bill Bryson @ Rs.325/- (200 pgs)
William Shakespeare, the most celebrated playwright and poet in the English language left behind nearly a million words of text, but his biography has long been a thicket of supposition arranged around scant facts. With a steady hand and his trademark wit, Bill Bryson sorts through this colourful muddle to reveal the man himself. Vivid, unsentimental, witty and fast-paced, it’s a biography that does justice to Shakespeare’s achievements.
“Perfect Hostage- A Life of Aung San Suu Kyi” by Justin Wintle @ Rs. 670/- (450pgs)
Like Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, Aung San Suu Kyi has become an iconic figure. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991, since 1988 she has steadfastly opposed Burma’s brutal military regime, instituted by General Ne Win in 1962. But her leadership of the Burmese democracy movement, and her ardent advocacy of human rights, has landed her in desperate trouble. Author Justin Wintle, gives us the fullest biography of Aung San Suu Kyi to date, asking searching questions along the way.
“Brushing Up The Years: A Cartoonist’s History of India 1947 to the Present” by R. K. Laxman @ Rs. 495/- (302 pgs)
Brushing Up The Years is a selection of the very best of cartoonist R. K. Laxman’s cartoons, drawn over a career spanning six decades. From India’s first general elections to Nehru’s Five-Year plans, from wars with China and Pakistan to the reign of Indira Gandhi and the Emergency, from Rajiv Gandhi’s government, the rise of regional politics and the fall of the Babri Masjid to economic liberalization, the rule of the BJP and the Congress’s return to power, these cartoons trace a history of modern India, a history that is perceptive, provocative and humorous. This new paperback edition of Brushing Up The Years contains 8 new pages of cartoons, bringing the story up to the present.
“About Me (Apni Khabar)” by Pandey Bechan Sharma ‘Ugra’ (Translated with an introduction by Ruth Vanita) @ Rs. 250/- (162 pgs)
Pandey Bechan Sharma Ugra’s memoir, Apni Khabar, is considered to be the first autobiography written in modern Hindi that displays a striking originality in its tone and style. It marked a radical departure from the established autobiographical and biographical conventions of its time, and is now regarded as an example of a new genre of writing because of its intrinsic modernity and individualism. Translated for the first time into English by Ruth Vanita, About Me depicts Ugra’s exploration of the making of the modern, North Indian male intellectual self, with layers drawn from urban and rural orthodox and radical, Hindu and Muslim cultures.
“Ammi: Letter to a Democratic Mother” by Saeed Mirza @ Rs. 395/- (306 pgs)
Ammi: Letter to a Democratic Mother is a novel that takes the form of a letter written by Saeed Mirza to his late mother, a pastiche of memories that honour the political creed she stood for, the egalitarian spirit of democracy she believed in, the faith from which she drew strength. Shifting deftly from one form to another – short story, poetry, parable, legend, satire, travelogue, memoir, history, diatribe, film script – Mirza creates an unforgettable literary installation.
“Krishna: Life and Song of the Blue God” by Ramesh Menon @ Rs. 395/- (271 pgs)
This book is a magical unexpurgated life of Krishna, told in a spirit of Bhakti for the modern reader. Krishna: Life and Song of the Blue God, opens on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, on the brink of the Great Mahabharata War, when the Pandava warrior Arjuna suffers a crisis of courage and conscience. His divine cousin, the Blue God, begins to expound the eternal dharma, the Bhagavad Gita. The story quickly shifts back to Krishna’s birth and childhood and then again to the battlefield, chapter by chapter, until finally both narratives flow together near the end, just before the war erupts. Never before have Krishna’s Holy Gita (from the Mahabharata) and his brilliant life (from the Bhagavat Purana) been juxtaposed with such enchantment.
MANAGEMENT/ BUSINESS
“Chin India Rising: How China and India Will Benefit Your Business” by Jagdish N. Sheth @ Rs. 495/- (207 pgs)
The rise of China and India will have a profound effect on businesses in the developed as well as the developing world. Prof. Jagdish Sheth produces a thought-provoking treatise on contemporary events involving China and India, which will have a major impact in the foreseeable future. Sheth propounds an extremely well reasoned point of view of these developments, which will appeal to a wide cross section of readers around the world. Chinindia Rising is a visionary work encompassing multiplicity of dimensions of the unprecedented impact and influence of the two great nations: India and China, on the world’s political and economic future.
“A Class With Drucker: The Lost Lessons of the World’s Greatest Management Teacher” by William A. Cohen @ Rs. 1040/- (258 pgs)
At once a philosopher, historian, family man and professor, Peter Drucker is hailed as the Father of Modern Management. William Cohen learnt from Drucker for 4 years. What Drucker taught Cohen literally changed his life. In A Class With Drucker, Cohen shares many of Drucker’s teachings that never made into his countless books and articles, ideas that were offered to his students in classroom or informal settings. Cohen expands on Drucker’s lessons with personal anecdotes about his teacher’s personality, lack of pretension and interaction with students and others. He also shows how Drucker’s ideas can be applied to the real-world challenges managers face today.
“Know Can Do!: Put Your Know-How into Action” by Ken Blanchard, Paul J. Meyer and Dick Ruhe @ Rs. 175/- (118 pgs)
Why is it that so many things we try so hard to learn just don’t stick? Because we spend all our energy on learning new skills and better habits, but we lack effective strategies for retaining and applying all the helpful information we take in. Know Can Do! is a simple and totally powerful book for anyone involved in learning. The authors highlight how to use what you know and learn and make a difference in your life and the lives you touch.
“Think Better (your company’s future depends on it… and so does yours)” by Tim Hurson @ Rs. 550/- (293 pgs)
In this new book, Tim Hurson explains how to use Productive Thinking to solve many of the problems that managers face today. Hurson starts by explaining how we all build barriers to effective thinking. He identifies our habits of thinking that severely limit our behaviour and demonstrates how to overcome these barriers. More than anything Productive Thinking is an attitude that will let you look at problems and convert them into opportunities. To create the future, you must first be able to imagine it. Productive thinking is a way to help you do that.
SOCIO ECO POL / CURRENT AFFAIRS
“The ugliness of the Indian male and other propositions” by Mukul Kesavan @ Rs.395/- (301pgs)
This collection of essays is a distillation of Mukul Kesavan’s thoughts on some of the central concerns of our time. They are outrageously funny, profoundly cosmopolitan and devotedly ‘pseudo-secular’ all at once. Kesavan’s entertaining writings crackle with cerebral wit and originality. A historian by profession, Kesavan is distinct from his tribe because his prose ploughs a lonely furrow: it is sparkling, accessible, aphoristic and uncommonly elegant cocktail of serious thinking and unserious fun, often standing commonly held notions of our head.
“The Logic of Life: The Rational Economics of an Irrational World” by Tim Harford @ Rs. 824/- (258 pgs)
The Logic of Life presents an X-Ray image of human life, stripping away the surface to show us a picture that is revealing, enthralling and sometimes disturbing. Tim Harford argues that life is logical after all. Under the image of everyday insanity, hidden incentives are at work, and Harford shows these incentives emerging in the most unlikely places. The stories that emerge are not about data or equations but about people. Once you have read this quotable and addictive book, life will never look the same.
“Creating a world without poverty- Social business and the future of capitalism” by Muhammad Yunus @ Rs.395/- (261pgs)
Founder of the Grameen Bank and author of Banker to the Poor, Muhammad Yunus has now established a completely new way to use the creative vibrancy of business to tackle social problems. In this book he pioneers the idea of social business. What is a social business? Simply put, one designed to meet a social goal. The goals in this case include collaborating with Danone to produce affordable, nutritious yogurt for malnourished children in Bangladesh, to building eye care hospitals. Yunus’s “Next Big Idea” offers a pioneering model for nothing less than a new, more humane form of capitalism.
“The Real Price of Everything-Rediscovering the six classics of economics” edited by Michael Lewis @ Rs. 835/- (1467 pgs)
This book is concerned with Economics and its treasures. This book contains 6 masterworks that revolutionized the way we understand markets on a National, Regional and Global scale. The book presents a collection of writings of Adam Smith, Thomas Malthus, David Ricardo, Charles Mackay, Thorstein Veblen, and John Maynard Keynes. The 6 masterworks presented in this book remains as new as ever even today.
“Cut-Outs, Caste and Cine Star: The World of Tamil Politics” by Vaasanthi @ Rs. 295/- (286 pgs)
Tamil Nadu is a state very different from the rest of India, both culturally and historically. It has retained a fundamentally separate identity for itself in language and caste structure, and this is most evident in its politics. Cut-outs, Caste and Cine-Stars tells a political story that has all elements of a blockbuster film, where ironies and larger-than-life characters abound. Well-known writer and journalist Vaasanthi has observed the dramatis personae in this epic drama at close quarters for a decade. Now updated with an additional chapter on the war of succession, the book offers an objective and insightful view of a political world that is both fascinating and perplexing.
