Storizen Magazine November 2021 | Literary Awards by Storizen Magazine

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NOVEMBER 2021

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LITERARY AWARDS - AN ODE TO THE LITERARY WORLD! Exclusive Digital Issue For more Columns and features, scan the QR code

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Book Reviews

Literary Awards - An Ode To The Literary World!

Swapna Peri

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Editors Pria Raiyani Saurabh Chawla

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WHAT'S INSIDE 7 8

EDITOR'S NOTE

- Sushma M. Bhardwaj

The Eye of The World Wheel of Time Book 1 by Robert Jordan

HOT OFF THE PRESS The Force Behind The Forces: Stories of Brave Indian Army Wives by Swapnil Pandey

- Ankur Rastogi

- Aparna Mukherjee

- Hachette India

HOT OFF THE PRESS Price of the Modi Years by Aakar Patel - Westland India

STORIZEN REVIEW Boy, Bear by Adithi Rao & Aaryama Somayaji - Swapna Peri

HOT OFF THE PRESS The Daily Laws by Robert Greene

STORIZEN CONTRIBUTE Chills On A Chilly Winter Night

- Penguin India

STORIZEN CONTRIBUTE The beauty of ZERO in our Life

HOT OFF THE PRESS

- Hachette India

STORIZEN HEALTH How to Take Care of your Heart

COVER STORY Literary Awards - An Ode To The Literary World! - Pria

STORIZEN REVIEW The Midnight Years by Jane De Suza & Sangita Unni - Swapna Peri

WHAT'S INSIDE 42

STORIZEN REVIEW

Beyond a Love Story by Chitkala Mulye

STORIZEN POETRY Flurries, and frostbites... - Madhumathi H

- Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW The Great Indian Mathematicians by Gaurav Tekriwal - Swapna Peri

STORIZEN POETRY Her Heterotopia - Vidya Shankar

STORIZEN POETRY Brumal Songs - Sangita Kalarickal

STORIZEN POETRY Vanilla Winter - Sumantra Chaudhury

To read Storizen on the web, visit storizen.com. Follow Storizen on Instagram @storizenmag.

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C hange of the season has emotions attached to it.

They can be of love for the season or fear of it! Winters come as a wonderful season of the year loved by all, but also feared by some. Diving into the thought of how the winter brings emotions with it, we had kept the theme for this month as "Love and Fear of Winters". As the year comes to an end, we decided to give an ode to the meritorious work in the literary field along with their authors for their amazing contribution to the literature. We are super excited to share with you the Exclusive Feature - "Literary Awards - An Ode To The Literary World!" Don't forget to check it out on page 8. We have got you covered with the latest books this month. Especially, the Wheel of Time, now released as a series on Amazon Prime. Do check out the Hot Off the Press column to check out the latest releases. Heart attack is the leading cause of death worldwide and it has taken a toll on the youth today. With a lot of stress and a poor lifestyle, youngsters today are becoming prone to heart-related issues. How you can prevent this? Do check out the article by Sushma M. Bhardwaj inside. We thank our readers and contributors for their constant support and motivating us to bring you some of the best content each month. Keep spreading the love and support! Do read, like, comment, and share with your friends & family. Happy Reading!

editor@storizen.com Saurabh Chawla, Editor in Chief

COVER STORY

Literary awards are the best way to acknowledge the meritorious literary works and their authors.

COVER STORY

Literary Awards - An Ode To The Literary World! A Storizen Exclusive Feature Text by Pria

ccording to general thought, Literature, in its broadest sense, is any written work. Etymologically, the term derives from Latin literature/literature, "writing formed with letters". Literature can be classified according to whether it is fiction or non-fiction and whether it is poetry or prose. It can be further distinguished according to primary forms such as the novel, short story or drama. Works are often categorized according to historical periods or their adherence to certain aesthetic features or expectations (genre). If we go by this definition and take only into account the written works, we have to go back centuries where the Kings had their own literary circles and people. It is a broad classification that cannot be easily deduced to few lines but to bring back the memory lines

apps, his reason stands tall. COVER STORY

that everyone must have had learned in their school times, Tenali Ramakrishna, one of the greatest yet wittiest poets from the Vijayanagara Empire of Sri Krishnadevaraya, was a great contributor to the Indian ( South Indian) Literature. Coming to the Gupta Dynasty, during the reign of Samudragupta I & II, many poets created beautiful literary works that define our culture. There are numerous folklore tales where many stories emerged from the then lifestyles that are written and preserved. These sample examples explain the existence and importance of the theory of Literature. Not to forget to mention the gifts, rewards, appreciation, and accolades a poet or a writer was awarded back in time! The same is also reflected in Ancient Egyptian history, Greek Mythology, and Middle-East empires. Although Literature is merely defined as a work of writing, it is also defined as ' our past ' or ' our collective heritage!

