“The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it.” – Molière
Review by Dr. Parthvi
What was your initial reaction when you heard the Title of the Book?
My first reaction upon hearing the title of the book was it was going to be about about corporate tales, how life would be like in a 9 to 5 job.
Did you find it meaningful, why or why not?
The title and the whole book was extremely meaningful and memorable, full of relatable events and nostalgia. It delivered to my expectations and beyond in fact.
What did you think of the writing style and content structure of the book?
The book is so well written. It is written so animatedly that I could actually visualize each and every event. The witty bits in each chapter made the book even more interesting and memorable. Overall, beautifully depicting the ups and downs and remarkable growth of Hridaan from his loss as a kid, to how he faced his fears, to his struggles to get a job, to finally excelling amongst all the office politics and challenges thrown at him.
Which location in the book would you most like to visit and why?
After reading Hridaan’s adventures in the USA, I would love to visit the USA and explore the different places, cultures, food and festivals just like him.
How did the book make you feel? What emotions did it evoke?
The book is beautifully written, an amalgamation of every emotion-sadness, loss, happiness, excitement, stress, dilemma and the whole journey in turn evokes a sense of pride as to how Hridaan’s grown into a smart and responsible man, excelling at work as well as always being there to support his family.
Which character did you most relate to and why?
Having chosen a road less taken myself, I relate to Hridaan’s journey the most, one who followed his dreams, worked hard and fought for what he wanted and in turn exceled at his workplace. It gives me the hope that all the hard work and persistence will pay off and be worth it in the end.
Did the characters seem believable to you? Did they remind you of anyone you know?
The characters did seem very believable. I could definitely relate to each one of their journeys in some way. Hridaan is particularly witty, which reminds me of one of my professors.
Did the author do a good job of organizing the plot and moving it along?
The author did an amazing job in building the plot. All the characters have developed so well along the journey. Each event has been described so clearly and animatedly that I could visualize each bit of it and felt like I was actually a part of it.
Would you recommend the book to your friend/colleague/family members with similar bookish interests?
I would definitely recommend this book to friends and family. There’s something for everyone in this book-following your dream, the struggles of finding a job, the corporate life, the travelling adventures or the bonding between friends and family. One is sure to relate and have a déjà vu moment somewhere along the journey.
Describe the book using 5 words/adjectives.
- Heartwarming
- Relatable
- Exciting
- Adventurous
- Inspiring
If you got the chance to ask the author of this book one question, what would it be?
I’d like to ask the author where Hridaan gets all the motivation and courage to sail through all the challenges against all odds. It is honestly very inspiring.
What do you think of the book’s cover? How well does it convey what the book is about?
The book cover is so aesthetic, interesting and upon retrospection capturing every tiny detail of Hridaan’s journey so beautifully-from the map locations, to 9 to 5 clock, the corporate job’s desk, computer and the ladder, to the house, flight and the dollar sign.
What was your favorite part of the book?
Each chapter had so many witty and heartwarming events, it is hard to pick one event. But if I were to pick a few, they were when Hridaan finally gets a chance to go overseas, his different experiences in the USA and finally when he returns we can see how he has grown over this entire journey.
Were you satisfied with the story ending? If you weren’t, how would you resolve things differently?
The ending definitely had me at the edge of my seat wanting to know what happens next. So I’m awaiting the next book to know what happened to Hridaan next in his rollercoaster of a journey.
Tell us more about yourself
Dr Parthvi Mehta – I have completed my graduation in dentistry and am currently pursuing my MBA in healthcare management from Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai. I’m a passionate healthcare professional, one who always sees the silver lining in the clouds. An avid reader and a learning enthusiast.
Grab a copy of the Kindle/Print version via Amazon. The print version in India can also be ordered from the Pothi (the publisher).