“Anatomy of An Abduction: How The Indian Hostages in Iraq Were Freed” by V. Sudarshan @ Rs. 295/- (219 pgs)
In July 2004, Tilak Raj, Antaryami and Sukhdev were part of a convoy of trucks from Kuwait to Iraq. The convoy never reached its intended destination. Instead, the three Indian drivers along with others were abducted by a group that called itself ‘The Holders of the Black Banner. They accused the drivers of collaborating with the Americans. In this book, V Sudarshan explains tactics that the Indian Government had to use during negotiations with the abductors. This behind- the- scenes narration explains the medias role and the pressures the governments faced in the delicate situation. The author is currently Associate Editor, The New Indian Express. He has been writing on foreign policy and diplomacy for a number of years.
TRAVEL/ FOOD
“Experience India” by the Times Group @ Rs. 295/- (590 pgs)
This guide contains the essential details for any tourist traveling through the Country. Details of accommodation, transport, eateries, shopping and must-sees of the cities are provided for. There are planned itineraries and side trips, which can be done as per your budget. So whether you’re planning an adventure in the hills or you wish to learn about the Nizams’ legacy, this guide will help you truly experience India.
“Eating India: Exploring a Nation’s Cuisines” by Chitrita Banerji @ Rs. 350/- (329 pgs)
In Eating India, award-winning food writer Chitrita Banerji takes us on an extraordinary journey through a national cuisine formed by generations of arrivals, assimilations and conquests. Travelling across the length and breadth of the country – from Bengal to Goa and Karnataka, via the Grand Trunk Road, then northwards to Amritsar, Lucknow and
Varanasi, on to Bombay and Kerala – Banerji discovers a civilization with an insatiable curiosity, one that consumes the old and new with eager voracity. Certain to enchant anyone enamored of Indian food and culture, Eating India is a heavy blend of travelogue and food writing.
“Tea and Me: A Memoir of Planting Life” by E. J. S Davidar @ Rs. 200/- (215 pgs)
When tea was first cultivated on a commercial scale in India, it remained the preserve of British planters who braved great odds and suffered much privation to grow the plant which they hoped would make them prosperous. Even after India attained independence, some companies continued to be managed by British planters. One such company was Southern India Tea Estates Company Limited (SITE). Which was established in the princely state of Travancore. E. J. S. Davidar was the first Indian executive hired by SITE and he went to become its first Indian Chief Executive. In his memoir, he describes the Company’s transition from a firm run by Britons to one that was entirely managed by Indians. Interweaving history, lore and wonderfully evocative descriptions of life on plantations, this book brings to life the romance of tea.
INSPIRATION/ SELF HELP
“Empower Yourself: New Life Solutions for Health and Well-Being” by Ajay Poddar @ Rs. 295/- (239 pgs)
The book describes the ancient sciences and modern research studies that surround us. It also explains the Chakras and the energy centers within our body. The book also narrates the way the vibrations created by planetary movements affects us. It also describes about healing through Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Reiki, Yoga, Acupuncture and Shiatsu. It also tells the value of Religious and Cultural symbols and so on.
“Egonomics: What Makes Ego our Greatest Asset (Or Most Expensive Liability)” by David Marcum and Steven Smith @ Rs. 575/- (258 pgs)
Using five years of exhaustive research, Marcum and Smith provide compelling evidence and matter-of-fact answers on striking the balance between ego and humility to reach the next level of leadership. The book deals with the difference between defending ideas and being defensive, how talent can keep the best ideas from winning and veracity, which finally clinches the deal.
“Sex Matters - From Sex to Super consciousness” by Osho @ Rs. 500/- (290pgs)
Sex Matters: From Sex to Super-Consciousness puts forth a vision of sex that is healthy, natural, innocent and free from guilt and repression. This book offers insight into the inner psychological and spiritual dimensions of sex. Osho shows how we can, by accepting and celebrating sex as a gift of nature, begin to use it as a valuable stepping-stone in a lifelong journey toward greater self-awareness and joy.
“Why Mars and Venus Collide” by John Gray @ Rs. 295/- (249 pgs)
Men and women are different, we all know that, but if our genes have stood still then social changes have not. Overworked, stressed-out and time-poor, we can barely keep up with the frenzied pace of our lives – and our relationships are breaking down as a result. John Gray, the best-selling author of Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, has written a definitive manual to help men and women thrive together in the 21st century. He shows how we can use everyday pressures to build greater intimacy with our loved ones and strengthen our relationships to make them last.
“Lifespan Investing: Building the Best Portfolio for every Stage of your life” by Clifford Pistolese @ Rs. 250/- (208 pgs)
The smartest, healthiest way to invest is for the long haul. In Lifespan Investing, veteran investor and author Clifford Pistolese deftly explains the need for this approach and provides proven techniques for maximizing wealth at every age and stage of your life.
SCIENCES/ GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
“The Penguin Yearbook 2008” compiled and edited by Derek O’Brien @ Rs.150/-(816pgs)
The Penguin Yearbook now in its fourth year of publication is a mine of information on various topics such as Politics, Economics, Career, Arts, Sports and General Knowledge. It has been completely revised and updated and also includes GK quizzes on India and current affairs.
“On Intelligence” by Jeff Hawkins with Sandra Blakeslee @ Rs. 535/-(261pgs)
In this book, author Jeff Hawkins develops a powerful theory of how the human brain works. The brain is not a computer, but a memory system that stores experiences in a way that reflects the true structure of the world, remembering sequences of events and their nested relationships and making predictions based on those memories. It is this memory-prediction system that forms the basis of intelligence, perception, creativity and even consciousness. Written acclaimed science writer Sandra Blakeslee and endorsed by a host of scientists and technology experts, On Intelligence reveals how we truly think and how this understanding will transform the technology age.
“Astronomy- the definitive guide to the universe” by Duncan John @ Rs. 495/- (256pgs)
Man has been studying the universe right from the time of ancient civilizations. Yet there is so much more too learn about it. Astronomy does not refer to only the stars; it is the study of all celestial phenomenon. This book explains man’s study of these phenomenons since the time of ancient civilizations worshipping them, to the 2005 Huygens-Cassini space probe image of Titan. This guide will appeal not just to students of astronomy but also to those who would like to just begin exploring beyond the 3rd rock from the sun.
“Mysteries of the world-Unexplained wonders and mysterious phenomena” @ Rs.495/- (318pgs)
Ancient places and mysterious beings, sunken worlds and cultures, landscapes imbued with symbolism, unexplained apparitions and unbelievable finds from ancient times – all of these remain mysteries for humankind, despite intense investigation. This book explores mysteries that continue to intrigue us. Among these are holy places, ancient sites located at power vortices, about whose builders we know very little. Topics also include legendary civilizations and their lost cultures, about which so little information was left behind.
“Bournvita Book of Knowledge 14” by Derek O’Brien @ Rs. 150/- (150 pgs)
The Cadbury Bourn vita Book of Knowledge is one of the best quizzing books to sharpen General Knowledge skills by answering questions on Sports, History, Entertainment, Mythology, Wild-life, Food, and several others. The interesting sections of this book are Speed Round, Find the Answer, Take your Pick and Guess the Question.
Newer Arrivals :
“Senior Leadership Teams” by Ruth Wageman, Debra A. Nunes, James A. Burruss, J. Richard Hackman @Rs. 1250/- (241 pgs)
“Executing Your Strategy” by Mark Morgan, Raymond E. Levitt, William Malek @Rs. 1250/- (290 pgs)
“Dragons at your Door” by Ming Zeng, Peter J. Williamson @Rs. 1250/- (239 pgs)
“Big Think Strategy: How to Leverage Bold Ideas and Leave Small Thinking Behind” by Bernd H. Schmitt @Rs. 1250/- (177 pgs)
“At First Sight” by Nicholas Sparks @ Rs. 253/- (342 pgs)
“To Uphold the World: The Message of Ashoka and Kautilya for the 21st Century” by Bruce Rich @ Rs. 495/- (326 pgs)
And many new ones coming in everyday! Do drop in and have a look! See you at the Store !
From the team at,
twistntales
Another excellent post from Subra
An open letter to all who love their lives
Hi Ramesh,
It was a great trip to Pune. I always thought the drive would be great but really it was scary, to say the least. It actually set me thinking about you and your risk taking abilities. To summarize, you and your three brothers are the driving force behind the family business of tyre retreading business. When I reviewed your assets, I was impressed by what I saw. However, when I saw the list of liabilities, I was stuck by the lack of financial discipline – in your financial life, your business life and in your driving. Your new Toyota Corolla is surely a good car, but constantly driving it at 170 km (yes on the Mumbai –Pune expressway, it is possible). I got scared, and Dr. Prakash was too polite to comment about your driving.