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Lambda Literary Awards Sahitya Akademi Award

Thus, the above introduction exemplifies the existence of the concept of awards given to the most appreciated Literary works. Here comes the perfect definition now what the phrase Literary Awards means. As the ages passed, the mode and medium of Literature have changed, but the vivacity of the very being of it hasn't. Thus, the modern era comes up with this beautiful congregation of writers, authors, and poets who have worked their hearts out day & night and contributed to the better world are felicitated with the Awards! These awards not only define their prowess but also their dedication to Humanity. NOVEMBER 2021

There has been an interesting history for the awards given to the Literary works. From gold coins to jewels to lands to treasure, the modern-day awards are written forever with the name of the person, their work, and year, which can be traversed from anywhere in the world. In this junction, it is also to be noted that every country in the world has contributed to the world literature that counts for the progress of Humanity. With a great fabric of many languages, cultures, traditions, flora, and fauna, each country also has its own way to reward its writers, authors, and poets. Thus, this led to many types of awards. But again, when we talk about Humanity and STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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everyone belongs to the same race, some awards pertain to the whole world. The awards like The Booker's Prize, Pulitzer Prize, and Nobel Prize for Literature mark the greatest honor that is given to the Literature of any country or a writer. Taking a giant leap from the topic, the year 2020, though, is one of the scariest years of the century after the Spanish Flu and World War; the COVID pandemic has also had its best days and especially to the writers, authors, and poets who had a chance to explore and express the untouched layers of human minds. There have been many books, stories, articles, and poems from both fiction and nonfiction categories that are published. In a top-down approach from the highest literary awards to the

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country-specific awards, many literary groups, book clubs, and publishing houses started this beautiful initiative of felicitating the writers, authors, and poets, irrespective of the person's popularity or organization. This initiative is more effective with the help of Social Media. As mentioned, the pandemic did some good things; the appreciation in the form of awards spread much higher than before. Everyone who reads or wants to read is aware of most of them or at least certain awards and their importance, making the person read. India is creating its own mark ranging from a small group who appreciate local writers and authors to larger festivals like Tata Literary NOVEMBER 2021

Festival or Hyderabad Literary festival or the very respectable Sahitya Akademi Awards. As said earlier, every country has its own named awards; India also has such. Jnanapith Award is considered the highest literary award in India. It is conferred to those Indian citizens who have done some exemplary literature works in any of the official languages of India. Sahitya Akademi (Fellowship) is the second-highest STORIZEN MAGAZINE

Damon Galgut won the 2021 Booker Prize for his spectacular novel 'The Promise'

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literary award of India and the highest literary award conferred by the government of India. This award was established in the year 1968. Some other important Literary Awards on a National Level are Vyas Samman, The Hindu Literary Prize, Yuva Puraskar, Sarswati Samman, Mahapandit Rahul Sankritayan Award, and many more. Some of the State-sponsored awards are Rabindra Puraskar, Kabir Samman, Sahitya Gaurav Puraskar, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, and so on. Subscribe to Storizen to learn more about your favorite authors and to receive tips on writing and marketing your books combined in a single package – Storizen Magazine personally in your inbox!

About Pria - Young mesmerizing freelance blogger, social enthusiast, an economics graduate from Jharkhand University with Master in Child Psychology. She is hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic, an avid caffeine lover, and a maniacal animal lover too. She has been a part of numerous anthologies, articles, and write-ups for newspapers and magazines which are multi-linguistic. She has also written screenplays for YouTube series.

