book reviews
Reviews of books that explore the complexities of family throughout history and across cultures.
When Rain Sang Her Name
The Girl Who Heard the Rain In a small village surrounded by forest and fog, there lived a 14-year-old girl named Lyra. She was quiet, thoughtful, and always carried a notebook. People in the village said she was strange because she liked to sit outside when it rained.
By Muhammad Hayat10 months ago in Families
The Shadow That Wore My Smile
Everyone at school thought Zara was the happiest girl in the world. She had the brightest smile, laughed the loudest, and was always there to help others. Teachers adored her, classmates wanted to be around her, and her Instagram was full of cheerful photos and perfect moments.
By Muhammad Hayat10 months ago in Families
Whispers Behind the Clock
In the heart of an old town, where the streets still held the scent of rain and forgotten memories, stood a lonely house. Inside that house, on a dusty wall, hung an antique grandfather clock tall, wooden, and silent. Its hands hadn't moved in years, yet it stood like a quiet witness to everything that happened within those walls.
By Muhammad Hayat10 months ago in Families
“The Friends You Never Make”
Writing has always been an integral part of who I am. Those who know me well would attest to my deep passion for storytelling, whether it’s fiction, romance, or other genres. Over the past few years, I’ve been jotting down my thoughts and experiences in a journal l’ve aptly titled “The Mindset of a Worried Young Man”
By Alvin Maxwell Some10 months ago in Families
Spare
Behind the crown is a boy who lost his mother, a man who lost his way, and a prince who found his voice. In Spare, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, tells his own story for the first time, in his own words. This is not just another royal biography. This is a raw, honest, and deeply personal memoir from someone who lived in the global spotlight but struggled to find his place in it.
By Muhammad Hayat10 months ago in Families
"The Silent Hero unbreakable Spirit"
Act 1: The Daily Grind **Scene 1: The Alarm Rings** The sun barely peeks over the horizon as the piercing sound of the alarm clock shatters the stillness of the dreary morning. A worn-out figure rises from the creaky bed — JAMES MARKHAM, 45, a rugged man with callused hands and deep lines etched into his face. He glances at the framed pictures on his wall, a family portrait capturing happier times: his wife SARAH, 42, smiling alongside their two children, LUCY (12) and BEN (8).
By MOHAMMED NAZIM HOSSAIN10 months ago in Families
Making Friends
The first day of high school is supposed to be exciting. Nerve-wracking, maybe, but mostly exciting. For Anika, it was neither. She walked through the crowded hallway clutching her timetable like it was a map to survival, her backpack heavier than necessary and her nerves louder than the noise around her.
By THE STORY ROOM10 months ago in Families
"A Life Between Us". Content Warning.
The first time Daniel saw Maya, she was staring out the window of a bookstore café, a half-read novel in one hand, a chipped coffee cup in the other. The city outside blurred with the soft drizzle of a November afternoon. She looked like a scene out of a poem—unfinished, quietly beautiful, and aching to be understood.
By younas khan10 months ago in Families
Raising a Conscious Generation
In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, shifting societal norms, and alarming increases in school violence and aggressive behavior among youth, parents are faced with unprecedented challenges. How do we raise children who not only survive but thrive in this complex world? How do we equip them with the emotional intelligence, resilience, and values necessary to navigate life’s storms while contributing positively to society? Building an Aware Generation: Educational Guidelines for a Secure Future 2025 by Dr. Milad Hosh is more than just a book—it’s a lifeline for modern parenting.
By sondos azhari10 months ago in Families
Me and My Sister
When we were little, the world was just me, my sister Tara, and the narrow lane behind our house that led to the woods. That path, cracked with roots and shaded by trees that whispered secrets, was our kingdom. She was the queen, of course—bossy and brave—while I, two years younger, was the loyal sidekick with scraped knees and a tendency to cry when things got too wild.
By THE STORY ROOM10 months ago in Families
The Triumph of Self-Belief..