Let’s enumerate your ‘assets’. Your house in which, you are living with your nuclear family – your wife, two daughters and a son. Your new Toyota Corolla, your wife’s Honda city and your son’s Ikon. You have also committed to a new house in Mahabalipuram on which you have made a down payment.
Asset Cost Loan Market Value
Home Rs 180 lakh Rs 120 lakh Rs 225 lakh
Toyota Corolla Rs 14 lakh Rs 12 lakh Rs 9 lakh
Honda City Rs 9 lakh Rs 2 lakh Rs 3 lakh
Ikon Rs 7 lakh Rs 1 lakh
Investment house Rs 68 lakh Rs 60 lakh Rs 74 lakh
Apart from these assets, you have a loan against property of Rs 30 lakh taken for your son’s education – for his acturial education at Oxford. His education has just started and he will complete his education in 2009, and start earning in 2010. Your daughter will start her medical education in 2009, and she wants to do it in US. That, adjusted for inflation will cost you Rs 1.5 crores, and your current level of investments, of Rs 8 lakh in mutual funds will be nowhere near sufficient. And I am not even talking about the amount of money that your twins will need when they pass 12th standard – they are about six years away.
This set me thinking on your ability to comprehend and handle risk in your business and in real life. All the assets that you have are invested in your business and I know that the current level of borrowing in your business is also quite high. You have also guaranteed a Rs 14 crore term loan and a Rs 5 crore working capital loan.
Now, let us turn to the life insurance cover that you have. You have an endowment cover of Rs 10 lakh on which you are paying a premium of Rs 32,000 per annum. You have a life insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh (on your wife’s life) for which you pay Rs 85,000 as a premium and a cover of Rs 5 lakh on your daughter, and a term insurance of Rs. 10 lakh on your son. And lets take a look at why you bought these policies. The first policy was bought ten years ago by your father to please the bank manager who sanctioned his working capital loan. The policies on your wife and children to keep your wife’s brother happy – since he has quit this ‘business’ and the term policy on your son, because the bank giving the education loan insisted on the same.
Thus, no life insurance of yours was bought as insurance. You only have insurance of assets which are predominantly owned by the lenders – so your cars, your factory, your house, are all fully insured. Since nobody owns you, maybe you are not insured. If you are the asset creating all these minor assets, I am appalled that you are not insured.
Also read - Busted: 10 insurance myths that can prove costly
I now wish to ask you the following questions:
How long are you planning to be dead?
At your current level of insurance, your wife will not be able to keep the cars or the house. So if you plan to be dead for a period exceeding 30 days, you need more insurance. Why do you drive so fast?You drove the car like a maniac. I know you do not care about your life, but some of us in your car do. When we did stock picking, you were more careful, what happened?When we did pick stocks together, you would be so risk averse, why do you flirt with risk in your real life? You asked for the dividend history, quality of management, market leadership, return on capital employed, and so on, what has changed in your real life? When I suggested term insurance of Rs 5 crore at a premium of Rs 4 lakh, you scoffed at the idea of this money goes down the drain. My travel with you allowed me to do an exercise in the amount of insurance you need.
Now let us look at how much insurance, I think you need
You need life insurance cover to repay all your loans – that amounts to Rs 204 lakh. You need life insurance to cover all your children’s education that, unadjusted for inflation is about Rs 4.5 crores.
You need life insurance to cover the personal guarantees that you and your brothers have given to the bankers that is about Rs 19 crores. You need life insurance to let your family spend about Rs 3.6 lakh per month – I am assuming that the annual vacations in India will be in five star hotels and the foreign jaunts will continue. That means you need a capital of about Rs 12 crores.
In sum, you need about Rs 37 crores of life insurance. Given your current cash flows, I suggest you get your brothers also insured for a Rs 19 crores each – as a key man insurance in your private limited company, and take a Rs 18 crores in your personal capacity. Does this look too high? Lets look at the cost of not having this insurance. What will your family do if you died tonight?
Your son will not complete his acturial studies in UK.
Your daughter will have to forget her MBBS course.
Your wife’s boutique will close down.
All the three cars will be taken away by the lenders.
Your wife will shift to a one BHK rented accommodation; down scale the education plans of the younger kids. No IB school for sure.
Your brothers will not be able to pay her much money on a monthly basis – your salary may continue for say, two years, but what after that?
Your brothers have no clue of the Dubai operations – they even do not know the local partner – so your most profitable market will vanish.
Your wife’s policy, and your children’s policy will lapse because you will not be here to pay the premium.
Your children will decide on how your spouse should retire. There are enough Hindi movies that you have seen to understand this option.
Weigh the premium of Rs 16.5 lakh term premium versus the cost of not having the policy, I am sure you will understand.
Have you read - If you died tonight, what will your family do?
The author, PV Subramanyam, is a financial domain trainer. He can be reached at pv.subramanyam@moneycontrol.com.
Hi Ramesh,
It was a great trip to Pune. I always thought the drive would be great but really it was scary, to say the least. It actually set me thinking about you and your risk taking abilities. To summarize, you and your three brothers are the driving force behind the family business of tyre retreading business. When I reviewed your assets, I was impressed by what I saw. However, when I saw the list of liabilities, I was stuck by the lack of financial discipline – in your financial life, your business life and in your driving. Your new Toyota Corolla is surely a good car, but constantly driving it at 170 km (yes on the Mumbai –Pune expressway, it is possible). I got scared, and Dr. Prakash was too polite to comment about your driving.
Let’s enumerate your ‘assets’. Your house in which, you are living with your nuclear family – your wife, two daughters and a son. Your new Toyota Corolla, your wife’s Honda city and your son’s Ikon. You have also committed to a new house in Mahabalipuram on which you have made a down payment.
Asset Cost Loan Market Value
Home Rs 180 lakh Rs 120 lakh Rs 225 lakh
Toyota Corolla Rs 14 lakh Rs 12 lakh Rs 9 lakh
Honda City Rs 9 lakh Rs 2 lakh Rs 3 lakh
Ikon Rs 7 lakh Rs 1 lakh
Investment house Rs 68 lakh Rs 60 lakh Rs 74 lakh
Apart from these assets, you have a loan against property of Rs 30 lakh taken for your son’s education – for his acturial education at Oxford. His education has just started and he will complete his education in 2009, and start earning in 2010. Your daughter will start her medical education in 2009, and she wants to do it in US. That, adjusted for inflation will cost you Rs 1.5 crores, and your current level of investments, of Rs 8 lakh in mutual funds will be nowhere near sufficient. And I am not even talking about the amount of money that your twins will need when they pass 12th standard – they are about six years away.
This set me thinking on your ability to comprehend and handle risk in your business and in real life. All the assets that you have are invested in your business and I know that the current level of borrowing in your business is also quite high. You have also guaranteed a Rs 14 crore term loan and a Rs 5 crore working capital loan.
Now, let us turn to the life insurance cover that you have. You have an endowment cover of Rs 10 lakh on which you are paying a premium of Rs 32,000 per annum. You have a life insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh (on your wife’s life) for which you pay Rs 85,000 as a premium and a cover of Rs 5 lakh on your daughter, and a term insurance of Rs. 10 lakh on your son. And lets take a look at why you bought these policies. The first policy was bought ten years ago by your father to please the bank manager who sanctioned his working capital loan. The policies on your wife and children to keep your wife’s brother happy – since he has quit this ‘business’ and the term policy on your son, because the bank giving the education loan insisted on the same.
Thus, no life insurance of yours was bought as insurance. You only have insurance of assets which are predominantly owned by the lenders – so your cars, your factory, your house, are all fully insured. Since nobody owns you, maybe you are not insured. If you are the asset creating all these minor assets, I am appalled that you are not insured.
Also read - Busted: 10 insurance myths that can prove costly
I now wish to ask you the following questions:
How long are you planning to be dead?
At your current level of insurance, your wife will not be able to keep the cars or the house. So if you plan to be dead for a period exceeding 30 days, you need more insurance. Why do you drive so fast?You drove the car like a maniac. I know you do not care about your life, but some of us in your car do. When we did stock picking, you were more careful, what happened?When we did pick stocks together, you would be so risk averse, why do you flirt with risk in your real life? You asked for the dividend history, quality of management, market leadership, return on capital employed, and so on, what has changed in your real life? When I suggested term insurance of Rs 5 crore at a premium of Rs 4 lakh, you scoffed at the idea of this money goes down the drain. My travel with you allowed me to do an exercise in the amount of insurance you need.
Now let us look at how much insurance, I think you need
You need life insurance cover to repay all your loans – that amounts to Rs 204 lakh. You need life insurance to cover all your children’s education that, unadjusted for inflation is about Rs 4.5 crores.