Follow @storizenmag on Instagram Contact: pria@storizen.com Connect with us on facebook.com/Storizenmag Follow us on twitter.com/storizenmag Follow us on Issuu and never miss another issue from us

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HOTthe OFFpress WATCH ON

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The Force Behind The Forces: Stories of Brave Indian Army Wives by Swapnil Pandey

The effortless portrayal of military life comes from her fauji background. She married into the tribe thirteen years ago and her nomadic life in army cantonments all across the country amongst extraordinary men and women has pushed her to come up with the most extraordinary stories.

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Swapnil Pandey is the bestselling author of Soldier's Girl and Love Story of a Commando. Both her works of fiction emphasize the emotions of a soldier and have been a rage among youngsters. She is also a star blogger with an audience base reaching up to lakhs of people

ABOUT THE BOOK Who continues to pay the costs of war long after our soldiers are gone? There are many stories of courageous heroes at the borders, but how much do we know about the women standing strong behind them? The Force Behind the Forces is a collection of seven true stories of eternal love, courage, and sacrifice. Written by an army wife, Swapnil Pandey, this book brings to light moving stories of unimaginable valor in the face of broken dreams, lost hopes, and shattered families. It proves that bullets and bombs can only pierce the bodies of our soldiers, for their stories will live on in the hearts of these brave women forever, women who have dedicated their lives to the nation, without even a uniform to call their own.

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HOTthe OFFpress Over the last 22 years, Robert Greene has provided insights into every aspect of being human whether that be getting what you want, understanding others' motivations, mastering your impulses, and recognizing strengths and weaknesses. The Daily Laws distills that wisdom into daily entries.

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NOVEMBER 2021

Price of the Modi Years by Aakar Patel

Our memories are not long, news cycles are transient and incidents are forgotten or misclassified as being only episodic, unless documented, unified, and placed together as a record. And therefore this book—a history of these present times.

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Aakar Patel is a syndicated columnist who has edited English and Gujarati newspapers. His translation of Saadat Hasan Manto’s Urdu non-fiction, Why I Write, was published by Tranquebar in 2014. His study of majoritarianism in India, Our Hindu Rashtra: What It Is. How We Got Here, was published by Westland in 2020. He is Chair of Amnesty International India.

ABOUT THE BOOK Columnist, author, and political commentator, Aakar Patel has long been a close observer of the political scene. In Price of the Modi Years, he seeks to explain the data and facts on India’s performance under Narendra Modi. Modi’s predecessor as prime minister, Manmohan Singh, had once said that Modi would be a disaster as prime minister. This book shows how. It concedes Modi’s popularity; this is an accounting of the damage he has wrought. It is the history of India since 2014 assessing the damage across the polity from the economy, national security, federalism, foreign relations, legislations, and the judiciary to media and civil society.

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How to Take Care of your Heart by Sushma M Bhardwaj

STORIZEN HEALTH

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It does not intend to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases. Get the help of a certified medical professional or a certified dietician before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

eart is a muscular organ situated slightly towards the left side of the body. It pumps blood to all the parts of the body and carries back carbon dioxide and waste materials to the lungs for purification. If the heart is pumping we're alive, if not then we are no more. Heart diseases are very common these days as even the young generation is also caught in its’ vortex. The major reason for the same are lifestyle disorders. The symptoms of heart-related diseases are 1) Chest pain 2) Tightness in the chest 3) Shortness of breath 4) Irregular heartbeat 5) Un-usually faster or slower heartbeat 6) Fatigue Cardiovascular diseases are also called heart diseases. Following are the main cardio vascular diseases

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1) Hypertension - a condition in which the force of the blood is too high against the arteries wall. 2) Cardiac arrest - when there is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness. Blockage in the Arteries - it is the most common type of heart disease. It develops when arteries which supply blood, become clogged with plaque. As a result, blood supply reduces and heart receives less oxygen and nutrients making the heart muscles weak. There are a few heart diseases which one can be born with 1) Atypical heart valves- Valves may not open properly 2) Septal defect - a hole in the wall between the lower and upper chambers of the heart Atresia - one of the heart walls is missing Fortunately, there are many things we can do to reduce your chances of a heart disease 1) control your blood pressure 2) keep your cholesterol and triglyceride levels under control 3) stay at a healthy weight 4) regular exercise 5) limit alcohol intake

