“If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no” – Nora Roberts.
What was your initial reaction when you heard the Title of the Book?
I kind-of Guessed that this was about Professional life and having read Harish’s earlier Books knew that this would be a pacy read and be very detailed at the same time.
Did you find it meaningful, why or why not?
Extremely meaningful. Was very well paced, good narration of real-life like scenarios at Workplace and how Hridaan was focused on managing his Personal and Professional lives.
What did you think of the writing style and content structure of the book?
Easy read, Simple (non-Complex) Language and every chapter was very well paced, easily flowing into the next chapter, incident. Harish has been able to narrate Hridaan’s challenges, confusions and dilemmas very effectively. The PJs are a bit too much sometimes though 😊 – but aren’t they supposed to be that – PJs
Which location in the book would you most like to visit and why?
The Hotel which had the Christmas decorations – The way it was presented in the Book – I would definitely want to visit that Location in Christmas.
How did the book make you feel? What emotions did it evoke?
Nostalgia – My first day at Work, Passport Office, Visa Appointment, Travel to US, The Apartments, Cooking food – All that I went through during my IT days came back to me in a flash. I could relate to the various Incidents in Hridaan’s professional Journey. The thing I liked also is Hridaan’s Leadership role at Home in taking care of his family and attending to their needs and aspirations – besides addressing his own Personal needs and Professional and Academic aspirations.
Which character did you most relate to and why?
Hridaan mostly as he was the central Character and I kind-of went through similar experiences during the early days of my Professional life. Also was able to relate to Hrehaan – who was kind of a mentor/guide whom Hridaan looked up to and Nijin who was a close friend and was someone Hridaan could confide in and listen to.
Did the characters seem believable to you? Did they remind you of anyone you know?
Oh Yeah – All were relatable – Hridaan reminded me of Harish himself. Having worked with Harish – His shyness, focus on Automation, PJs all were transplanted to the Imaginary (real) character Hridaan.
Did the author do a good job of organizing the plot and moving it along?
Yes – Starting with his childhood days, also highlighting his key support streams – both at home and work – he was able to build the characters and move the Plot along at an effective pace with the right twists and exciting moments in each chapter.
Would you recommend the book to your friend/colleague/family members with similar bookish interests?
Absolutely. Definitely to people who are starting their career and want to be inspired to do more and understand the various aspects of professional life!!
Can you describe the book using 5 words.
Beautifully written, Relatable life story.
Describe the book using 5 adjectives.
- Exciting
- Relatable
- Intriguing
- Thoughtful
- Nostalgic
If you got the chance to ask the author of this book one question, what would it be?
What happens in Part 2? Does his dream come true? Are his aspirations met – do the challenges continue – is he able to navigate through his personal and professional life with ease?
What do you think of the book’s cover? How well does it convey what the book is about?
Very well-designed cover with the right elements of work life as depicted in the story highlighted.
What was your favorite part of the book?
The Diwali Party and the Christmas Lightings
Were you satisfied with the story ending? If you weren’t, how would you resolve things differently?
I am eagerly waiting for the second part – I don’t think this story has ended yet – It has gotten more intriguing now.
Tell us more about yourself
Rajesh Manuja is a Technology professional with 30+ years of experience in the IT Industries in domains such as Banking and Financial services, Manufacturing and Healthcare. Views are entirely Personal.
Buy the Print version from: https://store.pothi.com/book/harish-c-rijhwani-9-5-cubicle-tales/
Kindle version (India): https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0BGX6QYL4
Kindle/Paperback version (USA): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGX6QYL4
Kindle/Paperback version (UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BGX6QYL4
Kindle/Paperback version (Canada): https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0BGX6QYL4
The book consists of roller coaster of emotions. Though the book is half read by me, any person be it a student who have faced challenges while getting a desired educational field/college/company, or a person stepping in his professional life can relate with the story. The challenges the protagonist, Hridaan faces are highly relatable to a common man’s life. The story is highly inspiring and motivating as in the story, Hridaan had a lot of struggles getting what he desired, but achieved due to his persistent nature. I would totally recommend the book as the story is highly addictive, easy-read, relatable, inspiring and motivating.