You need life insurance to cover the personal guarantees that you and your brothers have given to the bankers that is about Rs 19 crores. You need life insurance to let your family spend about Rs 3.6 lakh per month – I am assuming that the annual vacations in India will be in five star hotels and the foreign jaunts will continue. That means you need a capital of about Rs 12 crores.
In sum, you need about Rs 37 crores of life insurance. Given your current cash flows, I suggest you get your brothers also insured for a Rs 19 crores each – as a key man insurance in your private limited company, and take a Rs 18 crores in your personal capacity. Does this look too high? Lets look at the cost of not having this insurance. What will your family do if you died tonight?
Your son will not complete his acturial studies in UK.
Your daughter will have to forget her MBBS course.
Your wife’s boutique will close down.
All the three cars will be taken away by the lenders.
Your wife will shift to a one BHK rented accommodation; down scale the education plans of the younger kids. No IB school for sure.
Your brothers will not be able to pay her much money on a monthly basis – your salary may continue for say, two years, but what after that?
Your brothers have no clue of the Dubai operations – they even do not know the local partner – so your most profitable market will vanish.
Your wife’s policy, and your children’s policy will lapse because you will not be here to pay the premium.
Your children will decide on how your spouse should retire. There are enough Hindi movies that you have seen to understand this option.
Weigh the premium of Rs 16.5 lakh term premium versus the cost of not having the policy, I am sure you will understand.
Have you read - If you died tonight, what will your family do?
The author, PV Subramanyam, is a financial domain trainer. He can be reached at pv.subramanyam@moneycontrol.com.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Harvest of new books for Makar Sankranti
Message sent to twistntales@yahoogroups.com on 9th Jan, 2008
Hi all,
Here's a very happy new 2008 to all of you and families. Here's hoping that 2008 is a safe, happy and enjoyable year for all of you. All of us here at twistntales hope that we can keep adding to your reading pleasure through the year! As the auspicious festival of Makar Sankranti nears, we hope that the growth phase will increase prosperity all round. Greetings of Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal from all of us!
Thank you friends, all those of you who came with us to Sassoon Hospital to celebrate Christmas with us. A few photographs have been put up on our blog (twistntales.blogspot.com), please check it out.
As usual, we have a big harvest of books; a few marathon sessions of reviewing have got you this bumper harvest. Some absolute nuggets in there.. Don’t miss it!
New and Noteworthy:
“Kipling Sahib” by Charles Allen @ Rs. 795/- (426pgs)
A riveting account of the first part of Rudyard’Ruddy’Kipling’s life in India, between 1865and 1900 reveals what Kipling was as a true human being. The story of the forgotten ‘Ruddy’- his teenage troubles, political prejudices, literary eccentricities, doomed personal relationships and yet the writing of the evergreen, mystical ‘Jungle Book’ and ‘Kim’ make this book un put downable! Charles Allen uses his unique knowledge of the period (Kipling’s first job in London was with the author’s great grandfather) to rebuild an authentic figure of Ruddy. Cameos of every day scenes from contemporary times enliven the book just as the rare photographs of Kipling and his acquaintances.
“Purple cow” by Seth Godin @ Rs.430/- (183pgs)
Written by an author who is a professional speaker, a writer and an agent of change and contributor to ‘The Fast Company ‘ magazine, this book is a manifesto for change. A call to action. It is a look in the minds of 33 of the boldest, brightest and pioneering people in business. Written in the form of ‘nuggets’, the small doses certainly hit hard. Do not work on being the best, but work on being innovative is the bottom line here! Seth Godin has also authored-Permission Marketing, Unleashing the idea virus and Survival is not enough.
“We are like that only” by Rama Bijapurkar @ Rs.495/- (280pgs)
The book offers a comprehensive analysis of the mindset and behavioral pattern of India's consumers in an irreverent and insightful manner. It successfully fathoms the earnings, spendings, consumption and the diverse consumer behaviour of the billion plus consumers of a most varied and stratified market of today. Incisively analytical, it explains why the Indian consumer is’ like that only’, why India will not change in a hurry and what it takes to build a winning business in such a market. Rama Bijapurkar is one of India’s most respected thought leaders on market strategy and consumer behaviour.
Indian Writing
“First Proof 3: The Penguin Book of New Writing from India” @ Rs.295/- (224 pgs)
An anthology of short stories by various Indian authors comes back once again in its third avatar. It includes authors such as Jahnavi Barua, Mridula Koshi, Tulsi Badrinath, Vijay Parthasarathy, Sankar Sridhar, Ashok Malik, Aman Sethi, Kriti Sharma etc. in an assortment of fiction as well as non-fiction stories. A must-read for all fans of Indian writing in English.
“Silverfish” by Saikat Majumdar @ Rs.295/- (293pgs)
A retired school teacher in present day Calcutta grappling with bureaucracy and political crime, a middle aged lady from a wealthy feudal family confronted with widowhood in British ruled Bengal are the protagonists of this debut novel by the author- an assistant professor of English literature at Stanford University. As their stories begin to interweave, they depict a larger narrative of historical forgetting of voices that have been gently eased off from the nation’s memory. An interesting experiment with the same geographical backdrop separated by time, experience and neglect.
“The Unwaba Revelations” by Samit Basu@ Rs.295/- (508pgs)
Samit Basu is the author of The Simoqin Prophecies and The Manticore’s Secret, parts 1 and 2 of the Game World Trilogy. In The Unwaba Revelations, the 3rd and concluding part, a way must be found to save the world, to defeat the gods at their own game. Monsters, mayhem, mud swamps, conspiracies, catastrophes, chimeras, betrayals, buccaneers, bloodshed – The Unwaba Revelations continues the roller coaster journey that began with The Simonqin Prophecies.
“Murder on Kaandoha Hill” by Rahul Srivastava @ Rs.195/- (180pgs) (Young Adults)
When thirteen year old Kabir goes to spend the vacations with his father, a railway official posted in a remote town, he comes across a great deal of secrets and intrigues, some dating back to the era of the Raj. Weaving in the stories of communities and religions, this exciting murder mystery makes a riveting read.
“The Potion of Eternity” by Sonja Chandrachud @ Rs.195/- (181pgs) (Young Adults)
Count Drunkula Von D’eth doesn’t have it easy. He has a hot- headed Indian Tantrika as his wife, a Water Sprite, a Vetal and a Psychic as his child. He also has the ugliest and meanest Hag of a witch for a mother. Drunkula, who is also a secret agent for the Wizard Organization Worldwide (WOW) has a mission. The Potion of Eternity, which will grant great powers to the children of a couple who drink it together, has been contaminated. He has to develop the antidote to brew a fresh lot of the potion. Drunkula, gradually realizes that this is no easy task. With enemies within his own house, he has to meet the Supreme One, and strike a deal in the belly of the beast. This is the first book in a series of fantasy adventures.
“Magical Indian myths” by Anita Nair @ Rs.499/- (178pgs)
This book is a treasure trove of Myths from India. How the Sun became less fierce? The various avatars of Vishnu? Why Ganga came to Earth? Why the river Saraswati disappeared? How Ganesha got his Elephant head? The book makes good bedtime reading and also makes a wonderful gift to children to educate them on our cultural inheritance.
Fiction:
“P.S- I love you” by Cecelai Ahern @ Rs.195/- (503pgs)
A heartwarming novel about hope after despair, this witty and engrossing storyline reiterates the fact that life is for living and working towards being happy. The story of Holly - her journey from being happily bonded with Gerry to losing him and finally finding the courage to love again and spread more happiness across the years to a very happy, welcoming new year makes a perfect, quick read at this interface of 2007-08!
“The Almost Moon” by Alice Sebold @ Rs.515/- (291 pgs)
The book explores the complex ties within families, the meaning of devotion and the fragility of boundaries separating us from our darkest emotions. It revolves around the mother –daughter duo Clair and Helen. As the novel opens Helen, a woman who spent a lifetime trying to win the love of a mother -who had none to spare, crosses a line she never dreamt she would even approach and over the next twenty four hours she re-runs through the choices that brought her to such crossroads. Alice Sebold is the author of the multi million copy bestseller The Lovely Bones and the memoir Lucky.
“The Court of the Air” by Stephen Hunt @ Rs.295/- (582pgs)
Molly Templar witnesses a brutal murder at the brothel she has been recently been apprenticed to. She scurries back to the poorhouse where she grew up but finds all her fellow orphans butchered. It slowly dawns on her that she was the intended target. Oliver Brooks has led a sheltered existence in his uncle’s home until he is framed for his only relative’s murder. He is forced to flee for his life, accompanied by an agent of the mysterious Court of the Air. Both Molly and Oliver carry dark secrets that will either get them killed or save the world from an ancient terror. The two are thrown into the company of outlaws, thieves and spies as they flee their enemies, but they also have great friends who aid them in this inventive tale full of drama, intrigue and adventure.