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6) don't smoke manage stress In case one is diagnosed with any symptom of heart-related diseases, first of all, go for a full body checkup and in case there is an anomaly in the lipid profile, I’d suggest you to go for a natural product of OK life care private limited. Heart fuel has the following ingredients in it 1) Astaxanthin - it reduces oxidative stress, does lipid and blood flow improves 2) Red grape skin extract - it improves circulation of blood and high cholesterol 3) Arjun bark extract - it improves LDL, Triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. 4) Gamma oryzanol- reduces LDL and increases HDL 5) Trans-resveratrol - it swelling and blood clotting

reduces

6) Omega-3 fatty acid - it strengthens nerves reflexes reduces stroke symptoms and symptoms of cancer

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7) Vitamin D- reduces depression and mood swings it prohibits heart attack and brain strokes 8) Vitamin B6 -strengthens brain and heart and Alzheimer's risk 9) Potassium - reduces high improves blood transmission

10) Folic acid - reduces stroke by 20% 11) Magnesium - improves nerve and muscle function 12) Coenzyme Q10 - it helps in regulating heartbeat 13) L- carnitine- reduces pressure also reduces the risk of angina pain 14) Sea buckthorn - this is the natural source of carrot annoyance and flavonoid. it reduces blood sugar and blood pressure 15) Probiotics - it helps in keeping your gut healthy So, in a way heart fuel is a complete supplement to keep your heart healthy and your body fit. Do take care of your heart and lead a healthy life.

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The beauty of ZERO in our Life

by Ankur Rastogi

et me introduce myself. Hi, my name is Zero. The world associates me with multiple contexts in both tangible and intangible ways. For the materialistic world, I am a "value" for the emotional state I am a 'level' and for spirituality, a 'Circle of life. I have so many symbolic names BillonTrillion, Zenith, Void, Shoonya… There is no one like me whose interpretation changes with the circumstances. However, one thing is sure if the world learns to use me in all contexts in the right proportion, then it can enjoy a balance between materialism and spirituality. A balance that helps us to achieve desired objectives of our life while maintaining the peace and harmony of our soul for nurturing our well-being.

I am your anchor who gives you a chance to pause and open up the pages of life to rethink, rediscover, recharge your state of affairs to bring out relevant changes in your existing life. Whether it’s the failures of lost dreams or a phase of no passion left in life, don’t allow a sense of emptiness to embed in you when life comes to a sudden halt. Shake it off! …ring the reminder bells that I (zero) help you assemble and amplify your wits for better meaningful well-being.

Yes, this is a beauty of zero, which symbolizes the pivot of balance for two opposite forces… I (zero )is a symbol of a ‘’beginning’’ in the world of mathematics. Why not use me similarly in your respective lives. When these of circumstances in life bring you to Lowest(Zero) point with a sudden jolt, don’t panic! Just think of me as your friend and not your foe. I am here to help you to give a fresh start. So, use me as an opportunity to take a break from the norms of life which are bugging you.

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So, how do I work? Simple, at point zero, you’ve nothing to lose. You will only be climbing the steps as I am the lowest one.

towards the movie production business. Rest is history it’s now billions of dollars worth of company with millions of fans following around the world.

So, instead of sulking, why not use me as a restart button to reboot your thoughts. Let’s take the example of Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, one of the greatest captains India has ever had, who damaged one of his eyes permanently in an accident. He was at the peak of his cricket career and, with a jolt, his career and life came to Zero point and left him emotionally and physically devastated. But instead of brooding and falling into the pits of self-pity, Pataudi bounced back more fearlessly, playing cricket with just one eye. He used me (zero) as a fresh start of life to climb back again.

Remember!!! At point Zero, life provides you with an opportunity to pause, think, analyze, strategize and plan for futuristic life and goals.

Failures /tragedies/ changes in life/goal fulfillment anything can bring you to my step(zero). If you gaze at me with positiveness, I will be your buddy to help you rebound with double vigorous zeal to achieve your real goals. Acknowledge my presence with every aspect of your life. Love me but never stay with me, use me as a resting abode before taking the next stride in your life with full vigor. Marvel Entertainment, the production house for movies like Spidermen, The Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy, went bankrupt in 1996 when their primary focus was on comic books only. At the stage of Zero, the company re-analyzed its errors and strategies and moved 28