In a small village nestled at the edge of the countryside, there lived a young boy named Sohan. His family was poor, and their humble house stood on the outskirts of the village. From a young age, Sohan understood that if he wanted to achieve something in life, he would have to work hard. Despite his circumstances, he held onto a single dream: to show the world that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference.Growing up, Sohan wasn’t an outgoing child. He was quiet and reserved, preferring the company of books to the bustling noise of the playground. School was a challenge for him. He often struggled to keep up with his peers, and many of his teachers would quietly doubt his potential. They would say things like, “People like you don’t become successful. You're just too ordinary.”These words, however, did not deter Sohan. He knew that success wasn't defined by the family you were born into or the circumstances you faced. It was about believing in yourself and pushing forward no matter how hard the road seemed. He started to make a promise to himself every day: he would never give up. Even though he wasn't the best student, he made sure he gave his best effort every single time. He spent long nights studying by the dim light of a lantern while the rest of the village slept.One day, when Sohan was in his final year of school, the principal of the village school made an announcement that a well-known businessman, Mr. Karim, would be visiting the village to attend a local event. Sohan, who had heard of Mr. Karim's success, was both nervous and excited. This was an opportunity to prove to himself, if no one else, that he could do something remarkable.However, Sohan had doubts. He had always been told that people from his background could never achieve anything significant. The fear of rejection haunted him. Still, there was something deep inside him urging him to take that chance. He decided to attend the event and, if possible, speak to Mr. Karim. He didn’t know exactly how, but he would find a way to make an impression.The day of the event arrived. Sohan donned his best clothes, which weren’t much, but they were the best he had. He stood at the back of the crowd, feeling out of place among the well-dressed people. Mr. Karim, a man known for his achievements, was giving a speech about entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the importance of self-belief.Sohan listened intently, his heart racing. The more he heard, the more inspired he felt. As Mr. Karim finished his speech, Sohan’s hand shot up. “Excuse me, sir,” he called out nervously.Mr. Karim paused, noticing the shy boy at the back. “Yes, young man, what’s your question?”Sohan stood up, his voice trembling slightly, but with a determination that he hadn’t known he had before. “Sir, I come from a poor family, and I’ve always been told that people like me can never achieve great things. But I believe that if I work hard enough, I can prove them wrong. How can I make something of myself?”The room fell silent. Mr. Karim looked at Sohan with a mixture of surprise and admiration. After a brief pause, he smiled and said, “Your question shows more about you than you realize. It shows that you have the courage to believe in yourself, and that is the first step toward success. Keep believing, keep working hard, and the opportunities will come to you.”Sohan felt a wave of relief wash over him. Mr. Karim’s words were simple, but they meant everything. The realization that success wasn’t about where you came from, but how much you were willing to give, struck him like a thunderbolt.The event concluded, and as people began to leave, Sohan approached Mr. Karim. He introduced himself again and thanked him for his kind words. Mr. Karim, who had been struck by Sohan’s determination, saw potential in him. “Come to my office tomorrow,” he said. “I’ll offer you an internship. It’s a small start, but everyone has to start somewhere.”For the first time in his life, Sohan felt the weight of his dreams starting to lift. He couldn’t believe it. This was the break he had been waiting for.Sohan worked hard during his internship. He showed up early, stayed late, and never stopped learning. He asked questions, offered suggestions, and did whatever was asked of him. Slowly but surely, he started gaining respect from his colleagues. His dedication didn’t go unnoticed.Months passed, and Mr. Karim noticed Sohan’s growth. He saw that the young boy wasn’t just working for a paycheck; he was working with passion, purpose, and a belief that he could make a difference. One day, Mr. Karim called him into his office.“You’ve done well, Sohan,” he said. “I’ve seen you grow. I’ve seen your commitment and your drive. It’s time to give you more responsibility.”That moment marked the beginning of Sohan’s professional career. Over the next few years, Sohan became an invaluable member of the company. He continued to rise through the ranks, driven not by the fear of failure, but by his unshakable belief that he could succeed. Eventually, Sohan started his own business, using the lessons he had learned and the network he had built.Years later, Sohan returned to his village, not as the quiet, uncertain boy who had once doubted himself, but as a successful businessman. He had achieved his dreams, but more importantly, he had learned the power of self-belief.Sohan didn’t forget where he came from. He returned to the village to give back, setting up a scholarship fund to help young students who, like him, were told that their dreams were out of reach. He spoke at schools, sharing his story, and telling.. students that success is not about the circumstances you are born into, but the choices you make and the effort you put in.Sohan’s story became an inspiration, not just in his village, but to everyone who heard it. He was living proof that hard work, perseverance, and belief in yourself could break through any obstacle, no matter how big.And as he stood under the same tree where he had once sat as a boy, dreaming of a better future, he smiled. The dream had not only been his; it had become a dream for others too...
By Sumaiya’s Wordbox10 months ago in Families