“The Princess Diaries” by Meg Cabot @ Rs.399/- (268pgs) - (Young Adults)
The ninth book in the hilarious, best selling ‘Princess diaries’ series, this book describes how Mia deals with heartbreak (Michael – the love of her life, has dumped her) and addressing two thousand of America’s most powerful businesswomen .Mia is also confronted with a 200 year old mystery which when solved would mean BIG changes for her Kingdom-Genovia.Just how much can a princess handle?
Travel
“Once upon a time in the Soviet Union” by Dominique Lapierre @ Rs. 295/- (233pgs)
In 1956, the iron curtain was opened to two reporters of the French magazine Paris Match. Dominique Lapierre and Jean-Pierre Pedrazzini planned to drive across the Soviet Union in their two-coloured car. Nikita Khrushchev warned that their wives who were to accompany them would divorce them within a fortnight. Incidentally, there were no divorces. Their journey was a 13,000 km stretch right from the villages of White Russia to the beaches of the Black sea. Minsk, Kiev, Moscow and Rostov were a few of the places they passed through. This book presents an entirely objective view of the people of the Soviet Union. Dominique Lapierre has also written The City of Joy, It was five past midnight in Bhopal and Is Paris Burning. He has also been made ‘Citizen of Honour’ of Calcutta and was named ‘Benefactor of the Sunderbans’.
“The Elephanta Suite” by Paul Theroux @ Rs.395/- (277pgs)
Though modern, there are still an amazing variety of new discoveries that are possible in India! One such foray is ‘The Elephanta Suite’. Capturing the tumult, ambition, hardship and serenity that are part of today’s India, one comes across diverse Indian characters with refreshing uniqueness. An Americans journey of discovery leads him to places across Mumbai. Interwoven are the anecdotes of the many people he comes across during his brief stay and the lasting impression of each incident. The second part narrates the discoveries and experiences of an American lady in Bangalore, where she befriends an elephant. Paul The roux has also authored much acclaimed books Blinding Light, Dark Star Safari, Riding The Iron Rooster, The Great Railway Bazaar, The old Pentagonian Express and Fresh Air Friend.
Socio-Eco-Pol:
“You can hear me now” by Nicholas P Sullivan @ Rs.299/- (232pgs)
Iqbal Quadir is the visionary and catalyst behind the creation of the Grameen Phone in Bangladesh. Bangladeshi villagers sharing cell phones helped build what is now a thriving company with more than $200 million in annual profits. A partnership between Norway’s Telenor and Grameen Bank, GrameenPhone confirms the power of bottom-up development. You can hear me now, talks about the “external combustion engine’. The “engine” comprises three forces: information technology, imported by native entrepreneurs trained in the West, backed by foreign investors. Nicholas Sullivan is publisher of the journal Innovations in Technolog / Governance/ Globalization (MIT press). This is his second book.
“Brushes with History- An autobiography” by Krishna Kumar Birla @ Rs.650/- (665pgs)
With a foreword by Sonia Gandhi, this autobiography by a member of the iconic Birla family is embroidered with vignettes about forging relationships with the likes of Mahatma Gandhi, B C Roy, Rajendra Prasad, Madan Mohan Malavviya, and J P Narayan. The reader gets a glimpse of the towering personalities who shaped India in the 20th century from an important player who had first hand close associations with them.
“Political and incorrect – The Real India, Warts and All” by Tavleen Singh @ Rs.395/- (313pgs)
Tavleen Singh has been writing her columns in the Indian Express from 1987 – in these 20 years, a Nation finds itself transformed. She captures the Country’s mood and its politics over these two decades and highlights the things that don't change. She makes the two decades and the people who feature come alive even to one who is not familiar with either.
“Jammu and Kashmir 1949 – '64” Edited by Jawaid Alam @ Rs.595/- (374pgs)
A compilation of select correspondence between Jawaharlal Nehru and Karan Singh, this book is a selection of over two hundred letters written in the time frame of 1950 -1963. They afford a ringside view of the momentous events in Kashmir and the rest of India that unfolded after independence and which continue to have relevance and impact on our lives to this day. They also provide rare glimpses into the personal thoughts and lives of Pandit Nehru and Dr.Karan Singh.
“A mission in Kashmir” by Andrew Whitehead @ Rs.495/- (284pgs)
The author sets out to write a full and impartial account of how Kashmir became a theatre of war. Backed by a remarkable range of first hand information, it addresses some basic queries like who were the invaders? Were they commanded by Pakistan? What support did they get from local Kashmiris? Rigorously researched and immensely readable, this book explains how the Kashmir conflict came into being and why it has proven so difficult to solve. The author is an editor of History Workshop Journal, a bi- annual OUP publication.
“Turning back the clock” by Umberto Eco @ Rs.740/- (369pgs)
With customary wit and acerbity, Eco describes and explains the tragic steps backwards that have been taken since the end of the last millennium. The advent of the ‘hot war’, the resurrection of the Yellow Peril, the right wing governments domination indicate that history, tired of the big steps forward it has taken in the past millennium, has gone into reverse. The book proposes that even if we don’t start moving ahead quickly, we should at least cease to move backwards.
“India’s Century” by Kamal Nath @ Rs.550/-(230pgs)
Mr. Kamal Nath, Indias’s minister of Commerce and Industry, who has spent his entire professional life within the corridors of power, helping the Nation to catapult to world prominence, goes beyond the ‘flat world’ view to reveal the roots of the Indian economic miracle. He traces the Nation's emergence from colonial rule in 1947 through four decades of planned economies, the gradual liberalization of India’s economy in the 1990’s and finally, the rise of the Indian global giant.
“Deception” by Adrian Levy and Catherine Scott-Clark @ Rs.595 (586pgs)
Based on hundreds of interviews in the United States, Pakistan, India, Israel, Europe and Southeast Asia, Deception is the most complete account of Pakistan’s clandestine nuclear network as it has extended from Islamabad around the world. It makes two things clear: that Pakistan is a rogue nation at the epicenter of world destabilization and that the complicity of the United States has ushered in a new nuclear winter.
Inspiration:
“Everyday Miracles” by Noelle Nelson @ Rs.295/- (258pgs)
Life is a gift and it ought to be lived as a joyous, successful, love – filled adventure-replete with ups and downs. This book aims to guide the reader to achieve these everyday miracles, through powerful insights, skills and tools, which add up to one everlasting miracle - a happy life! It contains 101 short, pithy chapters each ending with inspiring phrases.
“Daily Inspiration” by Robin Sharma @ Rs.195/-
A day and date wise collection of profound phrases and thoughts, the book ensures a motivated beginning to each new day. The short write ups are about Impact and Legacy, Personal greatness, Destiny and life’s purpose, authenticity, overcoming adversity and disappointments .A gentle reminder to take each day as it comes! Robin Sharma is the author of numerous runaway bestsellers, notably The Monk who sold His Ferrari, The Greatness Guide, The Family Wisdom, Who will Cry When You Die, Mega living and Discover Your Destiny.
Others:
"Penguin Yearbook 2008" @ Rs. 150/- (816pgs)
A book well compiled by Derek O’Brien, this is the fourth publication by Penguin India. The book teems with useful information and write ups including thought provoking articles by Dr.A P J Abdul Kalam, Bimal Jalan, Shashi Tharoor etc. It also features comprehensive, reliable data fully updated till 1st November 2007. Devoid of any advertisements, it contains two special sections entitled ‘60 Defining Moments of Independent India’ and ‘100 Indians Who Made Modern India.’
“Re-awakening the spirit in Work – the power of Dharmic Management” by Jack Hawley @ Rs.299/- (212pgs)
The key questions for today’s leaders are no longer issues of task and structure, but questions of spirit. We all yearn for spiritually rooted qualities at work – integrity, character, inspiration, belief, and even reverence – qualities that are key factors in an enterprise’s success. He provides many examples of people actually living by their inner truth at work, and shows how such people can create an improved place to work.
“Passionate Minds” by David Bodanis @ Rs.375/- (312pgs)
A brilliant, biographical book about Voltaire and Emilie du Chatelet – their association and the astounding theories in science that it produced. Although Voltaire is widely thought to have been the central figure in the 18th century revolution it was Emilie- the brilliant and astounding aristocrat – a passionate mathematician who popularized Newton and transformed our understanding of energy. It only goes on to prove that amazing discoveries are possible even at the breakfast table!