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The stage of Zero is very commonly felt, with retiring age when you switch to ‘’no goals to achieve’’ mode in your life. But the wiser one uses me (zero) to start a better meaningful perspective of life by switching to the mode of ‘’a giver’’. They impart their years of experience, wisdom, and knowledge for the betterment of the world around them. Another most spectacular feature of me (zero) was, well defined by Mahatma Gandhi- When you reduce yourself to zero, your power becomes invincible. Wondering how?... Similar to me (zero), the power of simplicity can add value to anything it attaches to in the living world. (read more about it in my other blog (Minimalism the way to Rediscover life.) Connect with yourself spiritually and work on it to zero down your ego, intolerance, judgmental attitude, and expectations. The power of simplicity or minimalism creates an aura of calmness and contentment around you. An aura that attracts others to reach out to you without any hesitation but trust. Your companionship enlightens their persona.

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Ankur Rastogi is a blogger and an author. Thus, adding value to their lives. Padma Shri awardee Tulsi Gowdais a living example of it. What we need to understand is that anything in the circle is bound to end and then restart. It’s a rule of nature that is marvelously spotted in the Sun – again, a Shoonya or circle of life. So, whenever you feel life is at zero point, don’t sit back and cry on the spilled milk but gear up yourself for a new start to climb back again in life. I can go on & on speaking more about my relevance. What I shared till now are mere glimpses….however from here on, I leave on individuals to rediscover & redefine me in their respective lives. You can hate me or love me but can’t ignore my humble existence in both the real and virtual worlds. The choice is all YOURS!!!

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Chills On A Chilly Winter Night by Aparna Mukherjee

ho doesn't love the winter season? We all wait for the colder months to knock on the door of our earth. Fogs in the morning, warm tea, and a book make a great combination. Isn't it? You feel the cold breeze on your skin which unwinds your mind. Have you ever felt the shivers running down your spine when you hear someone whispering some words in your ears and when you look behind you, you see no one behind you? You might have heard such stories about spirits that make you excited and spooky at the same time. Here is a real tale for all of you which will make you realize "they" exist. Something spooky is on your way. Keep your fears aside and get engrossed in the real-life winter chills story.

her parents decided to shift to Mumbai, she felt very upset. Living in Mumbai for 40 years and then leaving the city which has given her so many good memories and friends was not so easy for her. Eventually, she had to make up her mind and she said "Yes" to her parents. Her positive reply made her parents extremely happy. The happiness on her parent's faces was priceless for Pramila. She can do anything to see her parents happy. Although leaving Mumbai made her unhappy, she kept her parent's happiness above everything. With the onset of February month, the shifting process began and Pramila along with her parents moved to The City Of Joy. Pramila's love for Mumbai was stagnant in her mind.

January 2018

18th February 2018

In the first week of New Year, Pramila receives news from her parents that they will be shifting to Kolkata in the next month. All arrangements have been made which are needed for moving from one city to another city. Parents are just waiting to hear a positive reply from their daughter.

As it was a colder month, shifting from Mumbai To Kolkata did not seem to be a daunting task for Pramila and her parents. Their new flat in Kolkata which was in Dumdum and close to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Airport was quite spacious and airy. While sipping warm Darjeeling tea in the early morning in her new apartment, Pramila's mind wandered off to the City of Dreams, Mumbai where the winter season was quite pleasant. One sweatshirt was sufficient to beat the cold. On the contrary, the weather of Kolkata was bone-chilling for her. She had to wear a

Pramila used to live in Mumbai for around 40 years. She has spent a big chunk of her life in Mumbai. Her parents decided to shift to Kolkata. Pramila is a working woman and she is quite passionate about her work. When

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hoodie and gloves in her hands which were not sufficient to make her body warm. On the winter nights, the temperature dipped below 10 degrees. You will hardly notice people on a chilly winter night in Kolkata. On weekdays, Pramila spent her hours in the office. Sunsets at 5:00 pm, making the surroundings dark. She used to come back home around 8:00 pm every day. On weekends, Pramila used to sit near the window of her room, watching the mist-covered streets in the morning. At times, she had to cover her ears with her cold hands because of the ear-splitting noise of an airplane that flew right above their apartment. Winters in Kolkata are enjoyable for young people, as they can gorge on lip-smacking sweet delicacies which are specially made in the winter season. Bengalis and their love for sweets go hand-in-hand. But, Pramila was a health-conscious woman in her 40s who looks years younger than her actual age. She had a bit of an aversion to sweets since her childhood days. To give her taste buds the taste of sweet, she used to get indulged in the Sandesh which is sweet and popular among Bengalis. You can find a variety of Sandesh sweets in the confectionery shops when you visit Kolkata in the winter season. Days rolled by and Pramila was enjoying her new lifestyle in Kolkata with her parents. Various festivals used to amaze her and she used to dwell in the exhilaration of festivals.

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December 2018 On a bone-chilling night in December, she decided to go to bed early. The entire day was too exhausting for her in the office. After having dinner with her parents, she made a bed for herself and for her parents too. She switched off the lights of her room and prepared to go to bed. She loves to sleep in a dark room which used to give her sound sleep. So far, the winter months used to be a pleasant month for her. Tonight was different for her. 3:15 am Pramila was enjoying her sleep with a cushy quilt over her which kept her warm.

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It was a habit of Pramila to sleep on her right side. In the middle of her sleep, she feels someone is pushing her left side from behind. At first, she felt it was a dream. She ignored it and drifted off to sleep again. After a few minutes, she felt the same feeling again. She sensed clearly that someone was pushing her left side from behind. She felt the pushing sensation with her open eyes now. She could not move her body for some time, as she was extremely scared. After a while, the pushing sensation stopped. Pramila was still in fear, as she could not close her eyes after that horrific incident. After a few days, she felt the same pushing sensation during her sleep. The pushing sensation sent chills down her spine. Pramila was confirmed that her room was haunted. Someone from the other world was trying to make his or her presence felt to Pramila.

In a few words, Aparna defines a woman who beholds high aspirations and firmly believes in expanding her horizon. She holds a Master's degree in English from Mumbai University. By profession, she is an online Senior Content Writer and Blogger who writes informative articles for various Indian, UK, and US blogs and websites.

The chills of the presence of the spirit got mixed with the chills of the winter season. "We exist", whispered someone in her ears.

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A Touching Story Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

I wanted to read children's books that are easy, sweet, yet thoughtful from some days. Penguin Publishers Duckbill group, has sent a few books to review as I checked for such books. Tadaaaa…Coincidence! As soon as the books arrived, I could not wait finished reading. This book has changed my perception of Children's books. I always had in mind that fantasy fiction or books like Hardy Boys only comprise Children's Literature. This 40-page book by Adithi Rao is a story about a Madari family in Mumbai. It gave me an insight into how to win bread. These people work hard. The boy is left clueless when his Baba is gone with two bears with him. Often dogs or cats or some other animals are shown as pets, and their unconditional love towards the people who rear is written. Here, the mighty Bear offers the boy help. Though the story separates the boy and the Bear, it ends with the happy news that the boy is enrolled in a school.

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About the Book Boy, Bear have grown up together on the streets of Mumbai. Baba is a madari. But now that Baba is gone, how are Boy and Bear to survive? The Hook Book series of short, simple stories for beginning readers come with fun stories set in different parts of India, gorgeous illustrations and quick exercises to enhance the reading experience.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

There are many things that one can think about while reading the book. Though I never accept having pets at home because I am against the children being separated from their parents, many people have pets and take good care. The social condition of the mentioned family where kids don't go to school shows the economic crisis. Apart from the story, the illustrations are attractive and colorful. Kudos to the duo for this book. Visit storizen.com for full review

A passionate book reviewer, writer, narrator, translator, and copy editor, Swapna has a B. Tech in Computer Science and is a former SAP Technical Consultant. She is the writer, narrator, editor, and translator for three books published with Literoma Publishing, Kolkata. She created and manages the “Book Reviews Café” official blog and Facebook page that contains all the book reviews. Swapna is also a content writer and reviewer with Storizen Magazine, CriticSpace Journals website, The Literature Times website, The Asian Review website, and the Literature Today website. She is a columnist with one of the leading women's websites in Telugu named 'Vihanga'.

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

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A Book on Truth Today! Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

Young adult books have always been my favorite, and reading them often makes the mind tuned to the present times. YA books of any country teach us many things. For a decade, there have been many books that not only talk about the fun and frolic the teenager lives have but also the most critical aspect of mental health. Fortunately, many Indian authors whom I always vouch for have been focusing on the issues that an individual faces when gets struck at the early age of adulthood. The unfortunate thing is that they mute themselves as they fear no one can listen to their voices. Thus, they resort to those who listen to them but fail to see the unexpected harm sometimes. We see several situations see today in the news or in our neighborhood where the victims and convicts are very young people. Some cases involve young adults under the influence of alcohol and narcotics. Instead of reaching to the parents or the family, these youngsters reach out to strangers for help.