“Guru English” by Srinivas Aravamudan @ Rs.395/- (330pgs)
The author looks at religious forms of neoclassicism, nationalism, romanticism, postmodernism and nuclear millenarianism, bringing together figures like Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, Mahatma Gandhi etc. He surveys a specific set of religious vocabularies from South Asia that, according to him, launch a new form of cosmopolitanism, in global use. The book analyzes writers and gurus, literary texts, religious movements, literary expressions of religious teachers and traces the interconnections between the Indian subcontinent, the British Empire and the American New Age.
Happy Reading and see you at the Store,
From the team at
twistntales,
Hi all,
Here's a very happy new 2008 to all of you and families. Here's hoping that 2008 is a safe, happy and enjoyable year for all of you. All of us here at twistntales hope that we can keep adding to your reading pleasure through the year! As the auspicious festival of Makar Sankranti nears, we hope that the growth phase will increase prosperity all round. Greetings of Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal from all of us!
Thank you friends, all those of you who came with us to Sassoon Hospital to celebrate Christmas with us. A few photographs have been put up on our blog (twistntales.blogspot.com), please check it out.
As usual, we have a big harvest of books; a few marathon sessions of reviewing have got you this bumper harvest. Some absolute nuggets in there.. Don’t miss it!
New and Noteworthy:
“Kipling Sahib” by Charles Allen @ Rs. 795/- (426pgs)
A riveting account of the first part of Rudyard’Ruddy’Kipling’s life in India, between 1865and 1900 reveals what Kipling was as a true human being. The story of the forgotten ‘Ruddy’- his teenage troubles, political prejudices, literary eccentricities, doomed personal relationships and yet the writing of the evergreen, mystical ‘Jungle Book’ and ‘Kim’ make this book un put downable! Charles Allen uses his unique knowledge of the period (Kipling’s first job in London was with the author’s great grandfather) to rebuild an authentic figure of Ruddy. Cameos of every day scenes from contemporary times enliven the book just as the rare photographs of Kipling and his acquaintances.
“Purple cow” by Seth Godin @ Rs.430/- (183pgs)
Written by an author who is a professional speaker, a writer and an agent of change and contributor to ‘The Fast Company ‘ magazine, this book is a manifesto for change. A call to action. It is a look in the minds of 33 of the boldest, brightest and pioneering people in business. Written in the form of ‘nuggets’, the small doses certainly hit hard. Do not work on being the best, but work on being innovative is the bottom line here! Seth Godin has also authored-Permission Marketing, Unleashing the idea virus and Survival is not enough.
“We are like that only” by Rama Bijapurkar @ Rs.495/- (280pgs)
The book offers a comprehensive analysis of the mindset and behavioral pattern of India's consumers in an irreverent and insightful manner. It successfully fathoms the earnings, spendings, consumption and the diverse consumer behaviour of the billion plus consumers of a most varied and stratified market of today. Incisively analytical, it explains why the Indian consumer is’ like that only’, why India will not change in a hurry and what it takes to build a winning business in such a market. Rama Bijapurkar is one of India’s most respected thought leaders on market strategy and consumer behaviour.
Indian Writing
“First Proof 3: The Penguin Book of New Writing from India” @ Rs.295/- (224 pgs)
An anthology of short stories by various Indian authors comes back once again in its third avatar. It includes authors such as Jahnavi Barua, Mridula Koshi, Tulsi Badrinath, Vijay Parthasarathy, Sankar Sridhar, Ashok Malik, Aman Sethi, Kriti Sharma etc. in an assortment of fiction as well as non-fiction stories. A must-read for all fans of Indian writing in English.
“Silverfish” by Saikat Majumdar @ Rs.295/- (293pgs)
A retired school teacher in present day Calcutta grappling with bureaucracy and political crime, a middle aged lady from a wealthy feudal family confronted with widowhood in British ruled Bengal are the protagonists of this debut novel by the author- an assistant professor of English literature at Stanford University. As their stories begin to interweave, they depict a larger narrative of historical forgetting of voices that have been gently eased off from the nation’s memory. An interesting experiment with the same geographical backdrop separated by time, experience and neglect.
“The Unwaba Revelations” by Samit Basu@ Rs.295/- (508pgs)
Samit Basu is the author of The Simoqin Prophecies and The Manticore’s Secret, parts 1 and 2 of the Game World Trilogy. In The Unwaba Revelations, the 3rd and concluding part, a way must be found to save the world, to defeat the gods at their own game. Monsters, mayhem, mud swamps, conspiracies, catastrophes, chimeras, betrayals, buccaneers, bloodshed – The Unwaba Revelations continues the roller coaster journey that began with The Simonqin Prophecies.
“Murder on Kaandoha Hill” by Rahul Srivastava @ Rs.195/- (180pgs) (Young Adults)
When thirteen year old Kabir goes to spend the vacations with his father, a railway official posted in a remote town, he comes across a great deal of secrets and intrigues, some dating back to the era of the Raj. Weaving in the stories of communities and religions, this exciting murder mystery makes a riveting read.
“The Potion of Eternity” by Sonja Chandrachud @ Rs.195/- (181pgs) (Young Adults)
Count Drunkula Von D’eth doesn’t have it easy. He has a hot- headed Indian Tantrika as his wife, a Water Sprite, a Vetal and a Psychic as his child. He also has the ugliest and meanest Hag of a witch for a mother. Drunkula, who is also a secret agent for the Wizard Organization Worldwide (WOW) has a mission. The Potion of Eternity, which will grant great powers to the children of a couple who drink it together, has been contaminated. He has to develop the antidote to brew a fresh lot of the potion. Drunkula, gradually realizes that this is no easy task. With enemies within his own house, he has to meet the Supreme One, and strike a deal in the belly of the beast. This is the first book in a series of fantasy adventures.
“Magical Indian myths” by Anita Nair @ Rs.499/- (178pgs)
This book is a treasure trove of Myths from India. How the Sun became less fierce? The various avatars of Vishnu? Why Ganga came to Earth? Why the river Saraswati disappeared? How Ganesha got his Elephant head? The book makes good bedtime reading and also makes a wonderful gift to children to educate them on our cultural inheritance.
Fiction:
“P.S- I love you” by Cecelai Ahern @ Rs.195/- (503pgs)
A heartwarming novel about hope after despair, this witty and engrossing storyline reiterates the fact that life is for living and working towards being happy. The story of Holly - her journey from being happily bonded with Gerry to losing him and finally finding the courage to love again and spread more happiness across the years to a very happy, welcoming new year makes a perfect, quick read at this interface of 2007-08!
“The Almost Moon” by Alice Sebold @ Rs.515/- (291 pgs)
The book explores the complex ties within families, the meaning of devotion and the fragility of boundaries separating us from our darkest emotions. It revolves around the mother –daughter duo Clair and Helen. As the novel opens Helen, a woman who spent a lifetime trying to win the love of a mother -who had none to spare, crosses a line she never dreamt she would even approach and over the next twenty four hours she re-runs through the choices that brought her to such crossroads. Alice Sebold is the author of the multi million copy bestseller The Lovely Bones and the memoir Lucky.
“The Court of the Air” by Stephen Hunt @ Rs.295/- (582pgs)
Molly Templar witnesses a brutal murder at the brothel she has been recently been apprenticed to. She scurries back to the poorhouse where she grew up but finds all her fellow orphans butchered. It slowly dawns on her that she was the intended target. Oliver Brooks has led a sheltered existence in his uncle’s home until he is framed for his only relative’s murder. He is forced to flee for his life, accompanied by an agent of the mysterious Court of the Air. Both Molly and Oliver carry dark secrets that will either get them killed or save the world from an ancient terror. The two are thrown into the company of outlaws, thieves and spies as they flee their enemies, but they also have great friends who aid them in this inventive tale full of drama, intrigue and adventure.
“The Princess Diaries” by Meg Cabot @ Rs.399/- (268pgs) - (Young Adults)
The ninth book in the hilarious, best selling ‘Princess diaries’ series, this book describes how Mia deals with heartbreak (Michael – the love of her life, has dumped her) and addressing two thousand of America’s most powerful businesswomen .Mia is also confronted with a 200 year old mystery which when solved would mean BIG changes for her Kingdom-Genovia.Just how much can a princess handle?
Travel
“Once upon a time in the Soviet Union” by Dominique Lapierre @ Rs. 295/- (233pgs)
In 1956, the iron curtain was opened to two reporters of the French magazine Paris Match. Dominique Lapierre and Jean-Pierre Pedrazzini planned to drive across the Soviet Union in their two-coloured car. Nikita Khrushchev warned that their wives who were to accompany them would divorce them within a fortnight. Incidentally, there were no divorces. Their journey was a 13,000 km stretch right from the villages of White Russia to the beaches of the Black sea. Minsk, Kiev, Moscow and Rostov were a few of the places they passed through. This book presents an entirely objective view of the people of the Soviet Union. Dominique Lapierre has also written The City of Joy, It was five past midnight in Bhopal and Is Paris Burning. He has also been made ‘Citizen of Honour’ of Calcutta and was named ‘Benefactor of the Sunderbans’.