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About the Book One night is all it takes. A party turns into a nightmare for four teenagers. Alisha guards a secret that will shatter those who know her. Sharad is crushed under his family's expectations. Good little Ruhi makes a single mistake that will come back to haunt her. And AK is let down disastrously by those he trusts the most.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

Neither their teachers nor their classmates know what is happening in their minds and how is their thought processes shaping up. This creates an alarming situation for sure. The psycho therapists' job has sprung up of all the professions, and every school or college or the premier institute has one dedicated doctor. Sadly, our country is yet to develop here.

(check out storizen.com for full review)

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

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A Book on Taboo! Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

The LGBTQ literature has been gaining popularity for some years since homosexuality has been accepted in many countries. But there are still more places where this is to be accepted. It is indeed a positive result in India that people accept, and many authors are emerging to explore the literature. While Gay literature has been a part of Indian and Greek mythology, the Victorian culture has pushed it aside and coined it as not normal. It has taken decades to let people understand normalcy. As an avid reader, I have had an excellent opportunity to read books from fiction and non-fiction genres on the LGBTQ community. My first book was ' I am also a Human ' by Jasbir Singh, and the second was Meridith Russo's ' Birthday '. These two books have enlightened me. Thus, my quest to read more about them took me to my friend's NGO that works exclusively for socially abandoned people because they identified their sexuality as LGBTQ. This statement itself is cringing, but it is a fact.

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

About the Book Sameer, seduced by his elder cousin Tanmay, gets carried away in a sexual relationship with him. Preeti, Sameer's childhood tutor and best friend, finds solace in her bond with Sameer, which has ripened over the years.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

Beyond A Love Story is that story that blasts open all the preconceived notions about sexual orientation and gives the readers to acquaint themselves with the tabooed topics seamlessly. All the credit goes to the author Chitkala Mulye for writing this book. Visit storizen.com for full review

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

A Book on Maths Geniuses of India! Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

Mathematics is the only subject that probably is a scarecrow amongst all the subjects from school to university! Though in Engineering or any other graduate discipline where Mathematics happens to be a subject and is practically applicable, still, the scary feeling exists. I remember as a child I was a good student but was always scared of Mathematics, not because of the subject but the teachers. … hahaha chuckles! But again, Mathematics is that subject which is the most useful forever maybe! "We, as a nation, were colonized for over 200 years, and our perception of the history of Indian maths and mathematicians was distorted and corrupted. We started losing faith in our own culture and heritage and started looking at things from a Western standpoint," writes Tekriwal in his introduction to this book. He adds, "Many concepts that were widely believed to have originated from the English-speaking world were discovered in India." This introduction made me plunge into the book as soon as I read it.

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

About the Book Fresh, accessible and inspiring, The Great Indian Mathematicians celebrates persistent mathematicians throughout Indian history. This book is an ideal introduction for the next generation of tenacious and curious maths wizards and features a goldmine of tips and tricks, nuggets of surprise and much more!

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

With simple language and vocabulary, fun and unknown facts and the importance of these people's contribution to the world of Mathematics, this book is a definite recommendation. It not only thrills us but also enhances our General Knowledge. (check out storizen.com for full review)

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

STORIZEN POETRY

Her Heterotopia by Vidya Shankar

Into the beauty parlor she stepped A client in the winter of life Her snowy authenticity in various stages of embarrassment covered with a stole Ushered in she was with welcoming parlance and into a room shown where once the door was shut skilled hands worked on her tresses transforming them from wintry strings to summery curls Two hours later, she walks out smiling Youthfulness camouflaging her grey for another month until the cycle would bring her again embarrassment-writ to the room behind closed doors

Vidya Shankar finds meaning to life through yoga and mandalas which invigorate her to write poetry that wins accolades and finds its way into the ‘Yearbook of Indian Poetry in English, 2020-2021’. Be it stories, articles, blogging, editing, her work is suffused with passion. Featured in a unique coffee table book, ‘50 Inspiring Women boys and girls should read about, Chennai Edition’, Vidya Shankar, a motivational speaker and a “book” in the Human Library, is the author of The Flautist of Brindaranyam (in collaboration with her photographer husband, Shankar Ramakrishnan), and The Rise of Yogamaya (an effort to sensitize her readers about mental health and the need to break free from an outdated society).