“The Elephanta Suite” by Paul Theroux @ Rs.395/- (277pgs)
Though modern, there are still an amazing variety of new discoveries that are possible in India! One such foray is ‘The Elephanta Suite’. Capturing the tumult, ambition, hardship and serenity that are part of today’s India, one comes across diverse Indian characters with refreshing uniqueness. An Americans journey of discovery leads him to places across Mumbai. Interwoven are the anecdotes of the many people he comes across during his brief stay and the lasting impression of each incident. The second part narrates the discoveries and experiences of an American lady in Bangalore, where she befriends an elephant. Paul The roux has also authored much acclaimed books Blinding Light, Dark Star Safari, Riding The Iron Rooster, The Great Railway Bazaar, The old Pentagonian Express and Fresh Air Friend.
Socio-Eco-Pol:
“You can hear me now” by Nicholas P Sullivan @ Rs.299/- (232pgs)
Iqbal Quadir is the visionary and catalyst behind the creation of the Grameen Phone in Bangladesh. Bangladeshi villagers sharing cell phones helped build what is now a thriving company with more than $200 million in annual profits. A partnership between Norway’s Telenor and Grameen Bank, GrameenPhone confirms the power of bottom-up development. You can hear me now, talks about the “external combustion engine’. The “engine” comprises three forces: information technology, imported by native entrepreneurs trained in the West, backed by foreign investors. Nicholas Sullivan is publisher of the journal Innovations in Technolog / Governance/ Globalization (MIT press). This is his second book.
“Brushes with History- An autobiography” by Krishna Kumar Birla @ Rs.650/- (665pgs)
With a foreword by Sonia Gandhi, this autobiography by a member of the iconic Birla family is embroidered with vignettes about forging relationships with the likes of Mahatma Gandhi, B C Roy, Rajendra Prasad, Madan Mohan Malavviya, and J P Narayan. The reader gets a glimpse of the towering personalities who shaped India in the 20th century from an important player who had first hand close associations with them.
“Political and incorrect – The Real India, Warts and All” by Tavleen Singh @ Rs.395/- (313pgs)
Tavleen Singh has been writing her columns in the Indian Express from 1987 – in these 20 years, a Nation finds itself transformed. She captures the Country’s mood and its politics over these two decades and highlights the things that don't change. She makes the two decades and the people who feature come alive even to one who is not familiar with either.
“Jammu and Kashmir 1949 – '64” Edited by Jawaid Alam @ Rs.595/- (374pgs)
A compilation of select correspondence between Jawaharlal Nehru and Karan Singh, this book is a selection of over two hundred letters written in the time frame of 1950 -1963. They afford a ringside view of the momentous events in Kashmir and the rest of India that unfolded after independence and which continue to have relevance and impact on our lives to this day. They also provide rare glimpses into the personal thoughts and lives of Pandit Nehru and Dr.Karan Singh.
“A mission in Kashmir” by Andrew Whitehead @ Rs.495/- (284pgs)
The author sets out to write a full and impartial account of how Kashmir became a theatre of war. Backed by a remarkable range of first hand information, it addresses some basic queries like who were the invaders? Were they commanded by Pakistan? What support did they get from local Kashmiris? Rigorously researched and immensely readable, this book explains how the Kashmir conflict came into being and why it has proven so difficult to solve. The author is an editor of History Workshop Journal, a bi- annual OUP publication.
“Turning back the clock” by Umberto Eco @ Rs.740/- (369pgs)
With customary wit and acerbity, Eco describes and explains the tragic steps backwards that have been taken since the end of the last millennium. The advent of the ‘hot war’, the resurrection of the Yellow Peril, the right wing governments domination indicate that history, tired of the big steps forward it has taken in the past millennium, has gone into reverse. The book proposes that even if we don’t start moving ahead quickly, we should at least cease to move backwards.
“India’s Century” by Kamal Nath @ Rs.550/-(230pgs)
Mr. Kamal Nath, Indias’s minister of Commerce and Industry, who has spent his entire professional life within the corridors of power, helping the Nation to catapult to world prominence, goes beyond the ‘flat world’ view to reveal the roots of the Indian economic miracle. He traces the Nation's emergence from colonial rule in 1947 through four decades of planned economies, the gradual liberalization of India’s economy in the 1990’s and finally, the rise of the Indian global giant.
“Deception” by Adrian Levy and Catherine Scott-Clark @ Rs.595 (586pgs)
Based on hundreds of interviews in the United States, Pakistan, India, Israel, Europe and Southeast Asia, Deception is the most complete account of Pakistan’s clandestine nuclear network as it has extended from Islamabad around the world. It makes two things clear: that Pakistan is a rogue nation at the epicenter of world destabilization and that the complicity of the United States has ushered in a new nuclear winter.
Inspiration:
“Everyday Miracles” by Noelle Nelson @ Rs.295/- (258pgs)
Life is a gift and it ought to be lived as a joyous, successful, love – filled adventure-replete with ups and downs. This book aims to guide the reader to achieve these everyday miracles, through powerful insights, skills and tools, which add up to one everlasting miracle - a happy life! It contains 101 short, pithy chapters each ending with inspiring phrases.
“Daily Inspiration” by Robin Sharma @ Rs.195/-
A day and date wise collection of profound phrases and thoughts, the book ensures a motivated beginning to each new day. The short write ups are about Impact and Legacy, Personal greatness, Destiny and life’s purpose, authenticity, overcoming adversity and disappointments .A gentle reminder to take each day as it comes! Robin Sharma is the author of numerous runaway bestsellers, notably The Monk who sold His Ferrari, The Greatness Guide, The Family Wisdom, Who will Cry When You Die, Mega living and Discover Your Destiny.
Others:
"Penguin Yearbook 2008" @ Rs. 150/- (816pgs)
A book well compiled by Derek O’Brien, this is the fourth publication by Penguin India. The book teems with useful information and write ups including thought provoking articles by Dr.A P J Abdul Kalam, Bimal Jalan, Shashi Tharoor etc. It also features comprehensive, reliable data fully updated till 1st November 2007. Devoid of any advertisements, it contains two special sections entitled ‘60 Defining Moments of Independent India’ and ‘100 Indians Who Made Modern India.’
“Re-awakening the spirit in Work – the power of Dharmic Management” by Jack Hawley @ Rs.299/- (212pgs)
The key questions for today’s leaders are no longer issues of task and structure, but questions of spirit. We all yearn for spiritually rooted qualities at work – integrity, character, inspiration, belief, and even reverence – qualities that are key factors in an enterprise’s success. He provides many examples of people actually living by their inner truth at work, and shows how such people can create an improved place to work.
“Passionate Minds” by David Bodanis @ Rs.375/- (312pgs)
A brilliant, biographical book about Voltaire and Emilie du Chatelet – their association and the astounding theories in science that it produced. Although Voltaire is widely thought to have been the central figure in the 18th century revolution it was Emilie- the brilliant and astounding aristocrat – a passionate mathematician who popularized Newton and transformed our understanding of energy. It only goes on to prove that amazing discoveries are possible even at the breakfast table!
“Guru English” by Srinivas Aravamudan @ Rs.395/- (330pgs)
The author looks at religious forms of neoclassicism, nationalism, romanticism, postmodernism and nuclear millenarianism, bringing together figures like Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, Mahatma Gandhi etc. He surveys a specific set of religious vocabularies from South Asia that, according to him, launch a new form of cosmopolitanism, in global use. The book analyzes writers and gurus, literary texts, religious movements, literary expressions of religious teachers and traces the interconnections between the Indian subcontinent, the British Empire and the American New Age.
Happy Reading and see you at the Store,
From the team at
twistntales,
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Thank you
First of all, thankyou. Its nice to know that we are now old enough and have a bit of history behind us. And we have so many of you in big time creative endeavours, who have all taken your first salaries from twistntales !
I have been wanting to put this post on all those who passed out of the twistntales graduation academy !
Starting with Tejal. It made me feel proud to see her name in the papers the other day, going to Sweden on a teacher's exchange prog, esp. for special education teachers. Focussed and clear, she was employee no. 1. We are proud of you, Tejal :)
Mridula - happily married and settled in the Gulf.
Nandana - Wipro Software engr, now in Infy, Chennai - worked in tnt between the 2 jobs ! Hi Nandana, hope to see you in Pune soon.
Shradda - Still very much part of tnt gang, hope we can work together again, once Dhruv starts playgroup !
Rina - married, settled in Ireland - i see your mom everyday !
Ashok Bagade - Due to be a dad anyday ! Congrats !
Nisha - Ira actually calls me ajji ! Yes, Nisha, you are welcome too - If Ira starts daycare !
Shefali - handled our accts in the first 2 years, before Indu aunty.
Sameer - still re-reading Ankit Fadia on hacking computers !
Saroj - A full year, all evenings, while doing her french diploma course. Now teaching in Vidya Valley school. Devotedly brings flowers for our Saraswati every year during Puja, except for this year, when illness took her to ICU. Nice to see you get back to School, Saroj :)
Samar : in different roles, in different times. First worked with us as Summer trainee after Xth class. Then in regular evening slot, the following year after XIIth class. Then, 2005 annual sale time when we needed an extra hand. Now, doing Law, 3rd year. Has started again today in afternoon slot, doing a month long cameo, helping me manage things outside the Store ! Thanks Samar.
Rekha - moved to travel and tourism after graduation, top shot exec. in Travel House, getting married in May. Yes, Rekha, i told you, you would be the first in that group to get married !
Aarti - signs as RT. Our own ABCD, now a top shot corporate lawyer in Mumbai. We have shared many crises together. Even became her aunt and met her evil landlord once !
Geetanjali - Very very difficult to describe her and her transformation. She treated each customer with bhakti and love. Yes, Geetanjali, I miss you the most. Now, a yoga teacher, passes on her wellness to others.
Shrikant - complete madness personified. Our Santa every year. Now a RJ with Radio Mirchi - Hey Quirks 42, why not write for tnt blog ?
Aakash - A filmmaker's director - now Asst. Director in a Bollywood film with Madhavan. Hey Aakash, we misssss you !
Tia - Devoted, passionate, always in tnt loop. doing this blog with me. Will hopefully do content writing for our website one day. Tia, make us your first choice bookstore when your book is ready for launch !
Indu Aunty - Struggled to find balance between work, career, family and home. Picked new skills, learnt driving - Indu, we see you zipping past ... get going with the Stationery Store dream, with the Sunday morning Idli stall idea ! We'll be there for breakfast !
Alisha - Hey u ! when r u getting back ? miss you complete nut case !
Jahnavi - Growing, grown up in twistntales. Learnt to challenge herself again and again.
Jo .... frequent employee status in tnt !
Resh : the maddest of them all. Gone to a heritage hotel .... will wait for her to come back ! Hey Resh.... we miss your tattoos !
Sonali - now two years ! thanks for giving me Sat/ Sun mornings off ! And the black board waits for you, Sonali !
Shama - red hair, mad jokes, hey cool ! that's Shama.
Hmmmmm. Kawstuv and Kshitija have a lot to live up to ! Of course, a whole lot of folks who have grown up/ along with in tnt - Aditya, Vernen, Shibs, Yash, Kaushik, Neena, Anushree .... another day, another post.
I have been wanting to put this post on all those who passed out of the twistntales graduation academy !
Starting with Tejal. It made me feel proud to see her name in the papers the other day, going to Sweden on a teacher's exchange prog, esp. for special education teachers. Focussed and clear, she was employee no. 1. We are proud of you, Tejal :)
Mridula - happily married and settled in the Gulf.
Nandana - Wipro Software engr, now in Infy, Chennai - worked in tnt between the 2 jobs ! Hi Nandana, hope to see you in Pune soon.
Shradda - Still very much part of tnt gang, hope we can work together again, once Dhruv starts playgroup !
Rina - married, settled in Ireland - i see your mom everyday !
Ashok Bagade - Due to be a dad anyday ! Congrats !
Nisha - Ira actually calls me ajji ! Yes, Nisha, you are welcome too - If Ira starts daycare !
Shefali - handled our accts in the first 2 years, before Indu aunty.
Sameer - still re-reading Ankit Fadia on hacking computers !
Saroj - A full year, all evenings, while doing her french diploma course. Now teaching in Vidya Valley school. Devotedly brings flowers for our Saraswati every year during Puja, except for this year, when illness took her to ICU. Nice to see you get back to School, Saroj :)
Samar : in different roles, in different times. First worked with us as Summer trainee after Xth class. Then in regular evening slot, the following year after XIIth class. Then, 2005 annual sale time when we needed an extra hand. Now, doing Law, 3rd year. Has started again today in afternoon slot, doing a month long cameo, helping me manage things outside the Store ! Thanks Samar.
Rekha - moved to travel and tourism after graduation, top shot exec. in Travel House, getting married in May. Yes, Rekha, i told you, you would be the first in that group to get married !
Aarti - signs as RT. Our own ABCD, now a top shot corporate lawyer in Mumbai. We have shared many crises together. Even became her aunt and met her evil landlord once !
Geetanjali - Very very difficult to describe her and her transformation. She treated each customer with bhakti and love. Yes, Geetanjali, I miss you the most. Now, a yoga teacher, passes on her wellness to others.
Shrikant - complete madness personified. Our Santa every year. Now a RJ with Radio Mirchi - Hey Quirks 42, why not write for tnt blog ?
Aakash - A filmmaker's director - now Asst. Director in a Bollywood film with Madhavan. Hey Aakash, we misssss you !
Tia - Devoted, passionate, always in tnt loop. doing this blog with me. Will hopefully do content writing for our website one day. Tia, make us your first choice bookstore when your book is ready for launch !
Indu Aunty - Struggled to find balance between work, career, family and home. Picked new skills, learnt driving - Indu, we see you zipping past ... get going with the Stationery Store dream, with the Sunday morning Idli stall idea ! We'll be there for breakfast !
Alisha - Hey u ! when r u getting back ? miss you complete nut case !
Jahnavi - Growing, grown up in twistntales. Learnt to challenge herself again and again.
Jo .... frequent employee status in tnt !
Resh : the maddest of them all. Gone to a heritage hotel .... will wait for her to come back ! Hey Resh.... we miss your tattoos !
Sonali - now two years ! thanks for giving me Sat/ Sun mornings off ! And the black board waits for you, Sonali !
Shama - red hair, mad jokes, hey cool ! that's Shama.
Hmmmmm. Kawstuv and Kshitija have a lot to live up to ! Of course, a whole lot of folks who have grown up/ along with in tnt - Aditya, Vernen, Shibs, Yash, Kaushik, Neena, Anushree .... another day, another post.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
For the Boss
When I create posts for tnt birthdays, I look for images that are symbolic of the person.
I've had a lot of fun thinking of people and what they remind me of, then looking for just the right image.
Janaki has always been tough to pin down.
I thought about her...driftwood, terrible jokes, passionate almost to a fault, balancing between intense holding on..and equally intense letting go, making motherhood her way of life, sturdy shoes, rasam...
I searched for images. I looked for 'woman', 'refuge', 'beauty'....nothing was quite..her.
So I chose this...
A little shadowy, mostly very clear lines. Touched by sunlight that doesn't penetrate completely.
No symbolic image could have captured this...
Happy Birthday Boss
Friday, January 4, 2008
Farewell to Jo and Weed: Green Park, December 2007
Hiya folks! First of all, my apologies for not putting up the pictures earlier. I've been flue'd out...which in normal English means that I was grubby and sick and in a perpetual bad mood.
Anyway, as you probably already know, Jo and Vin have moved to Bangalore.
Jo is an amazing lady. She manages to be wise without saying 'you should' or 'you must.' She listens without imposing and helps without trying to manage. And she can whistle better than anyone i know!
She brought all of this, and more to tnt.
Weed...well, it's not really farewell. Our friendship began in tnt, and even now, we walk, talk and shop for tnt. I doubt that's going to change...whichever 'ford' university we end up in!
So...here are the pictures. We all look gorgeous, Resh especially :)
Enjoy!
Heads Up!!
A Cauldron Full of Hot Strong Love ;)
Yash and Nan
Jo and Nan
Smiles!
Weed opening her gift
Anyway, as you probably already know, Jo and Vin have moved to Bangalore.
Jo is an amazing lady. She manages to be wise without saying 'you should' or 'you must.' She listens without imposing and helps without trying to manage. And she can whistle better than anyone i know!
She brought all of this, and more to tnt.
Weed...well, it's not really farewell. Our friendship began in tnt, and even now, we walk, talk and shop for tnt. I doubt that's going to change...whichever 'ford' university we end up in!
So...here are the pictures. We all look gorgeous, Resh especially :)
Enjoy!
Heads Up!!
A Cauldron Full of Hot Strong Love ;)
Fireside Friends
Boss and the Ex's
Yash and Nan
Initiation: Before
Initiation: After
Blah blah blah-ing
Jo and Nan
Smiles!
The Scientist, the Organizer, the Elf and the Angel
Hug-Freaks 4-eva!
DON'T GO NEAR MY HAIR!
Weed opening her gift
Resh, playing the Elf
Jo with her gifts :)
A Duet of Madness
Junior Staff...GRIN!
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