@shanvidwinsalways @vidya.shankar.author

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STORIZEN MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN POETRY

Brumal Songs by Sangita Kalarickal

Cold seeps in riding slow winds from the Baltic Sea. Cold seeps in through winding streets, through the pavement and my soles into my hollow bones. Shostakovich’s Waltz 2 swings through my head, only to be frozen in moments of complete disarray. My heart beats in silence and in rhythm yet in the cacophony. And when notes freeze in the air I look up to see in my lonely path a reflection of street lights all the way to the Berliner Staatsoper. Life in slow freeze on a wet cold evening.

NOVEMBER 2021

Sangita Kalarickal has been wordsmithing since childhood and honing her craft in the forms of poetry and fiction. She is a published fantasy author with a soft corner for literary fiction. Her poems have appeared in anthologies and e-zines and she is currently working on her poetry collection. She lives in Minnesota, the USA where the winter cold stretches almost half the year. She is a physicist at her day job, and currently, she spends much of her time studying and honing her skills in haiku.

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

STORIZEN POETRY

Flurries and Frostbites... by Madhumathi H

Fried ice cream, is Winter Sun-kissed chilly wind Cozy afternoon, piping hot tea Bright yellow blossoms, on a creeper Wild happiness growing upon a fence Each petal speaks to the passers-by To spread smile and sunshine... Frightful too, is Winter We freeze in the cold of memories Yesterdays never thaw We nonchalantly flow, with the aches In our bones, balming frostbites Shivering, beyond warmest quilts... Yet, bonfire are some souls, even from a distance Flurries too, are some, shower like confetti upon our hearts... Oh, dear life! Bless us with the wisdom To embrace the changes in the climate of our minds, and The weather of our hearts, calmly enduring Learning from what the moments teach us To love, to fear, and UNDERSTAND Winter Embracing all the seasons of life, with a grateful smile...

A bilingual poet-writer(Tamil, English), Madhumathi is an ardent lover of Nature, Poetry, Photography, and Music. Her poems are published in Anthologies of The Poetry Society(India), AIFEST 2020 Poetry contest Anthology, CPCChennai Poetry Circle, IPC – India Poetry Circle, Amaravati Poetic Prism, and in ezines UGC approved Muse India, Storizen, OPA – Our Poetry Archives, IWJ - International Writers Journal, Positive Vibes, and Science Shore. ‘’Ignite Poetry'’, “Arising from the dust”, “Painting Dreams", “Shards of the unsung Poesies" are some of the recent Anthologies her poems, and write-ups are part of. Besides Poetry, Madhumathi writes on Mental health, to create awareness and break the stigma, strongly believing in the therapeutic and transformational power of words. Contact: madhumathi.poetry@gmail.com

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STORIZEN MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN POETRY

Vanilla Winter by Sumantra Chaudhury

Into the pristine whiteness beyond, I stared from the frosted pane, Admiring the love that bloomed, As the snow-kissed the trees and plains. The wind probably sang a ballad, Or did the Finch tweet a merry note? In the quiet, I listened earnestly. As epistles of romance, I intensely wrote. The kettle on the stove is steaming away; A scratchy knock on the rugged door. Was it a poor soul seeking refuge? How stupid! It was a creak on my wooden floor. On the couch, I sat, as winter blew with might. A tad less harsh than any man's ingratitude. The frosty fire many images did it float.. Lips grinned as I smoked in the crisp solitude.

Sumantra is a young aspiring poet trying to express his thoughts, emotions, and ideas through rhyming verse. He is working as a Senior Consultant (Communication Design) with a reputed IT firm in Bengaluru. He is also a trained Kathak & Hip Hop dancer and has performed in several stage shows. When not writing or dancing, he spends time creating short funny videos on social media. He believes that the best gifts in life come in small packages.

This vanilla winter did I but romance, With emotions devoid of logical reason. My heart now rests upon its bosom, In the starry night of this blessed season.

NOVEMBER 2021

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

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